Hebrews 11:26 Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect to the recompense of the reward. There is an interesting anecdote told of a French botanist, who many years ago was sent out to tropical regions to arrange for introducing the coffee-plant into the island of Mauritius. This, it was considered, would do much for the prosperity of the island. But the voyage was very long; contrary winds prevailed; almost all the plants he brought with him died; water was so scarce that the passengers were only allowed one glassful per day — one coffee-plant only was left! But to preserve this one plant alive, the self-denying botanist gave half of his small daily allowance of water, patiently enduring the torments of thirst. It just sufficed to keep the plant from dying, and the happy result in later years was the naturalisation of the coffee crop in the island. Such were the fruits of self-denial. Shall not we be prepared to sacrifice many earthly inducements, and the "pleasures of sin," to win the lasting and precious "treasure" of true religion in this life, and to secure the heavenly inheritance beyond, which, by God's mercy, has been placed within our reach? (J. W. Hardman, LL. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward. |
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