Friday, December 31, 2021

Fri.-Sabbath, 12/31/21-1/2/22 Devotion

Happy New Year!

Praise God—Sunday is ALMOST here! In order to help prepare us for Sab-bath worship of the Triune God, here is the great Thomas Watson, from his wonderful book, "A Body of Divinity":

“Let us go to Christ's blood for peace. Some people seek their peace from their own righteousness, not Christ's. They go for peace to their holy life, not Christ's death. If their conscience is troubled, they strive to quiet it with their duties. This is not the right way to attain peace. Duties must not be neglected, nor yet idolized.

“Let us look to the blood of sprinkling, (Heb. 12:24). That blood of Christ which pacified God, must pacify our consciences. Christ's blood being taken in by faith, gives peace. 'Being justified by faith, we have peace with God,' (Rom. 5:1). There is no other balm to cure a wounded conscience, but the blood of Christ."

Thursday, December 30, 2021

Thurs., 12/30/21 Devotion (Mal. 3:1)

Today's encouragement comes from Malachi 3:1, which says this:

“ 'Behold, I send My messenger, and he will prepare the way before Me. And the Lord, whom you seek, will suddenly come to His temple, even the Mes-senger of the covenant, in whom you delight. Behold, He is coming,' says the LORD of hosts."

We have been celebrating the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. Here, in Mala-chi, is a great prophecy of our Savior's first advent. John the Baptist went be-fore the Redeemer; and the Messiah appeared (past tense) in the temple. All of this should strengthen the faith of the saints, as we behold the truthfulness of the written word of God.

Do we "delight" in the "Messenger of the covenant,” our Lord Jesus Christ? If we do, then let us rejoice in His presence: in our hearts, and in His church.

[Puritan quote of the day: "The two great graces essential to a saint in this life are faith and repentance. These are the two wings by which he flies to heav-en.” —Thomas Watson, in, "The Doctrine of Repentance"]

Wednesday, December 29, 2021

Wed., 12/29/21 Devotion (2 Chron. 34:27)

Today's encouragement comes from 2 Chronicles 34:27, where we read these words:

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

This verse (above) is in reference to the excellent king of Judah, Josiah. When Josiah heard the Scripture read to him, he immediately responded, with faith and repentance. When Josiah inquired of God, as to the judgments pronounced on the land, the king greatly humbled himself before the Lord.

This is a wonderful encouragement for the church today. Things in our nation, and in the world generally, are not good. But, so long as believers are thoroughly pierced by God's word, and are melted in heart by the Spirit of Grace, there is full hope even concerning the temporal issues of life. On top of that, through this process, the souls of churchmen are made more like Christ.

[Puritan quote of the day: "Places and conditions are happy or miserable as God grants His gracious presence more or less.” —Richard Sibbes, in, "The Soul's Conflict"]

Tuesday, December 28, 2021

Tues., 12/28/21 Devotion (2 Chron. 33:12-13)

Today's encouragement comes from 2 Chronicles 33:12 & 13, which says this:

"Now when [Manasseh] was in affliction, he implored the LORD his God, and humbled himself greatly before the God of his fathers, and prayed to Him; and He [God] received his entreaty, heard his supplication, and brought him back to Jerusalem into his kingdom. Then Manasseh knew that the LORD was God."

This is the account of one of the most astounding conversions of all time. Ma-nasseh, the king of Judah, was one of the worst idolaters the Bible ever chronicled. He never met an idol he did not love. But God, in His amazing and infinite grace and mercy, brought (even) this man to his senses, and gave him the gift of faith and repentance.

May we all take comfort from examples such as this. As the angel said, in Lk. 1:37: "For with God nothing will be impossible."

[Puritan quote of the day: "That you may become capable of God's mercy, you must loathe your sins, for there's no talk of mercy till you first are cruel to your sins.” —Robert Harris, in, "The Way To True Happiness"]

Friday, December 24, 2021

Fri.-Sabbath, 12/24-26/21 Devotion

Merry Christmas, everyone!

Here is the devotion for this joyous season. . . .

"And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Aug-ustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city.

"Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

"Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keep-ing watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.'

"And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: 'Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!'

"So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, 'Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.' And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a man-ger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorify-ing and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them."  (Luke 2:1-20)

Thursday, December 23, 2021

Thurs., 12/23/21 Devotion (Jn. 13:1b)

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

" . . . Having loved His own who were in the world, He [Christ] loved them to the end."

This is a beautiful phrase (above). The Lord Jesus loves His churchmen who are yet "in the world," viz. down here, where it is tough, and where sin and the Fall still assault us. He loves His church because we are "His own.” Christ possesses us, by virtue of His redemption of our souls. And Christ loves us "to the end." He does not give up on us, just because we stumble around, and fail a lot of times.

Is this not a grand and glorious Savior?! Even as Jesus was anticipating His most grievous suffering (on the cross), He was thinking of us, and serving us. Let all God's church love Christ in sincerity; and may we find our peace only in Him.

[Puritan quote of the day: "And in the dispensing of the gospel, especially in the preaching and unfolding of the Word, the riches of God in Christ are un-folded . . . “ —Richard Sibbes, in, "Glorious Freedom"]

Wednesday, December 22, 2021

Wed., 12/22/21 Devotion (2 Chron. 26:5)

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

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

Uzziah was a good king, but not a great king. As long as he had godly clergy instructing him, he did well. But once he thought he had it all together, and could assume the duties of the Levites, he fell down miserably, (cf. 2 Chron. 26:16).

We learn at least two things from the example of King Uzziah: 1) good church instruction keeps the saints in the narrow and happy way of Jesus; and 2) un-less pride is constantly checked, blessings can turn to burdens; and (former-ly) very good men can take some serious tumbles.

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

Tuesday, December 21, 2021

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

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

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

God is not zealous about very many things. Our Lord Jesus Christ's ministry saw Him pass by many scenes with relative indifference. But Christ *was* ex-tremely zealous for God's "house," (see Jn. 2:17). The church, the redeemed people of God, are of supreme concern to Him.

Our problem down here as sinners, is largely that we do not value what God esteems. Let us readjust our priority schema, so as to love Christ (first), and the people (church) He loves (next). When we do this, we may enjoy what He enjoys, and live for what He lives for. We will never regret doing this.

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

Friday, December 17, 2021

Fri.-Sabbath, 12/17-19/21 Devotion

Praise God—it is almost Sunday! In order to help get us ready for church, here is Thomas Watson, from his, "The Ten Commandments" book:

"Each Sabbath may be the last we shall ever keep. We may go from the place of hearing to the place of judging—and shall not we give reverend at-tention to the Word? If we were to come into God's house thinking, 'Perhaps this will be the last time that God will ever counsel us about our souls'; and before another sermon death's alarm will sound in our ears—then, with what attention and devotion should we feel, and our affections would be all on fire in hearing!

"You must give an account for every sermon you hear. 'Give an account of your stewardship,' (Lk. 16:2). So will God say, 'Give an account of your hear-ing. Have you been affected with the Word? Have you profited by it?' How can we give a good account, if we have been distracted in hearing, and have not taken notice of what has been said to us? The Judge to whom we must give an account is God."

Thursday, December 16, 2021

Thurs., 12/16/21 Devotion (Jn. 6:66-68)

Today's encouragement comes from the wonderful interchange between Christ and His disciples, as it is found in John 6:66-68:

"From that time many of [Christ's] disciples went back and walked with Him no more. Then Jesus said to the twelve, 'Do you also want to go away?' But Simon Peter answered Him, 'Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.' "

This is a very poignant scene in the ministry of our Messiah. After intentional-ly paring-down the numbers of His "disciples" by teaching them that they would have to ingest Him into their beings, and that God alone could draw them to Himself, etc.—the Lord Jesus is left with just a few remaining hearty souls, (one of which was Judas, who, of course, would betray Him).

Peter's confession, representing the true church throughout all ages, is not only brilliantly insightful, but it was also eminently practical: there is nowhere to go, in this world, but to Jesus—unless one prefers hell.

[Puritan quote of the day: "When the Word comes to any place, the kingdom of heaven is said to come. . . . And Christ rules in it by the preaching of the gospel.” —Jeremiah Burroughs, in, "Gospel Remission"]

Wednesday, December 15, 2021

Wed., 12/15/21 Devotion (Jn. 5:6)

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

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

At first glance Christ's question (above) to the lame man seems out of place. After all, does not everyone want to be "made well"? Actually, no; and this is why Jesus inquired of the infirm person. A lot of people are comfortable with their maladies—especially as it relates to a life of sin. They literally do *not* "want" to be made well.

It is actually a blessing to desire good things—and health and wellbeing are some of them. It is one thing to be unwell (in whatever way this may be); but it is quite another thing to be content to be in that state. God would have us de-sire Christ, and all wholeness and goodness in Him alone—as His beloved church.

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

Tuesday, December 14, 2021

Tues., 12/14/21 Devotion (Jn. 4:22)

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

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

This is a very bold and highly politically-incorrect assertion the Messiah makes here. Christ is basically teaching that all who worship false gods (or concoctions of the true God—as was the case with the Samaritans to whom Jesus said these words)—were blind in their devotion, and did not know their deity. Then, Jesus has the audacity to affirm that "salvation is of the Jews.” God’s plan of redemption did not originate from any other ethnicity—because the Person of salvation (Jesus) came from the Jewish nation.

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

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

Monday, December 13, 2021

Mon., 12/13/21 Devotion (2 Chron. 15:7)

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

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

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

What are we doing for Christ today? Does it necessarily upset some people? Does this mean we should stop doing it? No. Let us perform our ministries faithfully; and fulfill them with as little offense as possible; but let us discharge them with a firm and unswerving commitment to Jesus our Redeemer.

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

Friday, December 10, 2021

Fri.-Sabbath, 12/10-12/21 Devotion

Thank God—it is almost Sunday!  In order to help get us ready for church, here is Thomas Watson, from his "The Ten Commandments" book:

"Meditating on a Lord's Day morning on Christ's love, would kindle love in our hearts to Him. How can we look on His bleeding and dying for us and our hearts not be warmed with love to Him? Love is the soul of religion, the purest affection.

"It is not rivers of oil, but sparks of love that Christ values. And sure, as David said, 'While I was musing the fire burned,' (Psa. 39:3)—so, while we are mus-ing of Christ's love in redeeming us, the fire of our love will burn towards Him. And then the Christian is in a blessed Sabbath-frame, when, like a seraphim, he is burning in love to Christ."

Thursday, December 9, 2021

Thurs., 12/9/21 Devotion (Lk. 23:12)

Today's encouragement comes from Luke 23:12, where we read these words:

"That very day Pilate and Herod became friends with each other, for previous-ly they had been at enmity with each other."

Have we ever considered how the devil holds his forces together? He does this by uniting them around their hatred for Jesus—no matter how much they might otherwise despise each other. Therefore, true Christians ought to be infinitely *more* united around Jesus, and His church's doctrine, than Satan and his followers are, around their disdain for Christ.

What made Herod and Pilate like each other? It was not their common affinity for a Jerusalem restaurant. Instead, they stood arm-in-arm in opposition to the stated Kingship of Jesus. This is why even today we find Christian hypo-crites in perfect harmony with Muslims, atheists, and all other unbelievers. They are united in their resistance to our unconquerable Sovereign, Christ the Lord.

[Puritan quote of the day: "The work and business of ministers of the gospel is, as it were, that of servants: to wash and cleanse the souls of men; for this is done by the preaching of the Word, which is their main business.” —Jona-than Edwards, in his sermon entitled, "Christ the Example of Ministers"]

Wednesday, December 8, 2021

Wed., 12/8/21 Devotion (3 Jn. 14)

Today's encouragement comes from 3 John, v. 14, where we read these words:

“I hope to see you soon, and we will talk face to face."

In today’s world, these words of the Apostle John (found above) have be-come especially pertinent. We have been encouraged not meet together, to keep a certain distance between ourselves and others; and to believe that electronic communication is as good as actual face-to-face communication.

. . . But, the reality is, that there is no substitute for human beings actually be-ing in the presence of, and in close proximity to each other. And nowhere is this more true (and important) than it is in the church. Jesus Christ came near to us in His incarnation (Jn. 1:14); and we are to greatly value being in close contact with our brothers and sisters in Christ (Heb. 10:25).

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

Tuesday, December 7, 2021

Tues., 12/7/21 Devotion (2 Jn. 10)

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

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

These are interesting words from the tender and sensitive "apostle of love," (John). Are not sweet Christian people to listen to anyone? Are we not to open our hearts to everyone's opinion of God? Actually, no. Authentic love says, “If you come to my house with a false gospel of works, please know that I serve the God of heaven, who gave His Son for my sins. Because of this, I will not tolerate listening to your dishonor of Him."

Does this mean we do not try to reach (even) these people? No, it does not mean that. Here is a safe rule to go by: let us inform all works-righteousness evangelists that they are welcome to hear Christ's gospel of love and grace from us; but that we are not open to their false teaching.

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

Monday, December 6, 2021

Mon., 12/6/21 Devotion (2 Chron. 6:18a)

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

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

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

Whatever struggles or difficulties we may be facing today may be much-eas-ed by our humble reflection on this blessed truth: that God is *with* us, here and now—in His redeemed church—through “Immanuel," His Son our Lord Jesus Christ.

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

Friday, December 3, 2021

Fri.-Sabbath, 12/3-5/21 Devotion

Praise God—Sunday is *almost* here! We GET to go to church! Here is an amazing quote from Martin Luther, in his remarkable book, entitled, "Com-mentary on Galatians," (an all-time favorite book of mine)! . . .

"To be brief, all the enemies which did before torment and oppress me, Christ Jesus has brought to nothing: He has spoiled them, and made a show of them openly, triumphing over them by His cross (Col. 2:15), in such sort that they can now rule and reign no more over me, but are constrained to obey me.

"By this we may plainly see that there is nothing here for us to do, only it be-longs to us, to hear that these things have been wrought and done in this sort, and by faith to apprehend the same. Now when I have thus apprehend-ed Christ by faith, and through Him am dead to the law, then I do good works: I love God, I give thanks to Him, I exercise charity towards my neighbors. But this charity or works following, do neither form nor adorn my faith, but my faith forms and adorns charity.

"This is our divinity [doctrine], which seems strange and marvelous, or rather, foolish to carnal reason: namely, that I am not only blind and deaf to the law, yea, delivered and freed from the law, but also wholly dead unto the same."

Thursday, December 2, 2021

Thurs., 12/2/21 Devotion (Micah 7:18a, 19b)

Today's encouragement comes from Micah 7:18a & 19b, which relates these fabulous words:

"Who is a God like You, pardoning iniquity and passing over the transgression of the remnant of His heritage? . . . You will cast all our sins Into the depths of the sea."

One of the greatest blessings we can possibly possess is the forgiveness of our sins. This is a magnificent deed God performs in us. If we are forgiven of our sins, it took the very blood of God's own dear Son to bring this about. God had to overcome our hearts, the fallen world, and the devil, in order to pro-cure the pardon of our iniquities—in Jesus Christ alone.

. . . But if we are forgiven our sins, nothing else really much matters. If we are fully and perfectly justified in Jesus, and hence have a clear and clean consci-ence before Almighty God—is it of any great consequence that we have to go through trials and tribulations? We have already obtained God’s supernal Gift (Christ).

[Puritan quote of the day: "They dishonor the pardoning grace of God . . . by seeking and expecting it any other way than through the mediation of the Son of God.” —Jeremiah Burroughs, in, "Gospel Remission"]

Wednesday, December 1, 2021

Wed., 12/1/21 Devotion (1 Chron. 29:3)

Today's encouragement comes from 1 Chronicles 29:3, where we read these words of David, inspired by the Holy Spirit:

"Moreover, because I have set my affection on the house of my God, I have given to the house of my God, over and above all that I have prepared for the holy house, my own special treasure of gold and silver."

Whatever we value and love, we adorn. David eminently-esteemed the house of his God, having affection for it. Jesus loves His church, and bedecks it with all His gracious jewels, (cf. Rev. 21:10 ff.). Upon whoever or whatever we love, we are careful to bestow our highest honor.

The wise and happy person loves who and what God loves; and invests his or her life in beautifying what will last forever. Let us set our affection on the Son of God, and the house (church) of God—even as David did.

[Puritan quote of the day: "For the greatest and most glorious work that you can perform is not nearly worth so much as one drop of the blood of Christ.” —Jeremiah Burroughs, in, "Gospel Remission"]

Tuesday, November 30, 2021

Tues., 11/30/21 Devotion (2 Pet. 2:19b)

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

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

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

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

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

Monday, November 29, 2021

Mon., 11/29/21 Devotion (2 Pet. 1:2)

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

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

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

If we know God in the Lord Jesus Christ, we possess the Person of grace and peace. The more we love God (in Christ), the more we enjoy God’s blessings—though they often do come with trouble and difficulty.

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

Friday, November 26, 2021

Fri.-Sabbath, 11/26-28/21 Devotion

Thank God—it is almost Sunday! In order to help get us ready for church, here is the incomparable Puritan Thomas Watson, from his book entitled, "The Ten Commandments":

"Faith in Christ is acceptable to God because it is a self-denying grace; it makes a person go out of him- or herself, renounce all self-righteousness, and wholly rely on Christ for justification. It is a very humble grace that con-fesses its own poverty, and lives wholly upon Christ. As the bee derives all its sweetness from the flower, so faith derives all its strength and comfort from Christ.

"Faith is a grace acceptable to God, because by faith we present a righteous-ness to Him which best pleases Him: we bring the righteousness of Christ in-to court, which is called 'the righteousness of God,' (2 Cor 5:21). . . . A believ-er may say, 'Lord, it is not the righteousness of Adam, or of the angels, but of Christ who is God/Man, that I bring before You.' The Lord cannot but smell a sweet savor in Christ's righteousness."

Thursday, November 25, 2021

Thurs., 11/25/21 Devotion (Jonah 4:6)

Happy Thanksgiving, everybody!

Today's encouragement comes from Jonah 4:6, where we read these words:

"And the LORD God prepared a plant and made it come up over Jonah, that it might be shade for his head to deliver him from his misery. So Jonah was very grateful for the plant."

To his honor, Jonah was "grateful for the plant"; but it would soon be evident that Jonah's thankfulness was piecemeal. When God removed the plant, Jo-nah became very peevish and churlish. When God refused to give Jonah a divine fireworks display, by blowing up Nineveh, it displeased the prophet greatly.

True gratitude that glorifies God is universal and uniform. This does not mean that we Christians will always get it right; but it does mean that we are to set our hearts on being grateful to God for *all* things, be they "good" or "evil."

[Puritan quote of the day: "As the sun rises by degrees till it comes to shine in glory, so it was with the Sun of Righteousness [Christ]. He revealed Himself in the church little by little.” —Richard Sibbes, in, "Glorious Freedom"]

Wednesday, November 24, 2021

Wed., 11/24/21 Devotion (Lk. 8:1a, 39b)

Today's encouragement comes from Luke 8:1a & 39b, where we read these words:

"Now it came to pass, afterward, that [Jesus] went through every city and vil-lage, preaching and bringing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God. . . . And [the formerly demon-possessed man] went his way and proclaimed through-out the whole city what great things Jesus had done for him."

Here is a great pattern of how true Christianity works. Jesus' gospel is pro-claimed from the church's pulpits, the cities of the world are filled with Christ's doctrine (cf. Acts 5:28b), and the individually-redeemed saints bring this good news to everyone they can.

Today, just like then, what Christ preaches through His clergy, the parishion-ers proclaim in their worlds and spheres of influence. In this way "every city" and "whole cit[ies]" are reached with the gospel of God’s grace in our Lord Jesus Christ.

[Puritan quote of the day: "What would become of us if there were not grace above sin, and mercy above misery, and power in Christ Jesus above all the power in Satan and death?” —Richard Sibbes, in, "Glorious Freedom"]

Tuesday, November 23, 2021

Tues., 11/23/21 Devotion (Lk. 7:50b)

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

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

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

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

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

Monday, November 22, 2021

Mon., 11/22/21 Devotion (1 Chron. 17:2)

Today's encouragement comes from 1 Chronicles 17:2, which says this:

"Then Nathan said to David, 'Do all that is in your heart, for God is with you.' "

I really like this verse. The Christian churchman who walks by faith in Jesus has great freedom. Here (above), the prophet Nathan gives King David the "green light" to do whatever he (David) wants to do, in his earnest desire to love and serve his God. It turns out later in the chapter that the Lord inter-venes, and tells David that his son (Solomon) would be the one who would build the temple, and not David (after all).

. . . But the principle is a sweet one. Do we love Christ? Are we worshipping Him aright? Are the essentials of our faith intact? If so, then we are free to do "whatever we want to," since our heart's deepest wishes are only to exalt God, and further Christ's church and gospel. This is a great threat to the world, and to pharisees; but it is a priceless promise to faithful churchmen.

[Puritan quote of the day: "Christ's work, both in the church and in the hearts of Christians, often goes backward so that it may go forward better.” —Rich-ard Sibbes, in, "The Bruised Reed"]

Friday, November 19, 2021

Fri.-Sabbath, 11/19-21/21 Devotion

Praise God—it is almost Sunday! Here is the always-quotable Thomas Wat-son, from his great work, "The Art of Divine Contentment":

"What it is then to learn Christ?

"To learn Christ is to be made like Christ, to have the divine characters of His holiness engraven upon our hearts: 'We all with open face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image,' (2 Cor. 3:18).

"There is a metamorphosis made; a sinner, viewing Christ's image in the mir-ror of the gospel, is transformed into that image. Never did any man look up-on Christ with a spiritual eye, but he went away quite changed. A true saint is a divine landscape picture, where all the rare beauties of Christ are lively por-trayed and drawn forth. He has the same Spirit, the same judgment, the same will, with Jesus Christ."

Thursday, November 18, 2021

Thurs., 11/18/21 Devotion (1 Chron. 11:6)

Today's encouragement comes from 1 Chronicles 11:6, which says this:

"Now David said, 'Whoever attacks the Jebusites first shall be chief and cap-tain.' And Joab the son of Zeruiah went up first, and became chief."

David here employs God's way of developing leaders. The king did not need talkers, braggers, or theoreticians—he needed someone to risk his neck, and kick the Jebusites out (of what would become Jerusalem—the headquarters of the Old Covenant church). We see this same pattern in the New Testa-ment, (cf. Rom. 16:3-4).

What about us? Is The Lord calling us to do something bold for Christ, within the spheres of our influence and abilities? Spiritually-speaking, we are always "safer" when we are on the offensive, rather than when we are on the defens-ive. Let the true church “attack” the “Jebusites” today, for the glory of God.

[Puritan quote of the day: "There is not the weakest and poorest creature in the world who is pardoned for sin but he understands more of the light of God's grace and covenant than the greatest doctors or rabbis in the world.” —Jeremiah Burroughs, in, "Gospel Remission"]

Wednesday, November 17, 2021

Wed., 11/17/21 Devotion (Heb. 12:3)

Today's encouragement comes from Hebrews 12:3, where we read these words:

"For consider Him [Christ] who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls."

Are we much-maligned by sinners? Do godless people slander us, and drag our names (and persons) through the mud (as it were)? If so, let us not be bothered by this. The same thing happened to the very Son of God Himself. The huge difference is, that our hearts (aside from grace) *are* vile and wretched; whereas the pristine Savior was/is holy, harmless, and undefiled, (cf. Heb. 7:26).

Let us wear it as a badge of honor, if we get the opportunity to experience what Jesus did. Just as He died on the cross (with all the true saints with Him)—so He rose from the dead (thus assuring us of His [and our] victory over all His/our enemies).

[Puritan quote of the day: "The Church is excellent with regard to her origin, for she is of heavenly extraction and born of God Himself. All her true mem-bers are new creatures . . . “ —Nathaniel Vincent, in, "A Discourse concerning Love"]

Tuesday, November 16, 2021

Tues., 11/16/21 Devotion (Heb. 11:6a)

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

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

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

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

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

Monday, November 15, 2021

Mon., 11/15/21 Devotion (Ps. 149:6)

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

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

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

So, if we are in Christ as His church, then we go into our daily lives lifting up thanks and praise to God; and (in prayer) we wield the sword of the Spirit against all Christ’s enemies—until they are all utterly destroyed.

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

Friday, November 12, 2021

Fri.-Sabbath, 11/12-14/21 Devotion

Thank God—it is almost Sunday! So as to prepare us for church, here is the incomparable Thomas Watson, from his book, entitled, "A Divine Cordial":

"Love is valorous, it turns cowardice into courage. Love will make one venture upon the greatest difficulties and hazards. The fearful hen will fly upon a dog or serpent to defend her young ones. Love infuses a spirit of gallantry and for-titude into a Christian. He that loves God will stand up in His [God’s] cause, and be an advocate for Him. 'We cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard,' (Acts 4:20). He who is afraid to own Christ has but little love to Him.

"Nicodemus came sneaking to Christ by night (John 3:2). He was fearful of being seen with Him in the daytime. Love casts out fear. As the sun expels fogs and vapors, so divine love in a great measure expels carnal fear. Does he love God that can hear His blessed truths spoken against and be silent? He who loves his friend will stand up for him, and vindicate him when he is re-proached. Does Christ appear for us in heaven, and are we afraid to appear for Him on earth? Love animates a Christian, it fires his heart with zeal, and steels it with courage."

Thursday, November 11, 2021

Thurs., 11/11/21 Devotion (Heb. 6:19-20a)

Today's encouragement comes from the words of Hebrews 6:19 & 20a, which say this:

"This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which enters the Presence behind the veil, where the forerunner has entered for us, even Jesus . . . "

The hope of believing Christian churchmen is as tied to the Person of Jesus Christ, as was the rope that they used to tie to the high priest in the old cove-nant, when he entered the Holy of Holies (for fear that he would die in there, and they would not be able to get him out). When we, God's people, are af-flicted, and tossed and turned on the sea of a world of sin and rebellion—we are always tethered to the Rock, which cannot be moved.

If Christ is our "forerunner," then we will inevitably end up where He is. He is our only Hope. There is no hope to be found anywhere else.

[Puritan quote of the day: "Keep your ear open to God and shut out sin; deaf-en your ears to the lies of the slanderer and the heretic. Do not let him have your ear who comes to rob you of your heart.” —Thomas Watson, in his ser-mon, "The Spiritual Watch"]

Tuesday, November 9, 2021

Tues., 11/9/21 Devotion (2 Ki. 22:8)

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

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

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

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

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

Monday, November 8, 2021

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

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

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

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

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

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

Friday, November 5, 2021

Fri.-Sabbath, 11/5-7/21 Devotion

Praise God—Sunday is just around the corner! In order to help get us ready for church, here is the really sweet Puritan Thomas Watson, from his book, entitled, "The Ten Commandments":

"It is God that speaks to us in His word; therefore the preaching of the word is called the 'breath of His lips,' (Isa 11:4). Christ is said now to speak to us 'from heaven,' as a king speaks in his ambassador, (Heb 12:25). Ministers are but pipes and organs, it is the Spirit of the living God that breathes in them. When we come to the word, we should think within ourselves, 'God is speak-ing in this preacher.’

"The Thessalonians heard the word Paul preached, as if God Himself had spoken to them. 'When you received the word of God, which you heard of us, you received it not as the word of men, but (as it is in truth) the word of God,' (1 Thess 2:13). When Samuel knew it was the Lord that spoke to him, he lent his ear, (1 Sam 3:10). If we do not regard God when He speaks to us, He will not regard us when we pray to him."

Thursday, November 4, 2021

Thurs., 11/4/21 Devotion (Titus 3:3-5)

Today's encouragement comes from Titus 3:3-5. There, the apostle wrote these words to his fellow minister:

"For we ourselves were also once foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving vari-ous lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful and hating one an-other. But when the kindness and the love of God our Savior toward man ap-peared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit."

Observe where we are, outside of Christ: totally lost, and self-righteous. See what happens when God's love in Jesus appears on the scene of our hearts: we are regenerated, washed, and renewed. What role did our "works of righ-teousness" have in this process? None. What role did the God's mercy have in this process? Everything.

Do we see why our God disdains self-righteousness? May we treasure the Gift of Jesus; and loathe our own vile claims of "righteousness."

[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"]

Wednesday, November 3, 2021

Wed., 11/3/21 Devotion (Ps. 126:3)

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

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

God is so good to us who love Jesus Christ. He makes us His own children. Our Father allows us to endure affliction, so as to make us better (in Christ). He also gives us glimpses of heaven, as we get clearer and clearer soul vi-sions of Jesus—and we are filled with exceeding levels of gladness and ec-stasy.

Let us often call this to mind: the Lord has only good in store for us, His be-loved churchmen; and He delights to show us His grace, mercy, and sweet-ness. Even if we are not "on the top of the world" today, let us thank God for all the lovely things He has already done for us, in HIs blessed Son.

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

Tuesday, November 2, 2021

Tues., 11/2/21 Devotion (Ps. 124:8)

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

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

Regenerated churched Christians find all their help in Christ alone. Where it counts most, no one else can assist us. No matter where *others* may go for their sustenance—we sincere children of God know that our deepest and most profound needs must be met by our Triune God (alone).

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

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

Monday, November 1, 2021

Mon., 11/1/21 Devotion (2 Tim. 4:1-2a)

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

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

God delights in His Gospel (Word) being preached. The Lord is more con-cerned that preaching takes place, than if anyone ever believes the message, or not. The preached word inhibits the spread and growth of heresy, (see vv. 3-4); it emboldens the minister and parishioners for the endurance of afflic-tions, (v. 5); and it builds up the saints in their most holy faith—all the while calling all people to Christ.

Pray that your ministers preach the Word, and that they do not substitute this precious ordinance with entertainment, religious nonsense, and cultural stu-pidity. Pray that they take on and defeat all the enemies of God; and that they bring everyone the Good News of peace, in Jesus' precious blood.

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

Friday, October 29, 2021

Fri.-Sabbath, 10/29-31/21 Devotion

Praise God—it is almost Sunday! Here is Thomas Watson, from his book, "The Lord's Prayer":

"Here is comfort to those who are the subjects of the King of heaven. God will put forth all the royal power for their help and comfort. 1) The King of heaven will plead their cause: 'I will plead your cause, and take vengeance for you,' (Jer. 51:36). 2) He will protect His people. He sets an invisible guard around them: 'I will be to her a wall of fire round about,' (Zech. 2:5). A wall, that is de-fensive; a wall of fire, that is offensive. 3) When it may be for the good of His people, He will raise up deliverance to them. 'The Lord saved them by a great deliverance,' (1 Chron. 11:14).

"God reigning as King, can save any way; even by contemptible means, as the blowing of the trumpets, and blazing of lamps, (Judges 7:20). By contrary means; as when He made the sea a wall to Israel, and the waters were a means to keep them from drowning. The fish's belly was a ship in which Jo-nah sailed safe to shore. God will never be short on ways of saving His peo-ple; rather than fail, their very enemies shall do His work, (2 Chron 20:23). He sets Ammon and Mount Seir against one another. As God will deliver His people from temporal danger, so from spiritual danger, as from sin, and from hell. 'Jesus delivered us from the wrath to come,' (1 Thess. 1:10)."

Thursday, October 28, 2021

Thurs., 10/28/21 Devotion (1 Tim. 6:17b)

Today's encouragement comes from 1 Timothy 6:17b, where we read these words:

" . . . But [let us trust] in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy."

This is a lovely text (above). Not only does the Lord give us enough to live on—He also provides us  with "*All* things to enjoy." In other words, everything God has created is to be employed for and subsumed under the welfare and happiness of Christ's church—so long as Jesus is loved first and foremost.

Our Heavenly Father is not "stingy," as some foolish people would imagine Him. Instead, He is extraordinarily generous (with those who are His, in Christ). As a matter of fact, God is extremely kind to *all* creatures—even to those who hate Him, and will forever experience His eternal wrath, (cf. Ps. 145:9). Let us who love God as Christ’s church *more fervently* love Him, The One who "gives us *richly* all things to enjoy."

[Puritan quote of the day: "A true Christian grows in beauty. Grace is the best complexion of the soul. It is, at the first planting, like Rachel: fair to look upon, but, the more it lives, the more it sends forth its rays of beauty.” —Thomas Watson, in, "The Art of Divine Contentment"]

Wednesday, October 27, 2021

Wed., 10/27/21 Devotion (Ps. 119:52)

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

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

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

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

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

Tuesday, October 26, 2021

Tues., 10/26/21 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. Those of us who, by grace, feed on Jesus and His goodness every Sunday (and indeed everyday), ought to have compassion and concern for those who do not. What do we have to offer starving sinners? The very Bread of Life, Jesus Christ Himself. In ourselves, we are all poverty-stricken spiritual lepers. Let us preach Christ to everyone.

[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 [us]. 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"]

Monday, October 25, 2021

Mon., 10/25/21 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 beautiful words (above). God ten-derly loves His churched children who are called by His Name. Daniel, who was being addressed in the text above, had been very weak and heavy-hearted. 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 us, the members of His faithful church, 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"]

Friday, October 22, 2021

Fri.-Sabbath, 10/22-24/21 Devotion

Thank God—it is almost Sunday. We GET to go to church! In order to help get us ready, here is Thomas Watson, from his book, "The Happiness of Drawing Near to God":

"Let us contemplate the excellencies of God. He is the ‘God of glory,’ (Ps. 29:3). He is full of remarkable beauty—in comparison of Whom both angels and men are but as the ‘small dust of the balance.’ He is the ‘God of love,’ (2 Cor. 13:11). God triumphs in acts of mercy. Well may this encourage us in our coming to Him who delights to display the banner of free grace to sin-
ners. . . . 

"God is the most sovereign good, the wonder of love. He is ready to diffuse the silver streams of His bounty to destitute creatures. This, if anything, will make us willing to draw near to Him and rest in Him as the center of happi-ness.

"If we would draw near to God, let us be aware our own needs. Let us con-sider in what need we stand of God, and that we cannot be happy without Him. The Prodigal Son never drew near to his father, until he began to be in need, (Lk. 15:17)."

Thursday, October 21, 2021

Thurs., 10/21/21 Devotion (Dan. 6:3a)

Today's encouragement comes from Daniel 6:3a, where we read these words:

"Then this Daniel distinguished himself above the governors and satraps, be-cause an excellent spirit was in him . . . "

Daniel was an extraordinarily-gifted man. He had faith, integrity, intelligence, looks, position, honor, and the respect of the earthly king he served. But what is interesting—and we see this as an almost-universal fact—is that his con-temporaries both envied him, and sought to bring him down.

When we find one of these "excellent spirit"-type of Christian churchmen—we should seek to emulate them; and not to destroy them. They are models to us of what we can all be, too. Let us learn to appreciate what God Himself ad-mires; and let us not forget the fate of the enemies of such souls: they—Dan-iel's accusers—ended up being dinner for a bunch of hungry lions(!)

[Puritan quote of the day: "A true saint thinks he can never speak too well of God or too ill of himself.” —Richard Steele, in, "The Character of an Upright Man"]

Wednesday, October 20, 2021

Wed., 10/20/21 Devotion (Ps. 111:4b, 5b)

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

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

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

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

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

Friday, October 8, 2021

Fri.-Sabbath, 10/8-10/21 Devotion

Thank God—Sunday is *almost* here! In order to prepare us for church wor-ship, here is the outstanding Thomas Watson, from his excellent work, "Heav-en Taken by Storm":

“Our Christian Sabbath comes in the place of the Jewish Sabbath: it is called 'the Lord's day,' (Rev. 1.10)—from Christ the Author of it.

"Our Sabbath is altered by Christ's own appointment. He arose this day out of the grave, and appeared on it often to His disciples, (1 Cor. 16:1)—to intimate to them (says Athanasius) that He transferred the Sabbath to the Lord's day. And St. Augustine says that by Christ's rising on the first day of the week, it was consecrated to be the Christian Sabbath, in remembrance of His resur-rection.

"This day was anciently called 'dies lucis,' 'the day of light,' as Junius ob-serves. The other days of the week would be dark, were it not for the shining of the sun of righteousness on this day. This day has been called by the an-cients, 'regina dierum,' 'the queen of days.’

"The primitive church held this day in high veneration. It was a great badge of their religion; for when the question was asked, 'servasti dominicum?,' 'do you keep the Sabbath?'; the answer was, 'Christianus sum,' 'I am a Christian; I dare not omit the celebration of the Lord's day!' "

Thursday, October 7, 2021

Thurs., 10/7/21 Devotion (Php. 1:28)

Today's encouragement comes from Philippians 1:28, where we read these remarkable words:

“ . . . and not [being] frightened in anything by your opponents. This is a clear sign to them of their destruction, but of your salvation, and that from God.” (ESV)

This is a beautiful verse. The Christ-loving church need fear no one, but God Himself. The world is always seeking to intimidate us with all its evil and per-version—and yet faithful Christian churchmen are to be totally unmoved by them.

. . . Our refusal to be frightened by our foes is good news for us; but it is very bad news for God’s enemies. They will be destroyed, one way or the other. Let us pray that it is their sin, and not their souls, that will be vanquished by our sovereign God.

[Puritan quote of the day: "All the wicked, still, are under the covenant of works . . . “ —William Bridge, in, "A Lifting Up for the Downcast"]

Wednesday, October 6, 2021

Wed., 10/6/21 Devotion (Eph. 6:24)

Today's encouragement comes from the very last verse of Paul's letter to the Ephesian church(es)—Ephesians 6:24:

"Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen."

The most important part of any genuine Christian faith is sincere love for the Savior. But it would seem that many professing and very religious Christians do not love Jesus "in sincerity." There appears to be a lot of feigned (or pre-tended) love (for God) out there. We will remember that even Judas betrayed Christ with a kiss.

God knows the hearts of all people; and He knows those priceless souls who really do love His Son. Those church saints who do love Christ are given all of God's best, all in Jesus. Those people who do not love Christ are indistin-guishable from the world; and are subject to God’s wrath.

[Puritan quote of the day: "Grace is the infusion of a new and holy principle into the heart whereby it is changed from what it was and is made after God's own heart.” —Thomas Watson, in his sermon, "The Beauty of Grace"]

Tuesday, October 5, 2021

Tues., 10/5/21 Devotion (Eph. 5:1-2a)

Today's encouragement comes from Ephesians 5:1 & 2a, where we read these words:

"Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. And walk in love . . . "

Paul is telling the Ephesian churchmen—even as he still speaks to the church today—that we are to "imitate" God. The first and clearest way we do this, is by "walking in love." The ability to do both of these otherwise-preposterous commands, is found in what sandwiches in between them: "as dear children."

. . . As the children of God, true Christians will imitate their Heavenly Father, even as natural children imitate their human fathers. But *how* do we do something that does not come naturally to any of us (because of our sin)? Through our living faith in Jesus. The Son of God is the One who connects us, the children of God, to our Heavenly Father. Can we walk in imitative love today? Yes; but only in Christ our Lord.

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

Friday, October 1, 2021

Fri.-Sabbath, 10/1-3/21 Devotion

Praise God—it is almost Sunday. We *get* to go to church! Here is Thomas Watson, from his, "The Ten Commandments" book:

"How does it appear that children have a right to baptism?

"Children are parties in the covenant of grace. The covenant was made with them. 'I will establish My covenant between Me and you, and your seed after you, for an everlasting covenant, to be a God unto you, and to your seed after you,' (Gen 17:7). 'The promise is to you and to your children,' (Acts 2:39). The covenant of grace may be considered either, 1) More strictly, as an absolute promise to give saving grace; and so none but the elect are in covenant with God. Or, 2) More largely, as a covenant containing in it many outward glori-ous privileges, in which respects the children of believers do belong to the covenant of grace.

“ 'The promise is to you and to your seed.' The infant seed of believers may as well lay a claim to the covenant of grace as their parents; and having a right to the covenant, they cannot justly be denied baptism, which is its seal. It is certain the children of believers were once visibly in covenant with God [in the OT], and received the seal of their admission into the church; where now do we find this covenant interest, or church membership of infants, repealed or made void? Certainly Jesus Christ did not come to put believers and their children into a worse condition than they were in before. If the children of be-lievers should not be baptised, they are in a worse condition now than they were in before Christ's coming."

Thursday, September 30, 2021

Thurs., 9/30/21 Devotion (Gal. 6:10)

Today's encouragement comes from Galatians 6:10, where we read these words:

"Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith."

Christians are to do good to all people; but first and foremost to their fellow-churchmen. In the Bible, the term “poor” mostly applies to people in the church who wholeheartedly love God in Jesus Christ. Because of this, these saints find themselves constantly in the cross-hairs of hypocrites, the world, and Satan. Therefore, their needs must first be addressed. After this is done, we are free to “do good” to everyone and anyone else.

As we follow this God-ordained pattern, we will find our resources of time, talent, and treasure used in ways that please Christ, and forward His kingdom (of His church).

[Puritan quote of the day: "When men are godly, their natural abilities are not debased by their godliness, but raised.” —Jeremiah Burroughs, in, "The Ex-cellency of a Gracious Spirit"]

Wednesday, September 29, 2021

Wed., 9/29/21 Devotion (Gal. 5:1)

Today's encouragement comes from Galatians 5:1, where we read these great words:

"Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage."

Every day when we wake up we are faced with an array of forces that are dead-set on robbing us of our joy and freedom in Christ. First among them is our own flesh, which continues to desire to have a right standing with God in-dependently of Jesus' blood atonement. In league with this, is the world of works-religion, which preaches law to us, and insists that we be enslaved by rules (just like they are).

It takes courage, determination, and intentionality *not* to be swept away with the rest of the world, which is in bondage to its own "righteousness." Let all faith-redeemed churchmen trust, not in themselves, but in Jesus only. Let us reaffirm our liberty in Christ today, by faith.

[Puritan quote of the day: "The devil is the most sullen spirit there is, and yet the most proud.” —Jeremiah Burroughs, in, "The Excellency of a Gracious Spirit"]

Tuesday, September 28, 2021

Tues., 9/28/21 Devotion (2 Sam. 24:14)

Today's encouragement comes from 2 Samuel 24:14, where we read these words:

"And David said to Gad [the prophet], 'I am in great distress. Please let us fall into the hand of the LORD, for His mercies are great; but do not let me fall in-to the hand of man.' "

When faced with the options of dealing directly with God, or with fallen man-kind, David chose God. Why? Because he knew the Lord to be gracious and merciful. Also, he knew that man can be cruel and brutal. What an enlighten-ed perspective. Today, most Christ-hating sinners imagine themselves to be good, fair, and even-handed; while they think God is mean and unreasonable.

Actually, the exact opposite is the case. The Lord is good; He is slow to an-ger, and abounding in lovingkindness. Non-regenerate self-righteous sinners, on the other hand, are vicious and bestial—despite all their claims to “justice." Let us today—just like David did—cast ourselves entirely on *God's* mercy; trusting in Jesus, and not in man.

[Puritan quote of the day: "That sin is worse than affliction is evident because the greatest judgment God lays upon a man in this life is to let him sin without hindrance.” —Thomas Watson, in, "The Doctrine of Repentance"]

Monday, September 27, 2021

Mon., 9/27/21 Devotion (Gal. 3:7)

Today's encouragement comes from Galatians 3:7, where the Apostle Paul wrote these words:

"Therefore know that only those who are of faith are sons of Abraham."

Do we understand the Biblical teaching that neither the unbelieving Jews, nor the Muslims (nor any any other unbelievers for that matter) are the *true* chil-dren of Abraham? Having said that, many of both Jewish and Arab descent *are* children of Abraham—but this has nothing to do with their race, lineage, nationality, or ethnicity. Instead, it has everything to do with their saving faith in Jesus.

Do we have sincere faith in the Messiah? If so, then we also are authentic sons and daughters of Abraham. Let us believe God through the Lord Jesus Christ, just like our father Abraham did.

[Puritan quote of the day: "Hypocrites are not practitioners; they are all head and no feet; they do not walk in Christ (Col. 2:6). Their knowledge is inform-ing, but not transforming . . . “ —Thomas Watson, in his sermon entitled, "Christ's Loveliness"]