savage hatred, which would not only bring about as he believed his expulsion from office, but in all probability cruel martyrdom.  It was a bold step; but no sooner did he take it than another rich man was by his side—­Nicodemus by name—­who also himself was one of Christ’s disciples, though secretly, for fear of the Jews.  The act of Joseph had more far-reaching consequences on the conduct of others than he expected.

Most heroic actions are richer in results than is expected by those who dare to do them; though the immediate effects may seem disappointing.  Elijah learnt to his amazement that although all the people on Carmel had not been converted, more than seven thousand faithful men had been emboldened by his conduct.  And when John plucked up courage to go right in to the palace of the high priest, Peter, who till then had followed Jesus afar off, went in also.

The truth is, that we all have influence beyond the limits of what we can see or estimate—­parents over children, employers over their young people, mistresses over servants; for what we are these are encouraged to be, whether for good or for evil.  Indeed, even a child who fearlessly speaks the truth, a servant who does her work thoroughly and cheerfully, an obscure lad who in a small situation is faithful to honour and truth, will effect far more than is imagined.  Others who are unperceived are emboldened, and range themselves on the side of righteousness.

Joseph discovered, as many have done since, that when he steadfastly set his face towards duty he succeeded far better then he expected.  When he went into the palace of Pilate he foresaw that he might be asked to pay an enormous ransom, for that would be only customary; or possibly his request might be scornfully refused by the procurator, who was angry with himself and with the Jews.  But, doubtless to his amazement, no such thing happened.  Without delay, or bartering or abuse, Pilate at once gave him leave.

History is crowded with similar incidents.  How helpless and hopeless the Israelites were when they found themselves face to face with the waters of the Red Sea, while the army of Egypt was rapidly overtaking them; yet they soon discovered that their danger was to prove their means of deliverance; for the waters which barred their progress to liberty soon overwhelmed their enemies.  In other spheres of experience such deliverances have come, and will continue to come, to trustful souls: 

  “Dark and wide the sea appears,
  Every soul is full of fears,
  Yet the word is ‘onward still,’
  Onward move and do His will;
  And the great deep shall discover
  God’s highway to take thee over.”