Though these words were first spoken to Israel, let them be God's summons to you tonight. We are naturally backward when it comes to all good things. It takes grace to teach us to move forward in God's ways.

Are you still unconverted, yet longing to trust in the Lord Jesus? Then keep not back! Love invites you. The promises secure your success. The precious blood prepares the way. Let not your sins or fears hinder you—come to Jesus just as you are!

Do you long to pray? Would you pour out your heart before the Lord? Keep not back! The mercy seat is prepared for those who need mercy. A sinner's cries will prevail with God. You are invited—nay, you are commanded to pray! Come therefore with boldness to the throne of grace.

Dear friend, are you already saved? Then keep not back from union with the Lord's people. Neglect not the ordinances of baptism and the Lord's Supper. You may be of timid disposition, but you must strive against it, lest it lead you into disobedience. There is a sweet promise for those who confess Christ—by no means miss it, lest you come under the condemnation of those who deny him.

If you have talents, keep not back from using them! Hoard not your wealth, waste not your time. Let not your abilities rust or your influence lie unused. Jesus kept not back—imitate him by being foremost in self-denials and self-sacrifices.

Keep not back from close communion with God, from boldly appropriating covenant blessings, from advancing in the divine life, from prying into the precious mysteries of Christ's love.

And beloved friend, never be guilty of keeping others back by your coldness, harshness, or suspicions. For Jesus' sake, go forward yourself and encourage others to do the like.

Hell and the leaguered bands of superstition and infidelity are forward to the fight. O soldiers of the cross, keep not back!