Today's encouragement comes from Psalm 124:8, where we read these words:
"Our help is in the name of the LORD, who made heaven and earth."
To have the help of God is a big deal. To have the Lord fighting for us is a great asset. After all, He "made heaven and earth." Think about it: the god-less have The Sovereign Lord of heaven and earth as their enemy. He is al-ways set against them. Even as they live, God is simply allowing them to heap up wrath, that will be unleashed on them on the Great Judgment Day.
. . . But not so for the regenerate church of Christ. We believers are aided and supported in our struggle down here. Our lives are not easy, but our victory is always certain—because the church has a good Captain, who helps us. For this, let us be thankful, joyful, and always faithful in calling upon our God.
[Puritan quote of the day: "Christ was made sin for saints, therefore their sin shall not hurt them.” —William Bridge, in, "A Lifting Up for the Downcast"]
Tuesday, June 30, 2020
Monday, June 29, 2020
Mon., 6/29/20 Devotion (Matt. 9:2)
Today's encouragement comes from Matthew 9:2, where we read these words:
"Then behold, they brought to [Christ] a paralytic lying on a bed. When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, 'Son, be of good cheer; your sins are forgiven you.' "
Here is an remarkable instance, where our Lord Jesus saves a soul on the basis of the faith of others. Presumably, the paralytic man had no faith. He, like all of us in our fallen states, was dead in trespasses and sins (Eph. 2:1). But the prayers of his believing friends were answered by Christ; and the par-alyzed man was both saved, and healed.
This verse also encourages the church in her doctrine of covenant. Our little babies—for instance—who are united to the church in baptism, also derive benefit from the faith of their parents (and other regenerate fellow church members). Let us be encouraged to apply our faith to the benefit of others.
[Puritan quote of the day: "The more a man is humbled, truly humbled for sin, the more he is found in duty; the more a man is discouraged, the more his hands are weakened for duty.” —William Bridge, in, "A Lifting Up for the Downcast"]
"Then behold, they brought to [Christ] a paralytic lying on a bed. When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, 'Son, be of good cheer; your sins are forgiven you.' "
Here is an remarkable instance, where our Lord Jesus saves a soul on the basis of the faith of others. Presumably, the paralytic man had no faith. He, like all of us in our fallen states, was dead in trespasses and sins (Eph. 2:1). But the prayers of his believing friends were answered by Christ; and the par-alyzed man was both saved, and healed.
This verse also encourages the church in her doctrine of covenant. Our little babies—for instance—who are united to the church in baptism, also derive benefit from the faith of their parents (and other regenerate fellow church members). Let us be encouraged to apply our faith to the benefit of others.
[Puritan quote of the day: "The more a man is humbled, truly humbled for sin, the more he is found in duty; the more a man is discouraged, the more his hands are weakened for duty.” —William Bridge, in, "A Lifting Up for the Downcast"]
Friday, June 26, 2020
Fri.-Sabbath, 6/26-28/20 Devotion
Yes—it is almost Sunday, the Lord's Day, the day we especially (and coven-antally) celebrate Jesus' resurrection! In order to help get us ready for church, here is the great Thomas Watson, from his "A Body of Divinity" book:
"As Christ being clothed with our flesh makes the human nature appear lovely to God, so He [Christ] makes the divine nature appear lovely to man. The pure Godhead is so awesome to behold, that we could not see it and live; but Christ clothing Himself with our flesh, makes the divine nature more amiable and delightful to us. We need not be afraid to look upon God through Christ's human nature.
"It was a custom of old among shepherds to clothe themselves with sheep-skins, to be more pleasing to the sheep—so Christ clothed Himself with our flesh, that the divine nature may be more pleasing to us. The human nature is a mirror, on which we may see the love and wisdom and glory of God clearly represented to us. Through the lamp of Christ's humanity we may behold the light of the Deity. Christ being incarnate makes the sight of the Deity not for-midable, but delightful to us."
"As Christ being clothed with our flesh makes the human nature appear lovely to God, so He [Christ] makes the divine nature appear lovely to man. The pure Godhead is so awesome to behold, that we could not see it and live; but Christ clothing Himself with our flesh, makes the divine nature more amiable and delightful to us. We need not be afraid to look upon God through Christ's human nature.
"It was a custom of old among shepherds to clothe themselves with sheep-skins, to be more pleasing to the sheep—so Christ clothed Himself with our flesh, that the divine nature may be more pleasing to us. The human nature is a mirror, on which we may see the love and wisdom and glory of God clearly represented to us. Through the lamp of Christ's humanity we may behold the light of the Deity. Christ being incarnate makes the sight of the Deity not for-midable, but delightful to us."
Thursday, June 25, 2020
Thurs., 6/25/20 Devotion (Matt. 5:20)
Today's encouragement comes from Matthew 5:20, where our Savior said these words, in His "Sermon on the Mount":
"For I say to you, that unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven."
Humanly-speaking, it is hard to exceed the pharisees' righteousness. They "out-Godded" God at every turn. God said, "Fast one day a year"; and the pharisees fasted twice a week. Still, our righteousness must far exceed theirs, if we are to get to heaven at all. How? By doing more religious things than the pharisees did? No; but by giving up on works altogether; and finding our right-eous standing before God in Jesus alone (apprehended by grace through faith alone).
No one goes to heaven with any sin on the soul. What are we to do about this monumental problem? Nothing. Instead, we are to rest (by faith) in the One (Christ) who represents us (His church) before the throne of grace. Believing churchmen have perfect righteousness because Jesus' blood was shed for us.
[Puritan quote of the day: "As godly men shall never be condemned for their sins, so their sins shall never part God and them.” —William Bridge, in, "A Lifting Up for the Downcast"]
"For I say to you, that unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven."
Humanly-speaking, it is hard to exceed the pharisees' righteousness. They "out-Godded" God at every turn. God said, "Fast one day a year"; and the pharisees fasted twice a week. Still, our righteousness must far exceed theirs, if we are to get to heaven at all. How? By doing more religious things than the pharisees did? No; but by giving up on works altogether; and finding our right-eous standing before God in Jesus alone (apprehended by grace through faith alone).
No one goes to heaven with any sin on the soul. What are we to do about this monumental problem? Nothing. Instead, we are to rest (by faith) in the One (Christ) who represents us (His church) before the throne of grace. Believing churchmen have perfect righteousness because Jesus' blood was shed for us.
[Puritan quote of the day: "As godly men shall never be condemned for their sins, so their sins shall never part God and them.” —William Bridge, in, "A Lifting Up for the Downcast"]
Wednesday, June 24, 2020
Wed., 6/24/20 Devotion (Matt. 4:11)
Today's encouragement comes from Matthew 4:11, where we read these words:
"Then the devil left [Jesus], and behold, angels came and ministered to Him."
The Christian churchman’s life can flash from demonic oppression and strife, to sweet angelic blessedness and peace—all within a matter of a nano-sec-ond. This is why the maturing Christ-lover does not get too worked-up over great "highs"; and neither does he or she get too concerned about dismal "lows."
All of life, for the gospel-believing churchman, is a matter of faith in Jesus. Did Christ have struggles? Certainly. Therefore, we should expect them too. Did He have joys? Absolutely. Therefore, we get to take pleasure in them as well. Whether devils or angels are "attending" us today—let us trust in the Lord, and believe Him for our best development in grace.
[Puritan quote of the day: "Happiness and rest are what all men pursue. But the things of the world, wherein most men seek it, can never give it. They are laboring and spending themselves in vain.” —Jonathan Edwards, in his ser-mon entitled, "The Peace which Christ Gives . . . "]
"Then the devil left [Jesus], and behold, angels came and ministered to Him."
The Christian churchman’s life can flash from demonic oppression and strife, to sweet angelic blessedness and peace—all within a matter of a nano-sec-ond. This is why the maturing Christ-lover does not get too worked-up over great "highs"; and neither does he or she get too concerned about dismal "lows."
All of life, for the gospel-believing churchman, is a matter of faith in Jesus. Did Christ have struggles? Certainly. Therefore, we should expect them too. Did He have joys? Absolutely. Therefore, we get to take pleasure in them as well. Whether devils or angels are "attending" us today—let us trust in the Lord, and believe Him for our best development in grace.
[Puritan quote of the day: "Happiness and rest are what all men pursue. But the things of the world, wherein most men seek it, can never give it. They are laboring and spending themselves in vain.” —Jonathan Edwards, in his ser-mon entitled, "The Peace which Christ Gives . . . "]
Tuesday, June 23, 2020
Tues., 6/23/20 Devotion (Isa. 55:6)
Today's encouragement comes from Isaiah 55:6, where we read these great words:
"Seek the LORD while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near."
God is to be found in Jesus Christ. The Messiah came "near" in His incarna-tion, in redemptive history. Christ is found when the Holy Spirit brings convic-tion of sin to our souls, and we are the recipients of Jesus' righteousness (and cleansing). The Redeemer draws near to His church every Sunday, in the Worship Service—especially through the ordinances of the preaching of the Word, and the Sacraments (of baptism and the Lord's Supper).
When we hear the call of God, inviting us to come near to Him—let us not fail to avail ourselves of such a gracious offer. There will come a time for the wicked, when God may not be found by them, forever.
[Puritan quote of the day: "He who does not love God is a beast with a man's head.” —Thomas Watson, in, "All Things for Good"]
"Seek the LORD while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near."
God is to be found in Jesus Christ. The Messiah came "near" in His incarna-tion, in redemptive history. Christ is found when the Holy Spirit brings convic-tion of sin to our souls, and we are the recipients of Jesus' righteousness (and cleansing). The Redeemer draws near to His church every Sunday, in the Worship Service—especially through the ordinances of the preaching of the Word, and the Sacraments (of baptism and the Lord's Supper).
When we hear the call of God, inviting us to come near to Him—let us not fail to avail ourselves of such a gracious offer. There will come a time for the wicked, when God may not be found by them, forever.
[Puritan quote of the day: "He who does not love God is a beast with a man's head.” —Thomas Watson, in, "All Things for Good"]
Monday, June 22, 2020
Mon., 6/22/20 Devotion (Isa. 54:17)
Today's encouragement comes from Isaiah 54:17, where the great prophet left us these words:
“ 'No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and every tongue which rises against you in judgment you shall condemn. This is the heritage of the ser-vants of the LORD, and their righteousness is from Me,' says the LORD."
As genuine churched children of God, we are often the recipients of the world’s injustice, lies, and deceit. Still, we should understand that these things will never hold any sway over us; and we may rejoice in the fact that God will give us, Christ's faithful churchmen, the last word in every matter; and the vic-tory in every fight.
The "servants of the LORD" have a wonderful “heritage”—which includes, first and foremost, our clean standing before God, through the imputation by God of Jesus’ blood righteousness to our souls. This verse says, “ 'Their righteousness is from Me,' says the LORD."
[Puritan quote of the day: "Sin has brought trouble and a curse into the world. Christ has sanctified the trouble, and removed the curse.” —Thomas Watson, in, "A Body of Divinity"]
“ 'No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and every tongue which rises against you in judgment you shall condemn. This is the heritage of the ser-vants of the LORD, and their righteousness is from Me,' says the LORD."
As genuine churched children of God, we are often the recipients of the world’s injustice, lies, and deceit. Still, we should understand that these things will never hold any sway over us; and we may rejoice in the fact that God will give us, Christ's faithful churchmen, the last word in every matter; and the vic-tory in every fight.
The "servants of the LORD" have a wonderful “heritage”—which includes, first and foremost, our clean standing before God, through the imputation by God of Jesus’ blood righteousness to our souls. This verse says, “ 'Their righteousness is from Me,' says the LORD."
[Puritan quote of the day: "Sin has brought trouble and a curse into the world. Christ has sanctified the trouble, and removed the curse.” —Thomas Watson, in, "A Body of Divinity"]
Friday, June 19, 2020
Fri.-Sabbath, 6/19-21/20 Devotion
Praise God—Sunday is almost here. We GET to go back to church again!
There were many wonderful Christian people—both black and white—in the Southern States, between the years of 1861-65. Among them was the indom-itable Thomas Jonathan (“Stonewall”) Jackson. He was a great lover of Christ, an admirable Presbyterian (and Deacon), and a devotee of the Lord’s Day. His statues, like that of the great Robert E. Lee, are being torn down in these dark days by ignorant fools. But in a more enlightened era to come, they will all most certainly go back up again.
To inspire us for this Sunday’s worship, here is an excerpt from one of Jack-son’s many letters to his wife. This was written during the war, as revival swept through the camp of Jackson’s men. Dr. Stiles, referred to below, was one of the army chaplains. . . .
“Dr. Stiles’ text was 1 Tim. 2:5-6. It was a powerful exposition of the Word of God; and when he came to the word ‘himself’ he placed an emphasis upon it, and it gave it a force which I had never felt before, and I realized that, truly, the sinner who does not, under Gospel privileges, turn to God deserves the agonies of perdition. . . . It is a glorious thing to be a Minister of the Gospel of the Prince of Peace. There is no equal position in this world."
There were many wonderful Christian people—both black and white—in the Southern States, between the years of 1861-65. Among them was the indom-itable Thomas Jonathan (“Stonewall”) Jackson. He was a great lover of Christ, an admirable Presbyterian (and Deacon), and a devotee of the Lord’s Day. His statues, like that of the great Robert E. Lee, are being torn down in these dark days by ignorant fools. But in a more enlightened era to come, they will all most certainly go back up again.
To inspire us for this Sunday’s worship, here is an excerpt from one of Jack-son’s many letters to his wife. This was written during the war, as revival swept through the camp of Jackson’s men. Dr. Stiles, referred to below, was one of the army chaplains. . . .
“Dr. Stiles’ text was 1 Tim. 2:5-6. It was a powerful exposition of the Word of God; and when he came to the word ‘himself’ he placed an emphasis upon it, and it gave it a force which I had never felt before, and I realized that, truly, the sinner who does not, under Gospel privileges, turn to God deserves the agonies of perdition. . . . It is a glorious thing to be a Minister of the Gospel of the Prince of Peace. There is no equal position in this world."
Thursday, June 18, 2020
Thurs., 6/18/20 Devotion (Ps. 111:2)
Today's encouragement comes from Psalm 111:2, where we read these words:
"The works of the LORD are great, studied by all who have pleasure in them."
God's works are remarkable indeed. Consider the far-flung universe. Who created all those galaxies and stars, etc.? God. But the creation of one hu-man being is more significant than *all* the non-rational creation put together. Still, greater than the work of the making of man, is the labor of God through which He procured His church's salvation.
The work of Christ on the cross, and in His glorious resurrection—is the "magnum opus," and masterpiece of all that God has ever done. We contri-bute *no* work to our salvation—God does it all, even "against the grain" of our natural rebellion and disdain for Him. Creation is the work of the Lord's "fingers"; redemption is the work of His "arm."
[Puritan quote of the day: "God, in the sentence of justification, pronounces a man perfectly righteous, or else he would need a further justification after he is justified.” —Jonathan Edwards, in, "Justification by Faith Alone"]
"The works of the LORD are great, studied by all who have pleasure in them."
God's works are remarkable indeed. Consider the far-flung universe. Who created all those galaxies and stars, etc.? God. But the creation of one hu-man being is more significant than *all* the non-rational creation put together. Still, greater than the work of the making of man, is the labor of God through which He procured His church's salvation.
The work of Christ on the cross, and in His glorious resurrection—is the "magnum opus," and masterpiece of all that God has ever done. We contri-bute *no* work to our salvation—God does it all, even "against the grain" of our natural rebellion and disdain for Him. Creation is the work of the Lord's "fingers"; redemption is the work of His "arm."
[Puritan quote of the day: "God, in the sentence of justification, pronounces a man perfectly righteous, or else he would need a further justification after he is justified.” —Jonathan Edwards, in, "Justification by Faith Alone"]
Wednesday, June 17, 2020
Wed., 6/17/20 Devotion (Deut. 22:3c)
Today's encouragement comes from Deuteronomy 22:3c, where we read these few words:
" . . . You must not hide yourself."
Sometimes we might wish we could be invisible, or anonymous. We would like to have our own private (and "perfect") life, separated from the pedestrian problems of the masses. But God does not allow us live like that. Instead, He requires us be involved in the troubles, trials, and misfortunes of other human beings—some of whom are churchmen, and others of whom are not.
The Deut. 22 passage (above) is in a context of the believer not ignoring the lost possessions of one's neighbor. Instead of "looking the other way," or ig-noring these things, we are to get actively involved. Christ did this for us, His church; and we are to follow His pattern in His (sovereignly-guided) world to-day.
[Puritan quote of the day: "If you look into the scripture, you will observe that when the people of God fall, usually they fail in that grace wherein they most excel.” —William Bridge, in, "A Lifting Up for the Downcast"]
" . . . You must not hide yourself."
Sometimes we might wish we could be invisible, or anonymous. We would like to have our own private (and "perfect") life, separated from the pedestrian problems of the masses. But God does not allow us live like that. Instead, He requires us be involved in the troubles, trials, and misfortunes of other human beings—some of whom are churchmen, and others of whom are not.
The Deut. 22 passage (above) is in a context of the believer not ignoring the lost possessions of one's neighbor. Instead of "looking the other way," or ig-noring these things, we are to get actively involved. Christ did this for us, His church; and we are to follow His pattern in His (sovereignly-guided) world to-day.
[Puritan quote of the day: "If you look into the scripture, you will observe that when the people of God fall, usually they fail in that grace wherein they most excel.” —William Bridge, in, "A Lifting Up for the Downcast"]
Tuesday, June 16, 2020
Tues., 6/16/20 Devotion (Ps. 107:9)
Today's encouragement comes from Psalm 107:9, where we read these words:
"For He [God] satisfies the longing soul, and fills the hungry soul with good-ness."
It is a good thing to have a "hungering heart”—so long as the desired "meal" is Christ alone. To long for the Lord is a supreme blessing, because it is one that: 1) is sure to be satisfied; and 2) leads to the highest levels of happiness imaginable (and attainable).
Human beings are so-designed, that they can only rest fully contented with Jesus. Everyone who hates God, and refuses to come to the Savior, still seeks fulfillment in their own contrived ways. But these efforts never measure up. They may artificially relieve a hunger for a short time—but only the True Christ meets the deepest longings of anyone's heart.
[Puritan quote of the day: "As God is the worst enemy, so He is the best friend, the truest friend, the most real friend in all the world.” —William Bridge, in, "A Lifting Up for the Downcast"]
"For He [God] satisfies the longing soul, and fills the hungry soul with good-ness."
It is a good thing to have a "hungering heart”—so long as the desired "meal" is Christ alone. To long for the Lord is a supreme blessing, because it is one that: 1) is sure to be satisfied; and 2) leads to the highest levels of happiness imaginable (and attainable).
Human beings are so-designed, that they can only rest fully contented with Jesus. Everyone who hates God, and refuses to come to the Savior, still seeks fulfillment in their own contrived ways. But these efforts never measure up. They may artificially relieve a hunger for a short time—but only the True Christ meets the deepest longings of anyone's heart.
[Puritan quote of the day: "As God is the worst enemy, so He is the best friend, the truest friend, the most real friend in all the world.” —William Bridge, in, "A Lifting Up for the Downcast"]
Monday, June 15, 2020
Mon., 6/15/20 Devotion (Deut. 20:1a, b)
Today's encouragement comes from Deuteronomy 20:1a & b, where we read these words:
“When you go out to war against your enemies, and see horses and chariots and an army larger than your own, you shall not be afraid of them . . . “
Deuteronomy 20:1-4 is an incredibly encouraging text. I would recommend that you check it out. The true church should never forget that the hordes of God’s enemies that are arrayed against us all around, are *nothing* in num-ber or power, compared to the Lord and His armies (of His church and His angels).
Therefore, let us not be in panic or dread (see v. 3), because of the onslaught of Satan and his minions, against us. They have no hope of victory against us. Christ has already conquered them (see v. 4); and it is now our privilege to do the “mopping-up” operations.
[Puritan quote of the day: "God's will will be done upon us whether we do His will or not. There is no such thing as frustrating the Almighty.” —Jonathan Ed-wards, in his sermon entitled, "God Does what He Pleases"]
“When you go out to war against your enemies, and see horses and chariots and an army larger than your own, you shall not be afraid of them . . . “
Deuteronomy 20:1-4 is an incredibly encouraging text. I would recommend that you check it out. The true church should never forget that the hordes of God’s enemies that are arrayed against us all around, are *nothing* in num-ber or power, compared to the Lord and His armies (of His church and His angels).
Therefore, let us not be in panic or dread (see v. 3), because of the onslaught of Satan and his minions, against us. They have no hope of victory against us. Christ has already conquered them (see v. 4); and it is now our privilege to do the “mopping-up” operations.
[Puritan quote of the day: "God's will will be done upon us whether we do His will or not. There is no such thing as frustrating the Almighty.” —Jonathan Ed-wards, in his sermon entitled, "God Does what He Pleases"]
Friday, June 12, 2020
Fri.-Sabbath, 6/12-14/20 Devotion
Praise God—it is almost Sunday! We *get* to go back to church again. In or-der to help us get ready, here is Thomas Watson, from his "A Picture of a Godly Man" book. . . .
"The test of a pilot [sea captain] is seen in a storm; so the test of a Christian is seen in affliction. That person has the right art of navigation who, when the boisterous winds blow from heaven, steers the ship of the soul wisely, and does not dash upon the rock of impatience.
"A Christian should always maintain decorum, not behaving himself in an un-seemly manner or disguising himself with intemperate passion when the hand of God lies upon him. Patience adorns suffering. Affliction in Scripture is com-pared to a net: 'You brought us into the net,' (Psa. 66:11). Some have escap-ed the devil's net, yet the Lord allows them to be taken in the net of affliction. But they must not be 'as a wild bull in a net,' (Isa. 51:20), kicking and flinging against their Maker, but lie patiently till God breaks the net and makes a way for their escape."
"The test of a pilot [sea captain] is seen in a storm; so the test of a Christian is seen in affliction. That person has the right art of navigation who, when the boisterous winds blow from heaven, steers the ship of the soul wisely, and does not dash upon the rock of impatience.
"A Christian should always maintain decorum, not behaving himself in an un-seemly manner or disguising himself with intemperate passion when the hand of God lies upon him. Patience adorns suffering. Affliction in Scripture is com-pared to a net: 'You brought us into the net,' (Psa. 66:11). Some have escap-ed the devil's net, yet the Lord allows them to be taken in the net of affliction. But they must not be 'as a wild bull in a net,' (Isa. 51:20), kicking and flinging against their Maker, but lie patiently till God breaks the net and makes a way for their escape."
Thursday, June 11, 2020
Thurs., 6/11/20 Devotion (Isa. 43:13c)
Today's encouragement comes from Isaiah 43:13c, where we read these words:
" . . . I [the Lord] work, and who will reverse it?"
These are encouraging words (above). A lot of times we might look about us, and think, "God's foes are certainly at work—look at all that they are achiev-ing." But there is a huge difference: sinners work hard to establish ungodli-ness, but it all gets overthrown (in this world, and the one to come). God works, and *no one* can "reverse it."
Let all sincere Christian churchmen take heart at this truth. Has the Lord "worked" in our souls, and in our world? Do we trust in Jesus alone for the forgiveness of our sins, plus nothing? Do we trust that He is on the throne, governing *all* things, good and bad? If so, we have total reason to rejoice, and rest secure in our inevitable victory in Jesus. No one can conquer the true church—not even any billions of people arrayed against us, (see Ps. 27:1-3).
[Puritan quote of the day: "It is the honor of religion to have such disciples as will own her and stand for her at all times, and that with an undaunted cour-age.” —Jeremiah Burroughs, in, "The Excellency of a Gracious Spirit"]
" . . . I [the Lord] work, and who will reverse it?"
These are encouraging words (above). A lot of times we might look about us, and think, "God's foes are certainly at work—look at all that they are achiev-ing." But there is a huge difference: sinners work hard to establish ungodli-ness, but it all gets overthrown (in this world, and the one to come). God works, and *no one* can "reverse it."
Let all sincere Christian churchmen take heart at this truth. Has the Lord "worked" in our souls, and in our world? Do we trust in Jesus alone for the forgiveness of our sins, plus nothing? Do we trust that He is on the throne, governing *all* things, good and bad? If so, we have total reason to rejoice, and rest secure in our inevitable victory in Jesus. No one can conquer the true church—not even any billions of people arrayed against us, (see Ps. 27:1-3).
[Puritan quote of the day: "It is the honor of religion to have such disciples as will own her and stand for her at all times, and that with an undaunted cour-age.” —Jeremiah Burroughs, in, "The Excellency of a Gracious Spirit"]
Wednesday, June 10, 2020
Wed., 6/10/20 Devotion (Ps. 102:1-2a)
Today's encouragement comes from Psalm 102:1 & 2a, where we read these words:
"Hear my prayer, O LORD, and let my cry come to You. Do not hide Your face from me in the day of my trouble . . . "
We have got to love texts like these (above). Sometimes we find ourselves in situations and circumstances that require us to cry out to God for *immediate* help. In our minds, there is no room for delay—we must be aided right away.
The advantages of prayers like these are that they thrust us Christians direct-ly into the presence of God through Christ’s intercession. Whereby in calmer conditions, we may be a bit less intentional—when things are rough, we get right down to business. Let us not hesitate to call on the Lord today. He is both able and willing to hear all who believe in Jesus.
[Puritan quote of the day: "It is a true rule in divinity [theology] that the desire for any grace is the grace itself; for to desire to believe is faith, and true desire to repent is repentance, and true desire to mourn for sin is mourning for sin.” —Christopher Love, in, "The Dejected Soul's Cure"]
"Hear my prayer, O LORD, and let my cry come to You. Do not hide Your face from me in the day of my trouble . . . "
We have got to love texts like these (above). Sometimes we find ourselves in situations and circumstances that require us to cry out to God for *immediate* help. In our minds, there is no room for delay—we must be aided right away.
The advantages of prayers like these are that they thrust us Christians direct-ly into the presence of God through Christ’s intercession. Whereby in calmer conditions, we may be a bit less intentional—when things are rough, we get right down to business. Let us not hesitate to call on the Lord today. He is both able and willing to hear all who believe in Jesus.
[Puritan quote of the day: "It is a true rule in divinity [theology] that the desire for any grace is the grace itself; for to desire to believe is faith, and true desire to repent is repentance, and true desire to mourn for sin is mourning for sin.” —Christopher Love, in, "The Dejected Soul's Cure"]
Tuesday, June 9, 2020
Tues., 6/9/20 Devotion (Ps. 99:2)
Today's encouragement comes from Psalm 99:2, which says this:
"The LORD is great in Zion, and He is high above all the peoples."
This verse (above) reminds us that God is both and simultaneously immanent (with us, in Christ and His church ["Zion”]), and transcendent ("high above all the peoples"). Because of this, the Lord is both able to save us (in Jesus' in-carnation), and hear us (as we offer prayers to Him through Christ our Medi-ator).
Our Lord Jesus is the great "Bridge" that makes all of this possible. He has spanned heaven and earth, and given His churchmen the full benefits of both of them, in Himself. Let us praise and bless our great God who has been so wonderfully good to us—in this life, and in the one to come.
[Puritan quote of the day: "Justification is the very hinge and pillar of Chris-tianity. An error about justification is dangerous, like a defect in a foundation.” —Thomas Watson, in, "A Body of Divinity"]
"The LORD is great in Zion, and He is high above all the peoples."
This verse (above) reminds us that God is both and simultaneously immanent (with us, in Christ and His church ["Zion”]), and transcendent ("high above all the peoples"). Because of this, the Lord is both able to save us (in Jesus' in-carnation), and hear us (as we offer prayers to Him through Christ our Medi-ator).
Our Lord Jesus is the great "Bridge" that makes all of this possible. He has spanned heaven and earth, and given His churchmen the full benefits of both of them, in Himself. Let us praise and bless our great God who has been so wonderfully good to us—in this life, and in the one to come.
[Puritan quote of the day: "Justification is the very hinge and pillar of Chris-tianity. An error about justification is dangerous, like a defect in a foundation.” —Thomas Watson, in, "A Body of Divinity"]
Monday, June 8, 2020
Mon., 6/8/20 Devotion (Ps. 97:10a)
Today's encouragement comes from Psalm 97:10a, where we read these words:
"You who love the LORD, hate evil! . . . "
In order to properly and authentically love God Christian churchmen must al-so—at the same time, and with equal intensity—hate everything that He (the Lord) hates. This doctrine, of course, is usually not understood correctly, (and some people are simply unable to accept it). The key to its implementation is devotion to the Ultimate proper Object of love (God); and (conversely), hatred for the proper objects of hate: sin, (and in some senses, the perpetrators of sin, viz. sinners).
A healthy and growing Christian actually both loves and hates at the same time. We are to love Christ, His church, and the image of God found in human beings. We are to hate sin and the image of sin found in fallen human beings and demons. And we are to apply this doctrine fairly, even to ourselves—as we both love our new natures (in Christ), and hate our old ones (that continue to cling to the flesh).
[Puritan quote of the day: "The devil is orthodox in his faith. He believes the true scheme of doctrine. . . . The articles of his faith are all sound, and in them he is thoroughly established.” —Jonathan Edwards, in his sermon en-titled, "True Grace Distinguished"]
"You who love the LORD, hate evil! . . . "
In order to properly and authentically love God Christian churchmen must al-so—at the same time, and with equal intensity—hate everything that He (the Lord) hates. This doctrine, of course, is usually not understood correctly, (and some people are simply unable to accept it). The key to its implementation is devotion to the Ultimate proper Object of love (God); and (conversely), hatred for the proper objects of hate: sin, (and in some senses, the perpetrators of sin, viz. sinners).
A healthy and growing Christian actually both loves and hates at the same time. We are to love Christ, His church, and the image of God found in human beings. We are to hate sin and the image of sin found in fallen human beings and demons. And we are to apply this doctrine fairly, even to ourselves—as we both love our new natures (in Christ), and hate our old ones (that continue to cling to the flesh).
[Puritan quote of the day: "The devil is orthodox in his faith. He believes the true scheme of doctrine. . . . The articles of his faith are all sound, and in them he is thoroughly established.” —Jonathan Edwards, in his sermon en-titled, "True Grace Distinguished"]
Friday, June 5, 2020
Fri.-Sabbath, 6/5-7/20 Devotion
Yes! It is almost Sunday! In order to help us get ready for church, here is Thomas Watson, from his, "A Body of Divinity" book. . . .
"If God be a Spirit, then He is impassible [viz., incapable in HIs essence of being subject to the vicissitudes of emotion]. God is not capable of being hurt. Wicked men set up their banners, and bend their forces against God; they are said to fight against God, (Acts 5:39). But what will this fighting avail? What hurt can they do to the Deity? God is a Spirit, and therefore He cannot re-ceive any hurtful impression.
"Wicked men may imagine evil against the Lord. Nahum 1:9: 'What do you imagine against the Lord?’ But God being a Spirit is impenetrable. The wick-ed may eclipse [viz., shadow-out] His glory, but cannot touch His essence. God can hurt His enemies, but they cannot hurt Him. Julian the Apostate might throw up his dagger into the air against Heaven, but he could not touch the Deity. God is a Spirit. He is invisible. How can the wicked with all their forces hurt Him, when they cannot see Him? Hence all the attempts of the wicked against God are foolish, and prove abortive."
"If God be a Spirit, then He is impassible [viz., incapable in HIs essence of being subject to the vicissitudes of emotion]. God is not capable of being hurt. Wicked men set up their banners, and bend their forces against God; they are said to fight against God, (Acts 5:39). But what will this fighting avail? What hurt can they do to the Deity? God is a Spirit, and therefore He cannot re-ceive any hurtful impression.
"Wicked men may imagine evil against the Lord. Nahum 1:9: 'What do you imagine against the Lord?’ But God being a Spirit is impenetrable. The wick-ed may eclipse [viz., shadow-out] His glory, but cannot touch His essence. God can hurt His enemies, but they cannot hurt Him. Julian the Apostate might throw up his dagger into the air against Heaven, but he could not touch the Deity. God is a Spirit. He is invisible. How can the wicked with all their forces hurt Him, when they cannot see Him? Hence all the attempts of the wicked against God are foolish, and prove abortive."
Thursday, June 4, 2020
Thurs., 6/4/20 Devotion (Ps. 94:12-13)
Today's encouragement comes from Psalm 94:12 & 13, where these good words are found:
"Blessed is the man whom You instruct, O LORD, and teach out of Your law, that You may give him rest from the days of adversity, until the pit is dug for the wicked."
It is intriguing that our learning from God's written word, in the context of His church’s preaching ministry, is intended to "give [us] rest”—and that from "days of adversity." So, all the effort we put into our lives of grace turns out to be largely designed, in the end, to forward our respite from and deliverance from evil.
We persevere, endure, and forebear "until the pit is dug for the wicked." This has both a temporal (provisional) sense—from Sunday to Sunday; and an eternal (absolute) sense—of rest in heaven. Sanctification in Jesus is worth it. The true church must never give up.
[Puritan quote of the day: "The same breath in the ministry that blows a godly man to heaven, blows a profane sinner to hell.” —Thomas Watson, in, "All Things for Good"]
"Blessed is the man whom You instruct, O LORD, and teach out of Your law, that You may give him rest from the days of adversity, until the pit is dug for the wicked."
It is intriguing that our learning from God's written word, in the context of His church’s preaching ministry, is intended to "give [us] rest”—and that from "days of adversity." So, all the effort we put into our lives of grace turns out to be largely designed, in the end, to forward our respite from and deliverance from evil.
We persevere, endure, and forebear "until the pit is dug for the wicked." This has both a temporal (provisional) sense—from Sunday to Sunday; and an eternal (absolute) sense—of rest in heaven. Sanctification in Jesus is worth it. The true church must never give up.
[Puritan quote of the day: "The same breath in the ministry that blows a godly man to heaven, blows a profane sinner to hell.” —Thomas Watson, in, "All Things for Good"]
Wednesday, June 3, 2020
Wed., 6/3/20 Devotion (Isa. 35:1-2a)
Today's encouragement comes from Isaiah 35:1 & 2a, where we read these words:
"The wilderness and the wasteland shall be glad for them, and the desert shall rejoice and blossom as the rose; It shall blossom abundantly and re-joice, even with joy and singing."
When God's Holy Spirit is at work reviving Christ's church, the entire fallen world benefits. Even those "wildernesses," "wastelands," and "deserts" come to life. This is true on a macrocosmic level, in that the whole created universe rejoices at God's visitation of His church; and it is true on a microcosmic scale, as the dark and parched places in the hearts of souls regenerated in Jesus are fed and renewed.
Whatever we are facing today, let us not be undone by it. If we are in Christ and His church, there is more than enough hope for us. God delights to make us glad in Him. Let us trust the Lord for His sweet blessings in Christ.
[Puritan quote of the day: "There is nothing but what God can easily do for us; there is none of our wants but what He can easily supply. Whatever our case is, it cannot be beyond God's help.” —Jonathan Edwards, in his sermon, "God does what He pleases"]
"The wilderness and the wasteland shall be glad for them, and the desert shall rejoice and blossom as the rose; It shall blossom abundantly and re-joice, even with joy and singing."
When God's Holy Spirit is at work reviving Christ's church, the entire fallen world benefits. Even those "wildernesses," "wastelands," and "deserts" come to life. This is true on a macrocosmic level, in that the whole created universe rejoices at God's visitation of His church; and it is true on a microcosmic scale, as the dark and parched places in the hearts of souls regenerated in Jesus are fed and renewed.
Whatever we are facing today, let us not be undone by it. If we are in Christ and His church, there is more than enough hope for us. God delights to make us glad in Him. Let us trust the Lord for His sweet blessings in Christ.
[Puritan quote of the day: "There is nothing but what God can easily do for us; there is none of our wants but what He can easily supply. Whatever our case is, it cannot be beyond God's help.” —Jonathan Edwards, in his sermon, "God does what He pleases"]
Tuesday, June 2, 2020
Tues., 6/2/20 Devotion (Deut. 6:5)
Today's encouragement comes from Deuteronomy 6:5, where we read these words:
"You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength."
This (above) is one of the most important verses in all the Holy Book. In the final analysis, everything comes down to whether or not we love God—and that more than anyone or anything else. From whence does love come? It comes from God Himself. When God grants us sinners the gift of saving faith in Jesus, we, recognizing the immensity of what the Lord has done for us, now genuinely and deeply love God—and always in and through Christ alone.
This, then, is the key to all the Christian's obedience and happiness. Do we love God? If so, we are willing to serve Him (in any and all respects). We can endure hardships and trials, because we know we are forgiven. We also know that the Almighty Himself loves us. The love of God in Jesus Christ is the most powerful force in all the world.
[Puritan quote of the day: "Are you accused by Satan, the world, or your own conscience? Christ is called your Advocate.” —William Bridge, in, "A Lifting Up for the Downcast"]
"You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength."
This (above) is one of the most important verses in all the Holy Book. In the final analysis, everything comes down to whether or not we love God—and that more than anyone or anything else. From whence does love come? It comes from God Himself. When God grants us sinners the gift of saving faith in Jesus, we, recognizing the immensity of what the Lord has done for us, now genuinely and deeply love God—and always in and through Christ alone.
This, then, is the key to all the Christian's obedience and happiness. Do we love God? If so, we are willing to serve Him (in any and all respects). We can endure hardships and trials, because we know we are forgiven. We also know that the Almighty Himself loves us. The love of God in Jesus Christ is the most powerful force in all the world.
[Puritan quote of the day: "Are you accused by Satan, the world, or your own conscience? Christ is called your Advocate.” —William Bridge, in, "A Lifting Up for the Downcast"]
Monday, June 1, 2020
Mon., 6/1/20 Devotion (Isa. 33:1b, 2)
Today's encouragement comes from Isaiah 33:1b, 2, where we read these words:
“When you have ceased to destroy, you will be destroyed. . . . O LORD, be gracious to us; we wait for You. Be our arm every morning, our salvation in time of trouble."
Wicked human beings, following their master Satan, destroy things—things God has made; and things that belong to other people. But their destruction will come to an end; and then it will be time for they themselves to be destroy-ed. No sin goes unnoticed by the All-Seeing God.
. . . But, for the true church, grace (in Jesus Christ) is given. We may need to “wait” for some of its expressions; but, even as we do that, we know that we are “armed” in God Himself (The LORD), and that He alone is our salvation. Be strong in the Lord today; and do not fear the persons and deeds of the wicked.
[Puritan quote of the day: "He who belongs to the Jerusalem above speaks the language of Canaan.” —Thomas Watson, in, "The Great Gain of Godli-ness"]
“When you have ceased to destroy, you will be destroyed. . . . O LORD, be gracious to us; we wait for You. Be our arm every morning, our salvation in time of trouble."
Wicked human beings, following their master Satan, destroy things—things God has made; and things that belong to other people. But their destruction will come to an end; and then it will be time for they themselves to be destroy-ed. No sin goes unnoticed by the All-Seeing God.
. . . But, for the true church, grace (in Jesus Christ) is given. We may need to “wait” for some of its expressions; but, even as we do that, we know that we are “armed” in God Himself (The LORD), and that He alone is our salvation. Be strong in the Lord today; and do not fear the persons and deeds of the wicked.
[Puritan quote of the day: "He who belongs to the Jerusalem above speaks the language of Canaan.” —Thomas Watson, in, "The Great Gain of Godli-ness"]
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