Tues., 12/16/25 Devotion (Jn. 6:67)

Today's encouragement comes from the question of our blessed Messiah, as it is found in John 6:67:

"So Jesus said to the twelve, 'Do you want to go away as well?’ " (ESV)

Our Lord Jesus Christ was used to being rejected. He did not assume that (even His) twelve chosen apostles would stay with Him—especially after His strong gospel (Calvinistic) teaching had scared so many lesser souls away.

I think Jesus’ question was completely sincere. As a man, He may not have known with certitude what the twelve would do. Thankfully, Peter did very well (in vv. 68 & 69), and affirmed faith in the only Hope for any of us sinners. Let us be found to be faithful to the Christ. He will always be faithful to His own.

[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"]

Mon., 12/15/25 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, the Messiah’s question seems out of place, bizarre, and weird. But the Son of God understood that not all sinners desire to be “made well,” (even in their bodies). The Fall of man has so beaten our brains out, that we do not naturally want what is best for us.

. . . But those in whom the Spirit of God is doing a sovereign and saving work do long for healing and blessing; and they come to realize that it is found in Jesus Christ, and in no other source. Let us be completely “well” to-day, through regenerative faith in the Redeemer of God’s elect church.

[Edwards 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 exam-ples of others.” —Jonathan Edwards, in his sermon, "The Necessity of Self-Examination"]

Fri.-Sabbath, 12/12-14/25 Devotion

Praise God—Sunday is almost here again! We get to go back to church. In order to help us prepare for Sabbath Worship, here are some great words from Jonathan Edwards, from his, “The History of the Work of Redemption” book. . . .

“As you have heard, this work of purchasing salvation was wholly finished during the time of Christ’s humiliation. When Christ rose from the dead, and was exalted from that abasement to which He submitted for our salvation, the purchase of eternal life was completely made, so that there was no need of anything more to be done in order to it. But now the servants were sent forth with the message which we have account of in Matt. 22:4, ‘Behold, I have prepared my dinner: my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready: come unto the marriage.’

“Therefore, all things being ready, are your sins many and great? Here is enough done by Christ to procure their pardon. There is no need of any right-eousness of yours to obtain your pardon and justification. No, you may come freely, without money and without price. Since therefore there is such a free and gracious invitation given you, come. Come naked as you are; come as a poor condemned criminal; come and cast yourself down at Christ’s feet, as one justly condemned, and utterly helpless in yourself. Here is a complete salvation wrought out by Christ, and through Him offered to you. Come, there-fore, accept of it, and be saved."

Thurs., 12/11/25 Devotion (Jn. 1:1)

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

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” (ESV)

Observe how the Holy Spirit placed the “Word,” (Christ), at the very front end of this famous verse. The reason for this, is the primacy of the “Word’s” role in the creation of the world, and in the re-creation of the new-born souls that make up the church.

The Word was “with God”—but then the Word “became flesh,” (v. 14a). The Father did not reserve the precious Word in heaven for Himself alone, instead He incarnated His Son as one of us here on earth. What a glorious Savior and gospel!!

[Puritan quote of the day: "The happiness of man consists in communion with God and conformity to Him.” —Richard Sibbes, in, "Glorious Freedom"]

Wed., 12/10/25 Devotion (Rev. 1:10a)

Today's encouragement comes from Revelation 1:10a, where we read these words:

“I [John] was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day . . . " (ESV)

It is always fitting for Christ’s church’s saints to be “in the Spirit”—particularly, on “the Lord’s day.” This is the new Sabbath Day; and it is a day of great re-joicing—as we celebrate the resurrection of the King of the new world.

The “old” is gone; it can no longer hold the new wine of the spiritual Kingdom of God. As we look forward to Sunday, and our worship of God, let us be filled with great joy and anticipation, all because of our love for Christ.

[Edwards quote of the day: “And so the day of the week on which Christ rose from the dead, that joyful day, is appointed to be the day of the church’s holy rejoicing to the end of the world, and the day of their stated public wor-ship.” —Jonathan Edwards, in “A History of The Work of Redemption"]

Tues., 12/9/25 Devotion (Jude 3b)

Today's encouragement comes from Jude (1):3b, where we read these words:

“ . . . I found it necessary to write appealing to you to contend for the faith that was once delivered to the saints.” (ESV)

This is a somewhat unique section of the NT. Everyone in the church—not only her officers—are called upon to earnestly strive and struggle for the de-fense of “the faith.” Jude had wanted to pursue lighter topics, but this became his Holy Spirit-inspired purpose for writing his short Epistle.

“Contending for the faith” means getting into the fight, engaging the enemy, and putting forth all one’s efforts. Jesus, His gospel, His glory, His faith, His word, and His church are all worth it(!!)

[Edwards 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"]

Mon., 12/8/25 Devotion (3 Jn. 1-2a)

Today's encouragement comes from 3 John (1):1 & 2a, where we read these words:

“The elder to the beloved Gaius, whom I love in truth. Beloved . . . ” (ESV)

Do we see why John, the “Apostle of love,” is called, “The Apostle of love”? Three times in the first 12 words (in English) of this Epistle, “love” or its cog-nate is employed. Love is of supreme importance in Christ’s true church, and it should never be restrained.

True love is always holy and pure (in Jesus alone). Once “love” becomes im-pure or unholy, it is no longer love. It has devolved down to lust or some other base emotion. Let us always love each other freely in the church, in Jesus; and as we do so it will be both real and God-pleasing.

[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"]

Fri.-Sabbath, 12/5-7/25 Devotion

Praise God—Sunday is almost here. To help us prepare for church, here is Thomas Watson, from his "All Things for Good," or, "A Divine Cordial" book:

"The word preached works for good. It is a savor of life, it is a soul-transform-ing word. It assimilates the heart into Christ’s likeness; it produces assurance. 'Our gospel came to you not in word only, but in power, and in the Holy Spirit, and in much assurance,' (1 Thess. 1:5). It is the chariot of salvation.

"Prayer works for good. Prayer is the bellows of the affections; it blows up holy desires and ardors of soul. Prayer has power with God. It is a key that unlocks the treasury of God’s mercy. Prayer keeps the heart open to God, and shut to sin. . . . Prayer is the Christian’s gun, which he discharges against his enemies. Prayer is the sovereign medicine of the soul. Prayer sanctifies every mercy (1 Tim. 4:5). It is the dispeller of sorrow: by venting the grief it eases the heart. When Hannah had prayed, 'She went away, and was no more sad,' (1 Sam. 1:18). And if it has these rare effects, then it works for good."

Thurs., 12/4/25 Devotion (Lk. 18:14a)

Today's encouragement comes from Luke 18:14a, where we read these words spoken by our Lord Jesus Christ:

“I tell you, this man [the tax collector] went down to his house justified, rather than the other [the pharisee]. . . . "

The Parable of the Pharisee and the Publican is one of the all-time greatest stories ever told. How wonderful is it, that a wretched sinner, who only acknowledges himself to be such, is “justified”—while the self-righteous, law-mongering, works-oriented Pharisee goes home condemned?!

. . . Only a God of infinite grace could accomplish such a thing. Let all of us sinners rejoice that we have a Savior; and let all smug religionists grovel in their polluted delusions (until or unless they come to the Truth [Jesus]).

[Puritan quote of the day: "It is not how much we do, but how much we love.” —Thomas Watson, in, "All Things for Good"]

Wed., 12/3/25 Devotion (1 Jn. 2:2)

Today's encouragement comes from 1 John 2:2, where we read these words:

“[Jesus Christ] is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world.” (ESV)

Not only does Jesus Christ’s blood atonement satisfy for the regenerate people (currently) in His church—He (Christ) is the only hope for the entire rest of the world (also). *All* the sins of the elect are (or will be) expunged in Christ’s perfect sacrifice before the Father; and the gospel is available for all sinners everywhere.

No one is saved (redeemed) outside of Jesus, but everyone is a candidate for this blessed condition, which is received by faith in the Christ of the gospel of grace.

[Puritan quote of the day: "Keep conscience clear and clean from secret sins. . . . Will you be so bold as to come before the God of heaven when He knows you maintain some secret sin in your hearts?” —Samuel Lee, in, "Secret Prayer Successfully Managed"]

Tues., 12/2/25 Devotion (Lk. 16:13b)

 Today's encouragement comes from Luke 16:13b, where we read these words, spoken by our Lord Jesus Christ:

“ . . . You cannot serve God and money.” (ESV)

It is intriguing to consider what our Lord Jesus does not say. He does not aver, “You cannot serve God and sin,” or, “ . . . God and self,”

or, “ . . . God and Satan,” or, “ . . . God and the world.” Money is the absolute antitype and gauge of the heart, vis.-a-vis. God.

There is nothing inherently wrong with money; there is everything inherently wrong with our hearts. Only regeneration in Christ frees us from the intractable idolatry of worshipping money. May all the church’s liberated saints bless their Father for this joyous emancipation!

[Puritan quote of the day: "Now Christ and the church are all one. They make but one mystical body. The church is the queen, and Christ is the King.”

—Richard Sibbes, in, "Glorious Freedom"]

Mon., 12/1/25 Devotion (Lk. 15:21)

Today's encouragement comes from Luke 15:21, where we read these won-derful words:

“And the [prodigal] son said to [his father], ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ "

This speech by the Prodigal Son is probably the greatest one ever recorded in the Holy Scriptures, with respect to it coming from a fallen sinner. Whose heart would not be melted by such words? The running father, who already loved his returning son, would have been completely overwhelmed by such sincere contrition and humility.

. . . And so it is with God our Heavenly Father. He is simply incapable of doing anything but embracing, kissing, and loving every repentant sinner who comes to Him in and through faith in the merits and atonement of Jesus Christ, His own natural Son.

[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"]

Fri.-Sabbath, 11/28-30/25 Devotion

Thank God—Sunday is almost here! Again, we get to go back to church. In order to help us prepare for Sabbath Worship, here are some great words from Jonathan Edwards, from his, “The History of the Work of Redemption” book. . . .

“If it had not been for the history of the Old Testament, how woefully should we have been left in the dark about many things which the church of God needs to know! How ignorant should we have been of God’s dealings towards mankind, and towards His church, from the beginning! We would have been wholly in the dark about the creation of the world, the Fall of man, the first rise and continued progress of the dispensations [eras] of grace towards fallen mankind! And we should have known nothing how God at first set up a church in the world, and how it was preserved; after what manner He govern-ed it from the beginning; how the light of the gospel first began to dawn in the world; how it increased, and how things were preparing for the coming of Christ.

“If we are Christians, we belong to that building of God that has been the sub-ject of our discourse from this text; but if it had not been for the history of the Old Testament, we should never have known what was the first occasion of God’s going about this building, and how the foundation of it was laid at first, and how it has gone on from the beginning. . . . "

Wed., 11/26/25 Devotion (Lk. 10:21a)

Today's encouragement comes from Luke 10:21a, where we read these words:

“In that same hour [Jesus] rejoiced in the Holy Spirit and said, ‘I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth . . . ’ ” (ESV)

Imagine the perfect Son of God standing on the sin-cursed earth offering hearty and joyful praise and thanks to His Father in heaven. And, for what was Jesus so overjoyed? That the Father had revealed the king-dom of God to “little children,” those who believed in and followed the Messiah.

The “wise” and “understanding” of the world—all those who seek their end in anyone or -thing but Christ—get nothing; but the children of grace get everything in the Redeemer. May our “thanksgivings” unto God be princi-pally for the gift of His Son, the One who is at the center of all things.

[Puritan quote of the day: "So let us seriously and fruitfully consider what excellent times the Lord has set us in, and respond thankfully and obedi-ently.” —Richard Sibbes, in, "Glorious Freedom"]

Mon., 11/24/25 Devotion (Lk. 8:39)

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

“ ‘Return to your home, and declare how much God has done for you.’ And he [the Gadarene] went away, proclaiming throughout the whole city how much Jesus had done for him.” (ESV)

Is it not remarkable, that the very first (and only) person “unleashed” by the Messiah, to freely spread the gospel of the King (and kingdom), during the period between Christ’s baptism and Pentecost, was a Gentile, who had for-merly been possessed by a legion of demons?

Now, of course, we are *all* “free” to boldly proclaim the good news of Jesus; but then, things were different. Let us bless God that the Christ of this gospel has come to us; and that we fully-imbibe of Him by miraculous faith.

[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"]

Fri.-Sabbath, 11/21-23/25 Devotion

Praise God—it is almost Sunday! We get to go back to church. In order to help us prepare for the Sabbath Worship Services, here are good and sweet words from the great Jonathan Edwards. This comes from his, “The History of the Work of Redemption” book. . . .

“What has been said may show us how great a Person Jesus Christ is and how great an errand He came into the world upon, seeing that there was so much done to prepare the way for His coming. God had been doing nothing else but prepare the way for His coming, and doing the work which He had to do in the world, through all ages of the world from the very beginning. . . .

“How great a Person then must He be, for whose coming into the world the great God of heaven and earth, and Governor of all things, spent four thou-sand years in preparing the way, going about it soon after the world was cre-ated, and from age to age doing great things, bringing mighty events to pass, accomplishing wonders without number, often overturning the world in order to it, and causing every thing in the state of mankind, and all revolutions and changes in the habitable world from generation to generation, to be subser-vient to this great design? Surely this must be some great and extraordinary Person indeed, and a great work indeed it must needs be that He is coming about."

Thurs., 11/20/25 Devotion (Lk. 4:29)

Today's encouragement comes from Luke 4:29, where we read these words:

“And [the people of Nazareth] rose up and drove [Jesus] out of the town and brought him to the brow of the hill on which their town was built, so that they could throw him down the cliff.” (ESV)

This is a singular event in the four Gospel accounts. Imagine trying to throw the One through whom the town’s hill was made, over its cliff?! Earlier, in v. 9, the devil had tempted the Messiah to “throw [Himself] down." God’s enemies, be they Satan and/or religious hypocrites, always seek to “throw down” the Christ, and all God’s true children.

. . . But, what did Jesus do? According to v. 30, He simply “[passed] through their midst [and] went away.” Let us imitate our Redeemer's afflictions and His triumphs, by faith, today.

[Puritan quote of the day: "Christ is called grace. He is the grace of God cloth-ed with man's nature.” —Richard Sibbes, in, "Glorious Freedom"]

Wed., 11/19/25 Devotion (Jas. 1:4b)

Today's encouragement comes from James 1:4b, where we read these words:

“ . . . that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” (ESV)

Steadfastness in faith, proved by trials, leads to “perfection,” “completeness,” and total satisfaction. Who would not desire such things? This “golden chain” leads us back to our Lord Jesus Christ Himself (v. 1a).

The more we are “consumed” with Jesus, as His church, in the beauty and grace of His gospel, the more “perfect,” “complete,” and thoroughly supplied we are. As we deviate from Christ in anyway whatsoever, to this exact extent we deplete ourselves of all good things.

[Edwards quote of the day: “God has sent forth His messengers, and appoint-ed ministers in His church, to be subordinate lights, to shine with the com-munications of His light, and to reflect the beams of His glory on the souls of men.” —Jonathan Edwards, from his sermon, "The True Excellency of a Gos-pel Minister"]

Tues., 11/18/25 Devotion (Heb. 13:9)

Today's encouragement comes from Hebrews 13:9, where we read these words:

“Do not be led astray by diverse and strange teachings, for it is good for the heart to be strengthened by grace, not by foods, which have not benefited those devoted to them." (ESV)

The heart of a regenerate Christian can *only* be “strengthened by grace”—and this grace is all in Jesus and His gospel of mercy. *Everything* else in re-ligion has the exact *opposite* effect—it leads us “astray.”

The true child of God only hears the Good Shepherd’s (Jesus’) voice. The false believers—even those who pretend an allegiance to YHWH—hearken to “diverse and strange teachings” that have no place in the New Covenant life of a Christian.

[Edwards quote of the day: "Such a high degree of courtesy in so great a per-son as this apostle [Paul] reproves all those professing Christians who, though far below Paul, are not courteous and respectful in their behavior to their neighbors, and especially to their superiors.” —Jonathan Edwards, in his sermon, "The Character of Paul an Example To Christians"]

Mon., 11/17/25 Devotion (Heb. 12:2:a, c)

Today's encouragement comes from Hebrews 12:2a & c, where we read these words:

" . . . looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith who . . . is seated at the right hand of the throne of God." (ESV)

When a regenerated Christian church member “looks to Jesus” today, he or she is beholding the blessed Savior as He is “seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” This means that we, by faith, are seeing with the eyes of our hearts the God/Man as He is in His exalted and respondent state of glory.

. . . Interestingly, we do not need to squint to see Him, nor use a theological telescope to behold Him—because we, as the redeemed church, are seated right next to Him (according to Eph. 2:6). We simply need to “turn,” to look to Him.

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

Fri.-Sabbath, 11/14-16/25 Devotion

Praise God—it is almost Sunday! In order to help get us ready for church, here is Thomas Watson, from his excellent book, "A Body of Divinity.” . . .

"See in this, as in a transparent glass, the love of Christ to the elect. He came to redeem them; and [He] died intentionally for them. Would it not be great love for a king's son to pay a great sum of money to redeem a captive? [If the king’s son] should be content to be a prisoner in his [the prisoner’s] stead, and die for his ransom—this would be a matter of won-der. Jesus Christ has done all this, He has written His love in characters of blood. [If it would have been a lot] for Christ to speak a good word to His Father for us, [nonetheless] He [Christ] knew that [this] was not enough to redeem us. Though a word [being spoken] made a world, yet it would not redeem a sinner. 'Without [the] shedding of blood there is no re-mission [of sins],' (Heb 9:22)."

Thurs., 11/13/25 Devotion (Heb. 8:6)

Today's encouragement comes from Hebrews 8:6, which says this:

“But as it is, Christ has obtained a ministry that is as much more excellent than the old as the covenant he mediates is better, since it is enacted on bet-ter promises.” (ESV)

As the true church’s crowned High Priest seated at the right hand of the throne of the majesty in heaven (v. 1), our Lord Jesus Christ performs mini-stry that is infinitely better than the old, administers a (New) covenant that is infinitely better than the old, and fulfills promises that are infinitely better than the old.

The regenerate saints’ assurance is all tied-up with this heavenly High Priest (Jesus). The Holy Spirit confirms the truth of the gospel to our hearts, encour-aging us with the words of the Sacred Scriptures, which all point to Christ.

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

Wed., 11/12/25 Devotion (Heb. 7:12)

Today's encouragement comes from Hebrews 7:12, where we read these words:

“For when there is a change in the priesthood, there is necessarily a change in the law as well.” (ESV)

In the New Covenant the priesthood was changed from the Aaronic (priests), to the Melchizedekian (Priest/Jesus). Now, the Priest would be perfect, not sinful (v. 27). Now the Priest would last forever, not die (v. 25). And now, the Priest would institute the perfections of the New World, in His blood and re-surrection (v. 28).

These changes would include, not only the priesthood, but the Sabbath Day as well. Everything old is completed in everything new; and everything that prefigured is fulfilled in God’s final Word, Jesus Christ our Prophet, Priest, and King.

[Puritan quote of the day: "Proud innocence is worse than humble sin, and I would rather see a man tainted with many sins, if he is humbled for them and strives against them, than another puffed up and bragging to others of his freedom from gross and notorious iniquities.” —Richard Harris, in, "The Way To True Happiness"]

Tues., 11/11/25 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 . . . “

Notice here that the hope of regenerated Christ-loving churchmen *has al-ready* entered the holy of holies in heaven—since Jesus, who *is* our Hope, is *presently* there, for us. Our hope is “sure and steadfast, whereas all those outside of Christ have *no* hope at all.

Because true believers are “anchored” in Jesus, we may be completely se-cure and fully confident. We need fear nothing in this world; and we have the privilege of preaching gospel grace in Christ to this world.

[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"]

Mon., 11/10/25 Devotion (Heb. 5:5a)

Today's encouragement comes from Hebrews 5:5a, where we read these words:

“So also Christ did not exalt himself to be made a high priest . . . “ (ESV)

Christ, in the “humiliation” of His incarnation, did not do anything unless His Father told Him to do it, or appointed Him to it. In this sense, Jesus Christ in His human nature *did* willingly and lovingly “subordinate” Himself to the Fa-ther. In His deity, Christ, with the Father, and the Holy Spirit shares the same essence and divine majesty.

If Jesus did not “exalt Himself,” even to His rightful place as the “high priest,” then, obviously, we are to cease from “exalting” ourselves in anyway. The church is exalted in Jesus, and that is more than sufficient for us.

[Puritan quote of the day: "The church is the wisest body and society in the world. Indeed, all the world besides is a company of mere fools and mad-men." —Nathaniel Vincent, in, "A Discourse Concerning Love"]

Fri.-Sabbath, 11/7-9/25 Devotion

Thank God—Sunday is almost here again! We get to go back to church. In order to help us prepare for Sabbath worship, here are some good words from Thomas Goodwin’s excellent book, “The Heart of Christ in Heaven To-wards Sinners on Earth.” . . .

“ . . . And this Spirit is still in our preaching and in your hearts, in hearing, in praying, etc., and persuades you of Christ’s love to this very day; and is in all these the pledge of the continuance of Christ’s love still in heaven unto sin-ners. All our sermons and your prayers are evidences to you, that Christ’s heart is still the same towards sinners that ever it was, for the Spirit that as-sists in all these comes in His name, and in His stead, and works all by com-mission from Him. And do none of you feel your hearts moved in the preach-ing of these things, at this and other times? And who is it that moves you? It is the Spirit who speaks in Christ’s name from heaven, even as Himself is said to ‘speak from heaven,’ (Heb. 12:25). And when you pray, it is the Spirit that indites [composes] your prayers, and that ‘makes intercession for you’ in your own hearts (Rom. 8:26), which intercession of His is but the evidence and echo of Christ’s intercession in heaven. The Spirit prays in you, because Christ prays for you. He is an intercessor on earth, because Christ is an inter-cessor in heaven. . . . "

Thurs., 11/6/25 Devotion (Heb. 1:3b)

Today's encouragement comes from Hebrews 1:3b, where we read these words:

“ . . . and he [the Son of God] upholds the universe by the word of his power.” (ESV)

I think it was Athanasius who said something like this: “While the Son of God hung lifeless on the cross, He was (simultaneously) upholding the universe by the word of His power.” This theology is both profound and true.

The Holy Trinity created the entire universe through the Second Person (the Son of God). Christ is the absolute Center of the creation. The universe is (properly-speaking) upheld by the power of the Son of God. But the “new cre-ation,” regeneration in Jesus via the Holy Spirit, is an even greater demonstration of the might of our loving and personal God.

[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"]

Wed., 11/5/25 Devotion (2 Ki. 18:5)

Today's encouragement comes from 2 Kings 18:5, where we read these words:

“[Hezekiah] trusted in the LORD, the God of Israel, so that there was none like him among all the kings of Judah after him, nor among those who were before him.” (ESV)

This is a remarkable testimony the Holy Spirit gave to Hezekiah’s life of faith. After all, did David not precede him; and did not Josiah succeed him? What made Hezekiah so outstanding? It was his willingness to “trust” in the Lord, even against the formidable forces that opposed him.

David excelled Hezekiah in covenant stature; and Josiah may have outdone him in zeal—but Hezekiah shone very brightly in the line of the kings that would culminate in our Lord and Sovereign Jesus Christ.

[Puritan quote of the day: " 'Yes, I know, Satan, that Christ loves me, because you tell me that He hates me.’ " —William Bridge, in, "A Lifting Up For the Downcast"]

Tues., 11/4/25 Devotion (Titus 3:2)

Today's encouragement comes from Titus 3:2, which says this:

“ . . . to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people . . . ” (ESV)

Paul instructs ministers to teach parishioners to practice these lovely behav-iors (above). But, of course, ministers are to set the example, and show the way. Only those who are miraculously secure in Jesus Christ can do these things. Everyone else is compelled—through abiding self-righteousness—to do the exact opposite.

The church functions brilliantly, when the Holy Spirit fills the lovers of Jesus—and those forgiven souls “speak evil of no one,” “avoid quarreling,” are “gen-tle,” and “show perfect courtesy toward all people."

[Puritan quote of the day: "If, when public ordinances are administered, any person, whether out of pride or sloth, shall stay at home, though he may have his private devotions, yet he brings forth fruit out of season, and let that man know he shall bear his sin.” —Thomas Watson, in his sermon, "The Trees of Righteousness Blossoming"]

Mon., 11/3/25 Devotion (Titus 2:11)

Today’s encouragement comes from Titus 2:11, where we read these lovely words:

“For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people . . . " (ESV)

The “appearance” of the “grace of God,” is the appearance of Jesus Christ Himself. Paul has (immediately) Christ’s incarnation in mind—but in just two verses later he speaks of Jesus’ final glorious advent.

. . . “Bringing salvation to all people” is a blessed phrase. The gospel of God’s free grace is actually and sincerely offered to “all people.” The gospel benefits “all people.” People from “all nations,” etc., will be brought to Jesus and His church; and “all” the world is blessed by the incarnation of the Son of God.

[Edwards quote of the day: "Hence we learn that a life of holiness is the pleasantest life in this world, because in such a life we have the imperfect be-ginnings of a blessed and endless sight of God.” —Jonathan Edwards, in his sermon, "The Pure in Heart Blessed"]

Fri.-Sabbath, 10/31-11/2/25 Devotion

Praise God—Sunday is almost here! In order to help us prepare for the church’s Sabbath worship, here are some very good words from John Cal-vin’s Commentary on Paul’s letter of Colossians. Calvin is explicating Col. 1:12a here. . . .

“ ‘Giving thanks.’  Again [Paul] returns to thanksgiving, that he may take this opportunity of enumerating the blessings which had been conferred upon them [the Colossian church] through Christ, and thus he enters upon a full delineation of Christ. For this was the only remedy for fortifying the Colos-sians against all the snares, by which the false apostles endeavored to entrap them—to understand accurately what Christ was. For how is it that we are carried about  with so many strange doctrines, (Heb. 13:9), but because the excellence of Christ is not perceived by us? For Christ alone makes all other things suddenly vanish. Hence there is nothing that Satan so much en-deavors to accomplish as to bring on mists with the view of obscuring Christ, because he knows that by this means the way is opened up for every kind of falsehood. This, therefore, is the only means of retaining, as well as restoring pure doctrine—to place Christ before the view such as He is with all His blessings, that His excellence may be truly perceived."

Thurs., 10/30/25 Devotion (2 Tim. 2:1)

Today's encouragement comes from Paul's words to the young pastor Timo-thy, as they are found in 2 Timothy 2:1:

"You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.”

There is no grace to be found anywhere but “in Christ Jesus”; and no one can be “strong” before God, but by being united to Christ Jesus—and hence, enjoy His gracious might. No matter what others may choose to do with their lives, God addresses His true children; and says, “YOU,” “be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.”

. . . This strength has a holy “contagion,” as we see in the next verse. It also equips us to, “share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus,” (v. 3). May all God’s regenerate saints be strong in Christ and His grace today.

[Puritan quote of the day: "Those whose hearts follow hard after the Lord have the right hand of God upholding them.” —Jeremiah Burroughs, in, "Gos-pel Worship"]

Wed., 10/29/25 Devotion (2 Tim. 1:7)

Today's encouragement comes from 2 Timothy 1:7, where Paul wrote these words:

"For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”

Interestingly, the only people in the world who have a “warrant” to be completely fearless; and to exhibit and practice “power,” “love,” and a “sound mind,” are those souls who love God in Christ Jesus alone. Everyone else should be (and actually is) petrified, powerless, love-lacking; and of an “unsound” mind.

The “spirit” that regenerate Christians possess is the consequence of the Holy Spirit dwelling in us, and filling us. If you are a faithful churchman today, then live out your glorious inheritance in your magnificent Lord Jesus Christ.

[Puritan quote of the day: "If God thought it fit that Adam in innocence should not be alone, but should have a helper, much more now in a state of defection since the fall do we need others' help as well as our own.” —Christopher Love, in, "The Dejected Soul's Cure"]

Wed., 10/22/25 Devotion (2 Thess. 3:2-3)

Today's encouragement comes from 2 Thessalonians 3:2 & 3, where we find these words:

“ . . . and that we may be delivered from wicked and evil men. For not all have faith. But the Lord is faithful. He will establish you and guard you against the evil one.” (ESV)

True Christians are the objects of the most virulent hatred imaginable. Not only does Satan loathe and despise us—but so do all of his human agents (who all abominate the name of our Lord Jesus Christ). Paul is assuring the faithful church that though “not all have faith” in Christ, nonetheless our God “is faithful.”

. . . Because of this (latter) truth, the saints need not fear. We are “establish-ed” and “guarded” by our Heavenly Father—even against the ravenous vio-lence of “the evil one” and his human horde of Christ-haters.

[Puritan quote of the day: "When God calls a man by His grace, he cannot but come.” —Thomas Watson, in, "All Things for Good"]

Tues., 10/21/25 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 . . . "

Essentially, there are only two “spirits” in the world: the Spirit of God (or of Jesus Christ); and the spirit of Satan, (or the world of deceit and godless-ness). Daniel was imbued with a full measure of the Spirit of God. Even the pagans could not help but notice this in him, and acknowledge it, (see Dan. 4:18c, as one of several examples).

All people that love Jesus Christ in truth have dwelling in them the Holy Spirit (of God). All people who do not love Jesus Christ are under the influence of the spirit of Satan and the fallen world under his shaky sway. Let all the true saints of the church be filled with the Spirit of Jesus, as per Eph. 5:18b.

[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"]

Mon., 10/20/25 Devotion (2 Thess. 1:12)

Today's encouragement comes from 2 Thessalonians 1:12, where we read these words:

“ . . . so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (ESV)

Paul is praying for the Thessalonian church members here. He emphasizes the fact that Jesus Christ is absolutely prominent in everything; and that any-thing devoid of Him is essentially worthless—especially with regard to a Christian’s holy endeavor(s).

It will be the person and presence of the blessed Holy Spirit Who will make this experiential and “felt.” Jesus Christ is at the center of everything; and the regenerated believers know this. Our challenge is not to be distracted from this glorious vision (of God’s Messiah).

[Puritan quote of the day: "A believing soul dares venture his name, his es-tate, his life, yea, his eternal life on God. He dares to put them all into His hands.” —Jeremiah Burroughs, in, "Gospel Remission"]

Fri.-Sabbath, 10/17-19/25 Devotion

Thank God—Sunday is almost here. We get to go back to church. In order to help us prepare for Sabbath worship, here are some good words from John Calvin. He is commenting on Galatians 2:16. . . .

“(v. 16): ‘But by the faith of [in] Jesus Christ.' [Paul] does not merely state that ceremonies or works of any kind, are insufficient without the assistance of faith, but meets their denial by a statement admitting of no exception, as if he had said, ‘Not by works, but by the faith of [in] Christ alone.’ In any other point of view, the sentiment would have been trivial and foreign to the purpose; for the false apostles did not reject Christ nor faith, but demanded that cere-monies should be joined with them. If Paul had admitted this claim, they would have been perfectly at one, and he would have been under no neces-sity to agitate the church by this unpleasant debate. Let it therefore remain settled, that the proposition is so framed as to admit of no exception, ‘that we are justified in no other way than by faith,’ or, ‘that a we are not justified but by faith,’ or, which amounts to the same thing, ‘that we are justified by faith alone.’ "

Thurs., 10/16/25 Devotion (1 Thess. 2:8)

Today's encouragement comes from 1 Thessalonians 2:8, where we read these words:

“So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us.” (ESV)

The Christian ministry, done in the fullness and power of the Holy Spirit, en-genders great and supernatural love in the church, the body of Christ. There is a heart-bond made between the minister and the parishioners that is beau-tiful and pure.

Paul knew that those who loved Jesus Christ were precious to God; and, be-cause of this, they were priceless to him (Paul) also. May all the church’s saints enjoy the sweet fellowship of one another in the blessed Lord Jesus.

[Puritan quote of the day: "Christ is in the ship of His church; do not fear sink-ing. The church's anchor is cast in heaven. Do we not think that God loves His church, and takes as much care of it as we can?” —Thomas Watson, in, "The Art of Divine Contentment"]

Wed., 10/15/25 Devotion (1 Ki. 18:21a)

Today's encouragement comes from 1 Kings 18:21a, where we read these words:

"And Elijah came to all the people, and said, 'How long will you falter between two opinions? If the LORD is God, follow Him; but if Baal, follow him. . . . ‘ “

There is no sphere of life where honesty is more necessary and fitting, than in religion; and yet there is more lying done regarding religion, than in any other sphere. It is more honorable to acknowledge one’s God (or god[s]), than to pretend that one believes in a God (god) that one does not really believe in.

Elijah put the competing deities to the ultimate test on Mt. Carmel. The Triune YHWH God won; and the fake Baal god lost. The same is true today: those who savingly believe in Jesus are spiritually alive; and those who do not be-lieve in Him are spiritually dead.

[Puritan quote of the day: "There are the greatest reasons in the world to be a Christian . . . “ —Richard Sibbes, in "Glorious Freedom"]

Tues., 10/14/25 Devotion (Col. 4:3a, 4)

Today's encouragement comes from Colossians 4:3a & 4, where we read these words:

“At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open for us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ . . . that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak.” (ESV)

Even the Apostle Paul needed and requested prayer, so that he would boldly and courageously speak and preach the gospel of the mystery of Christ. An “open door” is necessary; but a profoundly clear and faithful delivery of the message is *absolutely* necessary.

Whereas allowance may (and should) be made for errors and/or omissions in ordinary speech—there is *no* room for it in the proclamation and defense of the gospel of Christ’s free and precious grace in His blood and resurrection.

[Puritan quote of the day: "Grace continues and increases.” —Richard Sib-bes, in, "Glorious Freedom"]

Mon., 10/13/25 Devotion (1 Ki. 16:22b)

Today's encouragement comes from the few words which make-up 1 Kings 16:22b, which say this:

" . . . So Tibni died and Omri reigned.”

I usually get a kick out of these words found in God’s inspired and inerrant written word. Two men vie for the kingship of Israel. One wins/the other dies. There is no real “in between” or compromise. Omri turned out to be a wretch-ed soul, but nonetheless he became “king.”

In the most profound sense, when sinners are regenerated in Jesus by the miraculous work of the Holy Spirit and made new creatures, their old selves “die”; and Christ, who is the life of our new self, is crowned King. Let all of us be found in the Redeemer by saving faith, today.

[Edwards quote of the day: "The more a true saint loves God with a gracious love, the more he desires to love Him, and the more uneasy is he at his lack of love to Him.” —Jonathan Edwards, in, "Religious Affections"]

Fri.-Sabbath, 10/10-12/25 Devotion

Praise God—Sunday is almost here again! In order to help us prepare for the church’s Sabbath worship services, here are some good words from Jona-than Edwards’ book, entitled, “A History of The Work of Redemption.” . . .

“The decline of the glory of this legal [time period] made way for the introduc-tion of the more glorious [time period] of the gospel. The evangelical [gospel] [time period] was so much more glorious that the legal [time period] had no glory in comparison with it. The glory of the ancient [time period], such as it was in Solomon’s time, consisting, so much in external glory, was but a child-ish glory compared with the spiritual glory of the [time period]  introduced by Christ. The church, under the Old Testament, was a child under tutors and governors, and God dealt with it as a child. Those pompous externals are called by the apostle, ‘weak and beggarly elements.’

“It was fit that those things should be diminished as Christ approached, just as John the Baptist, the forerunner of Christ, speaking of Christ, says, ‘He must increase, but I must decrease,’ (Jn. 3:30). It is fit that the twinkling stars should gradually withdraw their glory when the sun is approaching towards its rising. The glory of the Jewish [time period] must be gradually diminished to prepare the way for the more joyful reception of the spiritual glory of the gos-pel. . . . "  [Note; I use “time period” instead of “dispensation,” to avoid un-necessary confusion.]

Thurs., 10/9/25 Devotion (Php. 3:17)

Today's encouragement comes from Philippians 3:17, where we read these words:

“Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk ac-cording to the example you have in us.” (ESV)

Imitation is an important part of Christian living. A true disciple can do nothing—especially of a religious nature—that cannot be imitated by every other be-liever. Paul imitated Jesus; and he (Paul) commanded the church to imitate him. True ministers of the church imitate Paul; and the parishioners imitate (the minister).

Poor examples abound in religion, (see vv. 18-19); but good examples, though comparatively rare, lead to the glorious life in the gospel of our Savior Jesus Christ, (see vv. 20-21).

[Puritan quote of the day: "It is a vain thing to think that true religion can be maintained, and have the liberty of it, without some difference of opinion among us.” —Jeremiah Burroughs, in, "Hope"]

Wed., 10/8/25 Devotion (Ps. 92:13-14)

Today's encouragement comes from Psalm 92:13 & 14, where we read these great words:

"Those who are planted in the house of the LORD shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bear fruit in old age; they shall be fresh and flour-ishing . . . "

It is nice, to know that there is no age discrimination in the kingdom (church) of God. But, it is more important to know that anyone—young or old—who is rooted in Jesus and therefore inhabits God’s “house,” “flourish.” Those who do not love Jesus are spiritually dead; those that by grace love Him are vi-brantly alive.

Let the saints know who and what they are: they are the living members of Christ’s body; and they are the objects of all of God’s vivifying love.

[Puritan quote of the day: "No matter what storms I meet with, I know where to put in for harbor. He who has God to be his God is so well contented with his condition that he does not much care whether he has anything else.”

—Thomas Watson, in, "The Art of Divine Contentment"]

Tues., 10/7/25 Devotion (Ps. 91:9-10)

Today's encouragement comes from Psalm 91:9 & 10, where we read these words:

"Because you have made the LORD, who is my refuge, even the Most High, your dwelling place, no evil shall befall you, nor shall any plague come near your dwelling . . . “

How is it possible, that these two verses (above) can be true, given the fact that sincere lovers of God in Christ are always in the cross-hairs of Satan and evil human beings? Answer: both are true. We *are* in danger every moment; *and*, we are protected by our all-powerful God.

Since this is so, how do we explain the evils that sometimes do befall God’s true children? The secret and sovereign love of God is the explanation. Both security and tribulation are designed to conform the regenerate church into the image of Christ.

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

Mon., 10/6/25 Devotion (Ps. 90:17)

Today's encouragement comes from Psalm 90:17, where Moses wrote these words:

"And let the beauty of the LORD our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands for us; yes, establish the work of our hands.”

As the “beauty” of the Lord is “upon” us, God *will* “establish the work of our hands,” i.e. bless all His ministry done in us for the glory of Jesus Christ and the gospel of free grace. God only blesses what is beautiful/nothing else. All true beauty is from God; and all of it is centered on and in Christ.

No true saint wants to waste his or her life. This is why we join Moses, in im-ploring our Heavenly Father to, “establish the work of our hands.” This “work” is the result of the work of Jesus, who imputes His perfect life and His atoning death to our hearts and their accounts.

[Edwards quote of the day: "God has a greater delight in the sincere worship and love of one poor, obscure Christian than in all that is done throughout the globe by irreligious kings and princes.” —Jonathan Edwards, in his sermon, "Christians a Chosen Generation"]

Fri.-Sabbath, 10/3-5/25 Devotion

Thank God—Sunday is almost here again! In order to help us get ready for church, here are some good words from John Owen’s sermon, entitled, “The Beauty and Strength of Zion.” . . .

“In that the enemies of Christ’s church are certainly mistaken presently in their attacks on the church, because, as they imagine, it has no defenses (though they will find out at last that there is a defense, which they had not seen or known of), why should we be afraid? There is nothing more encour-aging than when one knows that one’s enemies are mistaken about one’s situation. This is enough to make the greatest coward in the world courag-eous. Let us be sure to be found within this defended garrison, and sure that we are involved in Zion’s concerns; then we shall see all the mountains round about us full of chariots and horses of fire. We shall see Christ reigning, the promise of Christ engaged, and the watchful eye of God upon the church continually. Our fears come from failing to consider these things at all times, and forming carnal views on the basis of things that are seen."

Thurs., 10/2/25 Devotion (Eph. 2:8-9)

Today's encouragement comes from Ephesians 2:8 & 9, where we find these remarkable words:

"For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of your-selves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.”

Faith in Jesus Christ is God’s gift to us. We receive this gift in our regenera-tions—when we are born again to our living hope. Justification has nothing to do with works. “Justification-works” are an abomination to God. They are the devil’s works (and religion).

We are saved through the sheer grace of God. We cannot “boast” before God for anything—since we had nothing at all to do with our righteous standing before God. Jesus did it all; He gets all the glory; we get none of it.

[Puritan quote of the day: "To be rich in goods and rich in goodness is a hap-py condition." —Jeremiah Burroughs, in, "The Excellency of a Gracious Spirit"]

Wed., 10/1/25 Devotion (Ezek. 34:23)

Today's encouragement comes from Ezekiel 34:23, where we read these words:

“And I will set up over them one shepherd, my servant David, and he shall feed them: he shall feed them and be their shepherd.” (ESV)

This remarkable Messianic prophecy was perfectly fulfilled by Jesus, the church’s ultimate David. Jesus, as the Good Shepherd both feeds His flock; and He protects and defends His own.

Christ “feeds” us His own self: His body and His blood; and He defeats all our enemies, be they sin, Satan, the flesh, the world, hell, condemnation, and every other foe. Our Great Shepherd laid down His precious life for us. There is nothing He will not do for His redeemed church.

[Puritan quote of the day: "It is a Christian's duty to triumph, not only over the world, but over Satan . . . “ —William Bridge, in, "A Lifting Up For the Downcast"]

Tues., 9/30/25 Devotion (Gal. 6:16)

Today's encouragement comes from Galatians 6:16, where Paul wrote these words:

“And as for all who walk by this rule, peace and mercy be upon them, and up-on [or, ‘even upon’] the Israel of God.” [ESV]

The “rule” Paul is referring to, is the “new creation” of v. 15. “Peace” and “mercy” come to all who are united to Jesus in His crucifixion (v. 14). And “the Israel of God” are the regenerated members of the New Covenant church, made up of Jews and Gentiles.

. . . For everyone else, who trust in the law and their own righteousness, they also get at least two things: freedom from persecution (v. 12a); and failure to perfectly keep the law of God (v. 13a). This failure leads to hell; but Christ’s keeping it for His elect church leads us to glory.

[Puritan quote of the day: "If you love anything, love something better than yourself; and that only is Christ, who is altogether lovely.” —Thomas Watson, in his sermon entitled, "Christ's Loveliness"]

Mon., 9/29/25 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.”

Being and remaining “free” is an extremely hard thing to do. In our perverse fallenness, we prefer slavery—especially to religious taskmasters. The true Christian is to enjoy a liberty in Jesus that is so spectacular, that only a fool would ever seek to be “free” of it.

. . . But, alas, we are so stupid in our flesh, that we, just like the Galatians, are sometimes given to putting chains back on our wrists and ankles. For you blessed ones who know Christ’s freedom, cherish it with all your hearts.

[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"]

Fri.-Sabbath, 9/26-28/25 Devotion

Thank God—Sunday is almost here again. In order to help us get ready for Sabbath worship, here are some good words from John Owen. This comes from his, “Ministerial Gifts: The Work of The Spirit” sermon. . . .

“Let us consider the reason why the Spirit was promised in this way to the church. God has promised to Jesus Christ that He will have a kingdom and a church in this world while the sun and the moon endure. ‘May His name en-dure forever, His fame continue as long as the sun!’ (Ps. 72:17), that is, to the end of the world. It is said, ‘Of the increase of His government,’ that is, the church, ‘there will be no end’ (Isa. 9:7); He will order it forever. . . . Christ re-quires that we should exercise faith in this promise, which we cannot do un-less there is some basis for its infallible fulfillment. . . . The fulfillment of this promise . . . must depend on the work of God. If you ask, ‘What is the work of God upon which the certainty of this promise depends?’ I answer, It is, alone, the work of sending the Holy Spirit.” [italics Owen’s]

Thurs., 9/25/25 Devotion (Gal. 1:10b)

Today's encouragement comes from Galatians 1:10b, where we read these words:

“ . . . If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.” (ESV)

When Paul was an unbelieving pharisee, he was a man-pleaser—because all religious zeal devoid of Christ is designed to satisfy man’s sinful craving for universal self-righteousness (apart from a Redeemer). Now that Paul was a regenerated Christian, he had no capacity for “pleasing man.” No one can serve Jesus and satisfy the desires of sinful man at the same time.

The same is true for all of us who are in Christ Jesus. We have no intention of unduly offending sinners—but *all* of their demands on us are crucified in our union with our living Savior.

[Puritan quote of the day: "Do you fear the Lord? He will open His secret to you, even that which He has hidden and kept secret from all the world, name-ly the secret of His covenant and your concern therein.” —John Bunyan, in, "The Fear of God"]

Wed., 9/24/25 Devotion (2 Cor. 13:8)

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

“For we cannot do anything against the truth, but only for the truth.” (ESV)

Truly-called apostles and church ministers of the gospel literally “cannot” do anything “against” the truth, because we would rather die than betray our Lord and King. We can only do what is “for” the truth—because we are effectually “cemented" to the One who *is* Truth, Jesus Christ our Re-deemer.

. . . Some might think Paul’s words arrogant or presumptuous—but, in fact, they are simply truthful. All Spirit-filled Christians get to share in their mini-sters’ privilege of *only* standing for the Truth, Jesus Christ, the only-be-gotten Son of God.

[Puritan quote of the day: "If temptations arise from natural causes, then natural means, as medicines, are to be used and applied, and people would do well to be persuaded thereunto.” —William Bridge, in, "A Lifting Up For the Downcast"]

Tues., 9/23/25 Devotion (Ps. 74:12)

Today's encouragement comes from Psalm 74:12, where we read these words:

"For God is my King from of old, working salvation in the midst of the earth."

This verse is sweet for several reasons. First, there is a personal dimension to it: the Lord is the Christian's own "King.” And, there is a cosmic aspect: God is "working salvation in the midst of the earth." The same Sovereign who has applied eternal life in Jesus to those already in His justifying care is also at work to bring others to Himself.

Let us never despair of how "bad" things are, or seem to be on the earth. The flesh, the devil, and the world system all conspire against the Lord and His Christ—but they have all *already* been defeated in our Redeemer's resur-rection. Let us keep our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of our faith, (Heb. 12:2a).

[Puritan quote of the day: "For you who do love Christ, and have the mani-festations of His love to your souls. . . . of all persons in the world, you have most reason to rejoice. You are the happiest men and women alive. —Thom-as Vincent, in, "The True Christian's Love To The Unseen Christ"]

Mon., 9/22/25 Devotion (2 Sam. 18:9b)

Today's encouragement comes from 2 Samuel 18:9b, where we read these words:

" . . . so he [Absalom] was left hanging between heaven and earth."

Our Lord Jesus Christ, when He was on the cross, bearing the sins of all the elect church from all time, hung, as it were, "between heaven and earth." He bridged the infinite gap between a holy God and sinful men. The regenerate Christian, who struggles through the process of sanctification, also, in a sense, is suspended "between heaven and earth." Our old flesh nature (earth), is at war with our new nature in Jesus (heaven).

Unregenerate sinners also are suspended between “heaven” and “earth,” as well. As they hear the gospel, they are beckoned above; as they listen to their own hearts, they devolve below. May all of us reside with Jesus in glory to-day, via supernatural faith in Him.

[Edwards quote of the day: "In His last sufferings, Christ sapped the very foundations of Satan's kingdom. He conquered His enemies in their own ter-ritories, and beat them with their own weapons, as David cut off Goliath's head with his own sword.” —Jonathan Edwards, in his sermon, "The Excel-lency of Christ"]