Today's encouragement comes from 2 Timothy 2:1, where we read these words:
"You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus."
This is a precious verse. In what are we to be "strong"? The "grace that is in Christ Jesus." What is this grace? It is sufficient grace—that is more than able to meet our specific, everyday and eternal needs. How are we to be "strong" in this grace? By faith. When we believe God, that He will answer our prayers offered through Jesus, and help us in our needs—it greatly honors Him.
The thing to avoid, is the idea that we need to do something *before* we can be strong in Christ's grace. The truth is that strength comes as we appropri-ate to our hearts the Lord Jesus Himself by faith. Are we weak today? Let us put our faith in Christ.
[Puritan quote of the day: "For from our neglect of prayer comes that dead-ness of spirit, that worldly-mindedness and unaptness to pray, to hear the Word, and to keep the Sabbath.” —John Preston, in his sermon entitled, "The Saint's Daily Exercise"]
Wednesday, October 31, 2018
Wed., 10/31/18 Devotion (2 Ki. 13:23)
Happy Reformation Day!
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 our Lord Jesus Christ. The Father beholds the blood of Jesus’ atonement of His elect church, and He is satisfied that His righteous wrath against our sin is fully and justly expended (on Christ, His beloved Son).
Let us in the church never abuse or take for granted this great and unspeak-able privilege. 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"]
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 our Lord Jesus Christ. The Father beholds the blood of Jesus’ atonement of His elect church, and He is satisfied that His righteous wrath against our sin is fully and justly expended (on Christ, His beloved Son).
Let us in the church never abuse or take for granted this great and unspeak-able privilege. 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"]
Monday, October 29, 2018
Mon., 10/29/18 Devotion (2 Tim. 1:6-7)
Today's encouragement comes from 2 Timothy 1:6 & 7, where we read these words of Paul, to the minister Timothy:
"Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind."
The good spiritual gifts God gives us, His ministers and parishioners, can sometimes settle, and become somewhat "dormant." When this happens, we tend to lose our edge, our courage, and our fortitude. Just as sometimes we have to "stoke" the coals in a fireplace to revive the flame—so we must do the same thing with the gifts resident in our souls.
Let us remember this: in a fallen world even good things tend to gravitate downward. It is our responsibility to refresh God's graces in us in Jesus, from Lord's Day to Lord's Day, (and then throughout the week).
[Puritan quote of the day: "Observe the happy condition of every child of God. All things work for his good, the best and worst things.” —Thomas Watson, in, "All Things for Good"]
"Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind."
The good spiritual gifts God gives us, His ministers and parishioners, can sometimes settle, and become somewhat "dormant." When this happens, we tend to lose our edge, our courage, and our fortitude. Just as sometimes we have to "stoke" the coals in a fireplace to revive the flame—so we must do the same thing with the gifts resident in our souls.
Let us remember this: in a fallen world even good things tend to gravitate downward. It is our responsibility to refresh God's graces in us in Jesus, from Lord's Day to Lord's Day, (and then throughout the week).
[Puritan quote of the day: "Observe the happy condition of every child of God. All things work for his good, the best and worst things.” —Thomas Watson, in, "All Things for Good"]
Friday, October 26, 2018
Fri.-Sabbath, 10/26-28/18 Devotion
Sunday IS coming! Praise God! Here is some brilliant genius from Thomas Watson, as it is found in his profound work, entitled, "The Art of Divine Con-tentment." Pastor Watson is dealing with Paul's assertion, as it is found in Php. 4:11:
"This word, 'I have learned,' is a word that imports difficulty. It shows how hard it was for the apostle to come to contentment of mind. It was not bred in nature. Paul did not come naturally by it; but he had learned it. It cost him many a prayer and tear. It was taught him by the Spirit.
"Whence our doctrine: GOOD THINGS ARE HARD TO COME BY. The busi-ness of [true] religion is not so easy as most imagine. 'I have learned,' says Paul. Indeed you need not teach a man to sin; this is natural, (Ps. 58:3)—and therefore facile [easy]. It comes as water out of a spring. It is an easy thing to be wicked. Hell will be taken without storm; but matters of religion [viz. true Christianity] must be learned. To cut the flesh is easy, but to prick a vein, and not to cut an artery, is hard. The trade of sin needs not to be learned; but the art of divine contentment is not achieved without holy industry: 'I have learn-ed.' "
"This word, 'I have learned,' is a word that imports difficulty. It shows how hard it was for the apostle to come to contentment of mind. It was not bred in nature. Paul did not come naturally by it; but he had learned it. It cost him many a prayer and tear. It was taught him by the Spirit.
"Whence our doctrine: GOOD THINGS ARE HARD TO COME BY. The busi-ness of [true] religion is not so easy as most imagine. 'I have learned,' says Paul. Indeed you need not teach a man to sin; this is natural, (Ps. 58:3)—and therefore facile [easy]. It comes as water out of a spring. It is an easy thing to be wicked. Hell will be taken without storm; but matters of religion [viz. true Christianity] must be learned. To cut the flesh is easy, but to prick a vein, and not to cut an artery, is hard. The trade of sin needs not to be learned; but the art of divine contentment is not achieved without holy industry: 'I have learn-ed.' "
Thursday, October 25, 2018
Thurs., 10/25/18 Devotion (Dan. 10:19a)
Today's encouragement comes from Daniel 10:19a, where we read these words:
"And he said, 'O man greatly beloved, fear not! Peace be to you; be strong, yes, be strong!' "
Are we servants of the Lord? Do we desire to put our lives at His feet every-day? If so, let us be encouraged by these words (above). God tenderly loves His ministers and His laymen who are called by His Name. Daniel, who was being addressed in the verses above, had been very weak and heavy-heart-ed. These words encouraged him, and strengthened him.
One touch from Christ—one word from His mouth—is enough to overcome whatever weariness or exhaustion we feel. Let us know that God loves His churchmen more than we could ever know.
[Puritan quote of the day: "However rugged or hard our path in following the Lord may seem to the flesh . . . yet where there is a spiritual eye, the way of holiness appears exceedingly lovely and beautiful.” —Jeremiah Burroughs, in, "The Excellency of a Gracious Spirit"]
"And he said, 'O man greatly beloved, fear not! Peace be to you; be strong, yes, be strong!' "
Are we servants of the Lord? Do we desire to put our lives at His feet every-day? If so, let us be encouraged by these words (above). God tenderly loves His ministers and His laymen who are called by His Name. Daniel, who was being addressed in the verses above, had been very weak and heavy-heart-ed. These words encouraged him, and strengthened him.
One touch from Christ—one word from His mouth—is enough to overcome whatever weariness or exhaustion we feel. Let us know that God loves His churchmen more than we could ever know.
[Puritan quote of the day: "However rugged or hard our path in following the Lord may seem to the flesh . . . yet where there is a spiritual eye, the way of holiness appears exceedingly lovely and beautiful.” —Jeremiah Burroughs, in, "The Excellency of a Gracious Spirit"]
Wednesday, October 24, 2018
Wed., 10/24/18 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 *have* any righteous deeds. Do we wish to compare ourselves to Daniel, and imagine we are "bet-ter" than he was? I think not.
We come to God on the perfect merits of *Christ’s* righteousness, which is imputed to the church believers, by sovereign grace. This is the ground on which we may rightly approach God. The Lord will hear the prayers of those who come to Him on this gospel basis (alone). He disregards all other peti-tions.
[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 *have* any righteous deeds. Do we wish to compare ourselves to Daniel, and imagine we are "bet-ter" than he was? I think not.
We come to God on the perfect merits of *Christ’s* righteousness, which is imputed to the church believers, by sovereign grace. This is the ground on which we may rightly approach God. The Lord will hear the prayers of those who come to Him on this gospel basis (alone). He disregards all other peti-tions.
[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"]
Tuesday, October 23, 2018
Tues., 10/23/18 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 a good one for us to love God: He hears the prayers of His faithful churchmen (saints). What prayers does God "hear," in the covenantal sense? (After all, He knows the things religious people all over the world say all the time.) God hears prayers that are made in the Name of and through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
But even these prayers should be sincere and earnest. God hears prayers that come from the heart. He answers people who *really* want to be heard. God never refuses anyone who asks for His very best. Any that request Jesus as their all-in-all, will be given Him.
[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 a good one for us to love God: He hears the prayers of His faithful churchmen (saints). What prayers does God "hear," in the covenantal sense? (After all, He knows the things religious people all over the world say all the time.) God hears prayers that are made in the Name of and through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
But even these prayers should be sincere and earnest. God hears prayers that come from the heart. He answers people who *really* want to be heard. God never refuses anyone who asks for His very best. Any that request Jesus as their all-in-all, will be given Him.
[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 19, 2018
Fri.-Sabbath, 10/19-21/18 Devotion
Yippee—Sunday is *almost* here! In order to prepare us for the church's wor-ship of The Holy Trinity, here is Thomas Watson, from his "Art of Divine Con-tentment" gem:
"Discontent is accompanied with unthankfulness. Because we have not all we desire, we never mind the mercies which we have. . . . So ungratefully do we deal with God. We can be content to receive mercies from God, but if He crosses us in the least thing, then, through discontent, we grow touchy and impatient, and are ready to fly upon God. Thus God loses all His mercies. We read in Scripture of the thank-offering; the discontented person cuts God short of this; the Lord loses His thank-offering. A discontented Christian re-pines in the midst of mercies, as Adam who sinned in the midst of paradise."
"Discontent is accompanied with unthankfulness. Because we have not all we desire, we never mind the mercies which we have. . . . So ungratefully do we deal with God. We can be content to receive mercies from God, but if He crosses us in the least thing, then, through discontent, we grow touchy and impatient, and are ready to fly upon God. Thus God loses all His mercies. We read in Scripture of the thank-offering; the discontented person cuts God short of this; the Lord loses His thank-offering. A discontented Christian re-pines in the midst of mercies, as Adam who sinned in the midst of paradise."
Thursday, October 18, 2018
Thurs., 1018/18 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 true believers sin, we give some of the priceless treasure of the cove-nant of God's grace to the devil, the world, and our own sinful flesh. Naboth refused even his earthly king what was rightfully his [Naboth's], by divine be-stowment. 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 in Jesus, 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 refor-mation. . . . 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 true believers sin, we give some of the priceless treasure of the cove-nant of God's grace to the devil, the world, and our own sinful flesh. Naboth refused even his earthly king what was rightfully his [Naboth's], by divine be-stowment. 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 in Jesus, 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 refor-mation. . . . By toleration we adopt other men's sins and make them our own.” —Thomas Watson, in his sermon, "Christ's Loveliness"]
Wednesday, October 17, 2018
Wed., 10/17/18 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. This kingdom is now in the process of "break[ing] in[to] pieces" all opposing "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 will fall, at the feet of King Jesus. For this, let us 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"]
"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. This kingdom is now in the process of "break[ing] in[to] pieces" all opposing "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 will fall, at the feet of King Jesus. For this, let us 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"]
Tuesday, October 16, 2018
Tues., 10/16/18 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 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 a mind on God first. What is it that *He* wants spoken? This is what must be said. 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 preach.
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 real way to lasting peace of consci-ence. Then, when God "tests our hearts," we pass with flying colors—and all because of Jesus.
[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 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 a mind on God first. What is it that *He* wants spoken? This is what must be said. 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 preach.
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 real way to lasting peace of consci-ence. Then, when God "tests our hearts," we pass with flying colors—and all because of Jesus.
[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"]
Monday, October 15, 2018
Mon. 10/15/18 Devotion (1 Ki. 18:21a)
Today's encouragement comes from 1 Kings 18:21a, where we read these words:
"And Elijah came to all the people, and said, 'How long will you falter between two opinions? If the LORD is God, follow Him; but if Baal, follow him. . . . ' "
I like this perspective, put forth by Elijah. Even today this principle applies. All people worship some deity (alleged, or true). "Let the best [God] win," should be our attitude. Is the Muslim god the true one? Then all should worship it. Is the atheists' god the true one? Then we should bow down to it. Is the secular-ists' god true? Let all men honor it (or her, or whatever). Is the Triune God of the True Christian Religion the only Real Deity? Then, all human beings should worship Him.
It turns out that the Holy Trinity *is* the one and only God. We know this—among other reasons—by the resurrection of the Son of God, who lives and reigns today. He can withstand all pretenders to His throne. Let us worship the Christian God, and not fear any of the fake ones.
[Puritan quote of the day: "There are the greatest reasons in the world to be a Christian . . . “ —Richard Sibbes, in, "Glorious Freedom"]
"And Elijah came to all the people, and said, 'How long will you falter between two opinions? If the LORD is God, follow Him; but if Baal, follow him. . . . ' "
I like this perspective, put forth by Elijah. Even today this principle applies. All people worship some deity (alleged, or true). "Let the best [God] win," should be our attitude. Is the Muslim god the true one? Then all should worship it. Is the atheists' god the true one? Then we should bow down to it. Is the secular-ists' god true? Let all men honor it (or her, or whatever). Is the Triune God of the True Christian Religion the only Real Deity? Then, all human beings should worship Him.
It turns out that the Holy Trinity *is* the one and only God. We know this—among other reasons—by the resurrection of the Son of God, who lives and reigns today. He can withstand all pretenders to His throne. Let us worship the Christian God, and not fear any of the fake ones.
[Puritan quote of the day: "There are the greatest reasons in the world to be a Christian . . . “ —Richard Sibbes, in, "Glorious Freedom"]
Friday, October 12, 2018
Fri.-Sabbath, 10/12-14/18 Devotion
Yippee—it is almost Sunday! Here is Thomas Watson, from "All Things for Good," in order to help get us ready for Sabbath worship of the Triune God:
"Here is a sovereign elixir of unspeakable comfort to those who are the called of God. Their salvation rests upon God's purpose. 'The foundation of God stands sure, having this seal. The Lord knows those who are His. And, Let everyone that names the name of Christ depart from iniquity,' (2 Tim. 2:19).
"Our graces are imperfect, our comforts ebb and flow, but God's foundation stands sure. They who are built upon this rock of God's eternal purpose, need not fear falling away; neither the power of man, nor the violence of tempta-tion, shall ever be able to overturn them."
"Here is a sovereign elixir of unspeakable comfort to those who are the called of God. Their salvation rests upon God's purpose. 'The foundation of God stands sure, having this seal. The Lord knows those who are His. And, Let everyone that names the name of Christ depart from iniquity,' (2 Tim. 2:19).
"Our graces are imperfect, our comforts ebb and flow, but God's foundation stands sure. They who are built upon this rock of God's eternal purpose, need not fear falling away; neither the power of man, nor the violence of tempta-tion, shall ever be able to overturn them."
Thursday, October 11, 2018
Thurs., 10/11/18 Devotion (Col. 1:16a)
Today's encouragement comes from Colossians 1:16a, where we read these words of Paul:
"For by Him [Christ] all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible . . . "
God created everything that is—everything that has a real essence; and He did this through His Son, Christ our Lord. There may be discussions (many legitimate) about when and how God through Christ created all things—but the germane fact is that He did. Nothing exists that God did not create. (He did not create sin or any evil—as these do not have a real essence.)
In the beauty of this season, let us thank God for His power and glory in His creation. But let us do this with an eye to something even greater: the re-creation of dead souls, who now make up the regenerated members of the body (church) of the Lord Jesus Christ.
[Puritan quote of the day: "The hypocrite takes more care to make a covenant than to keep it, and is more studious to enter into religion than that religion should enter into him.” —Thomas Watson, in his sermon, "God's Anatomy up-on Man's Heart"]
"For by Him [Christ] all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible . . . "
God created everything that is—everything that has a real essence; and He did this through His Son, Christ our Lord. There may be discussions (many legitimate) about when and how God through Christ created all things—but the germane fact is that He did. Nothing exists that God did not create. (He did not create sin or any evil—as these do not have a real essence.)
In the beauty of this season, let us thank God for His power and glory in His creation. But let us do this with an eye to something even greater: the re-creation of dead souls, who now make up the regenerated members of the body (church) of the Lord Jesus Christ.
[Puritan quote of the day: "The hypocrite takes more care to make a covenant than to keep it, and is more studious to enter into religion than that religion should enter into him.” —Thomas Watson, in his sermon, "God's Anatomy up-on Man's Heart"]
Wednesday, October 10, 2018
Wed., 10/10/18 Devotion (Php. 4:6-7)
Today's encouragement comes from Philippians 4:6 & 7, where Paul wrote these precious 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."
Notice, first of all, that this promise is *not* made for just any professing Christian. It is only made for those who already are in Christ, by virtue of their being secured in Him through their union with Him by faith (as they are now members of His church). But, for the sincere churchman, this promise is in-deed sweet. The Philippians knew what it meant, to live in a fortified (Roman) city. The true believer knows what it means to be secure, in Jesus.
But sometimes, because of manifest trouble, that serenity is shaken. When this happens, let us turn to God in prayer. He will then give us Christ's peace.
[Puritan quote of the day: "Let the baptized keep their baptismal vows of fight-ing against sin, Satan, the world, and the flesh.” —Isaac Ambrose, in, "The Christian Warrior"]
"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."
Notice, first of all, that this promise is *not* made for just any professing Christian. It is only made for those who already are in Christ, by virtue of their being secured in Him through their union with Him by faith (as they are now members of His church). But, for the sincere churchman, this promise is in-deed sweet. The Philippians knew what it meant, to live in a fortified (Roman) city. The true believer knows what it means to be secure, in Jesus.
But sometimes, because of manifest trouble, that serenity is shaken. When this happens, let us turn to God in prayer. He will then give us Christ's peace.
[Puritan quote of the day: "Let the baptized keep their baptismal vows of fight-ing against sin, Satan, the world, and the flesh.” —Isaac Ambrose, in, "The Christian Warrior"]
Tuesday, October 9, 2018
Tues., 10/9/18 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 churchman does in-deed have "anxieties"; but he or she also has abundant "comforts" in Christ. False forms of Christianity argue that these two are incompatible. The Scrip-ture, on the other hand, affirms that both consternation *and* consolation co-exist in the children of God.
Even our Savior had "anxieties." Do we remember His time in the Garden of Gethsemane? But our comforts in Christ outweigh our troubles in a fallen world. Let us thank our good and loving 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 churchman does in-deed have "anxieties"; but he or she also has abundant "comforts" in Christ. False forms of Christianity argue that these two are incompatible. The Scrip-ture, on the other hand, affirms that both consternation *and* consolation co-exist in the children of God.
Even our Savior had "anxieties." Do we remember His time in the Garden of Gethsemane? But our comforts in Christ outweigh our troubles in a fallen world. Let us thank our good and loving 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"]
Monday, October 8, 2018
Mon., 10/8/18 Devotion (Ps. 92:13-14)
Today's encouragement comes from Psalm 92:13 & 14, where we read these great words:
"Those who are planted in the house of the LORD shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bear fruit in old age; they shall be fresh and flour-ishing . . . "
Where are we "planted" most in this world? Are we *most* invested in our business, our civic concerns, and/or our family and home? If so, then we will be eventually uprooted by the storms of life on a fallen planet. Only those who are firmly ingrafted into Christ and His church are able to withstand the forces set against them. On top of this, they are also able to remain "fruitful" all the way to their last breath.
Let us love who and what God Himself loves: Christ, His gospel, and His church. As we do so, we are invincible—no matter what the world, the flesh, or the devil shoot at us.
[Puritan quote of the day: "No matter what storms I meet with, I know where to put in for harbor. He who has God to be his God is so well contented with his condition that he does not much care whether he has anything else.”
—Thomas Watson, in, "The Art of Divine Contentment"]
"Those who are planted in the house of the LORD shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bear fruit in old age; they shall be fresh and flour-ishing . . . "
Where are we "planted" most in this world? Are we *most* invested in our business, our civic concerns, and/or our family and home? If so, then we will be eventually uprooted by the storms of life on a fallen planet. Only those who are firmly ingrafted into Christ and His church are able to withstand the forces set against them. On top of this, they are also able to remain "fruitful" all the way to their last breath.
Let us love who and what God Himself loves: Christ, His gospel, and His church. As we do so, we are invincible—no matter what the world, the flesh, or the devil shoot at us.
[Puritan quote of the day: "No matter what storms I meet with, I know where to put in for harbor. He who has God to be his God is so well contented with his condition that he does not much care whether he has anything else.”
—Thomas Watson, in, "The Art of Divine Contentment"]
Friday, October 5, 2018
Fri.-Sabbath, 10/5-7/18 Devotion
Yippee—Sunday, the Lord's Day, is almost here. To help get us ready for the church's worship of God, here is Thomas Watson, in, "A Divine Cordial," or, "All Things for Good":
"It may be said, 'How do afflictions make us happy?' We reply that, being sanctified, they bring us nearer to God. The moon in the full is furthest off from the sun: so are many further off from God in the full moon of prosperity. Afflictions bring them nearer to God. The magnet of mercy does not draw us so near to God as the cords of affliction. When Absalom set Joab’s corn on fire, then he came running to Absalom (2 Sam. 14:30). When God sets our worldly comforts on fire, then we run to Him, and make our peace with Him. When the prodigal was pinched with want, then he returned home to his fath-er (Luke 15:13). When the dove could not find any rest for the sole of her foot, then she flew to the ark. When God brings a deluge of affliction upon us, then we fly to the ark of Christ. Thus affliction makes us happy, in bringing us near-er to God. Faith can make use of the waters of affliction, to swim faster to Christ."
"It may be said, 'How do afflictions make us happy?' We reply that, being sanctified, they bring us nearer to God. The moon in the full is furthest off from the sun: so are many further off from God in the full moon of prosperity. Afflictions bring them nearer to God. The magnet of mercy does not draw us so near to God as the cords of affliction. When Absalom set Joab’s corn on fire, then he came running to Absalom (2 Sam. 14:30). When God sets our worldly comforts on fire, then we run to Him, and make our peace with Him. When the prodigal was pinched with want, then he returned home to his fath-er (Luke 15:13). When the dove could not find any rest for the sole of her foot, then she flew to the ark. When God brings a deluge of affliction upon us, then we fly to the ark of Christ. Thus affliction makes us happy, in bringing us near-er to God. Faith can make use of the waters of affliction, to swim faster to Christ."
Thursday, October 4, 2018
Thurs., 10/4/18 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 the gospel of Christ's grace). God brings life to the valley of dry bones through the agency of His proclaimed (prophesied) word. What an odd way to get the job done. We would have expected almost anything other than this.
Today, as it has always been, there are many false and futile substitutes for preaching, all claiming to be able to make dry bones live. Let us not fall for any of them. Let us (rather) listen to the word of God, as it is proclaimed in the church from faithful pulpits.
[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 the gospel of Christ's grace). God brings life to the valley of dry bones through the agency of His proclaimed (prophesied) word. What an odd way to get the job done. We would have expected almost anything other than this.
Today, as it has always been, there are many false and futile substitutes for preaching, all claiming to be able to make dry bones live. Let us not fall for any of them. Let us (rather) listen to the word of God, as it is proclaimed in the church from faithful pulpits.
[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"]
Wednesday, October 3, 2018
Wed., 10/3/18 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. They are given the very best of heaven, even while they 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 re-volving 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. They are given the very best of heaven, even while they 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 re-volving 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"]
Tuesday, October 2, 2018
Tues., 10/2/18 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 can be extremely hard to accept, because we are so geared in our natural flesh to believing the exact opposite. After the Fall of man in the Garden, works went out the win-dow, (but our memory of them 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 can be extremely hard to accept, because we are so geared in our natural flesh to believing the exact opposite. After the Fall of man in the Garden, works went out the win-dow, (but our memory of them 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"]
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
