Fri.-Sabbath, 12/30/16-1/1/17 Devotion

Happy New Year, everyone!

Wahoo—it is almost Sunday! We *get* to go back to church again! In order to help us get ready for this highest calling, here is Thomas Watson, from his, "The One Thing Necessary" treatise. . . .

"The seasons of grace though they are precious, are not permanent. Abused mercies will, like Noah's dove, take their wings and fly from us. England's golden hour will soon run out; gospel blessings are very sweet, but very swift. 'Now they are hid from your eyes' (Luke 19:42). We know not how soon the golden candlestick may be removed.

"There is a time when the Spirit is done striving. There are certain spring tides of the Spirit, and these being neglected, possibly we may never see another tide come in. When conscience is done speaking, usually the Spirit is done striving.

"The loss of gospel opportunities will be the hell of hell. When a sinner shall at the last day think with himself, 'Oh, what might I have been! I might have been as rich as the angels. as rich as heaven could make me. I had a season to work in, but I lost it.' This, this will be as a vulture gnawing upon him; this will enhance and accent his misery. And let this persuade you speedily to work out your salvation."

Thurs., 12/29/16 Devotion (2 Chron. 34:27)

Today's encouragement comes from 2 Chronicles 34:27, which finds this be-ing said about the great king Josiah:

" 'Because your heart was tender, and you humbled yourself before God when you heard His words against this place and against its inhabitants, and you humbled yourself before Me, and you tore your clothes and wept before Me, I also have heard you,' says the LORD."

A humble, broken, contrite heart is irresistible to the Lord. Josiah was so zeal-ous for God, His house, His word, and His worship. Even after grieving over the punishment that was sure to come because of Judah's past wickedness, Josiah was given by God assurances that none of the calamity would befall the nation, in his lifetime.

As God brings us to true brokenness—it may sting for a while. But the end re-sult is our assurance in Christ that our sins are forgiven; and that we may rest fully and confidently in Him.

[Puritan quote of the day: "Let God have His will by being holy, and you shall have your will by being happy.” —Thomas Watson, in, "The Beatitudes"]

Wed., 12/28/16 Devotion (2 Chron. 33:10-11)

Today's encouragement comes from 2 Chronicles 33:10 & 11, which says this:

"And the LORD spoke to Manasseh and his people, but they would not listen. Therefore the LORD brought upon them the captains of the army of the king of Assyria, who took Manasseh with hooks, bound him with bronze fetters, and carried him off to Babylon."

Here, in just two verses of the Bible, we have the entire program of how God deals with those whom He intends to save. The Lord first starts out gently and positively: sending His word to His people (by prophets [OT] and pastors [NT]). If that method does not bring about the results He is looking for, God brings out His harder and more negative implements: hooks and fetters.

In King Manasseh's case, harsh measures were necessary in order to bring him to repentance. This is not the best, nor the wisest approach, however. When we hear the gospel word of God leading us to Jesus, let us immediate-ly respond to Him.

[Puritan quote of the day: "He who has been drinking spirits of wine, will not much thirst after water; and that man who has once 'tasted how sweet the Lord is,' (Ps. 34:8), and has drunk the cordials of the Spirit, will not thirst im-moderately after secular delights.” —Thomas Watson, in, "The Beatitudes"]

Tues., 12/27/16 Devotion (2 Chron. 32:1a)

Today's encouragement comes from 2 Chronicles 32:1a, where we read these words:

"After [King Hezekiah's] deeds of faithfulness, Sennacherib king of Assyria came and entered Judah . . . "

Notice here that it appears that Hezekiah's many faithful deeds were "reward-ed" with the world's strongest man (politically and militarily) coming to Jeru-salem, to destroy it. Sometimes it seems that the people made righteous in Jesus' blood, and who are walking by faith, are the very ones who get the worst trials in this life. And though this is true, it should be no cause for alarm for us; and neither should we be discouraged by it.

Later in this very chapter, at v. 20, Hezekiah and Isaiah prayed together; and the Lord delivered Judah from all Sennacherib's threats, (as God annihilated his army). That is a splendid biblical example of how the state (Hezekiah) and the church (Isaiah) are to minister together, in this world.

[Puritan quote of the day: "They have armies on their side, and strength and powers of the world on their side; but we have truth and God on our side!”
—Christopher Love, in, "The Dejected Soul's Cure"]

Mon., 12/26/16 Devotion (Jn. 16:33)

Today's encouragement comes from John 16:33, where we read these words, uttered by our Lord Jesus:

"These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world."

This is a beautiful verse (above). Christ seals the peace of His church; and then He gives us the assurance of His absolute and unwavering victory (in and through us—even in this world). "Tribulation" is a "shaking" dynamic. It is not a pleasant experience. But, even in the midst of undergoing it, we are to be of "good cheer," because Jesus, in His blood atonement and glorious re-surrection, has forever secured the church's triumph over the world (in which we undergo our troubles).

Therefore, let us not be discouraged, but greatly heartened, in Jesus. Even our worst feelings and experiences are redeemed and sanctified, by the King and Head of the church: Christ.

[Puritan quote of the day: "If the church is beautiful beyond all other of the children of men, how beautiful is Jesus Christ, from whom the church derives all its comeliness?” —Thomas Vincent, in, "The True Christian's Love to the Unseen Christ"]

Fri.-Sabbath, 12/23-25/16 Devotion

Merry Christmas, everyone!

Wahoo—Sunday is almost here! We get to go back to church again!! In order to help us get ready, here is Thomas Watson, from his, "The Spiritual Watch" treatise. . . .

"Keep your heart as you would keep a temple. The temple was a hallowed place, set apart for God's worship. Just so, the heart is the temple of God (1 Cor. 3:16). This heart-temple must be kept pure and holy—no filth may lie here; sweep the dust out of the temple. The vessels of the temple were cleansed (2 Chron. 29:15). Thus the memory, affections, and conscience, these temple vessels, must be cleansed (2 Cor. 7:1). Christ whipped the buy-ers and sellers out of the temple in John 2. The cares of the world will be crowding into the heart. Now you must get a whip made of the threatenings of the law, and drive these money-changers out of the temple of your heart. Do not let God's temple be turned into a worldly market.

"The temple had a fire burning on the altar; take heed of strange fire. But keep the fire of zeal and devotion flaming upon the altar of your heart; do temple work and offer up the sacrifice of a broken heart. When the heart is a consecrated place, a holy of holies, then God will walk there. Many a man's heart is a pest-house, a bedlam, being polluted with sin. This is to put swine into God's temple! This is to let the devil come into God's temple! David's heart was a dedicated temple (Ps. 119:38)."

Thurs., 12/22/16 Devotion (2 Chron. 26:5)

Today's encouragement comes from 2 Chronicles 26:5, where we read these words:

"[King Uzziah] sought God in the days of Zechariah, who had understanding in the visions of God; and as long as he sought the LORD, God made him prosper."

Uzziah of Judah was a good king, but he was not a great king. So long as he had godly clergy instructing him, he did well. But once he got proud, and pre-sumptuously assumed the duties of the Levites, he fell down, (cf. 2 Chron. 26:16).

We learn at least two things from the example of Uzziah: 1) good church in-struction keeps the saints in the narrow way of Jesus and His gospel; and 2) unless pride is constantly checked, blessings can turn to burdens; and those who had been very exemplary in their faith can nevertheless take some seri-ous tumbles.

[Puritan quote of the day: "When we preach Christ and free grace it is to bring you to Christ. Our preaching down of works is not to keep you from doing them but from resting in them.” —Jeremiah Burroughs, in, "Gospel Remis-sion"]

Wed., 12/21/16 Devotion (Zech. 8:2)

Today's encouragement comes from Zechariah 8:2, where we read these words:

"Thus says the LORD of hosts: ‘I am zealous for Zion with great zeal; with great fervor I am zealous for her.’ "

The truth is that God is not really zealous about very many things. During our Lord Jesus Christ's first advent ministry on earth He passed by many (most) things with relative indifference. But He *was* extremely zealous for God's "house," (see Jn. 2:17). The church, the Gospel, the Sabbath, and Divine worship all matter very much to God—and they do to all the truly redeemed, as well.

The problem we fallen sinners face is that we do not naturally value what God treasures. But the well-led and informed true Christian may readjust his or her priorities, so that we begin to love what Christ loves, enjoy what He enjoys, and live for what He lives for. We will never regret doing so.

[Puritan quote of the day: "Where there is love to God, there is grieving for our sins of unkindness against Him.” —Thomas Watson, in, "All Things for Good"]

Tues., 12/20/16 Devotion (2 Chron. 24:18a)

Today's encouragement comes from 2 Chronicles 24:18a, where we read these words:

"Therefore they left the house of the LORD God of their fathers, and served wooden images and idols . . . "

This verse (above) pretty well sums-up the religious life of all professing Christians. So long as we stay close to the Lord, and hence in His "house," we are fine, safe, and secure. But just as soon as we abandon the Lord, and leave His "house," we end up worshipping wood, rocks, sticks, and dirt.

What a contrast: on one hand, we have communion with the God who creat-ed all things, and has re-created His saints in the image of Jesus; and on the other hand, we end up bowing down to things infinitely lower than ourselves. Let us all recognize the key and critical importance of staying in God's "house," the holy church of our Lord Jesus Christ.

[Puritan quote of the day: "As there was but one ark to save the world from drowning, so there is but one Jesus to save sinners from damning.” —Thom-as Watson, in, "A Body of Divinity"]

Mon., 12/19/16 Devotion (Zech. 6:12b)

Today's encouragement comes from Zechariah 6:12b, where we read these words:

"Thus says the LORD of hosts, saying: 'Behold, the Man whose name is the BRANCH! From His place He shall branch out, and He shall build the temple of the LORD.' "

Jesus is the promised "Branch." Ever since His resurrection, and the pouring-out of the blessed Holy Spirit (at Pentecost), His gospel and church have been "branch[ing] out" all over the globe. The Lord Jesus is "build[ing] the temple" every Lord's Day, as He edifies His church; and, indeed everyday, as He abides with each individual believer.

Let us be thankful for the work of the "Branch"; and let us derive all of our nourishment and fruitfulness from Him.

[Puritan quote of the day: " 'Israel sighed by reason of their bondage,' (Ex. 2:23); but sinners are willing to be slaves, they will not take their freedom; they kiss their fetters.” —Thomas Watson, in, "A Body of Divinity"]

Fri.-Sabbath, 12/16-18/16 Devotion

Wahoo—it is almost Sunday again. We GET to go back to church! Here is Thomas Watson, from his, "The Lord's Prayer" book. . . .

"What do we pray for in these words, 'Thy will be done'?

"We pray for two things; 1) For active obedience; that we may do God's will actively in what He commands. 2) For passive obedience; that we may sub-mit to God's will patiently in what He inflicts.

"We pray that we may do God's will actively, subscribe to all His commands, believe in Jesus, which is the cardinal grace, and lead holy lives. So Augus-tine, upon this petition: 'We pray that we may actively obey God's will.' This is the sum of all religion, the two tables epitomized, the doing God's will. 'Thy will be done.' We must know his will before we can do it. Knowledge is the eye which must direct the foot of obedience. At Athens there was an altar set up, 'To the unknown God,' (Acts 17:23). It is as bad to offer the blind to God as the dead. Knowledge is the pillar of fire to give light to practice; but though knowledge is requisite, yet the knowledge of God's will is not enough without doing it. If one had a system of divinity in his head; if he had 'all knowledge,' yet, if obedience were wanting, his knowledge were lame, and would not carry him to heaven, (1 Cor. 13:2). Knowing God's will may make a man ad-mired, but it is doing it that makes him blessed. Knowing God's will without doing it, will not crown us with happiness."

Thurs., 12/15/16 Devotion (Jn. 5:6)

Today's encouragement comes from John 5:6, where we read these words:

"When Jesus saw him lying there, and knew that he already had been in that condition a long time, He said to him, 'Do you want to be made well?' "

At first glance Christ's question to the lame man (above) seems to be very odd. After all, does not everyone want to be "made well"? Actually, no; and this is why Jesus inquired of the infirm person. A lot of people are comfortable with their maladies—especially as these become excuses not to love or serve God. Many sinners literally do *not* "want" to be made well.

It is a real blessing to actually desire good things—and health and well-being are some of them. It is one thing to be unwell (in whatever way this may be); but it is quite another thing to be content to be in that state. God would have us long for Christ, wholeness, and all pleasant things (temporal and eternal), as His beloved church.

[Puritan quote of the day: "Sometimes persons live in ways of sin and are not sensible of it because they are blinded by common custom and the examples of others.” —Jonathan Edwards, in his sermon, "The Necessity of Self-Exam-ination"]

Wed., 12/14/16 Devotion (Jn. 4:22)

Today's encouragement comes from John 4:22, where we find our Lord Jesus saying these words:

"You worship what you do not know; we know what we worship, for salvation is of the Jews."

This is a very bold and highly politically-incorrect assertion the Messiah makes here. He is basically teaching that all who worship false gods (or con-coctions of the true God—as was the case with the Samaritan to whom Jesus spoke these words)—were blind in their devotion, and did not know their de-ity. Then, Christ has the audacity to affirm that "salvation is of the Jews." It does not come from any other ethnicity—because the Person of salvation (Jesus) came from the Jews.

Do we have this kind of courage; or are we reduced to saying inane things like, "All roads lead to heaven"? Let us follow our Master's lead; and let us do it with love and grace, as His holy church.

[Puritan quote of the day: "A heartless, drooping, and discouraging life and walk is very unbecoming the gospel of Christ.” —James Durham, in, "The Un-searchable Riches of Christ"]

Tues., 12/13/16 Devotion (2 Chron. 15:7)

Today's encouragement comes from 2 Chronicles 15:7, where we read these words:

"But you, be strong and do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded!"

Judah's prophet Oded spoke these words (above) to the faithful, reforming King Asa. Sometimes, we need to be encouraged to be strong—especially when we are engaged in difficult, unpopular, and counter-cultural labors. Asa would soon be dismantling more idolatry in Judah, and he needed God's (and His prophet's) helpful words.

What the faithful church does for Christ sometimes riles sinners up. Does this mean we should stop serving Jesus? No. Instead, let us do our ministry faith-fully; but perform it with as little offense as possible. Still, we must discharge it with a firm and unswerving commitment to our Redeemer.

[Puritan quote of the day: "Job the sufferer was more renowned than Alexan-der the conqueror.” —Thomas Watson, in, "All Things for Good"]

Mon., 12/12/16 Devotion (2 Chron. 13:8a)

Today's encouragement comes from 2 Chronicles 13:8a, where we read these words:

"And now you think to withstand the kingdom of the LORD, which is in the hand of the sons of David . . . "

Judah's king Abijah is here warning Israel's idolatrous king Jeroboam, that it is futile to fight against the Lord and His church. Jeroboam (the bad guy) had twice the number of soldiers as Abijah (the good guy) had; and yet God gave Abijah a great and resounding victory, (see v. 15 ff.).

The church may be in some ways vastly outnumbered by the world (and there is little doubt about that)—but the true church has Jesus, the Great "Son of David" on her side. Therefore, we should take courage; and fight the battles of our Lord—knowing that Christ is our victorious Captain, and we always conquer in and through Him.

[Puritan quote of the day: "The angel fetched Peter out of prison, but it was prayer [that] fetched the angel.” —Thomas Watson, in, "All Things for Good"]

Fri.-Sabbath, 12/9-11/16 Devotion

Wahoo—Sunday is *almost* here! In order to help us all get ready for church, here is Thomas Watson, from his book entitled, "The Beatitudes":

"To do God's will is for our benefit. It promotes our own self-interest. As if a king commands a subject to dig in a mine of gold, and gives him all the gold he had dug out. God bids us do his will, and that is for our good. 'And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God require of you, but to fear the Lord your God, to keep the commandments of the Lord, which I command you this day for your good?,' (Deut. 10:13). It is God's will that we should repent, and this is for our good; for repentance ushers in remission. 'Repent, that your sins may be blotted out,' (Acts 3:19). It is God's will that we should believe; and why is it, but that we should be crowned with salvation? 'He that believes, shall be saved,' (Mark 16:16).

"What God wills, is not so much our duty, as our privilege; He bids us obey His voice, and it is greatly for our good. 'Obey my voice, and I will be your God,' (Jer. 7:23). I will not only give you My angels to be your guard, but My-self to be your portion; My spirit shall be yours to sanctify you; My love shall be yours to comfort you; My mercy shall be yours to save you; 'I will be your God.' "

Thurs., 12/8/16 Devotion (Lk. 22:43)

Today's encouragement comes from Luke 22:43, where we read these words:

"Then an angel appeared to Him [Jesus] from heaven, strengthening Him."

All God's churchmen need strength. Even the very Captain of our souls, the Head of the church Himself, the Lord Jesus Christ, did. A lot of times the children of God find themselves in trouble, or need. Naturally, we call out to God for deliverance and freedom (from what troubles us). But what often-times the Lord chooses to do, is *not* to immediately extricate us from our problem—but to use it as a great opportunity to make us stronger.

After all: this happened with our Savior Himself. He is in the Garden of Geth-semane, He is in agony and anguish; and His Father chooses to give Him strength to endure the looming cross, (rather than a way around it). He does the same with us, His beloved church.

[Puritan quote of the day: "The nature of God is lovely in Christ, and our na-ture in Christ is lovely to Him.” —Richard Sibbes, in "Glorious Freedom"]

Wed., 12/7/16 Devotion (2 Jn. 10)

Today's encouragement comes from 2 John, v. 10, where we read these words:

"If anyone comes to you and does not bring this doctrine, do not receive him into your house nor greet him."

These (above) are interesting words from the tender and sensitive "apostle of love," (John). Do not sweet and kind people listen to anyone? Are they not open to everyone's take on God and “truth"? Actually, no. Real love says, “Who are you to come to my house with a false gospel of works? I serve the God of heaven, who gave His Son for my sins. I do not need, nor will l toler-ate your dishonor of Him."

Does this mean we do not try to reach poor sinners bound-up in heresy? No, it does not mean that. Here is the rule we should go by: inform all works-righteousness people that *we*, not they, will do the evangelizing. If they want to listen, fine; if not, "adieu."

[Puritan quote of the day: "A great part of the pleasure and delight of the Christian life is made out of the observations of Providence.” —John Flavel, in, "The Mystery of Providence"]

Tues., 12/6/16 Devotion (2 Chron. 6:18a)

Today's encouragement comes from 2 Chronicles 6:18a, where we read these words:

"But will God indeed dwell with men on the earth? . . . "

Solomon's question—asked during his prayer of the dedication of the temple—was fully and finally answered when Jesus Christ came to earth in the In-carnation, (which we celebrate at Christmastime). Indeed, God *does* dwell with people on earth, even today—in and through the glorious Son of God who is the Head of His church.

Whatever struggle or difficulty we may be facing today may be much-eased by the faithful reflection of our souls on this blessed truth: that God is with His church, here and now, in Christ.

[Puritan quote of the day: "Lord, let the [magnet] of Your Spirit draw my heart upward. Lord, dig the earth out of my heart; teach me how to possess the world, and not love it; how to hold it in my hand, and not let it get into my heart.” —Thomas Watson, in, "The Ten Commandments"]

Mon., 12/5/16 Devotion (Lk. 19:5)

Today's encouragement comes from Luke 19:5, where we read these words:

"And when Jesus came to the place, He looked up and saw him [Zacchaeus], and said to him, 'Zacchaeus, make haste and come down, for today I must stay at your house.' "

This is the only place in the Gospel accounts where I can recall that the Son of God actually "looked up" at any man. Zacchaeus, the once-proud, swind-ling tax collector, is now humbled, and honored (by Christ's presence in his heart, and his house).

Zacchaeus' conversion was thorough. He was a new man in Christ. From now on, the former-cheater would now always "look up" at the blessed Savior, and give Him all the glory and honor. May we do the same.

[Puritan quote of the day: "Surely, did the devil know how much benefit ac-crues to the saints by temptation, he would forbear to tempt.” —Thomas Wat-son, in, "All Things for Good"]

Fri.-Sabbath, 12/2-4/16 Devotion

Wahoo—Sunday is almost here! We get to go back to church again! In order to help us get ready, here is Thomas Watson, from his, "The Spiritual Watch" treatise. . . .

"Keep your heart as you would keep a temple. The temple was a hallowed place, set apart for God's worship. Just so, the heart is the temple of God (1 Corinthians 3:16). This heart-temple must be kept pure and holy—no filth may lie here; sweep the dust out of the temple. The vessels of the temple were cleansed (2 Chronicles 29:15). Thus the memory, affections, and conscience, these temple vessels, must be cleansed (2 Corinthians 7:1). Christ whipped the buyers and sellers out of the temple in John 2. The cares of the world will be crowding into the heart. Now you must get a whip made of the threaten-ings of the law, and drive these money-changers out of the temple of your heart. Do not let God's temple be turned into a worldly market.

"The temple had a fire burning on the altar; take heed of strange fire. But keep the fire of zeal and devotion flaming upon the altar of your heart; do temple work and offer up the sacrifice of a broken heart. When the heart is a consecrated place, a holy of holies, then God will walk there. Many a man's heart is a pest-house, a bedlam, being polluted with sin. This is to put swine into God's temple! This is to let the devil come into God's temple! David's heart was a dedicated temple (Psalm 119:38)."

Thurs., 12/1/16 Devotion (Mic. 6:8)

Today's encouragement comes from Micah 6:8, where we read these great words:

"He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?"

Sometimes the Christian life can be made to seem so busy and cluttered: "Be sure to pray; be sure to read your Bible; be sure to evangelize; be sure to serve others, etc." And though all these things are good (obviously), some-times we just need to relax and say, "Just *what* is it that You want me to *be* and *do*, Lord?"

Today's Micah text (above) pretty much answers that question. God wants us to live in Jesus, by faith. When we do this, we *will* do "justly," "love mercy," and "walk humbly with our God." Let's concentrate on Christ today. He will make us what He wants us (His church) to be.

[Puritan quote of the day: "God is infinitely greater than kings. He is universal King of heaven and earth, the absolute Sovereign of all things.” —Jonathan Edwards, in his sermon, "The Warnings of Scripture"]

Wed., 11/30/16 Devotion (2 Pet. 2:19b)

Today's encouragement comes from 2 Peter 2:19b, where we read these words:

" . . . for by whom a person is overcome, by him also he is brought into bon-dage."

All of us are in "service" and "bondage" to someone. The way to know who this being is, is to ask oneself, "About whom do I most often think? About whom am I practically obsessed?" The answer to these queries reveals our master.

When the master is another fallen human being (be they good or bad), or a demon, then this is a miserable bondage. When the Master is the King of glory, the Lord Jesus Christ, then this is a liberating "bondage." When the master is self or the flesh, then this is torturous labor. But when the Master is God Himself, then this is sweet service. Let all Christ's faithful churchmen gladly serve under His banner today.

[Puritan quote of the day: "Lord, let the [magnet] of Your Spirit draw my heart upward. Lord, dig the earth out of my heart; teach me how to possess the world, and not love it; how to hold it in my hand, and not let it get into my heart.” —Thomas Watson, in, "The Ten Commandments"]

Tues., 11/29/16 Devotion (2 Pet. 1:2)

Today's encouragement comes from 2 Peter 1:2, where we find these won-derful words:

"Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord . . . "

To have grace and peace *multiplied* to our souls is a very blessed thing. God does not only "add," or "drip" His good gifts onto His churched children (a little at a time)—but He multiplies them. And notice how He does this: in our knowledge of Him, and of His Son Jesus.

If we know God in and through Christ, we will have grace and peace. The more we know Him, the greater the levels of these things we will enjoy—though they come accompanied with trouble and difficulty. No matter what challenges we face today, let us take encouragement from our Father's abundant provisions of "grace and peace" in our Lord Jesus Christ.

[Puritan quote of the day: "Upon this reconciliation with God, you and God come to have common friends and common enemies.” —Jeremiah Bur-roughs, in, "Gospel Reconciliation"]

Mon., 11/28/16 Devotion (Lk. 12:32)

Today's encouragement comes from the lips of our Savior, as these words are found in Luke 12:32:

"Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom."

There are several gems to be gleaned from this one verse. 1) God's churched children need not fear, (because He has given us everything—even a king-dom). 2) Littleness of size is not to be construed as a negative. (To be in God's "little" flock is better than being in the devil's "big" herd, headed for the slaughter.) 3) The Lord is not compelled to be good to us—He is desirous and willing to be. And 4) The kingdom is among us, in the church, with Jesus as the Head.

Let us be encouraged and strengthened by these gospel truths today. God is very good to His true and dear people.

[Puritan quote of the day: "When a gracious soul trades with God, and sends his ship of prayer to heaven, he never fails of having sweet and rich return.” —Jeremiah Burroughs, in, "Gospel Reconciliation"]

Fri.-Sabbath, 11/25-27/16 Devotion

Hip, hip, hooray—it is almost Sunday! We *get* to go back to church! In order to help get us ready, here is the Puritan pastor Jeremiah Burroughs, from his, "Gospel Remission" book. . . .

"When God comes to pardon sin, it is such a mercy as comes from the foun-tain of God's everlasting love. Other mercies do not. Where this is not pre-sent, you cannot have evidence of God's eternal love. If God gives you health of body, good voyages at sea, and good [success] in respect of the world, you cannot draw arguments from hence that God bears eternal love to your soul. But when He comes to pardon your sins, it is a certain evidence that God has set His love on you from all eternity.

"If there were a chain let down from heaven and you could take hold but of one link that would certainly bring you there, both ends would come together. In Romans 8:30, there is a chain of many links let down, and if you can catch hold of the link of justification, you may certainly catch hold of predestination, for all hang together. If you are justified, then know for certain that you are a predestined man or woman whom God has set His heart upon from all etern-ity to do good. And this is a great happiness for a poor creature while he lives in this world, to know that God has set His heart upon him from all eternity to do him good. And, indeed, we can never be at rest until we come to this."

Wed., 11/23/16 Devotion (Lk. 7:50b)

Today's encouragement comes from Luke 7:50b, where we read these words of our Blessed Savior Jesus:

" . . . Your faith has saved you. Go in peace."

These few words (above) provide the church everything we need. Our faith (which is personal, "Your") "has" (past tense) "saved [us]." Because of this, we may, in full confidence in Christ, "Go in peace." Believers do not need to debate whether or not our sins are forgiven; and whether or not God is at peace with us. Instead, we alone have the blessed privilege of knowing that God is fully satisfied with us—since Jesus bore our sins for us, His beloved church.

The fallen world in which we live provides us plenty of opposition and warfare; but our sin's conflict with God no longer exists. For this most amazing peace, which is greater than anything the world could ever know, let us always give our Lord thanks.

[Puritan quote of the day: "Oh, what a comfort and privilege is this to you! Oh, you believing soul. Though you were never so wicked and abominable be-fore, yet I tell you from God this day, in whose presence you stand, that He will never remember your sin any more.” —Jeremiah Burroughs, in, "Gospel Remission"]

Tues., 11/22/16 Devotion (Lk. 6:35c)

Today's encouragement comes from Luke 6:35c, where we read these words from the lips of our Lord Jesus Christ:

" . . . For He [God] is kind to the unthankful and evil."

Our Savior (quoted above) is expounding on the fact that believers are to be good to our enemies. He then shows us that His own Father is that way, to *His* foes. God's kindness to the unrepentant and unbelieving in no way ne-gates His righteous judgment of them—but it does speak of His insatiable benevolence to *all* of His creation.

Let us who by grace are known by God through faith in the Lord Jesus *not* be "unthankful," or "evil." Instead, let us be filled with gratitude and love. If our perfectly holy and righteous God can be "kind" to evil men who hate Him—then certainly *we* sinner/saints can do the same, by His sovereign grace.

[Puritan quote of the day: "Faith is a mighty work of the Spirit of God in the soul that causes the soul to roll and cast itself on the free grace of God in Christ, venturing itself and all its hopes for good and happiness on Him.”
—Jeremiah Burroughs, in, "Gospel Remission"]

Mon., 11/21/16 Devotion (Jas. 3:2a)

Today's encouragement comes from James 3:2a, where we read these words:

"For we all stumble in many things. . . . "

This gentle reminder (above) is helpful for us today (and everyday). First of all, it makes us be more gracious, kind, forgiving, forbearing, and understand-ing toward other sinners; and secondly, it humbles us—so that we do not trust in ourselves.

The simple reality is that we are all flawed sinners, fallen in Adam. There is no way we can totally avoid doing untoward things from time to time. On top of that, it is our very nature to sin. Only the grace of Christ, who provides us His new and perfect nature, allows us to have any success at all. Let us "cut each other a bunch of slack” today—as we realize we are "in this boat to-gether."

[Puritan quote of the day: "Justification admits of no degrees. No, not in heav-en—you are not more justified there than you are here. You are now as per-fectly justified as ever and as accepted of Christ as ever.” —Jeremiah Bur-roughs, in, "Gospel Remission"]

Fri.-Sabbath, 11/18-20/16 Devotion

Hallelujah—it almost Sunday again! We *get* to go back to church. Here is Richard Sibbes, from his, "The Bruised Reed" book. . . .

“Despising the means of mercy.

"Lastly, they carry themselves very unkindly towards Christ who stumble at His low stooping to us in His government and ordinances—that are ashamed of the simplicity of the gospel, that count preaching foolishness. They, out of the pride of their heart, think that they may do well enough without the help of the Word and sacraments, and think Christ did not take enough dignity upon Him; and therefore they will mend the matter with their own devices so that they may give better satisfaction to flesh and blood . . .

"What greater unthankfulness can there be than to despise any help that Christ in mercy has provided for us? In the days of His flesh the proud Phari-sees took offense at His familiar conversing with sinful men, though He only did so as a physician to heal their souls. What defenses was Paul driven to make for himself, for his plainness in unfolding the gospel? The more Christ, in Himself and in His servants, shall descend to exalt us, the more we should, with all humility and readiness, entertain that love and magnify the goodness of God, that has put the great work of our salvation, and laid the government, upon so gentle a Savior as will carry Himself so mildly in all things wherein He is to deal between God and us, and us and God. The lower Christ comes down to us, the higher let us lift Him up in our hearts. So will all those do that have ever found the experience of Christ's work in their hearts."

Thurs., 11/1716 Devotion (1 Chron. 9:13b)

Today's encouragement comes from 1 Chronicles 9:13b, where we read these words:

" . . . They were very able men for the work of the service of the house of God."

The church should always be served by "very able men [and women]." The clergy, the ruling eldership, the diaconate, and the church’s various ministries should be comprised of people of faith, humility, character, and intelligence. They should be the leaders of their churches, their families, their commun-ities, and their world.

Why? Because those who do "the work of the service of the house of God" do the most important work in all of God's universe. This is not labor to be done by worldlings and reprobates. Let us pray that the Lord would raise up a gen-eration of servants who are outstanding in their ministrations to Christ's church.

[Puritan quote of the day: "The Holy Ghost is content to dwell in smoky, offen-sive souls.” —Richard Sibbes, in, "The Bruised Reed"]

Wed., 11/16/18 Devotion (Heb. 11:6a)

Today's encouragement comes from Hebrews 11:6a, where we read these words:

"But without faith it is impossible to please [God] . . . "

These (above) are some of the most cogent words in all the Bible. It is faith that pleases God. It is by faith that we apprehend Christ, salvation, and all the benefits of the covenant of grace. Nothing else can replace faith: not love, not works, not mercy, not kindness, not prayer, and not religious activity and duty.

All of these aforementioned virtues, (love, kindness, etc.), will inevitably flow from a heart endued with true faith in Jesus. But they do not, and cannot connect us to the One who redeems us. Only faith does that. Therefore, to-day, it matters little how well or badly we are doing at almost anything. All that really matters is this: are we placing *all* our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, or not? If we are, then we have nothing to worry about.

[Puritan quote of the day: "The human nature of Christ is yet in being. He still continues, and will continue to all eternity, to be both God and man.” —Jona-than Edwards, in his sermon, "True Saints are Present with the Lord"]

Tues., 11/15/16 Devotion (Ps. 149:6)

Today's encouragement comes from Psalm 149:6, where we read these words:

"Let the high praises of God be in their mouth, and a two-edged sword in their hand . . . "

Note how the faithful Christian is at once a worshipper of God, and a soldier fighting under Christ's banner. There is no way to please God without praising Him. And there is nothing to praise Him for, unless the saints sees God's enemies fall under them. (These include sin, the flesh, the world, the devil, and the devil's agents—human and demonic.)

So, if we are in Christ as His church, let us go into your daily lives lifting up thanks to God, and the sword of the Spirit against His foes (and ours).

[Puritan quote of the day: "The Church is a body to whom the whole world is beholden. It should be the joy of the earth, for it is the security of the whole earth.” —Nathaniel Vincent, in, "A Discourse concerning Love"]

Mon., 11/14/16 Devotion (Ps. 147:11)

Today's encouragement comes from Psalm 147:11, which says this:

"The LORD takes pleasure in those who fear Him, in those who hope in His mercy."

God created the world, in order to enjoy it. The Holy Trinity always experienc-es perfect and unremitted bliss. God is never perturbed. But, if it may be said that the Lord's pleasure may be "added to," (and I think it *can* be said, [in a certain sense]), then those who "fear Him" are the ones that achieve this re-markable privileged status.

Do we fear the Lord—through our faith in Jesus, as His beloved church? If so, then let us take great comfort. God not only delights in us, He also cherishes us very dearly and tenderly.

[Puritan quote of the day: "If once you come to receive the mercy of God in and through Christ Jesus, then that mercy will be the greatest opposer of your lusts and sin as anything can be in the world.” —Jeremiah Burroughs, a book of his sermons, entitled, "Gospel Remission"]

Fri.-Sabbath, 11/11-13/16 Devotion

Wahoo—it is almost Sunday, the Lord's Day! We GET to go to church again. In order to help us prepare for worship, here is Richard Sibbes, from his, "The Bruised Reed" book. . . .

“Overcoming Discouragements . . .

"Suffering brings discouragements, because of our impatience. 'Alas!,' we lament, 'I shall never get through such a trial.' But if God brings us into the trial He will be with us in the trial; and at length bring us out, more refined. We shall lose nothing but dross (Zech. 13:9). From our own strength we cannot bear the least trouble, but by the Spirit's assistance we can bear the greatest. The Spirit will add His shoulders to help us to bear our infirmities. The Lord will give His hand to lift us up (Psa. 37:24). 'You have heard of the patience of Job,' says James (James 5:11). We have heard of his impatience too, but it pleased God mercifully to overlook that. . . . And, to come to the matter we are now about, the Sacrament [of The Lord's Supper] it was ordained not for angels, but for men; and not for perfect men, but for weak men . . . "

Thurs., 11/10/16 Devotion (2 Ki. 23:7)

Today's encouragement comes from 2 Kings 23:7, which says this:

"Then [Josiah] tore down the ritual booths of the perverted persons that were in the house of the LORD, where the women wove hangings for the wooden image."

This is a providential text, given what is going on even in our world today. When Josiah, the good king of Judah, was taking out the garbage of idolatry from the temple of the Lord—he also included on his trash heap the "pervert-ed persons." These were sodomites that had entered the house of God, and who had polluted it with their pagan rituals.

Today, as the house of the church gets purified—not only does heresy have to go, and all forms of works-righteousness, etc.—but also the "perverted persons" have got to be expelled. This does not mean that they are not wel-come to come and hear the gospel; but it does mean that—barring faith and repentance—they can have no part in the life of the body of Christ.

[Puritan quote of the day: "There is nothing in the world more uneasy than the heart of a wicked man made to listen to spiritual instruction . . . “ —Richard Sibbes, in, "The Bruised Reed"]

Wed., 11/9/16 Devotion (2 Ki. 22:8)

Today's encouragement comes from 2 Kings 22:8, where we read these words:

"Then Hilkiah the high priest said to Shaphan the scribe, 'I have found the Book of the Law in the house of the LORD.' And Hilkiah gave the book to Shaphan, and he read it."

This blessed incident (recorded above) led to the great reforms, revival, and reformation of the Old Covenant church—largely led by the good and faithful Judean King Josiah. The "book" that was "found" was probably a scroll of the Book of Deuteronomy.

When the church discovers (or re-discovers) the Bible—sometimes, very good things happen. And note God's order: the clergyman finds the Scripture. He then passes its goods along to the magistrate (Shaphan), who himself ends up making sure that King Josiah hears it read. Had God's Word not been received with faith and repentance—none of Josiah's marvelous re-forms would have taken place at all.

[Puritan quote of the day: "Let us pray that God will preserve pure ordinances and powerful preaching among us. Idolatry came in at first by the lack of good preaching.” —Thomas Watson, in, "The Ten Commandments"]

Tues., 11/8/16 Devotion (Ps. 139:21-22)

Today's encouragement comes from Psalm 139:21 & 22, where we read these words:

"Do I not hate them, O LORD, who hate You? And do I not loathe those who rise up against You? I hate them with perfect hatred; I count them my ene-mies."

All true lovers of God are also true haters of all angels and humans who hate God. One of the reasons the Lord is not well-loved by many professing Chris-tians is because they do not hate His enemies. Of course, hate is not our driving force. Regenerate Christians are first and foremost lovers: lovers of Christ, His church, His gospel, and the world God created (including unre-generate persons within it).

Therefore, we are to both love and hate at the same time—and sometimes, with regard to the same person. But to do so is simply to follow God’s lead: He loves the redeemed church, hates the reprobate, and (in a certain sense) both loves and hates those elect souls He will save, but has not yet done so.

[Puritan quote of the day: "He who does not know the evil of sin as fully as he ought cannot hate it as much as he should.” —Nathaniel Vincent, in, "A Dis-course concerning Love"]

Mon., 11/7/16 Devotion (Heb. 2:9a)

Today's encouragement comes from Hebrews 2:9a, where we read these few words:

"But we see Jesus . . . "

Even though there are many things spoken to us by God that believers do "not see," (at least yet)—that does not matter because we "see Jesus," as per this text (above). *How* do we see Him? By the eyes of faith. The hearts and souls of faithful church Christians behold Him all the time. We "see Jesus" on the cross; and we see Him risen from the dead.

Because believers "see Jesus," we can believe God for all the other things He teaches us in His written word that we do "not see." Unbelievers are blind (spiritually). They see nothing but the dark interiors of their own spiritual eye-lids. Let us look upon Jesus in church every Sunday; and, from there, throughout the week.

[Puritan quote of the day: "And though the Son of God is the Lord and keeper of the holy angels, yet He is not their Redeemer, as He is of His Church for whom He died.” —Nathaniel Vincent, in, "A Discourse concerning Love"]

Fri.-Sabbath, 11/4-6/16 Devotion

Wahoo—it is almost Sunday! We *get* to go back to church again. In order to help get us ready, here is Richard Sibbes, from his, "The Bruised Reed"
book. . . .

“Why Christ’s Kingdom must prevail. . . .

"Christ has conquered all in His own person first, and He is 'over all, God blessed for ever' (Rom. 9:5); and therefore over sin, death, hell, Satan and the world. And, as He has overcome them in Himself, so He overcomes them in our hearts and consciences. We commonly say that conscience makes a man kingly or contemptible, because it is planted in us to judge for God, either with us or against us. Now if natural conscience be so forcible, what will it be when, besides its own light, it has the light of divine truth put into it? It will undoubtedly prevail, either to make us hold up our heads with boldness or abase us beneath ourselves. If it subjects itself, by grace, to Christ's truth, then it boldly faces death, hell, judgment and all spiritual enemies, because then Christ sets up His kingdom in the conscience and makes it a kind of paradise.

"The sharpest conflict which the soul has is between the conscience and God's justice. Now if the conscience, sprinkled with the blood of Christ, has prevailed over assaults fetched from the justice of God, now satisfied by Christ, it will prevail over all other opposition whatsoever."

Thurs., 11/3/16 Devotion (Ps. 126:3)

[Congratulations, you Cubbie fans.  Today’s text must certainly resonate with you.]

Today's encouragement comes from Psalm 126:3, where we read these great words:

"The LORD has done great things for us, and we are glad."

God is so good to His children. He allows us to endure affliction, so as to make us better. Then, He gives us a glimpse of heaven, as we get clearer and clearer soul-visions of Jesus—and we are filled with exceeding levels of gladness and joy.

Let us often call this to mind: the Lord only has good in store for His beloved churchmen; and He delights to show us His grace, mercy, and joy. Even if we are not "on the top of the world" today, let us thank God for all the good things He has already done for us, in Jesus.

[Puritan quote of the day: "It is not repentance, patience, love, prayer, or obe-dience that justifies us, but faith in Christ.” —Obadiah Grew, in, "The Lord our Righteousness"]

Wed., 11/2/16 Devotion (Ps. 124:8)

Today's encouragement comes from Psalm 124:8, where David wrote these words:

"Our help is in the name of the LORD, who made heaven and earth."

True born-again churched Christians find their help in Christ alone. No one else can really and fully assist us. No matter where *others* go for their aid—the sincere child of God knows that his or her deepest and most profound needs must be met by The Lord (alone).

And this is a very wise and reasonable approach to life. After all: God "made heaven and earth." If The Lord has that much amazing power—then surely He can take care of the concerns of us, the people of His church. Is our help "in the name of the Lord" today?

[Puritan quote of the day: "It is very sinful to give way to vain thoughts at this time [of hearing preaching]; because, when we are hearing the word, we are in God's special presence.” —Thomas Watson, in, "The Ten Command-ments"]

Tues., 11/1/16 Devotion (2 Tim. 4:1-2a)

Today's encouragement comes from 2 Timothy 4:1 & 2a, where Paul wrote this, to the young minister:

"I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom: Preach the
word! . . . "

God delights in His gospel (word) being preached from His faithful church pulpits. The Lord is more concerned that preaching takes place, than if any-one ever actually believes the message, or not. The preached word inhibits the spread and growth of heresy, (see vv. 3-4); it emboldens the minister for the endurance of afflictions, (v. 5); and it builds up the saints in the true church in their holy faith—all the while calling sinners to Christ.

Pray that your minister preach the word, and that he does not substitute this precious ordinance with entertainment, religious nonsense, and general stu-pidity. Pray that he takes on the world, the flesh, and the devil; and that he brings you the good news of peace, in Jesus' precious blood.

[Puritan quote of the day: "God bestows more goodness upon one godly man than upon all the ungodly in the world.” —Jonathan Edwards, in his sermon, "Christians a Chosen Generation"]

Mon., 10/31/16 Devotion (2 Ki. 13:23)

Happy Reformation Day, everybody!

Today's encouragement comes from 2 Kings 13:23, where we read these words:

"But the LORD was gracious to them, had compassion on them, and regard-ed them, because of His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and would not yet destroy them or cast them from His presence."

This is a sweet verse (above). The reason the redeemed church is secure, and is not subject to the judgment we all deserve, is because of God's cove-nant with us in the Lord Jesus Christ. The Father beholds the blood of Jesus' atonement, and He is satisfied that His righteous wrath against our sin is fully and justly expended (on Christ).

Let us in the church never abuse or take for granted this great privilege. In-stead, let us make sure that our hearts are full of love for God: blessing and thanking Him for His kindness and generosity to us (in Jesus).

[Puritan quote of the day: "For a lack of hearts full of love [for God], men have heads full of error.” —Thomas Watson, in, "All Things for Good"]

Fri.-Sabbath, 10/28-30/16 Devotion

Thank God—Sunday is almost here. We get to go to church, and worship The Lord. In order to help get us ready, here is Thomas Watson, from his "The Art of Divine Contentment" book:

"To learn Christ, is to believe in Him: 'My Lord, and my God,' (Jn. 20:28). When we do not only believe God, but IN God—which is the actual applica-tion of Christ to ourselves—and is as it were the spreading of the sacred me-dicine of His blood upon our souls. Have you heard much of Christ, and yet cannot with a humble adherence say, 'My Jesus'? Be not offended if I tell you, the devil can say his creed as well as you.

"To learn Christ, is to love Christ. When we have gospel-conversations, our lives like rich diamonds cast a sparkling lustre in the church of God; and are, in some sense, parallel with the life of Christ, as the transcript with the origin-al."

Thurs., 10/27/16 Devotion (Ps. 119:52)

Today's encouragement comes from Psalm 119:52, where we read these words:

"I remembered Your judgments of old, O LORD, and have comforted myself."

The best way to get a good perspective on the present and the future, is to heartily believe in the God who has decreed all things in eternity past. It is al-so helpful for us to remember how gracious the Lord has been to His church in days gone by. All this has the effect of giving us confidence and peace in the current situation (be it "good" or "bad").

But only the faithful churched Christian can do this happy “remembering." For unbelievers, their musings on God are *not* comforting at all. After all, His "judgments" are just that, for them—assurances of their eternal doom (barring faith in Jesus). For us believers, on the other hand, God's judgment has al-ready been poured out on Christ (on the cross) for us. We can and should re-joice in the forgiveness of our sins.

[Puritan quote of the day: "God intermixes mercy with affliction. He steeps His sword of justice in the oil of mercy. There was no night so dark but Israel had a pillar of fire in it.” —Thomas Watson, in, "The Godly Man's Picture"]

Wed., 10/26/16 Devotion (2 Ki. 7:9a)

Today's encouragement comes from 2 Kings 7:9a, which says this:

"Then they said to one another, 'We are not doing right. This day is a day of good news, and we remain silent. . . . ' "

These words were spoken by four lepers who found great booty in the Syrian army camp, that had been miraculously deserted.  They could have kept the wonderful news to themselves, and simply glutted themselves with food and delights—or they could share it with others, who (like them) were starving to death.

So is it the case with the gospel. Those who, by grace, feed on Christ and His goodness every Lord’s Day and throughout the week, ought to have compas-sion and concern for those who do not. What do we have to offer them? The Christ of the good news of salvation. We are all spiritual lepers before we are converted to Jesus, the Bread of Life.

[Puritan quote of the day: "The people of God are begotten through the edu-cation, instruction, and endeavors of those who were God's people before. Therefore, the church is represented in Scripture as being the mother of its members, (Gal. 4:26).” —Jonathan Edwards, in his sermon, "Christians a Chosen Generation"]

Tues., 10/25/16 Devotion (2 Ki. 6:33b)

Today's encouragement comes from 2 Kings 6:33b, where we read these words:

" . . . the king [of Israel] said, 'Surely this calamity is from the LORD; why should I wait for the LORD any longer?' "

The king of Israel's response here (above) is entirely too typical of sinners. Trouble comes; and instead of blaming self and sin--God is blamed for it. Then, when relief does not show up right away, any hope in God is entirely abandoned, and sinful and idolatrous alternate courses are pursued.

How true is this also with many professing Christians? They are willing to put up with God, so long as their bellies are full, and their bank accounts are strong. But once a little difficulty comes their way—they throw off all of their false "God-talk," and show themselves to be what they are: unregenerate and unbelieving idolators. May this never be said of any of us.

[Puritan quote of the day: "Oh, do not let the devil be your master, nor the world your god. Do not let sin cheat and impose upon you with its false and counterfeit delights.” —Timothy Rogers, in, "Trouble of Mind and the Disease of Melancholy”]

Mon., 10/24/16 Devotion (Dan. 9:18b)

Today's encouragement comes from Daniel 9:18b, where Daniel prays these words:

" . . . For we do not present our supplications before You because of our righteous deeds, but because of Your great mercies."

If we had to approach God, and present our petitions to Him based on our righteous deeds, we would never arrive at our destination, ever. Besides that, we would have no basis for our prayers, because we do not *have* any sav-ingly righteous deeds. In other words, we have to be in a state of absolute moral and spiritual perfection to be heard by God.

This is why we may only come to God on the basis of Christ's righteousness alone, which is imputed to the saints in the true church, by sovereign grace. This is the ground on which we may and do rightly approach God. He will hear the prayers of those who come to Him through Jesus’ perfect atonement for sin. He disregards all other petitions and petitioners.

[Puritan quote of the day: "Hell did not know what it did when it crucified Christ; death, with all its armies, was put to death with Him.” —Richard Al-leine, in, "Heaven Opened"]

Fri.-Sabbath, 10/21-23/16 Devotion

Wahoo—it is almost Sunday! We *get* to go to church! Here is Thomas Wat-son, from his, "A Body of Divinity" book. He is dealing with our chief end of glorifying God here. . . .

"Glorifying God consists in adoration, or worship. Psa. 29:2: 'Give unto the Lord the glory due unto His name; worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness.' There is a twofold worship: (1.) A civil reverence which we give to persons of honor. Gen. 23:7: 'Abraham stood up and bowed himself to the children of Heth.' Piety is no enemy to courtesy. (2.) A divine worship which we give to God as His royal prerogative. Neh 8:6: 'They bowed their heads, and wor-shipped the Lord with their faces towards the ground.'

"This divine worship God is very jealous of; it is the apple of His eye, the pearl of His crown; which He guards, as He did the tree of life, with cherubims and a flaming sword, that no man may come near it to violate it. Divine worship must be such as God Himself has appointed, else it is offering strange fire, (Lev. 10:1). The Lord would have Moses make the tabernacle, 'according to the pattern in the mount,' (Exod. 25:40). He must not leave out anything in the pattern, nor add to it. If God was so exact and curious about the place of wor-ship, how exact will He be about the matter of His worship! Surely here every-thing must be according to the pattern prescribed in His word."

Thurs., 10/20/16 Devotion (Ps. 111:4b, 5b)

Today's encouragement comes from Psalm 111:4b & 5b, where we read these words:

"The LORD is gracious and full of compassion. . . . He will ever be mindful of His covenant."

What a great God believing churchmen serve! He is amazingly merciful; and He is totally committed to His covenant (i.e. keeping His promises to His church, in Christ's blood atonement). The world, our own flesh, and the devil are always seeking to make us think that the Lord is anything *but* "gracious and full of compassion”—but all the redeemed know this to be true.

Since we have such a wonderful God, let us serve Him with cheerfulness and vivacity today. While we live in this world, we have the honor and privilege of overcoming our weaknesses (by faith); and, as we do this, we can lift up the Name of the Lord Jesus before the watching world.

[Puritan quote of the day: "Though heaven is God's glorious mansion, yet it will not serve His turn. God does not think that to be enough unless He has a dwelling also in a tender, broken, humble spirit.” —Jeremiah Burroughs, in, "Gospel Fear"]

Wed., 10/19/16 Devotion (1 Thess. 5:15b)

Today's encouragement comes from 1 Thessalonians 5:15b, where we read these words:

" . . . but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all."

This is a very interesting text of Scripture. God would have us pursue what is good—this we readily understand; but He would have us do this "both for *ourselves*," as well as "for all." This seems a bit like the "airplane principle": "put your own mask on first, and then put it on the child next to you."

It makes sense: if we are not cognizant of the states of our own hearts, we can be of little good or use to anybody else. Are we faith-filled Christian churchmen today, trusting in Jesus? If so, then let us pursue what is good—both for ourselves, as well as everybody else.

[Puritan quote of the day: "You have heaven while you are on earth when you have a contented spirit; yea, in some regards it is better than heaven.”
—Jeremiah Burroughs, in, "The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment"]

Tues., 10/18/16 Devotion (1 Ki. 21:3)

Today's encouragement comes from 1 Kings 21:3, where we read these words:

"But Naboth said to Ahab, 'The LORD forbid that I should give the inheritance of my fathers to you!' "

When we true believers sin, we give some of the priceless treasure of the covenant of God's grace to the devil, the world, and our own sinful flesh. Na-both refused even his earthly king what was rightfully his [Naboth's], by divine bestowment. Naboth would not bow to pressure, or convention; but rather took his place with the true church of God.

How about us? Are we zealous to retain what God has given us, so that we will be fruitful and productive in the world; or are we willing to sell what is precious to God's enemies?

[Puritan quote of the day: "[Improper religious] toleration is the grave of re-formation. . . . By toleration we adopt other men's sins and make them our own.” —Thomas Watson, in his sermon, "Christ's Loveliness"]

Mon., 10/17/16 Devotion (Dan. 2:44)

Today's encouragement comes from Daniel 2:44, where we read these words:

"And in the days of these kings the God of heaven will set up a kingdom which shall never be destroyed; and the kingdom shall not be left to other people; it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand forever."

Daniel is speaking to Nebuchadnezzar here, and is explaining the king's dream. The "kingdom" that Daniel is referring to here, is the establishment of, and the proliferation of the New Covenant church, by the Lord Jesus Christ. The Savior's kingdom is now in the process of "break[ing] in[to] pieces" all op-posing "kingdoms."

Some of these counterfeit "kingdoms" arise even among professing, errant Christians. Others of them are wholly and self-proclaimedly "anti-Christian." All of them are in the process of falling at the feet of King Jesus. For this, let all the churched kingdom people give Him praise—even now.

[Puritan quote of the day: "Many, in a fit of terror, are willing to do or to suffer anything to keep out of hell and go to heaven; but when the fit is over, they will not deny themselves and take up the cross to follow Christ.” —Isaac Am-brose, in, "The Christian Warrior"]

Wed., 10/12/16 Devotion (Col. 2:23)

Today's encouragement comes from Colossians 2:23, where we read these words:

"These things indeed have an appearance of wisdom in self-imposed religion, false humility, and neglect of the body, but are of no value against the indul-gence of the flesh."

Paul (here, above) is lambasting human religion, which always thinks that the way to godliness is through self-depravation. Works-religion is consumed with *doing* things, designed to impress God, so that He will be obligated to save the religionist, and/or to do something good for him (or her). They also believe that somehow this asceticism will subdue the flesh and its desires.

But *no* amount of strident religious activity can do anything to please God. Only Jesus satisfies the Father. *We* are acceptable to God *only* as we are seen by the Father as being *in* Christ, by faith. Let us trust in our Savior to-day.

[Puritan quote of the day: "You have an accuser, but you have an Acquitter; you have adversaries, but you have an Advocate.” —Richard Alleine, in, "Heaven Opened"]

Tues., 10/11/16 Devotion (Col. 1:13-14)

Today's encouragement comes from Colossians 1:13 & 14, where Paul wrote these words to the church:

"He [God] has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love, in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins."

Behold the privilege of every sincere Christian churchman. He or she is no longer a citizen of the kingdom of darkness (Satan). Rather, now, we believ-ers are the princes and princesses in the kingdom of light (Christ). And we do not need to wait till we die, to get there, either. Instead, this advantage is ours now, as we has been engrafted into Jesus, in His body, the church.

These blessings are immeasurable. If we belong to Christ, our sins are for-given, and our life is atoned for.

[Puritan quote of the day: "Now there is more of God in His word than in all His works of creation and providence.” —Jeremiah Burroughs, in, "Gospel Worship"]

Mon., 10/10/16 Devotion (Php. 4:6-7)

Today's encouragement comes from Paul's great words, as they are found in Philippians 4:6 & 7:

"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."

Because the Lord is "at hand," (v. 5), the church is urged to "be anxious for nothing," but rather to pray. We believers in Christ often find it hardest to pray, at the very moment we most need to. Let this not discourage us too much. God is gracious; He hears the groans of the hearts of His children. The Lord gives us a calm in the midst of ours storms; and solace in times of our great-est struggles.

Let us not hesitate to bring any and all of our burdens to our good God today, in prayer.

[Puritan quote of the day: "Inward grace is wrought by outward means; the preaching of the Word is the engine that God uses to work grace; it is called 'the rod of HIs strength,' (Ps. 110:2).” —Thomas Watson, in his sermon, "The Beauty of Grace"]

Fri.-Sabbath, 10/7-9/16 Devotion

Hip, hip, hooray—it is almost Sunday! We *get* to go back to church! In order to help get us ready, here is the Puritan pastor Jeremiah Burroughs, from his, "Gospel Remission" book. . . .

"When God comes to pardon sin, it is such a mercy as comes from the foun-tain of God's everlasting love. Other mercies do not. Where this is not pre-sent, you cannot have evidence of God's eternal love. If God gives you health of body, good voyages at sea, and good [success] in respect of the world, you cannot draw arguments from hence that God bears eternal love to your soul. But when He comes to pardon your sins, it is a certain evidence that God has set His love on you from all eternity.

"If there were a chain let down from heaven and you could take hold but of one link that would certainly bring you there, both ends would come together. In Romans 8:30, there is a chain of many links let down, and if you can catch hold of the link of justification, you may certainly catch hold of predestination, for all hang together. If you are justified, then know for certain that you are a predestined man or woman whom God has set His heart upon from all eter-nity to do good. And this is a great happiness for a poor creature while he lives in this world, to know that God has set His heart upon him from all eter-nity to do him good. And, indeed, we can never be at rest until we come to this."

Thurs., 10/6/16 Devotion (Ps. 90:15)

Today's encouragement comes from Psalm 90:15, where we read these words, from this Psalm of Moses:

"Make us glad according to the days in which You have afflicted us, the years in which we have seen evil."

There is a very real sense in which the persevering churched Christian may hope, and even lay some claim to this Mosaic notion that God will bless our days, commensurate with the years we have had to suffer (in whatever form). Oftentimes this blessing occurs in *this* life down here. If not, it will definitely happen in the world to come.

The main point is that it is a good thing to be "glad" in the Lord. There is no-thing wrong with this; and we should actually *seek* to be happy in Jesus—at all turns. We all "see" plenty of "evil." What we also need is an overwhelming counter-balance of good. This is found by us in Jesus alone.

[Puritan quote of the day: "Repentance unravels sin and makes it as if it had never been.” —Thomas Watson, in, "The Doctrine of Repentance"]