Introduction...

A drowning man, it is said, will grasp at a straw. This is because he has become awakened to the fact that he is in a critical condition and must have assistance at once or perish. He grasps the straw as his only visible help, and the last ray of hope seems to have fled as he goes down; but even in this desperate condition he feels the encircling arm of a friend and, just in time to save his life, he is rescued.

There are people today sinking in the quagmires of sin, as it were; there are those who have met with misfortune and discouragement and are drifting into a state of desperation; there are some who have been saved, but have given way to doubts and fears, and thus losing hope, are sinking into despair.

In this volume the author has caused rays of hope to shine upon the pathway of erring and unstable souls and such as have become despondent and filled with despair. The way to victory is pointed out, the plans of the enemy are exposed, and many helpful suggestions are given that will aid one in conquering the foe and becoming master of the situation in spiritual matters through the power of the Lord Jesus Christ.

The experience of the author, broadened by years of effectual service in behalf of sin burdened and thirsty souls, has enabled him to present in these pages thoughts and suggestions, instruction and advice, that tend to make the book "Rays of Hope," worthy of its name.
—E. E. Byrum

Preface...

This book is not intended to present dogmatic theology, but it is written for men and women who feel the need of encouragement and help in fighting the battles of everyday life.

Many people in the world are overconscientious, timid, and easily accused by Satan. To such, I trust, the following pages will prove a help and a blessing.

The writer has a deep sympathy for those unfortunate persons who, through various causes, have fallen into "the slough of despond" and the following pages have been penned to pierce the gloom and let in some rays of light. It is hoped also that the perusal of these pages may help some to shun the road of doubts and fears that leads to the dark city of misery.

Praying that God may by this humble effort encourage some despondent soul, I am,

Hopefully yours in Christ, —D. O. Teasley
New York, N. Y.

A Book of Encouragement :

FAITH...

Faith in the New Testament, has at least three distinct meanings. First, the act of the soul in appropriating the benefits of the promises of God to its individual needs. Of this faith Jesus spoke to the woman mentioned in Luke 7:50, and said, "Thy faith hath saved thee." "Have faith in God." Peter also mentioned this faith to the unbelieving multitude that had gathered in Solomon's porch, greatly wondering at the manifestation of the power of God through faith. "And his name through faith in his name hath made this man strong, whom ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all." Acts 3:16. By this faith we are justified (Rom. 5:1), sanctified (Acts 26:18), kept (1 Pet. 1:5), and healed (James 5:14, 15).

Secondly, faith means the doctrine of the gospel. Paul in writing to the Philippians exhorts them to strive together for the faith of the gospel. Jude also speaks of the faith once delivered to the saints and exhorts the children of God to earnestly contend for that faith. The New Testament is the Christian's creed and articles of faith. The New Testament is spoken of as faith because it is a written expression of what the first Christians believed. They did not believe it because it was written, for they believed it before it had been written. It was written because they believed it. "These are written that we in turn might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing, we might have life through his name." The New Testament is an expression of those principles of the Christian religion first taught by Jesus Christ and believed by His disciples and afterwards taught by the disciples and believed by all who accepted Christ, therefore called "the faith once delivered to the saints." For this simple faith alone did the early Christians contend and in striving for the faith of the gospel they were exhorted to, and did, strive together.

Thirdly, there is a kind of faith sometimes called historical faith. This kind have all who believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, whether they have accepted Him as their personal Saviour or not. The vilest of men often possess this faith, and even the devils themselves believe and tremble. James 2:19. This kind of faith is a dead faith, for "faith without works is dead." It is not enough to believe that Jesus tasted death for every man. In order to receive the benefits of His glorious atonement, you must believe that He died for you. Things that are dead do not move themselves or anything else. So a dead faith is inactive and does not move those who possess it to righteous acts, but living faith inspires and animates those who possess it to live in strict harmony with every principle of faith laid down in the New Testament.

Once again, for those who would like to read "Rays of Hope" (small book...about 90(?) pages), which was recommended by Sis. Debbie (author of) "Overcoming Doubts and Accusations"...go to:
RAYS OF HOPE