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When God sent him to school to the swine-trough!

September 9, 2018 by Steve 1 Comment

When God sent him to school to the swine-trough!

(Thomas Case, “The Rod and the Word, A Treatise on Afflictions” 1653)

“When you have eaten and are satisfied, praise the LORD your God for the good land He has given you. Be careful that you do not forget the LORD your God, failing to observe His commands, His laws and His decrees that I am giving you this day. Otherwise, when you eat and are satisfied, when you build fine houses and settle down, and when your herds and flocks grow large and your silver and gold increase and all you have is multiplied–then your heart will become proud and you will forget the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.” Deuteronomy 8:10-14

In the school of affliction, God teaches us how to prize our outward mercies and comforts more–and yet to dote upon them less. We are taught to be more thankful for them–and yet less ensnared by them.

Naturally we are very prone either to slight or to surfeit God’s blessings. And yet (sad to consider) we can often do both at once! We can undervalue our mercies–even while we glut ourselves with them! We can despise them–even when we are surfeiting upon them.

Behold while men fill themselves with the mercies of God–they can neglect the God of their mercies! When God is most liberal in remembering us–then we are most ungrateful to forget Him. Therefore that we may know how to put a due estimate upon mercies–God may cut them off, that we may learn to prize by the lack of mercies, that which our foolish unthankful hearts slighted in the enjoyment of them.

Now this ungrateful distemper, God many times cures by the sharp corrosive of affliction!

Thus the prodigal, who while yet at home could despise the rich and well furnished table of his father; when God sent him to school to the swine-trough–would have gladly filled his belly with the pods which he was feeding to the swine!

When months and years of God’s mercies and blessings are passed through–we scarcely take one grateful view of them; we seldom send up one thankful prayer to God for them. We pass by our mercies as common things, scarcely worth the owning. Whereas in times of famine–the lees and dregs of those mercies will be precious, which while the vessel ran full and fresh, we could hardly relish. In famine the very gleanings of our comforts are better than the whole vintage in the years of plenty!

In the withdrawing of common mercies–God will teach us their inestimable worth.

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The family disease!

September 8, 2018 by Steve 0 Comments

The family disease!

(J.C. Ryle)

“He spoke this parable to some who trusted in themselves, that they were righteous.” Luke 18:9

The sin which our Lord here denounces, is “self-righteousness.”

We are all naturally self-righteous. It is the family disease of all the children of Adam. From the highest to the lowest–we think more highly of ourselves than we ought to. We secretly flatter ourselves that we are not as bad as some, and that we have something to merit the favor of God.

We forget the plain testimony of Scripture:
“Surely there is not a righteous man on earth who does good and never sins.”
“What is man, that he could be pure; or one born of woman, that he could be righteous?”
“There is no one righteous, not even one!”

The true cure for self-righteousness, is self-knowledge. Once let the eyes of our understanding be opened by the Spirit–and we shall talk no more of our own goodness. Once let us see what sin there is in our own hearts, and what the holy law of God requires–and self-conceit will die. We shall lay our hand on our mouths, and cry with the leper, “Unclean, unclean!” Leviticus 13:45

“I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” Luke 5:32

“Christ died for the ungodly!” Romans 5:6

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We would be forever contented with the garlic and flesh-pots of Egypt!

September 7, 2018 by Steve 0 Comments

We would be forever contented with the garlic and flesh-pots of Egypt!

(Thomas Case, “The Rod and the Word, A Treatise on Afflictions” 1653)

One lesson which God teaches us in the school of affliction, is how to prize and long for Heaven. In our prosperity, “when we wash our steps in butter, and the rock pours us out rivers of oil” (Job 29:6)–we could sit down with the present world, and say, “It is good for us to be here; let us build dwellings here.”

While life is sweet–then death is bitter.

Heaven itself is no enticement–while the world gives us her alluring baits.

But when poverty and imprisonment, reproach and persecution, sickness and sore diseases–pinch and vex our hearts with a variety of afflictions–then we are not so fond of the creature, and are pleased to parley with death, and take Heaven into our consideration.

God by putting us into the school of affliction, takes off our hearts by degrees from this present world, and makes us look homeward. Being burdened, we groan–and with the dove we return to the ark, when the world is sinking round about us.

We would be forever contented with the garlic and flesh-pots of Egypt–if God did not set cruel taskmasters over us to double our burdens. And when God thus lessens our esteem of the world–He reveals to us the excellency of heavenly comforts, and draws out the desires of the soul to Himself:
“As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?” Psalm 42:1-2
“Even so, come Lord Jesus!” Revelation 22:20

Afflictions make Heaven appear as Heaven indeed!

To the weary, Heaven is rest;
to the banished, it is home;
to the scorned and reproached, it is glory;
to the captive, it is liberty;
to the soldier, it is victory;
to the hungry, it is hidden manna;
to the thirsty, it is the fountain of life;
to the grieved, it is fullness of joy; and
to the mourner, it is pleasures forevermore.
In a word, to those who have lain upon the dunghill of affliction, and walked in holiness–Heaven is the throne on which they shall sit and reign with Christ forever and ever!

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That Man of sorrows, is the Savior of the world!

September 6, 2018 by Steve 0 Comments

That Man of sorrows, is the Savior of the world!

(Gardiner Spring)

O! Who was it that suffered? What did He suffer? For whom did He suffer?

Think of Him–the Father’s fellow, and the church’s Beloved.

Think of the Garden and the Cross, and see how they demonstrate on the one hand, the enormity of our guilt; and on the other, the force of His almighty love.

Think of the debased and abject character of those for whom He died–depraved men, and the enemies of God!

That Man of sorrows, is the Savior of the world!

That naked, bleeding victim–is the mighty Conqueror of death and Hell!

O what triumphs of love and of holiness were there, when . . .
the earth trembled;
and the sun grew dark;
and the veil of the temple was rent in twain;
and the rocks broke asunder;
and the graves gave up their dead;
and Hell itself was moved with terror;
and the Great Redeemer exclaimed, “It is finished!”

Christ is precious to all who believe!

Abraham “rejoiced to see Christ’s day, and he saw it and was glad.”

Moses esteemed Him more precious than all the treasures of Egypt.

David esteemed Him “fairer than the children of men.”

The Church in her divine songs speaks of Him . . .
as the “rose of Sharon and the lily of the valleys;”
as “the chief among ten thousand and the altogether lovely One;”
and as the One whom “her soul loves.”

The wise men of the East adored Him.

Simeon took Him up in his arms, and said, “Now Lord, let you your servant depart in peace, for my eyes have seen Your salvation!”

And to holy men wherever found, Jesus is precious!
“The upright love You!”
“Whom having not seen, you love.”
“To you who believe, He is precious!”

In all your duties and trials–He will be precious.

When the world loses its charms–He will become more glorious and lovely than ever.

When death invades–He will become its mighty conqueror.

When you sleep beneath the clods of the valley–He will be the resurrection and the life.

When the books shall be opened, and small and great shall stand before God, and the precious Savior shall come in the clouds, and you shall go to be forever with the Lord–He shall be doubly precious, and more and more precious through interminable ages!

“Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!” Revelation 5:12

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They hope that they shall not have two Hells!

September 4, 2018 by Steve 1 Comment

They hope that they shall not have two Hells!

(Thomas Case, “The Rod and the Word, A Treatise on Afflictions” 1653)

Because men suffer in this world–they assume they shall be freed from sufferings in the world to come.
Because they have a Hell here–they imagine that they shall escape Hell hereafter.

They hope that they shall not have two Hells!

Poor, deluded soul! You may and must have two Hells. Cain, and Judas, and millions of reprobate men and women, have two Hells–one in this life, in torments of body–and another in the life to come, in unquenchable fire.

You may have a prison on earth–and a dungeon in Hell.
You may now lack a crumb of bread–and hereafter lack a drop of water.
You may now be the reproach of men–and hereafter the scorn of God Himself.

Affliction alone is not enough to evidence a man to be a saved man. Blows may sooner break the neck, than the heart! Afflictions are in themselves, the fruit of divine wrath–and therefore cannot possibly of themselves make the least argument of God’s love to the soul.

God forbid that a man should take that for his security from Hell–which may be but the foretaste of Hell! Present afflictions, may be the pledge of endless misery.

In many cases it is to be feared that the cup of affliction, is a vial of wrath–and that the plagues of this life, are but some drops of that coming storm of fire and brimstone, wherein impenitent sinners shall be scorched and tormented forever!

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The false doctrine of universal redemption!

September 1, 2018 by Steve 1 Comment

The false doctrine of universal redemption!

(Charles Spurgeon)

“I am the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd gives His life for the sheep!” John 10:11

I would like to die talking of this blessed doctrine of substitutionary atonement and I intend, by divine grace, to live proclaiming it, for it is the keystone of the Gospel! Jesus Christ literally took upon Himself the transgression and iniquity of His people, and was made a curse for them, seeing that they had fallen under the wrath of God! For them, He has taken away the penalty and the curse due to sin.

The false doctrine of universal redemption–that Christ died for the damned in Hell and suffered the torment of those who afterwards are tormented forever–seems to me to be detestable, subversive of the whole Gospel, and destructive of the only pillar upon which our hopes can be built!

Christ stood in the place of His elect–for them He made a full atonement–for them He so suffered that not a sin of theirs shall ever be laid at their door. As the Father’s love embraced them–so the death of His Son reconciled them.

We hold most firmly the doctrine of particular redemption–that Christ loved His Church, and gave Himself for it.

The only limit of the atonement is in its design–and that design was that Christ should give eternal life to as many as the Father has given Him.

“Christ also loved the church, and gave Himself for her!” Ephesians 5:25

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Some thoughts on idolatry!

August 31, 2018 by Steve 0 Comments

Some thoughts on idolatry!

“These men have set up their idols in their hearts!” Ezekiel 14:3

“Their heart went after their idols!” Ezekiel 20:16

“We are all born idolaters!” Thomas Watson

“An idol is an idol–whether worshiped inwardly in heart, or adorned outwardly by the knee.” J.C. Philpot

“Every one of us is, from his mother’s womb, expert in inventing idols. Man’s nature, so to speak, is a perpetual idol factory!” John Calvin

“An idol of the mind is as offensive to God as an idol of the hand.” A.W. Tozer

“O wretched idol, MYSELF!” Samuel Rutherford

“If we are indeed Christians–we have broken a great many idols. We have still some more to break–and we must keep the hammer going until they are all broken!” Charles Spurgeon

“This is what the Sovereign LORD says: Repent! Turn from your idols and renounce all your detestable practices!” Ezekiel 14:6

“Dear children, keep yourselves from idols!” 1 John 5:21

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Almost saved!

August 30, 2018 by Steve 0 Comments

Almost saved!

(Charles Spurgeon)

“Then Agrippa said to Paul: You almost persuade me to become a Christian.” Acts 26:28

To be almost saved–is to be altogether lost!

There are many in Hell who once were almost saved–but who are now altogether damned!

Think of that, you who are not far from the Kingdom. It is being in the Kingdom that saves the soul–not being near the Kingdom.

“You are not far from the Kingdom of God.” Mark 12:34

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What gives the world its fatal charms?

August 29, 2018 by Steve 0 Comments

What gives the world its fatal charms?

(E.M. Bounds, “The World!”)

“No servant can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other–or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.” Luke 16:13

The world is one of the Christian’s enemies which must be fought and conquered on the way to Heaven. The Christian life is represented as a training school, in which to deny worldly desires is one part of its curriculum.

There is no more fundamental statement in Scripture, than that the world is to be renounced by every true disciple of Christ–and that to love the world and the things of the world, puts us in open and standing enmity to God. By virtue of our love or friendship to the world–we are the enemies of God.

Christ Jesus lays it down as an obvious truth that between the world and His disciples, there would be hatred. To serve two opposing masters is impossible. The call of Christ when accepted and obeyed, becomes at once the secret and the source of the world’s hatred.

Jesus declares the native and inevitable enmity of the world to His followers: “The world has hated them, because they are not of the world–even as I am not of the world.” Again, in His high-priestly prayer, He declares this distinct and eternal separation and conflict: “They are not of the world–even as I am not of the world.” By virtue of their relation to Christ–they are separated from, and are in conflict with, the world.

The love of the world is hostile to and destructive of, the love of God. The two cannot co-exist. Yet many modern church members and church goers are friends of the world–its advocates and lovers.

“You adulteresses, do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Whoever therefore would be the friend of the world, makes himself an enemy of God!” James 4:4. Friendship with the world is God’s greatest enemy. Love of the world violates our marriage vows to Jesus.

Nothing is more explicit than this, nothing is more commanding, authoritative and more exacting. “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him!” 1 John 2:15. Nothing is more offensive to God, nothing is more criminal, more abominable, more violative of the most sacred relationship of the soul with God.

It remains true to this hour, that all the genuine disciples of Jesus are not of the world–but are chosen out of the world, have leftthe world, have renounced the world, and are crucified to the world.

What gives the world its fatal charms? What makes its enchantment so lethal? What makes it a deadly foe to Christ, and which poisons us against Heaven?

The world is the devil’s pawn. The world gets its deadly and fascinating snares from the devil. The world is not simply the ally, but is the instrument and the agent of Satan.

The world’s opposition and enmity have been always against the Christian–and often its smiles are more fatal than its hate!

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We are as moths near a burning candle!

August 28, 2018 by Steve 0 Comments

We are as moths near a burning candle!

(Charles Spurgeon)

“Turn away my eyes from looking at vanity!” Psalm 119:37

Dear friends, do not gaze upon any sin . . .
for looking breeds longing,
and longing begets lusting,
and lusting brings sinning!

Keep your eyes right–and you may keep your heart right.

If that first woman had not looked upon the forbidden tree and seen “that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise,” she would not have plucked and eaten the forbidden fruit–and we would not have been the children of sin and sorrow!

O friends, if we begin to look upon iniquity, we shall almost certainly fall! There are some sins that we poor, frail creatures cannot endure to look at. We are as moths near a burning candle–the only safety for us is to get out of the room and fly into the open air. But if we go near the candle–we shall certainly burn our wings and, perhaps, even destroy ourselves!

Just so, we must take care that we do not get used to sin. I believe that even the common reading in the newspapers of accounts of evil things is defiling to us. If we habitually read such things, we shall come, at last, to think less and less of the coarser forms of vice than we ought to do.

Nothing can keep us away from the fangs of sin, like falling into the embraces of Christ. Looking unto Jesus, is the great remedy against looking unto sin!

Turn away my eyes from vanity, my Lord, by filling them full with a vision of Yourself and holding me spellbound with that grandest spectacle that eyes of men, or angels, or even of God, Himself ever saw–the spectacle of God Incarnate bearing our sin in His own body on the Cross!

Keep your eyes fixed there–and all will be well.

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Heaven’s richest treasure!

August 27, 2018 by Steve 0 Comments

Heaven’s richest treasure!

(Gleanings from the Inner Life of Ruth Bryan)

“For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers–but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect!” 1 Peter 1:18-19

I wonder why dear saints do not talk with more ardor about Him who has, in love to our souls, brought them up from the pit of corruption.

Oh! what it cost Him! Price beyond all computing! Heaven’s richest treasure–paid for worms of earth!

Oh! the wonders and blessedness of union to such a rich Husband, who thought not His own precious blood too much for my ransom!

Oh, that my heart were a ten-stringed instrument, and my life a living epistle–in which all might read Him. But, alas! it is so blotted over with unbelief and other sins, that it is hard to pick out His dear name in most of the pages!

Oh! when I see Him face to face, and behold those love-prints in His glorious body, what shall I feel? That will be Heaven–not one of harps and crowns, or of anything else–but JESUS and the open vision of His unveiled glories, the ineffable glories of Deity, and perfect beauties of humanity ever beaming with new effulgence in the person of our Bridegroom! Then shall we reflect His glory, and show forth His praise!

Eternal praises to the worthy Lamb!

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We would soon hear all the dogs of Hell baying with all their might against us!

August 25, 2018 by Steve 0 Comments

We would soon hear all the dogs of Hell baying with all their might against us!

(Charles Spurgeon)

“If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you.” John 15:19

There would be much more persecution than there is–if there were more real Christians. But we have become so like the world, that the world does not hate us as it once did. If we would be more holy, more true, more Christ-like, more godly–we would soon hear all the dogs of Hell baying with all their might against us!

Remember, my brethren, whoever you may be, that if there is no distinction between you and the world around you–then you may be certain that you are of the world. For, there must always be some marks in the children of God to distinguish them from the ungodly. There is a something in them which is not to be found in the best worldling–something which is not to be discovered in the most admirable carnal man. A something in their character which can be readily perceived and which marks them as belonging to another and higher race, the twice-born, the elect of God, eternally chosen by Him–and, therefore, made to be choice ones through the effectual working of His grace.

“I have given them Your word and the world has hated them–for they are not of the world any more than I am of the world.” John 17:14

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Had he known me better!

August 24, 2018 by Steve 0 Comments

Had he known me better!

(Frederick Marsh)

Humility is the queen of the Christian graces. The excellence of humility is illustrated in the following Scriptures.

1. Humility is the Flower of Grace–Ephesians 4:2. Humility walks consistently, loves generously, serves willingly, acts meekly, forgives heartily, forbears thoughtfully, and responds obediently.

2. Humility is the Soul of Contentment–Philippians 4:12. It feels that it does not deserve anything, therefore takes whatever comes with gratitude. It ever sings, “O to grace how great a debtor!”

3. Humility is the Secret of Service–Acts 20:19. To serve the Lord with all humility of mind, is to have the bloom of consecration, the aroma of grace, the unction of love, the warmth of zeal, the ardor of faith, the walk of obedience, and the beauty of holiness.

4. Humility is the Badge of Obedience. The Lord’s command is, “Humble yourselves” (1 Peter 5:6), and it is not without meaning that it is to be “under the mighty hand of God.” We only know the mightiness of God’s hand–when we lie low beneath it.

5. Humility is the Lesson of Grace. When we are yoked with Christ in God’s will, we are in the position to learn of Christ, who is “meek and lowly in heart” (Matthew 11:29). To talk about humility, is to show we do not possess it; but to keep step with Christ, is to have it without knowing it.

6. The Mind of Humility. “In humility of mind, let each esteem other better than themselves” (Philippians 2:3). To see the best in others–is to find the worst in ourselves. Self-contemplation leads to self-congratulation, and that always fosters pride.

7. The Example of Christ. The mind of Christ is illustrated in that He “humbled Himself” (Philippians 2:8). He went down, before He was raised up. We need to pray: “Help us, O Lord, to deeper sink, that we may the higher rise.” The downward path is the upward one.

8. Humility is the Attire of Heaven. “Be clothed with humility” (1 Peter 5:5). This is a suit that is always in fashion–it never wears out, and it is always befitting. Humility is recognized by men, admired by angels, and loved by God.

9. Humility is the Securer of Blessing. “He gives more grace to the humble” (James 4:6), or as the margin, “A greater grace.” Whether an excelling grace, or “more” of the grace that excels–humility is its own reward, and is rewarded by the Lord’s commendation.

10. Humility is the Harbinger of Reward. “He who humbles himself shall be exalted” (Matthew 23:12). The heavier the cargo–the more the vessel is sunk into the water, and the greater its worth. When the fruit of humility causes the branch of the soul to bend in lowliness–the Heavenly Gardener plucks the fruit for the garner of His love!

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No matter what corner I go around on the winding road of life

August 22, 2018 by Steve 0 Comments

No matter what corner I go around on the winding road of life

(W.B. Hinson)

“I will lead them in paths that they have not known” Isaiah 42:16

I do not know what is around that next turn in this winding trail of life. But I know this–whatever there is around that corner, I shall have my hand in Another’s hand when I go and face it. And if I feel a little bit disturbed, I shall move my finger around in the palm of that hand till I find the scar, and then I shall know that Jesus Christ, who on the cross was wounded for my sins–is not going to leave me no matter what corner I go around on the winding road of life.

“Uphold my steps in Your paths, that my footsteps may not slip!” Psalm 17:5

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If you want to see a man worked up until the Satanic is clearly uppermost!

August 21, 2018 by Steve 1 Comment

If you want to see a man worked up until the Satanic is clearly uppermost!

(Charles Spurgeon)

“I would have you know, brethren, that the gospel which was preached by me is not according to man.” Galatians 1:11

We are sure that the Gospel we have preached is not according to men–because it is opposed, even to this day. If anything is hated bitterly, it is the out-and-out Gospel of the grace of God, especially if that hateful word, “Sovereignty” is mentioned with it!

Dare to say, “He will have mercy on whom He will have mercy–and He will have compassion on whom He will have compassion,” and furious critics will revile you without stint!

The modern religionist not only hates the doctrine of Sovereign grace, but he raves and rages at the mention of it! He would sooner hear you blaspheme, than preach . . .
  Election by the Father,
  Atonement by the Son, or
  Regeneration by the Spirit!
If you want to see a man worked up until the Satanic is clearly uppermost–let modern religionists hear you preach a Free-Grace sermon!

A Gospel which is according to men, will be welcomed by men–but it needs a Divine operation upon the heart and mind, to make a man willing to receive this distasteful gospel of the grace of God into his utmost soul!

” . . . the ministry which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.” Acts 20:24

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Character

August 20, 2018 by Steve 0 Comments

Character

(John MacDuff)

Character is the product of daily, hourly actions, words and thoughts:
daily forgiveness,
daily unselfishness,
daily kindnesses,
daily sympathies,
daily charities,
daily sacrifices for the good of others,
daily struggles against temptation,
daily submissiveness under trial.
It is these, like the blending of colors in a picture–which constitute a person’s character.

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We so imperfectly read the engravings of His heart!

August 19, 2018 by Steve 0 Comments

We so imperfectly read the engravings of His heart!

(Octavius Winslow)

“Christ died for the ungodly!” Romans 5:6

“God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners–Christ died for us!” Romans 5:8

It is because we have such shallow views of God’s love–that we have such defective views of God’s dealings. We blindly interpret the symbols of His providence–because we so imperfectly read the engravings of His heart.

“When we can’t trace His hand–we must trust His heart!”

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We must test all our pleasures and amusements by this rule:

August 18, 2018 by Steve 0 Comments

We must test all our pleasures and amusements by this rule:

(J.R. Miller)

“Lovers of pleasure–rather than lovers of God; having a form of godliness–but denying its power.” 2 Timothy 3:4-5

Is the love of pleasure and amusement growing on you–gaining the power and authority over you?

Is it dulling the keenness of your zest for spiritual pleasures?

Is it making Bible study, prayer, communion with Christ, and meditation upon holy themes–less sweet enjoyments than they once were?

Is it making your hunger and thirst for righteousness and for God–less intense?

Is it interfering with the comfort and blessing which you used to find in church services, or in Christ’s work?

If so, there is only one thing to do–hurry . . .
to return to God,
to abandon the pleasure or amusement which is imperiling your soul, and
to find in Christ, the joy which the world cannot give, and which never harms any aspect of life.

We must test all our pleasures and amusements by this rule: Are they helping us to grow into Christ-likeness and spiritual beauty?

“All things are lawful–but not all things are profitable. All things are lawful–but not all things edify.” 1 Corinthians 10:23

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If God is our Father

August 17, 2018 by Steve 1 Comment

If God is our Father

(James Smith, “The Children’s Privileges!”)

“You are sons of the living God!” Hosea 1:10

To have God for our Father, is the greatest honor conceivable–and it is an infinite source of comfort and joy!

If God is our Father—He will love us with a strong and tender love! He may try us and hide His face from us, to correct us for our follies–but He will still love us. Nothing shall separate His child from His love, or sever the bond which unites us to Himself.

If God is our Father–He will bear with our numerous and painful infirmities. Because we are His children–He will put the best construction upon everything. For, “Like as a Father pities his children, so the Lord pities those who love Him. He knows our frame. He remembers that we are dust.” He will accept our imperfect services, because we are but children. He knows our weakness, ignorance, and failings; and He also knows our desire to please Him. And when we can only desire–He accepts the will for the deed.

If God is our Father–He will provide for and take care of us—making provision for us on earth, while He reserves our portion for Heaven. Will an earthly father leave his child to lack–while he has plenty, and can supply him with the greatest ease? He will not! Neither will our Heavenly Father; but He will supply all our needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus!

If God is our Father–He will also protect us from all evils—spiritual and temporal.
Sin shall not have dominion over us,
Satan shall not overcome us,
the world shall not destroy us
–for God will protect us!
He will keep us by His power, through faith unto salvation.

If God is our Father–He will reveal His mind and will to us for our comfort and salvation. He may hide the mysteries of the kingdom from the wise and prudent–but He will reveal them unto His babes. (Matthew 11:25) He will send the Comforter, even the Spirit of truth, who will guide us into all truth.

If God is our Father–He will give us freedom of access into His presence with confidence–so that we may carry all our sins, sorrows, troubles, and temptations to Him, and lay them at His feet; feeling that we have to do with a Father–one who loves us, pities us, and delights to bless us!

If God is our Father–He will make all things work together for our good.
Good things–such as mercies, blessings, and comforts.
Bad things–such as sickness, poverty, reproach, persecution, bereavements, death.
ALL shall work our good, and issue in our eternal welfare.

If we are children of God–we are heirs of every promise in His Book, and joint-heirs with Jesus Himself! He will give us a Father’s blessing–a blessing worthy of His greatness, majesty, and glory. And He will keep us safe in every danger, and from every foe; so that we shall never perish–but possess and enjoy eternal life.

“‘I will be a Father to you, and you will be My sons and daughters,’ says the Lord Almighty.” 2 Corinthians 6:18

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Christ, the example of ministers

August 15, 2018 by Steve 0 Comments

Christ, the example of ministers

(Jonathan Edwards)

It is not only our great duty, but will be our greatest honor, to imitate Christ, and do the work that He has done–and so act as co-workers with Him.

The ministers of Christ should be persons of the same spirit that their Lord was of–the same spirit of humility and lowliness of heart; for the servant is not greater than his Lord.

They should be of the same spirit of heavenly-mindedness, and contempt of the glory, wealth, and pleasures of this world.

They should be of the same spirit of devotion and fervent love to God.

They should follow the example of His prayerfulness; of whom we read from time to time of His retiring from the world, away from the noise and applause of the multitudes, into mountains and solitary places, for secret prayer, and holy converse with His Father.

Ministers should be persons . . .
of the same quiet, lamb-like spirit that Christ was of;
of the same spirit of submission to God’s will, and patience under afflictions, and meekness towards men;
of the same calmness and composure of spirit under reproaches and sufferings from the malignity of evil men;
of the same spirit of forgiveness of injuries;
of the same spirit of charity, of fervent love and extensive benevolence;
of the same disposition to pity the miserable, and to weep with those who weep;
of the same spirit of . . .
    condescension to the poor and lowly,
    tenderness and gentleness toward the weak,
    and great and sincere love to enemies.

They should also be of the same spirit of zeal, diligence, and self-denial for the glory of God, and advancement for his kingdom, and for the good of mankind; for which things sake Christ went though the greatest labors, and endured the most extreme sufferings.

And in order to our imitating Christ in the work of the ministry, in any tolerable degree–we should not have our hearts weighed down, and time filled up with worldly affections, cares, and pursuits.

The duties of a minister that have been recommended, are absolutely inconsistent with a mind much taken up with worldly profit, glory, amusements and entertainments.

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The breakdown and breakup of “Civilization”

August 14, 2018 by Steve 0 Comments

The breakdown and breakup of “Civilization”

(Arthur Pink, “The Destruction of Dagon” 1943)

The “march of progress” from 1920 onwards, was, if measured by the standards of righteousness and decency, steadily downwards. Those with the least sense of decency were determined to drag the whole generation down into the gutter. An orgy of licentiousness was widely entered into. Night-clubs were multiplied, gambling spread like wild fire, and debauchery abounded on every side. The beaches lowered their bathing restrictions–and modesty became a thing of the past. Youth was allowed to have its fling, unrestrained.

The novels and magazines of the last decade have been filled with obscenities and blasphemies. A friend of ours in the publishing business recently wrote to us, “Today we have shops stacked with books which, had they been published when we were boys–the authors and publishers would have been put in jail!” Censorship has long since been reduced to a farce. The great majority of our children have had their ideas formed by the pictures they saw at the “movies” and the debasing productions of a degenerate press. As a recent writer has said, “The best-sellers of today, are often books whose morals are of the barnyard, whose language is of the sewer and whose ethics are of the pit!”

The breakdown and breakup of “Civilization” appears in such things as the decay of the sanctity of marriage–as evidenced by the multiplication of divorces, and the abandonment of large numbers of babies; juvenile delinquency and immorality among the young; the vandalism which is now so rife; such widespread pilfering–and the flimsy efforts of the authorities to deal with such evils! Thousands of culprits who ought to be sent to prison, are given nominal fines. Law and order is almost reduced to a farce!

No matter in which direction we turn, it is the ugly and the vulgar–which is preferred to the beautiful and refined. What a commentary on our so-called “progress.”

Someone has said, “The popular taste is a good index to the health of society.” Apply that dictum to our own times, and it will quickly appear how the moral health of society has declined.

We do what we do–because we are what we are. There is always a rigid consistency between character and conduct. The thin coating of “civilized” varnish has worn off–and twentieth-century character stands exposed.

Editor’s note: One can only imagine what Mr. Pink would write if he were alive today!

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Look unto Jesus in the Scriptures

August 13, 2018 by Steve 0 Comments

Look unto Jesus in the Scriptures

(Theodore Monod, “Looking Unto Jesus!” 1874)

“Looking unto Jesus!” Hebrews 12:2

Only three words, but in these three words is the whole secret of spiritual life.

Look unto Jesus in the Scriptures, to learn there . . .
who He is,
what He has done,
what He gives,
what He desires.

Looking unto Jesus in the Scriptures, we find . . .
in His character–our pattern;
in His teachings–our instruction;
in His precepts–our law;
in His promises–our support;
in His person and in His work–a full satisfaction provided for every need of our souls.

“You study the Scriptures thoroughly because you think in them you possess eternal life, and it is these same Scriptures that testify about Me!” John 5:39

Oh! the bitter pain and sorrow,
That a time could ever be,
When I proudly said to Jesus,
“All for self–and none for Thee!”

Yet He found me; I beheld Him,
Bleeding on the accursed tree;
And my wistful heart said faintly,
“Some for self–and some for Thee.”

Day by day His tender mercy,
Healing, helping, full and free,
Brought me lower, while I whispered,
“Less for self–and more for Thee.”

Higher than the highest heavens,
Deeper than the deepest sea;
Lord, Thy love at last has conquered,
“None for self–and all for Thee!”

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Should it be according to your mind?

August 12, 2018 by Steve 0 Comments

Should it be according to your mind?

(James Smith, “Important Questions!” 1858)

“Should it be according to your mind?” Job 34:33

We are prone to be fretful, to complain of the dispensations of Divine Providence, and to reflect harshly upon the Lord’s dealings with us.

We want our own way.

We wish to carve for ourselves.

We would be treated as God’s favorites.

We want our ease, and prosperity, and pleasure, consulted in all things. And if this does not appear to be done–if our wills are crossed, if our schemes are frustrated, if our purposes are broken off–then we stumble, think ourselves badly treated, and look for everybody to sympathize with us.

Under these circumstances, God comes to us–as we sit among our broken cisterns, surrounded by our dethroned idols–and puts this question to us: “Should it be according to your mind?”

Are you wiser than God?

Are you kinder than God?

Are you holier than God?

Are you more just than God?

Are you better informed than God?

May not your mind be dark, or selfish, or foolish?

Should it then be according to your mind?

Should you reign–or God?

Remember that . . .
God acts in the highest wisdom,
His motives are grace and justice,
and all His purposes are worthy of Himself.

The least the Christian can do is to submit–and to prefer God’s perfect wisdom, ways, and works–to his own. Seeing God has so arranged all events, that all things must work together for the good of His people–they, at least, should daily say, “Father, may Your will be done!”

O my soul, seek grace from God, not only to submit and be resigned to the dispensations of Divine Providence–but to acquiesce in them, and be pleased with the whole of them! Your good is consulted–your best interests are secured. Soon, very soon, it will be seen that infinite wisdom and mercy, grace and goodness, have marked out every step of your road!

“Jesus replied: You do not understand what I am now doing–but someday you will.” John 13:7

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There is no sweeter pillow than providence!

August 11, 2018 by Steve 1 Comment

There is no sweeter pillow than providence!

(Charles Spurgeon, “Israel at the Red Sea”)

How sweet is providence to a child of God, when he can reflect upon it!

He can look out into this world, and say, “However great my troubles, they are not so great as my Father’s power. However difficult may be my circumstances, yet all things are working together for my good.”

He who holds up yonder unpillared arch of the starry heavens–can also support my soul without a single apparent prop.

He who guides the stars in the well-ordered courses, even when they seem to move in hazy dances–surely He can overrule my trials in such a way that out of confusion He will bring order; and from seeming evil, produce lasting good.

He who bridles the storm, and puts the bit in the mouth of the tempest–surely He can restrain my trial, and keep my sorrows in subjection.

I need not fear . . .
while the lightnings are in His hands,
and the thunders sleep within His lips;
while the oceans gurgle from His fist,
and the clouds are in the hollow of His hands;
while the rivers are turned by His foot,
and while He digs the channels of the sea.

Surely, He whose might gives wings to the angels, can furnish a worm with strength.
Surely, He who guides a cherub, will not be overcome by the trials of a speck like myself.

He who makes the most ponderous orb roll in dignity, and keeps its predestined orbit–can make a little atom like myself move in my proper course, and conduct me as He pleases.

Christian! there is no sweeter pillow than providence! And when providence seems adverse, believe it still, and lay it under your head. For depend upon it–there is comfort in its bosom.

There is hope for you, child of God! The great trouble which is to come in your way in your pilgrimage, is planned by divine love–the same love which shall interpose as your protector.

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At the cross!

August 10, 2018 by Steve 0 Comments

At the cross!

(Charles Spurgeon)

The cross, that deepest revelation of the glory of God–is the great weapon which breaks down the heart’s defenses! It is especially the love of Jesus shown in the cross, which turns and transforms the hearts of sinners.

In the horrifying torture and crucifixion of Jesus, we see the highest proof of the highest love. His bleeding, makes our hearts bleed. His shame, makes us ashamed. In the cross we see the divine disgust at sin, which makes sin appalling in our eyes as well. But further, through the cross we see a love so unfathomable, that it pierces our apathy and overwhelms our desires for earthly trinkets.

At the cross . . .
our pride and sinfulness are mortified,
our self-deifying efforts are destroyed,
our wandering hearts are exposed,
the beauty of Christ in His humility and holiness are held before us,
and the glory of God shines brightest in all its transforming power.

The atoning work of Jesus is the great gun of our battery. The cross is the mighty battering-ram with which to break in pieces the bronze gates of human prejudices and the iron bars of sinful obstinacy!

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The most excellent study for expanding the soul!

August 9, 2018 by Steve 1 Comment

The most excellent study for expanding the soul!

(Charles Spurgeon, “The Immutability of God!“)

The proper study of God’s elect, is God. The highest science, the loftiest speculation, the mightiest philosophy, which can ever engage the attention of a child of God–is the name, the nature, the person, the work, the doings, and the existence of the great God whom he calls his Father! There is something exceedingly improving to the mind in a contemplation of the Divinity. It is a subject so vast–that all our thoughts are lost in its immensity; so deep–that our pride is drowned in its infinity!

Other subjects we can compass and grapple with; in them we feel a kind of self-contentment, and go our way with the thought, “Behold I am wise!” But when we come to this master-science, finding that our plumb-line cannot sound its depth, and that our eagle eye cannot see its height–we turn away with the thought that vain man would be wise, but he is like a wild donkey’s colt; and with the solemn exclamation, “I am but of yesterday, and know nothing!” No subject of contemplation will tend more to humble the mind, than thoughts of God.

The most excellent study for expanding the soul, is the science of Christ, and Him crucified–and the knowledge of the Godhead in the glorious Trinity. Nothing will so enlarge the intellect, nothing will so magnify the whole soul of man–as a devout, earnest, continued investigation of the great subject of the Deity. While humbling and expanding, this subject is eminently consolatory.

Oh, there is in contemplating Christ, a balm for every wound!
In musing on the Father, there is a quietus for every grief.
In the influence of the Holy Spirit, there is a balsam for every sore.

Would you lose your sorrows?
Would you drown your cares?
Then go, plunge yourself in the Godhead’s deepest sea!
Be lost in His immensity–and you shall come forth as from a couch of rest, refreshed and invigorated.

I know nothing which can . . .
so comfort the soul;
so calm the swelling billows of grief and sorrow;
so speak peace to the winds of trial–
as a devout musing upon the subject of the Godhead!

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He does whatever pleases Him!

August 8, 2018 by Steve 0 Comments

He does whatever pleases Him!

(The sermons of Matthew Mead, 1629-1699)

“I know that the LORD is great, that our Lord is greater than all gods. The LORD does whatever pleases Him–in the heavens and on the earth, in the seas and all their depths. He makes clouds rise from the ends of the earth; He sends lightning with the rain and brings out the wind from His storehouses!” Psalm 135:5-7

Every creature is God’s subject, and even the devils themselves are at His beck.

It is so with the most inanimate beings. God bids the winds be silent and the seas be still–and how readily they obey His voice!

If God calls for a famine on a sinning nation–then how suddenly does the earth become iron and the heavens brass!

Flies and lice shall infest thrones and kingdoms, if armed with a commission from Almighty God. “All are Your servants!” Psalm 119:91

What the centurion said of his soldiers and servants–is much more true of God:
“I say to this one, ‘Go,’ and he goes;
and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes; and
to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” Matthew 8:9

God has a power and dominion over all of His creatures, and a sovereign right to dispose of them at His own pleasure.

Sometimes He governs things according to the course of second causes. Sometimes He governs them in an extraordinary way–above or beyond nature. As when He made, “the sun to stand still in Gibeon, and the moon in the valley of Aijalon.” Joshua 10:12

At the word of God, the sea divides for Israel to pass over on dry land.

He makes the earth open to swallow up Korah and his companions.

He shuts the mouth of hungry lions! Daniel 6:22

He commands the fiery furnace not to burn! Daniel 3:25

The angels, those inhabitants of the glorious world–do His commandments, hearkening to the voice of His word.

All the creatures in Heaven and earth are controlled by His sovereign power! Psalm 135:6 says, “Whatever the Lord pleased, that he did in the Heaven and earth, in the sea and all deep places.”

It is so with all sicknesses, trials, and diseases. Matthew 8:8

God’s sovereign will and power governs all.

No creature can evade the power of His dominion, for all are at His command!

“Our God is in Heaven; He does whatever pleases Him!” Psalm 115:3

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It is but a little sin!

August 6, 2018 by Steve 1 Comment

It is but a little sin!

(Thomas Brooks, “Precious Remedies Against Satan’s Devices!“)

“So that Satan will not outsmart us–for we are familiar with his evil schemes.” 2 Corinthians 2:11

“Ah!” says Satan, “It is but a little sin–a little pride, a little worldliness, a little lust, etc. You may commit it without any danger to your soul. It is but a little one; you may commit it, and yet your soul shall live.”

Consider, that there is great danger, yes, many times most danger–in the smallest sins.
“A little leaven leavens the whole lump!” 1 Corinthians 5:6
If the serpent sneaks in his head–he will draw in his whole body after him.

Greater sins sooner startle the soul, and awaken and rouse up the soul to repentance, than lesser sins do. Little sins often slide into the soul, and breed, and work secretly and indiscernibly in the soul, until they come to be so strong, as to trample upon the soul, and to cut the throat of the soul!

Many are eternally undone by the ‘little sins’, as they call them, that are nourished in their own bosoms.

A little hole in the ship, sinks it.

A small breach in a dyke, carries away all before it.

A little stab at the heart, kills a man.

A little sin, without a great deal of mercy, will damn a man!

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Well, when you are suffering the punishment of this sin in hell!

August 1, 2018 by Steve 1 Comment

Well, when you are suffering the punishment of this sin in hell!

(Samuel Davies, “The Nature and Danger of Making Light of Christ and Salvation”)

“But they made light of it.” Matthew 22:5

Consider what those things are, which engross your affections, and which tempt you to neglect Christ and your salvation.

Have you found a better friend than Christ, or a more substantial and lasting happiness than His eternal salvation?

Oh! what trifles and vanities, what dreams and shadows are men pursuing—while they neglect the important realities of the eternal world!

If crowns and kingdoms, if all the riches, glories, and pleasures of this present world were ensured to you—as a reward for making light of Christ, you would even then make the most foolish bargain possible; for what are these in the grand scale—when compared to eternal joy, or eternal misery! “What is a man profited, if he shall gain even the whole world, and lose his own soul!”

But you cannot realistically hope for the ten thousandth part of these worldly trifles! And will you cast away your souls for such a pittance?

Alas! what does the richest, the highest, the most voluptuous sinner do—but lay up treasures of wrath against the day of wrath! Oh how will the unhappy creatures torture themselves forever with the most cutting reflections, for selling their Savior and their souls—for such trifles! Let your sins and earthly enjoyments save you then, if they can! Then go and cry to the gods you have chosen; let them deliver you in the day of your damnation!

The time is hastening on, when you will not think so lightly of Christ and salvation. Oh, sirs, when God shall commission DEATH to tear your guilty souls out of your bodies, when devils shall drag you away to the place of torment, when you find yourselves condemned to everlasting fire by that Savior whom you now neglect—what would you then give for a Savior!

When you see that the world has deserted you, that your companions in sin have deceived both themselves and you, and all your merry days are over forever—would you not then give ten thousand worlds for Christ!!

And now, dear immortal souls! Whenever you spend another prayerless, thoughtless day; whenever you give yourselves up to sinful pleasures, or an over-eager pursuit of the world—may your conscience become your preacher, and sting you with these solemn truths!

I cannot but fear, after all, that some of you, as usual, will continue careless and impenitent. Well, when you are suffering the punishment of this sin in hell, remember that you were warned, and acquit me from being accessory to your eternal ruin!

And when we all appear before the supreme Judge, and I am called to give an account of my ministry: when I am asked, “Did you warn these creatures of their danger? Did you lay before them their guilt in making light of these things?” You will hear me answer, “Yes, Lord, I warned them in the best manner I could—but they would not believe me; they would not regard what I said!”

Oh sirs, must I give in this accusation against any of you? No, rather have mercy on yourselves—that I may give an account of you with joy, and not with grief!

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The greatest sinner that you know!

July 31, 2018 by Steve 0 Comments

The greatest sinner that you know!

(William Law, “A Serious Call to a Devout and Holy Life“)

“This is a true saying, and worthy of all acceptance: ‘Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners’–and I am the worst of them all.” 1 Timothy 1:15

You may truly look upon yourself to be the greatest sinner that you know in the world. For though you may know many people to be guilty of some gross sins with which you cannot charge yourself–yet you may justly condemn yourself as the greatest sinner that you know, because you know more of the folly of your own heart, than you do of other people’s hearts. You can charge yourself with various sins, that only you know of yourself, and cannot be sure that others are guilty of them.

So that as you know more of the folly, the degradation, the pride, the deceitfulness and vileness of your own heart, than you do of any one’s else–so you have just reason to consider yourself as the greatest sinner that you know; because you know more of the greatness of your own sins, than you do of other people’s sins.

God Almighty knows greater sinners than you are; because He sees and knows the circumstances of all men’s sins. But your own heart, if it is faithful to you, can discover no guilt so great as your own.

Perhaps that person who appears so odious in your eyes, would have been much better than you are–had he been altogether in your circumstances, and received all the same favors and graces from God that you have. And therefore the greatest sinner that you know, must be yourself.

This is a very humbling thought.

A serious and frequent reflection upon this will mightily tend to . . .
humble us in our own eyes,
make us very sensible of the greatness of our own guilt,
and very tender in censuring and condemning other people.

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This alone is the vexed soul’s refuge!

July 30, 2018 by Steve 1 Comment

This alone is the vexed soul’s refuge!

(Horatius Bonar, 1808-1889)

“In Him are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge!” Colossians 2:3

The one true resting-place where doubt and weariness, the stings of a pricking conscience, and the longings of an unsatisfied soul would all be quieted–is Christ Himself!

Not the church, but Christ.

Not doctrine, but Christ.

Not religious forms and ceremonies, but Christ.

Christ the God-man . . .
giving His life for ours,
sealing the everlasting covenant, and
making peace for us through the blood of His cross!

Christ the divine storehouse of all light and truth, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge!

Christ the infinite vessel–the enlightener, the teacher, the quickener, the comforter–so that out of His fullness we may receive grace upon grace.

This, this alone is the vexed soul’s refuge, its rock to build on, its home to abide in–until the great tempter is bound and every conflict ended in victory.

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I cannot think little of sin, when . . .

July 29, 2018 by Steve 2 Comments

I cannot think little of sin, when . . .

(J.C. Ryle)

“My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” Matthew 27:46

Would I know how exceedingly sinful and abominable sin is in the sight of God? Where shall I see sin most fully brought out?

Shall I turn to the history of the flood, and read how sin drowned the world?

Shall I go to the shore of the Dead Sea, and mark what sin brought on Sodom and Gomorrah?

No! I can find a clearer proof still! I look at the cross of Christ!

There I see that sin is so filthy and damnable, that nothing but the blood of God’s own Son can wash it away!

There I see that sin has so separated me from my holy Maker, that all the angels in Heaven could never have made peace between us. Nothing could reconcile us, short of the death of Christ.

If I listened to the wretched talk of proud people, I might sometimes imagine that sin was not so very sinful! But I cannot think little of sin, when I look at the cross of Christ!

“A bleeding Savior I have viewed–and now I hate my sin!” John Newton

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I am fast borne along the stream of time!

July 28, 2018 by Steve 0 Comments

I am fast borne along the stream of time!

(John MacDuff, “Evening Incense” 1856)

“It is appointed unto all once to die–and after death, the judgment!” Hebrews 9:27

O my Father, You are daily loading me with Your benefits–giving me unnumbered causes for gratitude and thankfulness. No earthly friend could have loved and cared for me like You. Oh may the life You are thus preserving by Your unceasing bounty–be unreservedly dedicated to Your praise.

O my Father, keep me mindful that I am soon to be done with this fleeting world; that I am fast borne along the stream of time–to the ocean of endless futurity!

May I be living in a constant state of preparedness for that solemn hour when small and great shall stand before You, and the booksshall be opened. Train me for eternity! Let me not be frittering away these fleeting, but precious moments. Impress on me the solemn conviction . . .
that as men live–so do men die;
that as death leaves me–so judgment will find me;
and that as judgment finds me–so eternity will keep me.

Oh let death leave me falling asleep in Jesus, united to Him by a living faith–so that judgment may find me seated at His right hand, listening to the joyous welcome, “Come, you who are blessed by My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world!”

Blessed Jesus, all my hope of a glorious resurrection centers in You. I look to You as the strong tower which cannot be shaken. I flee anew to the holy sanctuary of Your covenant love. Sheltered there, amid a dissolving earth, and burning worlds–I shall be able joyfully to utter the challenge, “Who shall separate me from the love of Christ?”

Keep me from all negligence and unwatchfulness. Trim my flickering lamp. Let me live with Your Judgment-throne in view. May I ever remember–that I must soon give an account of myself to You, the infallible searcher of all hearts. May I feel that all the talents and means which You have given me–are trusts to be laid out for You. When you come to demand a reckoning, may I not be among the number of those who have hidden their talent in the earth, and have the cheerless retrospect of a misspent life.

May every providential voice sound loud in my ears, “Arise and depart–for this is not your rest, because it is defiled–it is ruined, beyond all remedy!”

Make me more heavenly-minded. Give me more of a pilgrim attitude–and a pilgrim spirit. May I ever feel that my true home is above–and that I am here on earth, but a wayfarer and sojourner, as all my fathers were. May I attain, as I advance nearer to Heaven, the blessed habit of a holy life, declaring plainly that I am seeking a heavenly home.

I delight often to anticipate that happy time, when I shall suffer no more–and sin no more!

“Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Psalm 90:12

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A golden master-key!

July 27, 2018 by Steve 0 Comments

A golden master-key!

(Charles Spurgeon)

“The Lord opened Lydia’s heart to respond to what Paul was saying.” Acts 16:14

God’s saving grace will not be baffled.

He frequently begins with the silver key of a mother’s tearful prayers and a father’s tender counsels.

In turn, He uses the church-keys of His ordinances and His ministers, and these are often found to move the bolt.

But if they fail, He thrusts in the iron key of trouble and affliction which has been known to succeed after all others have failed.

He has, however, a golden master-key, which excels all others. It is the operation of His own most gracious Spirit, by which entrance is effected into hearts which seemed shut up forever.

Wonderful is the patience and long-suffering of the Lord, or He would long since have left hardened and careless sinners to themselves. He is importunate, whether we are so or not. We take pains to resist His heavenly grace, but He abides faithful to His own name of love.

O Lord, we bless You that You have opened our hearts, and we ask You now that You have entered, to abide in our souls forever, as a king in his own palace!

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God deals mysteriously with me!

July 26, 2018 by Steve 0 Comments

God deals mysteriously with me!

(Alexander Smellie, “The Secret Place” 1907)

“Your path led through the sea, Your way through the mighty waters–though Your footprints were not seen!” Psalm 77:19

Just so, God deals mysteriously with me. His footsteps, His judgments, His methods, are often untrackable, like the untried sea. What though I cannot comprehend all His winding mazes? It is enough that He comprehends. I rest in His wise-heartedness and love.

I know that if He surrounds me with change, He gives me a hold on what is permanent and stable. Every breath of wind, every passing shadow, every ray of sun, alters the sea. And, meanwhile, by God’s will, nothing in my life continues unchangeable. The very mutableness of things, drives me into closer communion with Himself. Standing on the Rock of Ages, I am rooted in an element that is indestructible.

I know that if He permits me to be assailed by storm, He can keep my heart in peace. It is His decree that I am driven hither and thither over moonless waters by contrary winds. But the certainty is mine, that He makes all things to work together for my good.

He is my holy Father, my unerring Father, my Father of immeasurable grace. He makes no mistakes now, and, by and by He will bring me to His house not made with hands, where I will sing with everlasting joy!

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Trust His heart–even when you can’t trace His hand!

July 25, 2018 by Steve 0 Comments

Trust His heart–even when you can’t trace His hand!

(John MacDuff, “The Promised Land!” 1859)

“And He led them forth by the right way–that they might go to a city of habitation.” Psalm 107:7

God’s thoughts are not as our thoughts–neither are His ways as our ways! This truth is strikingly exemplified in the manner in which He led the Israelites from Egypt to the promised land. We would have chosen the way that was nearest and most direct–but God decided otherwise. He led them round about through the wilderness, and that for the space of forty years! And not merely was it the most distant way–but it was the most dangerous way as well. It was a land of deserts and of pits–a land of drought and death–a land that no man passed through, and where no man dwelt.

But, as strange as it appeared, we are fully justified in saying that it was wisely arranged.
Their long detainments;
their tiresome and circuitous wanderings;
their fierce conflicts with the Moabites and the Amalekites;
the bitter waters which they had to drink; and
the fiery serpents with which they were stung–
all fulfilled the high purposes of Him who is excellent in counsel, as well as wonderful in working. However contrary His way might have been to theirs–yet “He led them forth by the right way, that they might go to a city of habitation.”

His dealings with His people now are still as unusual, and as much opposed to all their preconceived plans–as were His dealings with the Israelites! He has crossed their own schemes, and thwarted their most fondly-cherished purposes! He always effects His own ends–in His own way!

Christian, what is your duty?

It is to cherish high thoughts of God in all His inscrutable dealings towards you.

It is to trust His heart–even when you can’t trace His hand; believing that “all the paths of the Lord are mercy and truth, unto such as keep His covenant and His testimonies.”

It is to follow His guidance continually; for as He led His people of old with “the cloud by day, the pillared fire by night”–so He has promised to direct all your steps, and preserve all your goings.

It is to wait His time; for although the way may appear long and tedious–yet remember, “all is well, that ends well.” And what will the end be? “And the ransomed of the Lord shall return, and come to Zion with songs, and everlasting joy upon their heads! They shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away!”

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A book full of Christ!

July 24, 2018 by Steve 1 Comment

A book full of Christ!

(J.C. Ryle)

“Everything must be fulfilled that is written about Me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms.” Luke 24:44

We have probably little idea how much deep truth is contained in the book of Psalms. No part of the Bible perhaps is better known in the letter–and none so little understood in the spirit. We err greatly if we suppose that it is nothing but a record of David’s feelings, of David’s experience, David’s praises, and David’s prayers. The hand that held the pen was generally David’s. But the subject matter was often something far deeper and higher than the history of the son of Jesse.

The book of Psalms, in a word, is a book full of Christ:
Christ in humiliation,
Christ suffering,
Christ dying,
Christ rising again,
Christ coming the second time,
Christ reigning over all.

Both of Christ’s advents are here: His coming in suffering to bear the cross–and His second coming in power to wear the crown.

Both of Christ’s kingdoms are here–His kingdom of grace, during which the elect are gathered–and His kingdom of glory, when every tongue shall confess that Jesus is Lord.

Let us always read the Psalms with a peculiar reverence. Let us say to ourselves as we read, “A greater than David is here!”

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The chain of redeeming love now holds them!

July 23, 2018 by Steve 0 Comments

The chain of redeeming love now holds them!

(Henry Law)

“For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect!” 1 Peter 1:18-19

Your time is redeemed–use it as a consecrated talent in His cause.

Your minds are redeemed–employ them to learn His truth, and to meditate on His ways.

Your eyes are redeemed–let them not look on vanity; close them on all sights of folly and evil.

Your feet are redeemed–let them trample on the world and climb the upward hill of Zion and bear you onward in the mark of Christian zeal.

Your tongues are redeemed–let them only sound His praise, and testify of His love, and call sinners to His cross.

Your hearts are redeemed–let them love Him wholly, and have no place for rivals.

A redeemed flock should live in redemption’s pastures. The Redeemer’s freedmen should evidence, that they are called to holy liberty, and that their holy liberty is holy service. The chain of sin is broken–and the chain of redeeming love now holds them!

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Gather your manna fresh every morning!

July 22, 2018 by Steve 1 Comment

Gather your manna fresh every morning!

(Charles Spurgeon)

“Oh, how I love Your law! I meditate on it all day long!” Psalm 119:97

The Bible in the pulpit, must never supersede the Bible at home. Let us read our Bibles in private more, and with more pains and diligence.

There is less private Bible reading than there was fifty years ago. I never would have believed that so many men and women would have been tossed to and fro with every wind of doctrine, some falling into skepticism, some rushing into the wildest and narrowest fanaticism, and some going over to the Roman church. With many, there was a habit developed of lazy, superficial and careless reading of God’s Word.

Read the Bible daily. Make it part of your everyday business to read and meditate on some portion of God’s Word. Gather your manna fresh every morning! Choose your own seasons and hours. Do not scramble over and hurry your reading. Give your Bible the best, and not the worst, part of your time. But whatever plan you pursue, let it be a rule of your life to visit the throne of grace and the Bible every day.

Next to praying there is nothing so important in practical religion as Bible reading. By reading that Book we may learn . . .
what to believe,
what to be,
what to do,
how to live with comfort,
and how to die in peace.

Happy is that man who possesses a Bible!

Happier still is he who reads it!

Happiest of all is he who not only reads it, but obeys it, and makes it the rule of his faith and practice!

“All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness–that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17

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Let us abhor the very idea of play-acting and mask-wearing in our Christianity!

July 21, 2018 by Steve 0 Comments

Let us abhor the very idea of play-acting and mask-wearing in our Christianity!

(J.C. Ryle, “The Gospel of Luke” 1858)

Let us observe how abominable hypocrisy is in the eyes of Christ. We are told that in the presence of all the people, Jesus said unto His disciples, “Beware of the teachers of the law! They like to walk around in flowing robes–and love to be greeted in the marketplaces and have the most important seats in the synagogues, and the places of honor at banquets. They devour widows’ houses–and pretend to be pious by making long prayers in public.” Luke 20:46-47

This was a bold and remarkable warning. It was a public denunciation, we must remember, of men who were the recognized teachers of the Jewish people.

No sin seems to be regarded by Christ as more wicked, than hypocrisy. None certainly drew forth from His lips such frequent, strong and withering condemnation, during the whole course of His ministry.

He was ever full of mercy and compassion for the chief of sinners. “Fury was not in Him” when He saw Zacchaeus; the penitent thief; Matthew the tax-collector; Saul the persecutor; and the sinful woman in Simon’s house.

But when He saw Scribes and Pharisees wearing a mere cloak of religion, and pretending to great outward sanctity, while their hearts were full of wickedness–His righteous soul seems to have been full of indignation. Eight times in one chapter (Matthew 23) we find Him saying, “Woe unto you, Scribes and Pharisees! You hypocrites!”

Whatever else we are in religion–let us be true. However feeble our faith, and hope, and love, and obedience may be–let us see to it that they are real, genuine, and sincere. Let us abhor the very idea of play-acting and mask-wearing in our Christianity. At any rate, let us be genuine.

The hypocrite will have the lowest place in Hell! “You snakes! You brood of vipers! How will you escape the damnation of Hell?” Matthew 23:33

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The conflagration of the world!

July 20, 2018 by Steve 1 Comment

The conflagration of the world!

(Samuel Davies, “The Universal Judgment!“)

“The present heavens and earth are reserved for fire, being kept for the day of judgment and destruction of ungodly men. The day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything in it will be laid bare!” 2 Peter 3:7, 10

The present state is but the infancy of the world. All the events of time, even those which make such great noise to us, and determine the fate of kingdoms—are but as the trivial games of little children. But if we look forward and trace events to maturity, we meet with vast, significant and majestic events! To one of those scenes I would direct your attention this day; I mean the solemn, tremendous, and glorious scene of the universal judgment!

You have sometimes seen a stately building in ruins; come now, and view the ruins of a demolished world! Come now, and view the whole universe severely laboring and agonizing in her last convulsions, and her well-ordered system dissolved!

You have heard of earthquakes here and there which have laid huge cities in ruins; come now, and feel the tremors and convulsions of the whole globe, which blend cities and countries, oceans and continents, mountains, plains and valleys—in one giant heap!

You have a thousand times beheld the moon walking in brightness, and the sun shining in its strength; come now, look and see the sun turned into darkness, and the moon into blood!

It is our lot to live in an age of war, blood, and slaughter; an age in which our attention is engaged by the dubious fate of kingdoms. Draw off your thoughts from these trifling objects for an hour, and fix them on more solemn and vital objects. Come view this dread scene!
“The world alarmed, both earth and heaven o’erthrown,
And gasping nature’s last tremendous groan;
Death’s ancient scepter broke, the teeming tomb,
The Righteous Judge, and man’s eternal doom!”

Let us now enter upon the majestic scene! But alas! what images shall I use to represent it? Nothing that we have ever seen, nothing that we have ever heard, nothing that has ever happened on the stage of time—can furnish us with proper illustrations. All here is low and groveling—when compared with the grand phenomena of that day!

We are so accustomed to trifling earthly objects, that it is impossible that we should ever raise our thoughts to a suitable pitch of elevation. But before long, we shall be amazed spectators of these majestic wonders—and our eyes and our ears will be our instructors!

But it is now necessary we should have such ideas of them—as may affect our hearts, and prepare us for them. Let us therefore present to our view, those representations which divine revelation—our only guide in this case—give us . . .
of the person of the Judge, and the manner of His appearance;
of the resurrection of the dead, and the transformation of the living;
of the universal gathering of all men before the supreme tribunal;
of their separation to the right and left hand of the Judge, according to their characters;
of the judicial process itself;
of the decisive sentence;
of its execution,
and of the conflagration of the world!

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You will soon end your tedious, tiresome journey!

July 19, 2018 by Steve 1 Comment

You will soon end your tedious, tiresome journey!

(James Smith, “The Believer’s Companion in Seasons of Affliction and Trouble” 1842)

“All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance. And they confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth!” Hebrews 11:13

Every believer is a pilgrim. He is traveling to his Father’s house! He is presently a stranger in a strange land, surrounded by temptations, trials, and foes. His journey lies through a great and terrible wilderness. Therefore he must not expect a very smooth path, or many comfortable accommodations. He will have much to grieve and distress him. His heart will be often burdened with grief, and filled with sorrow — tears are common to the Christian. He feels the unsuitableness of the things of time to his spirit, profession, and aim. And therefore he confesses, “I am a stranger and a pilgrim — as all my fathers were!” Psalm 39:12

Weariness and painfulness are his portion now — but a rest remains for him! It is a glorious rest. It embraces and includes all that the believer has prayed for — or can desire!
It waits for him at the end of his journey,
it was prepared for him from the foundation of the world,
it is now promised to him in the faithful word, and
it will be bestowed upon him when he has fought the good fight, and finished his course.

Everything at present may appear gloomy and distressing; but ahead of you, believer, everything is glorious, magnificent, and blessed! Press on then — fight the good fight of faith. Travel on in the strength of Jesus! You are going home — and you have a glorious home to go to!

The minute after you have entered your rest — you will forget all the fatigue, all the dangers, and all the difficulties of the way! You will perhaps be filled with wonder, that you should ever have allowed such trifles to vex you, or such little trials to discourage you — with such a glorious end before you.

Fellow-pilgrim, expect trouble — but also expect mercy to help you in time of need! Expect to feel your circumstances to be trying — but also expect your Savior’s strength to be perfected in your weakness! You will soon end your tedious, tiresome journey — and enter into the joy of your Lord!

Never forget you are now a pilgrim — a stranger — only a sojourner here in this poor world. Here you have no continuing city — but you seek for one to come.

Nothing can make this poor world your rest — it will always be a wilderness to you. Be content then, to wait until you get home! There you shall enjoy — and always enjoy, all your desires! There will not be one unfulfilled want, wish, or desire there! All will be satisfied — all will be full. In a little while — you will see the portal of your Father’s house, and hear Him say, “Come in, you who are blessed of the Lord, tarry no longer outside! Come, dwell forever with Me!”

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In that hand which was once nailed to the cross for your redemption!

July 18, 2018 by Steve 1 Comment

In that hand which was once nailed to the cross for your redemption!

(James Smith, “The Believer’s Companion in Seasons of Affliction and Trouble” 1842)

“The Lord disciplines those He loves, and He punishes every one He accepts as a son.” Hebrews 12:6

Afflicted Christian, you are perhaps tempted to think that God cannot love you — or He would not so deeply try you. But the reverse is the case — if He did not love you, He might perhaps refuse to try you. But because He loves you, and is a Father to you — therefore He corrects you.

All of the Lord’s children need correction! Many of them will not grow without very severe discipline — consequently your heavenly Father says, “I will melt them, and try them.” “I will turn My hand upon you — and will purge away your dross.”

Look to the generations of old, and see if the Lord’s people in every age have not been an afflicted people. Look at Job, at the prophets, at Lazarus; God tenderly loved them — and yet how severely He tried them. He has commanded an earthly parent to chasten his son, and not to let his soul spare for his crying — and by this rule He also proceeds. He chastens us — that He may not destroy us. There is infinite mercy in your present trial — as dreadful as it may appear to you. There was an absolute necessity for it — for He does not afflict willingly, nor grieve His redeemed children.

He takes pleasure in the spiritual prosperity of His people — and therefore He uses means to promote it. He has received you as a son, and He is now . . .
using His paternal authority;
manifesting His infinite wisdom;
fulfilling His gracious covenant;
making good His precious promises;
and displaying His unutterable love!

Every one who is . . .
adopted into His family;
quickened by His grace;
and united to Jesus —
is made to pass under the rod, and prove the truth of the Scripture which says, “Many are the afflictions of the righteous — but the Lord delivers him out of them all.”

He chastens you, not for His own pleasure or gratification, but for your profit — that you might be a partaker of His holiness. What a gracious design is this — every way worthy of God. It affords full proof of His infinite wisdom, care, and love!

Think within yourself:
I could not do without this affliction;
it is sent in love;
it is intended to do me good;
it is a proof that I am a child of God
— and you will then think rightly.

Do not despise the chastening of the Lord, by thinking that you could have done as well without it; or that there was no necessity for it. Depend upon it, you must either be . . .
pained — or ruined;
tried — or injured;
corrected — or lost.

Do not faint when the Lord rebukes you. He has promised you, that as your day is — so shall your strength be. He says to you, “Do not fear — for I am with you; do not be afraid — for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand!” Isaiah 41:10. Precious promise of a faithful God! He made it in love. He has not forgotten it — no, He intends to make it good. Yes, He is now making it good to you — as tried and afflicted as you are.

The rod which afflicts you, is in the hand of Jesus! In that hand which was once nailed to the cross for your redemption! In the hand of that Friend who loves at all times; and who is a Brother born for adversity. Will Jesus who suffered, bled, and died to redeem you — ever hurt you? Surely not! His heart is too tender! His love is too great! “He will not break the bruised reed — and He will not quench the smoking flax!” He will bind up the broken heart, and comfort the sorrowful spirit.

You say, “He is sorely trying me!” True — but He is only making you fit to partake of the inheritance of the saints in light. They are . . .
loving strokes,
valuable trials,
blessed afflictions!
As sharp they may be — short they must be.

Humble yourself then under the mighty hand of God;
mourn before Him;
surrender all to Him;
plead with Him;
justify Him — and . . .
   the rod will soon fall from His hand,
   the scourging will soon be over, and
   peaceable fruits of righteousness will make their appearance.

Look up to your God, and say:

Submissive to Your will, my God,
I all to you resign;
I bow before Your chastening rod,
And mourn, but not repine!

Why should my foolish heart complain,
When wisdom, truth, and love,
Direct the stroke, inflict the pain,
And point to joys above?

How short are all my sufferings here!
How needful every cross!
Away then, my unbelieving fear,
Nor call my gain, my loss.

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They must be burned into us with the hot iron of affliction!

July 17, 2018 by Steve 0 Comments

They must be burned into us with the hot iron of affliction!

(Charles Spurgeon)

“Before I was afflicted I went astray — but now I obey Your Word.” Psalm 119:67

“It was good for me to be afflicted — so that I might learn Your decrees.” Psalm 119:71

Most of the great truths of God have to be learned through trials! They must be burned into us with the hot iron of affliction, otherwise we shall not truly receive them.

“I know, O Lord, that Your laws are righteous — and in faithfulness You have afflicted me.” Psalm 119:75

“God disciplines us for our good — that we may share in His holiness!” Hebrews 12:10

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What is man — that You are mindful of him?

July 16, 2018 by Steve 0 Comments

What is man — that You are mindful of him?

(Hugh Brown, “Altogether Lovely!” 1897)

“What is man — that You are mindful of him?” Psalm 8:4

What is man?

Where did he come from?

Where does his pathway lead?

Man was once the crowning piece of God’s workmanship, made in His own image, and given dominion over the works of His hands!

Alas! We now only know man . . .
in his fallen state — not as God created him,
with the crown fallen from his head,
as a rebel against his Maker,
as the slave of sin,
as a willing subject of Satan,
in his weakness,
compassed with infirmity,
the prey of many diseases,
as “of few days, and full of trouble,”
as a bearer of burdens,
with a heritage of sorrow!

So fearfully and wonderfully is man made —
so great — and yet so little;
so noble — yet so base;
a feeble spark of life — yet having an eternal destiny!

We now only know man . . .
in his sinfulness,
with a “heart deceitful above all things — and desperately wicked,”
torn by conflicting passions,
in the vile bondage of iniquity,
sin reigning within and without,
proud,
arrogant,
self-seeking,
vain,
making the earth a habitation of cruelty!

For though sometimes in his youth, life may seem bright while he eagerly hunts after pleasure — how soon the flowers fade, the bubble bursts — and he is left with emptiness in his heart and learns by sad experience the truth of God’s Word: “Truly, every man at his best estate is altogether vanity!”

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The annals of hell—or the biography of devils!

July 15, 2018 by Steve 0 Comments

The annals of hell—or the biography of devils!

(Samuel Davies, “The Universal Judgment!”)

Though we are too apt to think that we are not accountable for our words—He who is to be our Judge, has plainly told us that “for every careless word which men speak, they shall give an account in the day of judgment.” Matthew 12:36

“For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil.” Ecclesiastes 12:14

What astonishing discoveries will this trial of every hidden thing make!

On the one hand—what noble dispositions which never shone in full beauty to mortal eyes! What generous purposes crushed in embryo for lack of power to execute them! What pious and noble actions concealed under the veil of modesty, or misconstrued by ignorance and prejudice! What affectionate aspirations, what devout exercises of heart, which lay open only to the eyes of Omniscience, are now brought to full light, and receive the approbation of the Supreme Judge before the assembled universe”!

But on the other hand—what works of shame and darkness are then revealed! What hidden things of dishonesty! What dire secrets of treachery, hypocrisy, lewdness, and various forms of wickedness—all artfully and industriously concealed from human sight! What horrid exploits of sin now burst to light in all their hellish colors—to the confusion of the guilty, and the astonishment and horror of the universe!

Surely the history of mankind must then appear like the annals of hell—or the biography of devils! Then the mask of deceit will be torn off—and men will appear in their true characters. Their hearts will be, as it were, turned outwards—and all their secrets exposed to full view!

The design of this judicial inquiry will not be to inform the omniscient Judge—but to convince all worlds of the justice of His proceedings. And this design renders it necessary that all these ‘secret things’ should be laid open to their sight, that they may see the grounds upon which He passes sentence.

Does not the prospect of such a ‘revealing’ fill some of you with horror? For many of your actions, and especially of your thoughts—will not bear the light. How would it confound you, if all your secret thoughts were now all published, even in the small circle of your friends! How then, can you bear to have them all fully exposed before God, angels, and the universe! Will it not confound you with shame, and make you objects of everlasting contempt to all worlds!

Food 4 2day!, GraceGems, Quote 4 2day!, Verse 4 2day!

Church Quotes, Daily Christian Quotes, Daily Devotional, Food 42day, GraceGems, Hell, Judgement, King Jesus, Quote 4 2day!, Samuel Davies, Sinners

A most influential sermon!

July 14, 2018 by Steve 0 Comments

A most influential sermon!

(James Smith, “Good News for All” 1860)

“You, however, know all about my teaching, my way of life,
and what my purpose in life is. You know my faith, my
patience, my love, and my endurance.” 2 Timothy 3:10

A holy life is a most influential sermon!

“You ought to live holy and godly lives!” 2 Peter 3:11

Food 4 2day!, GraceGems, Quote 4 2day!, Verse 4 2day!

Christian Life, Daily Christian Quotes, Daily Devotional, Food 42day, GraceGems, Holy Life, James Smith, Pastor, Preacher Quotes, Quote 4 2day!, Sanctification, Sermons

See the cause of my happiness

July 13, 2018 by Steve 1 Comment

See the cause of my happiness

(James Smith, “My Savior!” 1860)

My soul, meditate for a few moments on what Jesus is to you, and what Jesus has done for you. Look back and glance at the circumstances in which He found you — and the deliverance which He wrought for you.

1. The circumstances in which Jesus found you. Jesus found me out of the way. God by His law had marked out a way in which His creatures should walk — its character was holiness, and its end His glory. But all we like sheep had gone astray, we had turned every one to his own way. We were in the path of death and destruction, and on the way to Hell.

We were not only out of the way — but we were enslaved. We were . . .
slaves of sin,
the drudges of the world, and
led captive by the Devil at his will.

We were diseased — as well as enslaved. We were leprous from head to foot. We had the plague of the heart! The whole head was sick, and the whole heart was faint.

We were imprisoned, as well as diseased. We were shut up in unbelief and sin. Our cell was cold and damp, dark and narrow — and our imprisonment was not merely for a few years — it was forever!

We were dead, though still conscious, and to some things alive. Dead in trespasses and sins.

In this state we were — and we loved it well. We neither desired, nor sought deliverance. Left to ourselves . . .
we would have wandered on in darkness, until we had perished in our sins;
we would have continued the slaves of sin and Satan forever;
our disease would have preyed upon our vitals to all eternity;
our prison walls would have enclosed us still;
we would have remained dead in sin,
we would have suffered all the pangs of damnation forever!

2. The deliverance which Jesus wrought for you. Jesus saved me!

He saved me from the roaring lion, who goes about seeking to devour me!

He saved me from my raging lusts, so that sin shall not have dominion over me!

He saved me from righteous wrath, and I, being justified by His blood, shall be saved from wrath through Him!

He saved me from death, the ‘king of terrors,’ depriving the monster of his sting, and giving me the victory over him!

He has also saved me from the flaming furnace of Hell — from that lake of fire, and those floods of flame in which the lost must welter forever!

See the cause of my happiness —
I have a Savior!
A Savior who is divine.
A Savior who has ever loved me.
A Savior who lived, labored, and died for me.
A Savior who pleads for me before the throne of His Father.
A Savior who is in His Father’s house, preparing a place for me.
A Savior who will soon come and receive me to Himself, that so I may be forever with Him! Yes, I have a Savior — one who . . .
watches over me,
walks through the wilderness with me,
and rejoices to do me good.

Reader, have you a Savior?
Can you use these two precious words, “My Savior”?
Have you realized that you were lost?
Have you fled to His cross?
Have you fallen into His arms?
Have you been cleansed by His blood, and clothed in His righteousness?
Do you possess His Holy Spirit?

Make sure work, O make sure work!
Eternity is just at hand!
Death is coming!
Judgment follows!
And then — an eternity of happiness or woe!
Your eternal all depends on having Jesus for your Savior!
No one can save you but Jesus.
No one can . . .
support you in sickness,
comfort you in death, or
give you victory over the grave — but Jesus!

Food 4 2day!, GraceGems, Quote 4 2day!, Verse 4 2day!

Christian Life, Daily Christian Quotes, Daily Devotional, Darkness, Food 42day, God’s wrath, GraceGems, Happiness, Hell, Holy Spirit, James Smith, Judgement, King Jesus, Quote 4 2day!, Roaring Lion, Saviour, Sinners

“How long will you love vanity?”

July 12, 2018 by Steve 1 Comment

“How long will you love vanity?” Psalm 4:2

Vanity represents the light, changeable, carnal, and fading things of time. Upon these things, the natural heart is set; around them, the unsanctified affections gather. What a vanity it is to prefer . . .
human friendship — to divine friendship,
earthly riches — to Heavenly riches,
carnal honors — to spiritual honors, and
the pleasures of a day — to the joys of eternity!

Vanity appears in the intoxicating cup, the mirthful and costly attire, and trifling with God. Surely every worldly man walks in a vain show, like an actor on the stage — and displays the most consummate folly!

Reader! are you in love with vanity? Do you love that which leads from God, keeps Him out of the thoughts, and binds you down to earth? This is vanity! How long will you love it? You have been doing so for years — though warned, convinced, and having promised to reform. You are doing so now, though . . .
   mortality is at work within you,
   death is very near you,
   Hell is open before you, and
   eternity is within a step of you!

You love vanity, when you may . . .
   obtain divine mercy,
   enjoy peace with God,
   receive sanctifying grace, and
   walk in the way to Heaven.

“How long will you love vanity?” Until . . .
   some sudden stroke takes you away;
   or some affliction puts you beyond the reach of mercy;
   or God’s Spirit ceases to strive with you;
   or Satan fills your heart as he did the heart of Judas;
   or God laughs at your calamity?

How long? God your Creator would ask you. “Why will you die?”

Will you carefully consider this question, and give the Lord an answer? Will you tell Him why you prefer . . .
   eternal death — to eternal life,
   sin — to holiness, and
   Satan — to Himself?

“They who observe lying vanities, forsake their own mercy!” Jonah 2:8

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Christian Life, Christianity, Daily Devotional, Food 42day, GraceGems, Quote 4 2day!, vanity, Worldly Living

Where shall you find a rock?

July 9, 2018 by Steve 0 Comments

Where shall you find a rock?

(Samuel Davies, “Jesus Christ, the Only Foundation” 1757)

“The present heavens and earth are reserved for fire, being kept for the day of judgment and destruction of ungodly men! The day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything in it will be burned up!” 2 Peter 3:7, 10

The fiery deluge of divine vengeance, which has been gathering and swelling for thousands of years; but has been, as it were, restrained and kept within bounds by divine patience—shall then rise so high as to burst through all restraints, and overwhelm the guilty globe, and turn it into a universal ocean of liquid fire! This resistless torrent shall sweep away all the refuges of lies, and those who trusted in them—into the gulf of remediless destruction!

Well my friends, where shall we find a support to bear us up in this tremendous day? Where shall we find a rock to build upon, that we may be able to stand the shock, and remain safe and unmoved—in the wreck of dissolving worlds? What can uphold us—when this vast machine of our world, formed with so much skill and strength by the hands of a divine Architect, shall be broken up and fall to pieces?

Now, now is the time for us to find the refuge; it will be too late when all created supports are swept away, and this solid globe itself is dissolved beneath our feet into a sea of fire!

And where will you look? Where will you turn? This earth, and all its riches, honors, and pleasures—will prove to be but a quicksand in that day! Your friends and relations, were they ever so great or powerful—can then afford you no support! Therefore, think—where shall you find a rock on which you may build a happiness that will stand the shock in that dreadful day?

Everything else besides Christ . . .
is sliding sand,
is yielding air,
is a breaking bubble!

In that dread day . . .
  wealth—will prove to be a vain shadow,
  honor—will prove to be an empty breath,
  pleasure—will prove to be a delusive dream,
  your own righteousness—will prove to be a spider’s web!
If we rely on these, disappointment and doom are inevitable!

Nothing but Christ, nothing but Christ, can stably support us in that dread day! “He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress—I will never be shaken!” Psalm 62:2

His righteousness is infinitely perfect, equal to the highest demands of the divine law—and therefore a firm, immovable ground of trust. We may safely venture the weight of our eternal all—upon this rock! It will stand forever, without giving way under the heaviest pressure; without being broken by the most violent shock. Let thousands, let millions, with all the mountainous weight of guilt upon them, build upon this foundation, and they shall never be moved!

The firm foundations, the stately columns, the majestic buildings of Nineveh, Babylon and Persia, and all the magnificent structures of antiquity, though formed of the most durable stone, and promising immortality—are now shattered into ten thousand fragments, or lying in ruinous heaps!

But here in Christ—is a foundation for immortal souls—a foundation that will remain the same to all eternity! His righteousness is an everlasting righteousness, His strength an everlasting strength, and Himself the everlasting Father. He ever lives forever to make intercession for His people, and therefore he is able to save to the uttermost, to the uttermost point of duration—all who come unto God by Him!

Millions and millions of depraved, wretched, ruined creatures, have always found Him perfectly able, and as perfectly willing—
to expiate the most enormous guilt;
to deliver from the most inveterate corruptions;
and to save to the very uttermost!

Ten thousand times ten thousand, have built their hopes upon this rock—and it has never failed so much as one of them! Manasseh, Paul, and Mary Magdalen, and thousands more atrocious sinners—have ventured upon this all-sufficient rock with all their load of sin upon them, and found it able to sustain them!

Food 4 2day!, GraceGems, Quote 4 2day!, Verse 4 2day!

Christ The Rock, Christian Life, Christian Lifestyle, Christianity, Daily Christian Quotes, Food 42day, God’s wrath, GraceGems, Samuel Davies, Sinking Sand, Solid Rock

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