Happy Reformation Day—as today we celebrate the 500th anniversary of the start of that great work of God’s Spirit in His church and the world!
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 truly se-cure, and is not subject to the judgment we all deserve, is because of God's covenant 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 most-blessed pri-vilege. Instead, 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 Christ).
[Puritan quote of the day: "For want of hearts full of love [for God], men have heads full of error.” —Thomas Watson, in, "All Things for Good"]
Tuesday, October 31, 2017
Monday, October 30, 2017
Mon., 10/30/17 Devotion (2 Tim. 2:1)
Today's encouragement comes from Paul's words to the young pastor Timo-thy, as they are found in 2 Timothy 2:1:
"You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus."
Notice that Paul does not tell Timothy to be strong in the law, or himself, or in his position, or in religion (in general). Instead, he is to be strong in "the grace that is in Christ Jesus." This is not just *any* grace, (and it is not "common" grace). Rather, it is redemptive and regenerative grace. It is resurrection grace.
Paul's admonition is not only for pastors. All Christians must be strong in this blessed grace that is found in Jesus alone. If we seek to gain strength from anything or anyone else, our religious lives will show themselves (in weak-ness). If we are strong in Christ's grace, we will shine for God.
[Puritan quote of the day: "Those whose hearts follow hard after the Lord have the right hand of God upholding them.” —Jeremiah Burroughs, in, "Gos-pel Worship"]
"You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus."
Notice that Paul does not tell Timothy to be strong in the law, or himself, or in his position, or in religion (in general). Instead, he is to be strong in "the grace that is in Christ Jesus." This is not just *any* grace, (and it is not "common" grace). Rather, it is redemptive and regenerative grace. It is resurrection grace.
Paul's admonition is not only for pastors. All Christians must be strong in this blessed grace that is found in Jesus alone. If we seek to gain strength from anything or anyone else, our religious lives will show themselves (in weak-ness). If we are strong in Christ's grace, we will shine for God.
[Puritan quote of the day: "Those whose hearts follow hard after the Lord have the right hand of God upholding them.” —Jeremiah Burroughs, in, "Gos-pel Worship"]
Friday, October 27, 2017
Fri.-Sabbath, 10/27-29/17 Devotion
Yes! Sunday is almost here! So as to help prepare us for church worship, here are some good words from Thomas Watson's great little book, entitled, "The Doctrine of Repentance":
"This resolution [to leave sin] must be built upon the strength of Christ more than our own. It must be a humble resolution. As David, when he went against Goliath put off his presumptuous confidence as well as his armor—'I come to you in the name of the Lord,' (1 Sam. 17:45)—so we must go out against our Goliath-lusts in the strength of Christ. . . . Being conscious of our own inability to leave sin, let us get Christ to be bound with us and engage His strength for the mortifying of corruption."
"This resolution [to leave sin] must be built upon the strength of Christ more than our own. It must be a humble resolution. As David, when he went against Goliath put off his presumptuous confidence as well as his armor—'I come to you in the name of the Lord,' (1 Sam. 17:45)—so we must go out against our Goliath-lusts in the strength of Christ. . . . Being conscious of our own inability to leave sin, let us get Christ to be bound with us and engage His strength for the mortifying of corruption."
Thursday, October 26, 2017
Thurs., 10/26/17 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 were (like them) starving to death.
So is it the case with the gospel. We churchmen who, by grace, feed on Christ and His goodness every Lord’s Day and even throughout the week, ought to have compassion and concern for those who do not. What do we have to offer them? The Person of Jesus Christ, His atonement, forgiveness, and salvation. We are all by nature spiritual lepers, before we are converted to being the children of the great King.
[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"]
"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 were (like them) starving to death.
So is it the case with the gospel. We churchmen who, by grace, feed on Christ and His goodness every Lord’s Day and even throughout the week, ought to have compassion and concern for those who do not. What do we have to offer them? The Person of Jesus Christ, His atonement, forgiveness, and salvation. We are all by nature spiritual lepers, before we are converted to being the children of the great King.
[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"]
Wednesday, October 25, 2017
Wed., 10/25/17 Devotion (2 Ki. 6:33b)
Today's encouragement comes from 2 Kings 6:33b, where we find these words:
" . . . And then the king [of Israel] said, 'Surely this calamity is from the LORD; why should I wait for the LORD any longer?' "
Many people fail in their religion because of impatience. Here, the king of Is-rael is right: God sent the trouble with which they were dealing. But he was wrong, in thinking that it was futile to "wait for the LORD any longer." Little did he know that in the very next chapter God would bring about a great and mir-aculous deliverance.
If we are almost at the ends of our ropes today, and we are tempted to give up on God—let us be sure not to do this. The Lord is always faithful to His church; and all alternatives to Christ only lead to much worse disasters (in this world, and in the one to come).
[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"]
" . . . And then the king [of Israel] said, 'Surely this calamity is from the LORD; why should I wait for the LORD any longer?' "
Many people fail in their religion because of impatience. Here, the king of Is-rael is right: God sent the trouble with which they were dealing. But he was wrong, in thinking that it was futile to "wait for the LORD any longer." Little did he know that in the very next chapter God would bring about a great and mir-aculous deliverance.
If we are almost at the ends of our ropes today, and we are tempted to give up on God—let us be sure not to do this. The Lord is always faithful to His church; and all alternatives to Christ only lead to much worse disasters (in this world, and in the one to come).
[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"]
Tuesday, October 24, 2017
Tues., 10/24/17 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 come to the Lord, ever. Besides that, we would have no basis for our prayers, because we do not possess any right-eous deeds that can save us, or even recommend us to God. Daniel, a true believer, understood this gospel truth, (see above).
We come to God on the basis of Christ's righteousness, which is imputed to us churched saints, by sovereign grace. This is the ground on which we properly approach God. The Lord will hear the prayers of those who come to Him bearing Jesus in the arms of faith. But He disregards all other petitions.
[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"]
" . . . 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 come to the Lord, ever. Besides that, we would have no basis for our prayers, because we do not possess any right-eous deeds that can save us, or even recommend us to God. Daniel, a true believer, understood this gospel truth, (see above).
We come to God on the basis of Christ's righteousness, which is imputed to us churched saints, by sovereign grace. This is the ground on which we properly approach God. The Lord will hear the prayers of those who come to Him bearing Jesus in the arms of faith. But He disregards all other petitions.
[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"]
Monday, October 23, 2017
Mon., 10/23/17 Devotion (Ps. 116:1)
Today's encouragement comes from Psalm 116:1, where we read these words:
"I love the LORD, because He has heard my voice and my supplications."
Among many other reasons, here is yet another one that explains the saints’ love for God: He hears our prayers. Precisely *what* prayers does God "hear," in the covenantal sense? (After all, He knows the things religious peo-ple all over the world are babbling out all the time.) God hears prayers that are made through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. These are the only prayers God hears.
But even these petitions should be sincere and earnest. The Lord hearkens to prayers that come from the heart. He answers those people who *really* want to be heard. God pays no attention to prayers offered from self-, law-, or works-righteousness; but He does hear those that are "soaked," as it were, in the blood righteousness of Jesus.
[Puritan quote of the day: "Although to true religion there must indeed be something else besides affection, yet true religion consists so much in the af-fections that there can be no true religion without them.” —Jonathan Ed-wards, in, "A Treatise Concerning the Religious Affections"]
"I love the LORD, because He has heard my voice and my supplications."
Among many other reasons, here is yet another one that explains the saints’ love for God: He hears our prayers. Precisely *what* prayers does God "hear," in the covenantal sense? (After all, He knows the things religious peo-ple all over the world are babbling out all the time.) God hears prayers that are made through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. These are the only prayers God hears.
But even these petitions should be sincere and earnest. The Lord hearkens to prayers that come from the heart. He answers those people who *really* want to be heard. God pays no attention to prayers offered from self-, law-, or works-righteousness; but He does hear those that are "soaked," as it were, in the blood righteousness of Jesus.
[Puritan quote of the day: "Although to true religion there must indeed be something else besides affection, yet true religion consists so much in the af-fections that there can be no true religion without them.” —Jonathan Ed-wards, in, "A Treatise Concerning the Religious Affections"]
Friday, October 20, 2017
Fri.-Sabbath, 10/20-22/17 Devotion
Yippee—it is almost Sunday! In order to help get us ready for church, here are words from Thomas Watson's, "The Lord's Prayer" book:
"True faith is wrought by the ministry of the word. 'Faith comes by hearing,' (Rom. 10:17). Peter let down the net of his ministry, and at one [fell swoop] caught three thousand souls. Let us examine how our faith was wrought. Did God in the ministry of the word humble us? Did He break up the fallow ground of our heart, and then cast in the seed of faith? A good sign; but, if you know not how you came by your faith, suspect yourselves; as we suspect men to have stolen goods, when they know not how they came by them.
"True faith is at first small, like a grain of mustard-seed; it is full of doubts and fears; it is smoking flax: it smokes with desire, but does not flame with com-fort. It is so small that a Christian can hardly discern whether he has faith or not.
"True faith is joined with sanctity. . . . Though faith does but touch Christ, it fetches a healing virtue from Him. Justifying faith does that in a spiritual sense which miraculous faith does; it removes the mountains of sin, and casts them into the sea of Christ's blood."
"True faith is wrought by the ministry of the word. 'Faith comes by hearing,' (Rom. 10:17). Peter let down the net of his ministry, and at one [fell swoop] caught three thousand souls. Let us examine how our faith was wrought. Did God in the ministry of the word humble us? Did He break up the fallow ground of our heart, and then cast in the seed of faith? A good sign; but, if you know not how you came by your faith, suspect yourselves; as we suspect men to have stolen goods, when they know not how they came by them.
"True faith is at first small, like a grain of mustard-seed; it is full of doubts and fears; it is smoking flax: it smokes with desire, but does not flame with com-fort. It is so small that a Christian can hardly discern whether he has faith or not.
"True faith is joined with sanctity. . . . Though faith does but touch Christ, it fetches a healing virtue from Him. Justifying faith does that in a spiritual sense which miraculous faith does; it removes the mountains of sin, and casts them into the sea of Christ's blood."
Thursday, October 19, 2017
Thurs., 10/19/17 Devotion (1 Ki. 22:14)
Today’s encouragement comes from 1 Kings 22:14, where we read these words:
“But Micaiah said, 'As the LORD lives, what the LORD says to me, that I will speak.’ “ (ESV)
Faithful and truly-called church ministers of Christ’s gospel would literally rather die, than fail to deliver the message God lays on their hearts. Micaiah (above) was being encouraged to join the false prophets, and speak words that the wicked King Ahab wanted to hear. But Micaiah refused to do this. He was but one against 400 (false) prophets.
Even today, real pastors are urged to “fudge” on the truth, and to “tickle the ears” of sinners. Worse than that, they are pressured to “ease-up” on sin, and especially not to make it too “personal.” But God’s faithful servants do Christ, His church, and the world the most good (by far) when they are true to Jesus, and preach to people what they really need to hear.
[Puritan quote of the day: "Nothing in all the world can deliver from the fear of death but forgiveness of sin, and then this makes a man look on the Day of Judgment with comfort.” —Jeremiah Burroughs, in a book of his sermons, en-titled, "Gospel Remission"]
“But Micaiah said, 'As the LORD lives, what the LORD says to me, that I will speak.’ “ (ESV)
Faithful and truly-called church ministers of Christ’s gospel would literally rather die, than fail to deliver the message God lays on their hearts. Micaiah (above) was being encouraged to join the false prophets, and speak words that the wicked King Ahab wanted to hear. But Micaiah refused to do this. He was but one against 400 (false) prophets.
Even today, real pastors are urged to “fudge” on the truth, and to “tickle the ears” of sinners. Worse than that, they are pressured to “ease-up” on sin, and especially not to make it too “personal.” But God’s faithful servants do Christ, His church, and the world the most good (by far) when they are true to Jesus, and preach to people what they really need to hear.
[Puritan quote of the day: "Nothing in all the world can deliver from the fear of death but forgiveness of sin, and then this makes a man look on the Day of Judgment with comfort.” —Jeremiah Burroughs, in a book of his sermons, en-titled, "Gospel Remission"]
Wednesday, October 18, 2017
Wed., 10/18/17 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 regenerate people of God.
How about us who make up the true church today? 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, and become just like them?
[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"]
"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 regenerate people of God.
How about us who make up the true church today? 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, and become just like them?
[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"]
Tuesday, October 17, 2017
Tues., 10/17/17 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 Babylonian king's dream. The great "kingdom" that Daniel is referring to here, is the es-tablishment of, and the proliferation of the New Covenant Church, by the Lord Jesus Christ. This kingdom is currently set up on earth and in heaven; and it has “[broken] in[to] pieces" all other "kingdoms."
The earlier kingdoms that are now under Jesus’ and His church’s feet are the Babylonian one, the Grecian one, Medo-Persion one, and the Roman one. None of them could stand up to The Ultimate King Jesus. For this glorious fact, may all His church rejoice.
[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"]
"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 Babylonian king's dream. The great "kingdom" that Daniel is referring to here, is the es-tablishment of, and the proliferation of the New Covenant Church, by the Lord Jesus Christ. This kingdom is currently set up on earth and in heaven; and it has “[broken] in[to] pieces" all other "kingdoms."
The earlier kingdoms that are now under Jesus’ and His church’s feet are the Babylonian one, the Grecian one, Medo-Persion one, and the Roman one. None of them could stand up to The Ultimate King Jesus. For this glorious fact, may all His church rejoice.
[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"]
Monday, October 16, 2017
Mon., 10/16/17 Devotion (1 Thess. 2:4)
Today's encouragement comes from 1 Thessalonians 2:4, where we read these words:
"But as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, even so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God who tests our hearts."
The ministers of the faithful church who are truly called by God are sent to speak to all people everywhere the gospel of Christ's grace. But they are to do so with their minds on God first. He is our principal “Audience.” What is it that *God* wants us to say? This is what must be preached. The faithful clergy do not poll the people, to determine what they want to hear. Instead, they "poll" the Lord, in order to know what He would have them proclaim.
This principle is then passed down to the entire church, wherein the people of God begin to think this way too. They begin to ask, "What is it that Christ would have me do, and say?" This is the way to be effective for Jesus in the world. Then, when God "tests our hearts," we pass with flying colors—be-cause of Christ.
[Puritan quote of the day: "Christ is in the ship of His church; do not fear sink-ing. The church's anchor is cast in heaven. Do we not think that God loves His church, and takes as much care of it as we can?” —Thomas Watson, in, "The Art of Divine Contentment"]
"But as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, even so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God who tests our hearts."
The ministers of the faithful church who are truly called by God are sent to speak to all people everywhere the gospel of Christ's grace. But they are to do so with their minds on God first. He is our principal “Audience.” What is it that *God* wants us to say? This is what must be preached. The faithful clergy do not poll the people, to determine what they want to hear. Instead, they "poll" the Lord, in order to know what He would have them proclaim.
This principle is then passed down to the entire church, wherein the people of God begin to think this way too. They begin to ask, "What is it that Christ would have me do, and say?" This is the way to be effective for Jesus in the world. Then, when God "tests our hearts," we pass with flying colors—be-cause of Christ.
[Puritan quote of the day: "Christ is in the ship of His church; do not fear sink-ing. The church's anchor is cast in heaven. Do we not think that God loves His church, and takes as much care of it as we can?” —Thomas Watson, in, "The Art of Divine Contentment"]
Friday, October 13, 2017
Fri.-Sabbath, 10/13-15/17 Devotion
Wahoo—it is almost Sunday! We *get* to go back to church. In order to help get us ready, here is Thomas Watson, from his, "The Happiness of Drawing Near to God" treatise. . . .
"Where we draw near to God.
"Answer. In the use of His ordinances. In the word we draw near to His Holy Oracle; in the sacrament we draw near to His table. In the one we hear His voice; in the other we have His kiss. Besides, we also in a special manner draw near to God in prayer. Prayer is the soul's private converse and fellow-ship with God. Prayer whispers in God's ears, Psalm 43:6: ‘My prayer came before Him, even into His ears.’ In prayer we draw so near to God that we ‘take hold of Him,’ (Isaiah 64:6). God draws near to us by His Spirit, and we draw near to Him in prayer.
"The 'modus,' or manner of our drawing near to God. God's special residence is in Heaven and we draw near to God, not by the feet of our bodies, but with our souls. The affections are the feet of the soul; by these we move towards God. David drew near to God in his desires, Psalm 73:25: ‘There is none up-on earth that I desire beside You.’ He did shoot his heart into Heaven by pi-ous prayers. Spirits may have fellowship at a distance."
"Where we draw near to God.
"Answer. In the use of His ordinances. In the word we draw near to His Holy Oracle; in the sacrament we draw near to His table. In the one we hear His voice; in the other we have His kiss. Besides, we also in a special manner draw near to God in prayer. Prayer is the soul's private converse and fellow-ship with God. Prayer whispers in God's ears, Psalm 43:6: ‘My prayer came before Him, even into His ears.’ In prayer we draw so near to God that we ‘take hold of Him,’ (Isaiah 64:6). God draws near to us by His Spirit, and we draw near to Him in prayer.
"The 'modus,' or manner of our drawing near to God. God's special residence is in Heaven and we draw near to God, not by the feet of our bodies, but with our souls. The affections are the feet of the soul; by these we move towards God. David drew near to God in his desires, Psalm 73:25: ‘There is none up-on earth that I desire beside You.’ He did shoot his heart into Heaven by pi-ous prayers. Spirits may have fellowship at a distance."
Thursday, October 12, 2017
Thurs., 10/12/17 Devotion (Col. 2:9-10)
Today's encouragement comes from Colossians 2:9 & 10, which says this:
"For in Him [Christ] dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily; and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power."
Regenerated baptized churched Christians are *already* "complete in [Jesus]." We do not have to wait for some future event, to be made whole, full, or satisfied. Believers' “completion" is a *past* reality, sealed at the cross and resurrection of Jesus, and applied to the hearts of the saints in time and space.
Maybe today we are *feeling* less than complete. If we are in Christ, we *are* complete—even though we may not sense it. Our "completion" can be in no one *other* than Jesus. If we are trying to find it in another person, a saint, an angel, or any other practice, being, or doctrine—then we are certain to be dis-appointed. But not so with Christ: He has secured His church's fullness *al-ready*; and for all times to come.
[Puritan quote of the day: "Some set their bags of money always before them, others set the fear of men always before them, but a wise Christian will set God, judgment, and eternity always before him.” —Thomas Watson, in his sermon, "God's Anatomy upon Man's Heart"]
"For in Him [Christ] dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily; and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power."
Regenerated baptized churched Christians are *already* "complete in [Jesus]." We do not have to wait for some future event, to be made whole, full, or satisfied. Believers' “completion" is a *past* reality, sealed at the cross and resurrection of Jesus, and applied to the hearts of the saints in time and space.
Maybe today we are *feeling* less than complete. If we are in Christ, we *are* complete—even though we may not sense it. Our "completion" can be in no one *other* than Jesus. If we are trying to find it in another person, a saint, an angel, or any other practice, being, or doctrine—then we are certain to be dis-appointed. But not so with Christ: He has secured His church's fullness *al-ready*; and for all times to come.
[Puritan quote of the day: "Some set their bags of money always before them, others set the fear of men always before them, but a wise Christian will set God, judgment, and eternity always before him.” —Thomas Watson, in his sermon, "God's Anatomy upon Man's Heart"]
Wednesday, October 11, 2017
Wed., 10/11/17 Devotion (1 Ki. 14:8b)
Today's encouragement comes from 1 Kings 14:8b, where we read these words:
" . . . and yet you [Jeroboam] have not been as My servant David, who kept My commandments and who followed Me with all his heart, to do only what was right in My eyes."
Ahijah the prophet is speaking these words to Jeroboam, the idolatrous king of Israel. What made David so "perfect" in God's sight? After all, did he not commit the murder of Uriah, and did he not commit adultery with Bathsheba? David was justified in God's sight, because he (David), in brokenness, contri-tion, faith, and repentance, cast himself entirely on Jesus Christ. David pos-sessed Christ’s righteousness; and, because of this, he was perfect in God’s eyes.
And so it is with all faithful Christian churchmen today. We who are accounted as righteous are so because we have Jesus' righteousness fully and legally imputed to our hearts by faith. Because of this, in fact, we "follow the Lord will all [our] heart”—despite the fact that we have all kinds of imperfections and sins. When we sin, we repent; and love God all the more.
[Puritan quote of the day: "[Abraham] looked up to the goodness of God in Himself and in His promise, not as it appeared to sense.” —Jeremiah Bur-roughs, in, "The Excellency of a Gracious Spirit"]
" . . . and yet you [Jeroboam] have not been as My servant David, who kept My commandments and who followed Me with all his heart, to do only what was right in My eyes."
Ahijah the prophet is speaking these words to Jeroboam, the idolatrous king of Israel. What made David so "perfect" in God's sight? After all, did he not commit the murder of Uriah, and did he not commit adultery with Bathsheba? David was justified in God's sight, because he (David), in brokenness, contri-tion, faith, and repentance, cast himself entirely on Jesus Christ. David pos-sessed Christ’s righteousness; and, because of this, he was perfect in God’s eyes.
And so it is with all faithful Christian churchmen today. We who are accounted as righteous are so because we have Jesus' righteousness fully and legally imputed to our hearts by faith. Because of this, in fact, we "follow the Lord will all [our] heart”—despite the fact that we have all kinds of imperfections and sins. When we sin, we repent; and love God all the more.
[Puritan quote of the day: "[Abraham] looked up to the goodness of God in Himself and in His promise, not as it appeared to sense.” —Jeremiah Bur-roughs, in, "The Excellency of a Gracious Spirit"]
Tuesday, October 10, 2017
Tues., 10/10/17 Devotion (Php. 4:6-7)
Today's encouragement comes from Philippians 4:6 & 7, where we read these great words:
"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."
Anxiety gives way to peace, when we Christian church members bring our troubles to Christ, once again assuring ourselves that we are in right relation to God, on the basis of Jesus' work alone (apprehended by faith). A lot of people pray, and are yet not relieved of their anxieties, because they are not trusting in Christ alone. (They add something else to the mix.)
God will never give true and settled peace to anyone, except those in His church who trust in Jesus' blood (plus nothing). Let us be numbered among the few (and the humble), [to work off of a Marine expression].
[Puritan quote of the day: "Those who converse much with God have shining hearts and shining conversations [lives].” —Jeremiah Burroughs, in "Hope"]
"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."
Anxiety gives way to peace, when we Christian church members bring our troubles to Christ, once again assuring ourselves that we are in right relation to God, on the basis of Jesus' work alone (apprehended by faith). A lot of people pray, and are yet not relieved of their anxieties, because they are not trusting in Christ alone. (They add something else to the mix.)
God will never give true and settled peace to anyone, except those in His church who trust in Jesus' blood (plus nothing). Let us be numbered among the few (and the humble), [to work off of a Marine expression].
[Puritan quote of the day: "Those who converse much with God have shining hearts and shining conversations [lives].” —Jeremiah Burroughs, in "Hope"]
Monday, October 9, 2017
Mon., 10/9/17 Devotion (Ps. 94:19)
Today's encouragement comes from Psalm 94:19, where we read these words:
"In the multitude of my anxieties within me, Your comforts delight my soul."
This verse describes life in the real world. The sincere Christian churchman does indeed have "anxieties"; but he or she also has abundant "comforts" in Christ. False forms of Christianity argue that these two are incompatible. The Scripture, on the other hand, affirms that both consternation *and* consola-tion co-exist, even in the true children of God.
Our Savior Himself had "anxieties." Do we recall His time in the Garden of Gethsemane? But our comforts in Christ outweigh our troubles in a fallen world. Let us thank God for this.
[Puritan quote of the day: "It is a vain thing to think that true religion can be maintained, and have the liberty of it, without some difference of opinion among us.” —Jeremiah Burroughs, in, "Hope"]
"In the multitude of my anxieties within me, Your comforts delight my soul."
This verse describes life in the real world. The sincere Christian churchman does indeed have "anxieties"; but he or she also has abundant "comforts" in Christ. False forms of Christianity argue that these two are incompatible. The Scripture, on the other hand, affirms that both consternation *and* consola-tion co-exist, even in the true children of God.
Our Savior Himself had "anxieties." Do we recall His time in the Garden of Gethsemane? But our comforts in Christ outweigh our troubles in a fallen world. Let us thank God for this.
[Puritan quote of the day: "It is a vain thing to think that true religion can be maintained, and have the liberty of it, without some difference of opinion among us.” —Jeremiah Burroughs, in, "Hope"]
Friday, October 6, 2017
Fri.-Sabbath, 10/6-8/17 Devotion
Hip, hip, hooray—it is almost Sunday. We *get* to go back to church again, on The Lord's Day. In order to help us get ready, here is Thomas Watson, from his, "A Body of Divinity" book. . . .
"Jesus Christ is the glorious purchaser of our redemption. The doctrine of re-demption by Jesus Christ is a glorious doctrine; it is the marrow and quintes-sence of the gospel, in which all a Christian’s comfort lies. Great was the work of creation, but greater the work of redemption. It cost more to redeem us than to make us; in the one there was but the speaking of a word, in the other the shedding of blood. The creation was but the work of God’s fingers, (Psa 8:3); redemption is the work of His arm, (Luke 1:51).
“ 'Having obtained eternal redemption for us,’ (Heb 9:12). Christ's purchasing redemption for us implies that our sins mortgaged and sold us. Had there not been some kind of mortgaging there had been no need of redemption. When we were thus mortgaged, and sold by sin, Christ purchased our redemption. He had the best right to redeem us, for He is our kinsman. The Hebrew word for Redeemer, 'Goel,' signifies a kinsman, one that is near in blood. In the old law the nearest kinsman was to redeem his brother’s land, (Ruth 4:4). Thus Christ being near akin to us, 'Flesh of our flesh,’ is the fittest to redeem us."
"Jesus Christ is the glorious purchaser of our redemption. The doctrine of re-demption by Jesus Christ is a glorious doctrine; it is the marrow and quintes-sence of the gospel, in which all a Christian’s comfort lies. Great was the work of creation, but greater the work of redemption. It cost more to redeem us than to make us; in the one there was but the speaking of a word, in the other the shedding of blood. The creation was but the work of God’s fingers, (Psa 8:3); redemption is the work of His arm, (Luke 1:51).
“ 'Having obtained eternal redemption for us,’ (Heb 9:12). Christ's purchasing redemption for us implies that our sins mortgaged and sold us. Had there not been some kind of mortgaging there had been no need of redemption. When we were thus mortgaged, and sold by sin, Christ purchased our redemption. He had the best right to redeem us, for He is our kinsman. The Hebrew word for Redeemer, 'Goel,' signifies a kinsman, one that is near in blood. In the old law the nearest kinsman was to redeem his brother’s land, (Ruth 4:4). Thus Christ being near akin to us, 'Flesh of our flesh,’ is the fittest to redeem us."
Thursday, October 5, 2017
Thurs., 10/5/17 Devotion (Eph. 5:1-2)
Today's encouragement comes from Ephesians 5:1 & 2, where we read these wonderful words:
"Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma."
It is an amazing thing, to be commanded to "be imitators of God." How can anybody imitate the perfect, holy, righteous, powerful, and good God? There is only one way: by being His offspring. This is what the children of God *are*: the spiritual "descendants" of the one, only, and true Deity Himself. We are adopted into the church of God through faith in Jesus (the Father's "natural" Son).
And our God is a perfectly good Father. He has provided atonement for the souls of all His children; and He loves His own supremely, and wonderfully.
[Puritan quote of the day: "[God] has sent forth His messengers, and appoint-ed ministers in His church, to be subordinate lights, to shine with the com-munications of His light, and to reflect the beams of His glory on the souls of men.” —Jonathan Edwards, from his sermon, "The True Excellency of a Gos-pel Minister"]
"Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma."
It is an amazing thing, to be commanded to "be imitators of God." How can anybody imitate the perfect, holy, righteous, powerful, and good God? There is only one way: by being His offspring. This is what the children of God *are*: the spiritual "descendants" of the one, only, and true Deity Himself. We are adopted into the church of God through faith in Jesus (the Father's "natural" Son).
And our God is a perfectly good Father. He has provided atonement for the souls of all His children; and He loves His own supremely, and wonderfully.
[Puritan quote of the day: "[God] has sent forth His messengers, and appoint-ed ministers in His church, to be subordinate lights, to shine with the com-munications of His light, and to reflect the beams of His glory on the souls of men.” —Jonathan Edwards, from his sermon, "The True Excellency of a Gos-pel Minister"]
Wednesday, October 4, 2017
Wed., 10/4/17 Devotion (Ezek. 37:4-5)
Today's encouragement comes from Ezekiel 37:4 & 5, where these words are found:
"Again He [God] said to me, 'Prophesy to these bones, and say to them, "O dry bones, hear the word of the LORD! Thus says the Lord GOD to these bones: 'Surely I will cause breath to enter into you, and you shall live.' " ' "
Let us behold the amazing power of the preached word of God—as the gos-pel of grace is proclaimed in the Lord Jesus Christ. God brought life to the valley of dry bones through the agency of His prophet’s preaching. The Lord still does this very same thing every Sunday, from faithful pulpits. What an odd way to gain glory. Non-regenerate people never comprehend the primacy of preaching.
Today—just as it has always been—there are many false and futile substi-tutes for preaching, all claiming to be able to make dry bones live. The faithful in Christ will never fall for any of them. They would rather listen to the word of God, as it is proclaimed in the true church.
[Puritan quote of the day: "He who thinks anything less than God will suffice [for satisfaction in life] does not understand the soul; and he who wants any-thing more than God does not understand God.” —Richard Alleine, in, "Heav-en Opened"]
"Again He [God] said to me, 'Prophesy to these bones, and say to them, "O dry bones, hear the word of the LORD! Thus says the Lord GOD to these bones: 'Surely I will cause breath to enter into you, and you shall live.' " ' "
Let us behold the amazing power of the preached word of God—as the gos-pel of grace is proclaimed in the Lord Jesus Christ. God brought life to the valley of dry bones through the agency of His prophet’s preaching. The Lord still does this very same thing every Sunday, from faithful pulpits. What an odd way to gain glory. Non-regenerate people never comprehend the primacy of preaching.
Today—just as it has always been—there are many false and futile substi-tutes for preaching, all claiming to be able to make dry bones live. The faithful in Christ will never fall for any of them. They would rather listen to the word of God, as it is proclaimed in the true church.
[Puritan quote of the day: "He who thinks anything less than God will suffice [for satisfaction in life] does not understand the soul; and he who wants any-thing more than God does not understand God.” —Richard Alleine, in, "Heav-en Opened"]
Tuesday, October 3, 2017
Tues., 10/3/17 Devotion (Eph. 3:21)
Today's encouragement comes from Ephesians 3:21, where we read these words:
" . . . to Him [God] be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen."
God will get His greatest levels of glory in and through His church—more than anywhere else. The reason for this, is that the redeemed (who make it up) are the recipients of the most amazing and marvelous grace in the Lord Jesus Christ. We are given the very best of heaven, even while we are here on the earth. And this most wonderful gift is that of the Son of God Himself.
Let us build our lives around Christ. If we will do this, we will find ourselves building our lives around His church. Let us do all this by grace, through faith in Jesus.
[Puritan quote of the day: "If [God] brings any beginnings of grace to truth, the victory is already gotten.” —Jeremiah Burroughs, in, "The Excellency of a Gracious Spirit"]
" . . . to Him [God] be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen."
God will get His greatest levels of glory in and through His church—more than anywhere else. The reason for this, is that the redeemed (who make it up) are the recipients of the most amazing and marvelous grace in the Lord Jesus Christ. We are given the very best of heaven, even while we are here on the earth. And this most wonderful gift is that of the Son of God Himself.
Let us build our lives around Christ. If we will do this, we will find ourselves building our lives around His church. Let us do all this by grace, through faith in Jesus.
[Puritan quote of the day: "If [God] brings any beginnings of grace to truth, the victory is already gotten.” —Jeremiah Burroughs, in, "The Excellency of a Gracious Spirit"]
Monday, October 2, 2017
Mon., 10/2/17 Devotion (Eph. 2:8-9)
Today's encouragement comes from Ephesians 2:8 & 9, where we find these remarkable words:
"For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of your-selves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast."
We sinners are not saved by anything we do. This truth is extremely hard to accept, because we are so geared in our natural flesh to believe the exact op-posite. After the Fall of man in the Garden, works went out the window, (but our memory of them has never left us).
To seek to be redeemed by works, or to supposedly sustain a relationship with God through works is a great affront to Christ and the gospel. If we could be saved by what we do, why would God the Father send His precious Son to die on a cruel cross for helpless sinners? Let us be grateful that we are saved by grace through faith in Jesus. This pleases God; and it brings us the best of everything.
[Puritan quote of the day: "To be rich in goods and rich in goodness is a hap-py condition.” —Jeremiah Burroughs, in, "The Excellency of a Gracious Spirit"]
"For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of your-selves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast."
We sinners are not saved by anything we do. This truth is extremely hard to accept, because we are so geared in our natural flesh to believe the exact op-posite. After the Fall of man in the Garden, works went out the window, (but our memory of them has never left us).
To seek to be redeemed by works, or to supposedly sustain a relationship with God through works is a great affront to Christ and the gospel. If we could be saved by what we do, why would God the Father send His precious Son to die on a cruel cross for helpless sinners? Let us be grateful that we are saved by grace through faith in Jesus. This pleases God; and it brings us the best of everything.
[Puritan quote of the day: "To be rich in goods and rich in goodness is a hap-py condition.” —Jeremiah Burroughs, in, "The Excellency of a Gracious Spirit"]
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