God Is In the Front Line, November 30
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"The Lord, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not neither be dismayed." - Deuteronomy 31:8
IN the presence of a great work or a great warfare, here is a text which should help us to buckle on our harness. If Jehovah Himself goes before us, it must be safe to follow. Who can obstruct our progress if the Lord Himself is in the van? Come, brother soldiers, let us make a prompt advance! Why do we hesitate to pass on to victory?
Nor is the Lord before us only; He is with us. Above, beneath, around, within is the omnipotent, omnipresent One. In all time, even to eternity, He will be with us even as He has been. How this should never our arm! Dash at it boldly, ye soldiers of the cross, for the Lord of hosts is with us!
Being before us and with us, He will never withdraw His help. He cannot fail in Himself, and He will not fail toward us. He will continue to help us according to our need, even to the end. As He cannot fail us, so He will not forsake us. He will always be both able and willing to grant us strength and succor till fighting days are gone.
Let us not fear nor be dismayed; for the Lord of hosts will go down to the battle with us, will bear the brunt of the fight, and give us the victory.
-----
We are never alone. No matter what toil or snare we're caught up in, no matter the battle, the Lord is with us and for us. Praise Him that He will be with us every step of the way, even to the front lines and back! Agape.
30 November 2008
Know How to Wait
Know How to Wait, November 29
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"He that believeth shall not make haste." - Isaiah 28:16
HE shall make haste to keep the Lord's commandments; but he shall not make haste in any impatient or improper sense.
He shall not haste to run away, for he shall not be overcome with the fear which causes panic. When others are flying hither and thither as if their wits had failed them, the believer shall be quiet, calm, and deliberate, and so shall be able to act wisely in the hour of trial.
He shall not haste in his expectations, craving his good things at once and on the spot; but he will wait God's time. Some are in desperate hurry to have the bird in the hand, for they regard the Lord's promise as a bird in the bush, not likely to be theirs. Believers know how to wait.
He shall not haste in plunging into wrong or questionable action. Unbelief must be doing something, and thus it works its own undoing; but faith makes no more haste than good speed, and thus it is not forced to go back sorrowfully by the way which is followed heedlessly.
How is it with me? Am I believing, and am I therefore keeping to the believer's pace, which is walking with God? Peace, fluttering spirit! Oh, rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him! Heart, see that thou do this at once!
-----
Lets dwell on these words. Grace&Peace.
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"He that believeth shall not make haste." - Isaiah 28:16
HE shall make haste to keep the Lord's commandments; but he shall not make haste in any impatient or improper sense.
He shall not haste to run away, for he shall not be overcome with the fear which causes panic. When others are flying hither and thither as if their wits had failed them, the believer shall be quiet, calm, and deliberate, and so shall be able to act wisely in the hour of trial.
He shall not haste in his expectations, craving his good things at once and on the spot; but he will wait God's time. Some are in desperate hurry to have the bird in the hand, for they regard the Lord's promise as a bird in the bush, not likely to be theirs. Believers know how to wait.
He shall not haste in plunging into wrong or questionable action. Unbelief must be doing something, and thus it works its own undoing; but faith makes no more haste than good speed, and thus it is not forced to go back sorrowfully by the way which is followed heedlessly.
How is it with me? Am I believing, and am I therefore keeping to the believer's pace, which is walking with God? Peace, fluttering spirit! Oh, rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him! Heart, see that thou do this at once!
-----
Lets dwell on these words. Grace&Peace.
28 November 2008
Doing What God Can Bless
Doing What God Can Bless, November 28
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"The Lord shall command the blessing upon thee in thy storehouses, and in all that though settest thine hand unto." - Deuteronomy 28:8
IF we obey the Lord our God, He will bless that which He gives us. Riches are no curse when blessed of the Lord. When men have more than they require for their immediate need and begin to lay up in storehouses, the dry rot of covetousness or the blight of hard-heartedness is apt to follow the accumulation; but with God's blessing, it is not so. Prudence arranges the saving, liberality directs the spending, gratitude maintains consecration, and praise sweetens enjoyment. It is a great mercy to have God's blessing in one's iron safe and on one's banking account.
What a favor is made ours by the last clause! "The Lord shall bless thee in all that thou settest thing hand unto." We would not put our hand to anything upon which we dare not ask God's blessing, neither would we go about it without prayer and faith. But what a privilege to be able to look for the Lord's help in every enterprise! Some talk of a lucky man: the blessing of the Lord is better than luck. The patronage of the great is nothing to the favor of God. Self-reliance is all very well; but the Lord's blessing is infinitely more than all the fruit of talent, genius, or tact.
-----
God's blessings are wonderful and bountiful. We must not take them for granted. Like many of our congregation who have mentioned that they are thankful that the Lord is blessing their finances even when they are running low, making the food last a little longer, providing when things are down and about to run dry - we must remember that this is His blessing over His children. He promises to provide for us. We must remember to allow His blessings to flow from our every day lives to bless those around us, to show the love and grace of Jesus Christ. Not just in the holiday season but every day of the year and so forth. Let us ask the Lord to help us in the task of blessing those around us as He has blessed us. Let us ask the Lord to provide us situations where we can bless those around us. To be a walking testimony of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Also, let us ask the Lord's favor over our lives and to put us where He would have us for His perfect and wonderful will in our lives. Agape.
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"The Lord shall command the blessing upon thee in thy storehouses, and in all that though settest thine hand unto." - Deuteronomy 28:8
IF we obey the Lord our God, He will bless that which He gives us. Riches are no curse when blessed of the Lord. When men have more than they require for their immediate need and begin to lay up in storehouses, the dry rot of covetousness or the blight of hard-heartedness is apt to follow the accumulation; but with God's blessing, it is not so. Prudence arranges the saving, liberality directs the spending, gratitude maintains consecration, and praise sweetens enjoyment. It is a great mercy to have God's blessing in one's iron safe and on one's banking account.
What a favor is made ours by the last clause! "The Lord shall bless thee in all that thou settest thing hand unto." We would not put our hand to anything upon which we dare not ask God's blessing, neither would we go about it without prayer and faith. But what a privilege to be able to look for the Lord's help in every enterprise! Some talk of a lucky man: the blessing of the Lord is better than luck. The patronage of the great is nothing to the favor of God. Self-reliance is all very well; but the Lord's blessing is infinitely more than all the fruit of talent, genius, or tact.
-----
God's blessings are wonderful and bountiful. We must not take them for granted. Like many of our congregation who have mentioned that they are thankful that the Lord is blessing their finances even when they are running low, making the food last a little longer, providing when things are down and about to run dry - we must remember that this is His blessing over His children. He promises to provide for us. We must remember to allow His blessings to flow from our every day lives to bless those around us, to show the love and grace of Jesus Christ. Not just in the holiday season but every day of the year and so forth. Let us ask the Lord to help us in the task of blessing those around us as He has blessed us. Let us ask the Lord to provide us situations where we can bless those around us. To be a walking testimony of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Also, let us ask the Lord's favor over our lives and to put us where He would have us for His perfect and wonderful will in our lives. Agape.
27 November 2008
Rest in All Thy Goings
Rest in All Thy Goings, November 27
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"And he said, My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest." - Exodus 33:14
PRECIOUS promise! Lord, enable me to appropriate it as all my own.
We must go at certain times from our abode, for here we have no continuing city. It often happens that when we feel most at home in a place, we are suddenly called away from it. Here is the antidote for this ill. The Lord Himself will keep us company. His presence, which includes His favor, His fellowship, His care, and His power shall be ever with us in every one of our marchings. This means far more than it says; for, in fact, it means all things. If we have God present with us, we have possession of heaven and earth. Go with me, Lord, and then command me where thou wilt.
But we hope to find a place of rest. The text promises it. We are to have rest of God's own giving, making, and preserving. His presence will cause us to rest even when we are on the march, yea, even in the midst of battle. Rest! Thrice blessed word. Can it ever be enjoyed by mortals? Yes, there is the promise, and by faith we plead it. Rest comes from the Comforter, from the Prince of Peace, and from the glorious Father who rested on the seventh day from all His works. To be with God is to rest in the most emphatic sense.
-----
Praise the Lord, He is with us through every trial, through every down time, through every dry season. May the Presence of God bless you on this Thanksgiving day. Much love to you and your family. Happy Thanksgiving, from Bud and Christin! Grace&Peace.
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"And he said, My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest." - Exodus 33:14
PRECIOUS promise! Lord, enable me to appropriate it as all my own.
We must go at certain times from our abode, for here we have no continuing city. It often happens that when we feel most at home in a place, we are suddenly called away from it. Here is the antidote for this ill. The Lord Himself will keep us company. His presence, which includes His favor, His fellowship, His care, and His power shall be ever with us in every one of our marchings. This means far more than it says; for, in fact, it means all things. If we have God present with us, we have possession of heaven and earth. Go with me, Lord, and then command me where thou wilt.
But we hope to find a place of rest. The text promises it. We are to have rest of God's own giving, making, and preserving. His presence will cause us to rest even when we are on the march, yea, even in the midst of battle. Rest! Thrice blessed word. Can it ever be enjoyed by mortals? Yes, there is the promise, and by faith we plead it. Rest comes from the Comforter, from the Prince of Peace, and from the glorious Father who rested on the seventh day from all His works. To be with God is to rest in the most emphatic sense.
-----
Praise the Lord, He is with us through every trial, through every down time, through every dry season. May the Presence of God bless you on this Thanksgiving day. Much love to you and your family. Happy Thanksgiving, from Bud and Christin! Grace&Peace.
Heavenly Alchemy
Heavenly Alchemy, November 26
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"Your sorrow shall be turned into joy." - John 16:20
THEIR particular sorrow was the death and absence of their Lord, and it turned into joy when He rose from the dead and showed Himself in their midst. All the sorrows of saints shall be thus transmuted; even the worst of them, which look as if they must forever remain fountains of bitterness.
Then the more sorrow, the more joy. If we have loads of sorrow, then the Lord's power wil lturn them into tons of joy. Then the bitterer the trouble, the sweeter the pleasure: the swinging of the pendulum far to the left will cause it to go all the farther to the right. The remembrance of the grief shall heighten the flavor of the delight: we shall see theone in contrast with the other, and the brilliance of the diamond shall be the more clearly seen because of the black foil behind it.
Come, my heart, cheer up! In a little while I shall be as glas as I am now gloomy. Jesus tells me that by a heavenly alchemy, my sorrow shall be turned into joy. I do not see how it is to be, but I believe it, and I begin to sing by way of anticipation. This depression of spirit is not for long; I shall soon be up among the happy ones who praise the Lord day and night, and there I shall sing of the mercy which delievered me out of great afflictions.
-----
Amen! I know all of us have had sorrow in our life, and I recognize that around the holiday season, sorrow comes out even more. But be blessed and comforted to know that the Lord knows our sorrows and as His word says, our sorrow shall be turned into joy! Praise the Lord for His gracious hand of love. Agape.
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"Your sorrow shall be turned into joy." - John 16:20
THEIR particular sorrow was the death and absence of their Lord, and it turned into joy when He rose from the dead and showed Himself in their midst. All the sorrows of saints shall be thus transmuted; even the worst of them, which look as if they must forever remain fountains of bitterness.
Then the more sorrow, the more joy. If we have loads of sorrow, then the Lord's power wil lturn them into tons of joy. Then the bitterer the trouble, the sweeter the pleasure: the swinging of the pendulum far to the left will cause it to go all the farther to the right. The remembrance of the grief shall heighten the flavor of the delight: we shall see theone in contrast with the other, and the brilliance of the diamond shall be the more clearly seen because of the black foil behind it.
Come, my heart, cheer up! In a little while I shall be as glas as I am now gloomy. Jesus tells me that by a heavenly alchemy, my sorrow shall be turned into joy. I do not see how it is to be, but I believe it, and I begin to sing by way of anticipation. This depression of spirit is not for long; I shall soon be up among the happy ones who praise the Lord day and night, and there I shall sing of the mercy which delievered me out of great afflictions.
-----
Amen! I know all of us have had sorrow in our life, and I recognize that around the holiday season, sorrow comes out even more. But be blessed and comforted to know that the Lord knows our sorrows and as His word says, our sorrow shall be turned into joy! Praise the Lord for His gracious hand of love. Agape.
25 November 2008
Mountain Turned to Plains
Mountain Turned to Plains, November 25
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"Who art thou, O great mountain? before Zerubbabel thou shalt become a plain: and he shall bring forth the headstone thereof with shoutings, crying, Grace, grace unto it." - Zechariah 4:7
AT this hour a mountain of difficulty, distress, or necessity may be in our way, and natural reason sees no path over it, or through it, or round it. Let faith come in, and straightaway the mountain disappears and becomes a plain. But faith must first hear the word of the Lord, "Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts." This grand truth is a prime necessity for meeting the insurmountable trials of life.
I see that I can do nothing, and that all reliance on man is vanity. "Not by might." I see that no visible means can be relied on, but the force is in the invisible Spirit. God alone must work, and men and means must be nothing accounted of. If it be so that the Almighty God takes up the concerns of His people, then great mountains are nothing. He can remove worlds as boys toss balls about or drive them with their foot. This power He can lend to me. If the Lord bids me move an Alp, I can do it through His name. It may be a great mountain, but even before my feebleness it shall become a plain, for the Lord hath said it. What can I be afraid of with God on my side?
-----
I think this is something we all needed to hear. When life is difficult, we can trust that God has it under control. That if God wants us to be able to do something, He will enable us to do so. God is in control ultimately and that's the best thing for all of us! Agape.
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"Who art thou, O great mountain? before Zerubbabel thou shalt become a plain: and he shall bring forth the headstone thereof with shoutings, crying, Grace, grace unto it." - Zechariah 4:7
AT this hour a mountain of difficulty, distress, or necessity may be in our way, and natural reason sees no path over it, or through it, or round it. Let faith come in, and straightaway the mountain disappears and becomes a plain. But faith must first hear the word of the Lord, "Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts." This grand truth is a prime necessity for meeting the insurmountable trials of life.
I see that I can do nothing, and that all reliance on man is vanity. "Not by might." I see that no visible means can be relied on, but the force is in the invisible Spirit. God alone must work, and men and means must be nothing accounted of. If it be so that the Almighty God takes up the concerns of His people, then great mountains are nothing. He can remove worlds as boys toss balls about or drive them with their foot. This power He can lend to me. If the Lord bids me move an Alp, I can do it through His name. It may be a great mountain, but even before my feebleness it shall become a plain, for the Lord hath said it. What can I be afraid of with God on my side?
-----
I think this is something we all needed to hear. When life is difficult, we can trust that God has it under control. That if God wants us to be able to do something, He will enable us to do so. God is in control ultimately and that's the best thing for all of us! Agape.
24 November 2008
Pardon and Forgiveness
Pardon and Forgiveness, November 24
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"He will not always chide: neither will he keep his anger forever." - Psalm 103:9
HE will chide sometimes, or He would not be a wise Father for such poor erring children as we are. His chiding is very painful to those who are true, because they feel how sadly they deserve it, and how wrong it is on their part to grieve Him. We know what this chiding means, and we bow before the Lord, mourning that we should cause Him to be angry with us.
But what a comfort we find in these lines! "Not always" will He chide. If we repent and turn to Him with hearts broken for sin and broken from sin, He will smile upon us at once. It is no pleasure to Him to turn a frowning face toward those whom He loves with all His heart: it is His joy that our joy should be full.
Come, let us seek His face. There is no reason for despair, nor even for despondency. Let us love a chiding God, and before long we shall sing: "Thine anger is turned away, and thou comfortest me." Begone, ye dark forebodings, ye ravens of the soul! Come in, ye humble hopes and grateful memories, ye doves of the heart! He who pardoned us long ago as a judge, will again forgive us as a father, and we shall rejoice in His sweet, unchanging love.
-----
I remember hearing a sermon by C.J. Mahaney regarding the scream of the damned that Christ screamed for us while on the cross. Everything became very real that night, when I began to dwell on the fact that an all perfect God died the death I deserved. The only righteous person to have ever walked the face of the earth, died in my place, took my sin upon Him, felt the FULL unadulterated wrath of God and bore it in my stead. Understanding that broke my heart into a million pieces. How grateful it is for the Lord to chide me, because I know that He loves me and does it with Love. I also know that the more that happens, the more I can praise Him and know that I will be growing and the process of sanctification is underway. Praise the Lord for His chiding and His love. Grace&Peace.
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"He will not always chide: neither will he keep his anger forever." - Psalm 103:9
HE will chide sometimes, or He would not be a wise Father for such poor erring children as we are. His chiding is very painful to those who are true, because they feel how sadly they deserve it, and how wrong it is on their part to grieve Him. We know what this chiding means, and we bow before the Lord, mourning that we should cause Him to be angry with us.
But what a comfort we find in these lines! "Not always" will He chide. If we repent and turn to Him with hearts broken for sin and broken from sin, He will smile upon us at once. It is no pleasure to Him to turn a frowning face toward those whom He loves with all His heart: it is His joy that our joy should be full.
Come, let us seek His face. There is no reason for despair, nor even for despondency. Let us love a chiding God, and before long we shall sing: "Thine anger is turned away, and thou comfortest me." Begone, ye dark forebodings, ye ravens of the soul! Come in, ye humble hopes and grateful memories, ye doves of the heart! He who pardoned us long ago as a judge, will again forgive us as a father, and we shall rejoice in His sweet, unchanging love.
-----
I remember hearing a sermon by C.J. Mahaney regarding the scream of the damned that Christ screamed for us while on the cross. Everything became very real that night, when I began to dwell on the fact that an all perfect God died the death I deserved. The only righteous person to have ever walked the face of the earth, died in my place, took my sin upon Him, felt the FULL unadulterated wrath of God and bore it in my stead. Understanding that broke my heart into a million pieces. How grateful it is for the Lord to chide me, because I know that He loves me and does it with Love. I also know that the more that happens, the more I can praise Him and know that I will be growing and the process of sanctification is underway. Praise the Lord for His chiding and His love. Grace&Peace.
Acquiring Perseverance
Acquiring Perseverance, November 23
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"The Lord thy God will put out those nations before thee by little and little." - Deuteronomy 7:22
WE are not to expect to win victories for the Lord Jesus by a single blow. Evil principles and practices die hard. In some places it takes years of labor to drive out even one of the many vices which defile the inhabitants. We must carry on the war with all our might, even when favored with little manifest success.
Our business in this world is to conquer it for Jesus. We are not to make compromises, but to exterminate evils. We are not to seek popularity, but to wage unceasing war with iniquity. Infidelity, Popery, drink, impurity, oppression, worldliness, error - these are all to be "put out."
The Lord our God can alone accomplish this. He works by His faithful servants; and, blessed be His name, He promises that He will so work. "Jehovah thy God will put out those nations before thee." This He will do by degrees, that we may learn perseverance, may increase in faith, may earnestly watch, and may avoid carnal security. Let us thank God for a little success and pray for more. Let us never sheathe the sword till the whole land is won for Jesus.
Courage, my heart! Go on little by little, for many littles will make a great whole.
-----
Lets reflect on these words. Agape.
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"The Lord thy God will put out those nations before thee by little and little." - Deuteronomy 7:22
WE are not to expect to win victories for the Lord Jesus by a single blow. Evil principles and practices die hard. In some places it takes years of labor to drive out even one of the many vices which defile the inhabitants. We must carry on the war with all our might, even when favored with little manifest success.
Our business in this world is to conquer it for Jesus. We are not to make compromises, but to exterminate evils. We are not to seek popularity, but to wage unceasing war with iniquity. Infidelity, Popery, drink, impurity, oppression, worldliness, error - these are all to be "put out."
The Lord our God can alone accomplish this. He works by His faithful servants; and, blessed be His name, He promises that He will so work. "Jehovah thy God will put out those nations before thee." This He will do by degrees, that we may learn perseverance, may increase in faith, may earnestly watch, and may avoid carnal security. Let us thank God for a little success and pray for more. Let us never sheathe the sword till the whole land is won for Jesus.
Courage, my heart! Go on little by little, for many littles will make a great whole.
-----
Lets reflect on these words. Agape.
22 November 2008
No Condemnation
No Condemnation, November 22
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"In those days, and in that time, saith the Lord, the iniquity of Israel shall be sought for, and there shall be none; and the sins of Judah, and they shall not be found: for I will pardon them whom I reserve." - Jeremiah 50 :20
A GLORIOUS word indeed! What a perfect pardon is here promised to the sinful nations of Israel and Judah! Sin is tobe so removed that is shall not be found, so blotted out that there shall be none. Glory be unto the God of pardons!
Satan seeks out sins wherewith to accuse us, our enemies seek them that they may lay them to our charge, and our own conscience seeks them even with a morbid eagerness. But when the Lord applies the precious blood of Jesus, we fear no form of search, for "there shall be none." "They shall not be foudn." The Lord hath caused the sins of His people to cease to be: He hath finished transgression and made an end of sin. The sacrifice of Jesus has cast our sins into the depths of the sea. This makes us dance for joy.
The reason for the obliteration of sin lies in the fact that Jehovah Himself pardons His chosen ones. His word of grace is not only royal, but divine. He speaks absolution, and we are absolved. He applies the atonement, and from that hour His people are beyond all fear of condemnation. Blessed be the name of the sin-annihilating God!
-----
We as believers can rest assured that when Jesus says all is forgiven, He has wiped our slate clean, we are saved - we are saved with no blemishes left over. We are made white as snow, clean, we will suffer no condemnation and will be blessed in heaven when the time comes. Praise the Lord for His salvation. Let us "dance for joy!" at the thought of spending eternity in heaven with our Heavenly Father who threw our sin as far away from us as the east is from the west! Amen! Grace&Peace.
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"In those days, and in that time, saith the Lord, the iniquity of Israel shall be sought for, and there shall be none; and the sins of Judah, and they shall not be found: for I will pardon them whom I reserve." - Jeremiah 50 :20
A GLORIOUS word indeed! What a perfect pardon is here promised to the sinful nations of Israel and Judah! Sin is tobe so removed that is shall not be found, so blotted out that there shall be none. Glory be unto the God of pardons!
Satan seeks out sins wherewith to accuse us, our enemies seek them that they may lay them to our charge, and our own conscience seeks them even with a morbid eagerness. But when the Lord applies the precious blood of Jesus, we fear no form of search, for "there shall be none." "They shall not be foudn." The Lord hath caused the sins of His people to cease to be: He hath finished transgression and made an end of sin. The sacrifice of Jesus has cast our sins into the depths of the sea. This makes us dance for joy.
The reason for the obliteration of sin lies in the fact that Jehovah Himself pardons His chosen ones. His word of grace is not only royal, but divine. He speaks absolution, and we are absolved. He applies the atonement, and from that hour His people are beyond all fear of condemnation. Blessed be the name of the sin-annihilating God!
-----
We as believers can rest assured that when Jesus says all is forgiven, He has wiped our slate clean, we are saved - we are saved with no blemishes left over. We are made white as snow, clean, we will suffer no condemnation and will be blessed in heaven when the time comes. Praise the Lord for His salvation. Let us "dance for joy!" at the thought of spending eternity in heaven with our Heavenly Father who threw our sin as far away from us as the east is from the west! Amen! Grace&Peace.
21 November 2008
The Outward, Upward Look
The Outward, Upward Look, November 21
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is none else." - Isaiah 45:22
THIS is a promise of promises. It lies at the foundation of our spiritual life. Salvation comes through a look at Him who is "a just God and a Saviour." How simple is the direction! "Look unto me." How reasonable is the requirement! Surely the creature should look at the Creator. We have looked elsewhere long enough; it is time that we look alone to Him who invites our expectation and promises to give us His salvation.
Only a look! Will we not look at once? We are to bring nothing in ourselves but to look outward and upward to our Lord on His throne, whither He has gone up from the cross. A look requires no preparation, no violent effort. It needs neither wit nor wisdom, wealth nor strength. All that we need is in the Lord our God, and if we look to Him for everything, that everything shall be ours, and we shall be saved.
Come, far-off ones, look hither! Ye ends of the earth, turn your eyes this way! As from the furthest regions men may see the sun and enjoy his light, so you who lie in death's borders at the very gates of hell may by a look receive the light of God, the life of heaven, the salvation of the Lord Jesus Christ, who is God, and therefore able to save.
-----
Blessed again. Salvation belongs fully to our God, and how amazing is He for providing it to wretched sinners! Agape.
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is none else." - Isaiah 45:22
THIS is a promise of promises. It lies at the foundation of our spiritual life. Salvation comes through a look at Him who is "a just God and a Saviour." How simple is the direction! "Look unto me." How reasonable is the requirement! Surely the creature should look at the Creator. We have looked elsewhere long enough; it is time that we look alone to Him who invites our expectation and promises to give us His salvation.
Only a look! Will we not look at once? We are to bring nothing in ourselves but to look outward and upward to our Lord on His throne, whither He has gone up from the cross. A look requires no preparation, no violent effort. It needs neither wit nor wisdom, wealth nor strength. All that we need is in the Lord our God, and if we look to Him for everything, that everything shall be ours, and we shall be saved.
Come, far-off ones, look hither! Ye ends of the earth, turn your eyes this way! As from the furthest regions men may see the sun and enjoy his light, so you who lie in death's borders at the very gates of hell may by a look receive the light of God, the life of heaven, the salvation of the Lord Jesus Christ, who is God, and therefore able to save.
-----
Blessed again. Salvation belongs fully to our God, and how amazing is He for providing it to wretched sinners! Agape.
20 November 2008
Hunger Satisfied
Hunger Satisfied, November 20
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"For he satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness." - Psalm 107:9
IT is well to have longings, and the more intense they are the better. The Lord will satisfy soul longings, however great and all-absorbing they may be. Let us greatly long, for God will greatly give. We are never in a right state of mind when we are contented with ourselves and are free from longings. Desires for more grace and groanings which cannot be uttered are growing pains, and we should wish to feel them more and more. Blessed Spirit, make us sigh and cry after better things, and for more of the best things!
Hunger is by no means a pleasant sensation. Yet blessed are they that hunger and thirst after righteousness. Such persons shall not only have their hunger relieved with a little food, but they shall be filled. They shall not be filled with any sort of rough stuff, but their diet shall be worthy of their good Lord, for they shall be filled with goodness by Jehovah Himself.
Come, let us not fret because we long and hunger, but let us hear the voice of the psalmist as he also longs and hungers to see God magnified. "Oh, that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men."
-----
All I really can say is Amen! God is our sustenance, our provider, our satisfaction. He is so amazing. Agape.
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"For he satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness." - Psalm 107:9
IT is well to have longings, and the more intense they are the better. The Lord will satisfy soul longings, however great and all-absorbing they may be. Let us greatly long, for God will greatly give. We are never in a right state of mind when we are contented with ourselves and are free from longings. Desires for more grace and groanings which cannot be uttered are growing pains, and we should wish to feel them more and more. Blessed Spirit, make us sigh and cry after better things, and for more of the best things!
Hunger is by no means a pleasant sensation. Yet blessed are they that hunger and thirst after righteousness. Such persons shall not only have their hunger relieved with a little food, but they shall be filled. They shall not be filled with any sort of rough stuff, but their diet shall be worthy of their good Lord, for they shall be filled with goodness by Jehovah Himself.
Come, let us not fret because we long and hunger, but let us hear the voice of the psalmist as he also longs and hungers to see God magnified. "Oh, that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men."
-----
All I really can say is Amen! God is our sustenance, our provider, our satisfaction. He is so amazing. Agape.
From Obedience to Blessing
From Obedience to Blessing, November 19
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"From this day will I bless you." - Haggai 2:19
FUTURE things are hidden from us. Yet here is a glass in which we may see the unborn years. The Lord says, "From this day will I bless you."
It is worthwhile to note the day which is referred to in this promise. There had been failure of crops, blasting, and mildew, and all because of the people's sin. Now, the Lord saw these chastened ones commencing to obey His word and build His temple, and therefore He says, "From the day that the foundation of the Lord's temple was laid, consider, From this day will I bless you." If we have lived in any sin, and the Spirit leads us to purge ourselves of it, we may reckon upon the blessing of the Lord, His smile, His Spirit, His grace, His fuller revelation of His truth will all prove to us an enlarged blessing. We may fall into greater opposition from man because of our faithfulness, but we shall rise to closer dealings with the Lord our God and a clearer sight of our acceptance in Him.
Lord, I am resolved to be more true to thee and more exact in my following of thy doctrine and thy precept; and I pray thee, therefore, by Christ Jesus, to increase the blessedness of my daily life henceforth and forever.
-----
Knowing that as the Lord's children, if we are obedient, He will bless us. He promises to take care of us and bless us with those things that He desires for us. God is so good. Grace&Peace.
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"From this day will I bless you." - Haggai 2:19
FUTURE things are hidden from us. Yet here is a glass in which we may see the unborn years. The Lord says, "From this day will I bless you."
It is worthwhile to note the day which is referred to in this promise. There had been failure of crops, blasting, and mildew, and all because of the people's sin. Now, the Lord saw these chastened ones commencing to obey His word and build His temple, and therefore He says, "From the day that the foundation of the Lord's temple was laid, consider, From this day will I bless you." If we have lived in any sin, and the Spirit leads us to purge ourselves of it, we may reckon upon the blessing of the Lord, His smile, His Spirit, His grace, His fuller revelation of His truth will all prove to us an enlarged blessing. We may fall into greater opposition from man because of our faithfulness, but we shall rise to closer dealings with the Lord our God and a clearer sight of our acceptance in Him.
Lord, I am resolved to be more true to thee and more exact in my following of thy doctrine and thy precept; and I pray thee, therefore, by Christ Jesus, to increase the blessedness of my daily life henceforth and forever.
-----
Knowing that as the Lord's children, if we are obedient, He will bless us. He promises to take care of us and bless us with those things that He desires for us. God is so good. Grace&Peace.
Clearly Supernatural
Clearly Supernatural, November 18
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"In that day shall the Lord defend the inhabitants of Jerusalem; and he that is feeble among them at that day shall be as David, and the house of David shall be as God, as the angel of the Lord before them." - Zechariah 12:8
ONE of the best methods of the Lord's defending His people is to make them strong in inward might. Men are better than walls, and faith is stronger than castles.
The Lord can take the feeblest among us and make him like David, the champion of Israel. Lord, do this with me! Infuse thy power into me, and fill me with sacred courage that I may face the giant with sling and stone, confident in God.
The Lord can make His greatest champions far mightier than they are: David can be as God, as the angel of Jehovah. This would be a marvelous development, but it is possible, or it would not be spoken of. O Lord, work with the best of our leaders! Show us what thou art able to do - namely, to raise thy faithful servants to a height of grace and holiness which shall be clearly supernatural!
Lord, dwell in thy saints, and they shall be as God; put thy might into them, and they shall be as the living creatures who dwell in the presence of Jehovah. Fulfill this promise to thine entire church in this our day; for Jesus' sake. Amen.
-----
Let's reflect on these words. Lets ask the Lord to continually give us His courage and confidence. Agape.
P.S. Sorry for missing the past few days ladies, I'm still jet lagged and such!
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"In that day shall the Lord defend the inhabitants of Jerusalem; and he that is feeble among them at that day shall be as David, and the house of David shall be as God, as the angel of the Lord before them." - Zechariah 12:8
ONE of the best methods of the Lord's defending His people is to make them strong in inward might. Men are better than walls, and faith is stronger than castles.
The Lord can take the feeblest among us and make him like David, the champion of Israel. Lord, do this with me! Infuse thy power into me, and fill me with sacred courage that I may face the giant with sling and stone, confident in God.
The Lord can make His greatest champions far mightier than they are: David can be as God, as the angel of Jehovah. This would be a marvelous development, but it is possible, or it would not be spoken of. O Lord, work with the best of our leaders! Show us what thou art able to do - namely, to raise thy faithful servants to a height of grace and holiness which shall be clearly supernatural!
Lord, dwell in thy saints, and they shall be as God; put thy might into them, and they shall be as the living creatures who dwell in the presence of Jehovah. Fulfill this promise to thine entire church in this our day; for Jesus' sake. Amen.
-----
Let's reflect on these words. Lets ask the Lord to continually give us His courage and confidence. Agape.
P.S. Sorry for missing the past few days ladies, I'm still jet lagged and such!
14 November 2008
God Never Forsakes
God Never Forsakes, November 17
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"For the Lord will not cast off His people, neither will He forsake His inheritance." - Psalm 94:14
NO, nor will He cast even so much as one of them. Man has his cast-offs, but God has none; for His choice is unchangeable, and His love is everlasting. None can find out a single person whom God has forsaken after having revealed Himself savingly to Him.
This grand truth is mentioned in the Psalm to cheer the heart of the afflicted. The Lord chastens His own; but He never forsakes them. The result of the devil work of the law and the rod is our instruction, and the fruit of that instruction is a quieting of the spirit, a sobriety of mind, out of which comes rest. The ungodly are let alone till the pit is digged into which they will fall and be taken, but the Godly are sent to school to be prepared for their glorious destiny hereafter. Judgment will return and finish its work upon the rebels, but it will equally return to vindicate the sincere and Godly. Hence we may bear the rod of chastisement with calm submission; it means not anger, but love.
"God may chasten and correct,
But He never can neglect;
May in faithfulness reprove,
But He ne're can cease to love."
-----
"Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted. In your struggle against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. And have you forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons? My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord,nor be weary when reproved by him. For the Lord disciplines the one he loves,and chastises every son whom he receives. It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline? If you are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. " - Hebrews 12:3-8 Remember that God chastised His own son greatly for the sake of the sins of those whom He loves, so for the sake of our sanctification, should those who are grafted in not receive the loving chastisement and purification by fire? What an encouragement that Jesus really truly went through what we've been through and more and can see that. We're not alone. Again, God is good provide and with that we should be contented and joyful. Grace&Peace.
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"For the Lord will not cast off His people, neither will He forsake His inheritance." - Psalm 94:14
NO, nor will He cast even so much as one of them. Man has his cast-offs, but God has none; for His choice is unchangeable, and His love is everlasting. None can find out a single person whom God has forsaken after having revealed Himself savingly to Him.
This grand truth is mentioned in the Psalm to cheer the heart of the afflicted. The Lord chastens His own; but He never forsakes them. The result of the devil work of the law and the rod is our instruction, and the fruit of that instruction is a quieting of the spirit, a sobriety of mind, out of which comes rest. The ungodly are let alone till the pit is digged into which they will fall and be taken, but the Godly are sent to school to be prepared for their glorious destiny hereafter. Judgment will return and finish its work upon the rebels, but it will equally return to vindicate the sincere and Godly. Hence we may bear the rod of chastisement with calm submission; it means not anger, but love.
But He never can neglect;
May in faithfulness reprove,
But He ne're can cease to love."
-----
"Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted. In your struggle against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. And have you forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons? My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord,nor be weary when reproved by him. For the Lord disciplines the one he loves,and chastises every son whom he receives. It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline? If you are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. " - Hebrews 12:3-8 Remember that God chastised His own son greatly for the sake of the sins of those whom He loves, so for the sake of our sanctification, should those who are grafted in not receive the loving chastisement and purification by fire? What an encouragement that Jesus really truly went through what we've been through and more and can see that. We're not alone. Again, God is good provide and with that we should be contented and joyful. Grace&Peace.
Weapons Doomed to Fail
Weapons Doomed to Fail, November 16
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn." - Isaiah 54:17
THERE is a great clatter in the forges and smithies of the enemy. They are making weapons wherewith to smite the saints. They could not even do as much as this if the Lord of Saints did not allow them, for He has created the smith that bloweth the coals in the fire. But see how busily they labor! How many swords and spears they fashioned! It matters nothing, for on the blade of every weapon you may read this inscription: It Shall Not Prosper.
But now listen to another noise: it is the strife of tongues. Tongues are more terrible instruments that can be made with hammer and anvil, and the evil which they inflict cuts deeper and spreads wide. What will become of us now? Slander, falsehood, insinuation, ridicule - these are poisoned arrows; how can we meet them? The Lord God promises us that, if we cannot silence them, we shall, at least, escape from being ruined by them. They condemn us for the moment, but we shall condemn them at last and forever. The mouth of them that speak lies shall be stopped, and their falsehoods shall be turned to the honor of those good men who suffered by them.
-----
As women, we easily slip into the wretches of gossip and slander. We need to use our tongue to bless rather than to curse, allow the Lord to be on the forefronts of our mind and speech. Our sins that we create need to be put under control because these are not formed against us, they are apart of our sin nature. God allows us to go through trials to teach us and to grow us - we need to realize that those things, God has initiated so that we can be taught lessons to grow in our faith and to continue to sanctify us. The sins we create will tear us down but those trials that the Lord has appointed shall cause us to grow! Amen! Agape.
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn." - Isaiah 54:17
THERE is a great clatter in the forges and smithies of the enemy. They are making weapons wherewith to smite the saints. They could not even do as much as this if the Lord of Saints did not allow them, for He has created the smith that bloweth the coals in the fire. But see how busily they labor! How many swords and spears they fashioned! It matters nothing, for on the blade of every weapon you may read this inscription: It Shall Not Prosper.
But now listen to another noise: it is the strife of tongues. Tongues are more terrible instruments that can be made with hammer and anvil, and the evil which they inflict cuts deeper and spreads wide. What will become of us now? Slander, falsehood, insinuation, ridicule - these are poisoned arrows; how can we meet them? The Lord God promises us that, if we cannot silence them, we shall, at least, escape from being ruined by them. They condemn us for the moment, but we shall condemn them at last and forever. The mouth of them that speak lies shall be stopped, and their falsehoods shall be turned to the honor of those good men who suffered by them.
-----
As women, we easily slip into the wretches of gossip and slander. We need to use our tongue to bless rather than to curse, allow the Lord to be on the forefronts of our mind and speech. Our sins that we create need to be put under control because these are not formed against us, they are apart of our sin nature. God allows us to go through trials to teach us and to grow us - we need to realize that those things, God has initiated so that we can be taught lessons to grow in our faith and to continue to sanctify us. The sins we create will tear us down but those trials that the Lord has appointed shall cause us to grow! Amen! Agape.
Limitless Riches
Limitless Riches, November 15
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"My God shall supply all your need according to His riches and glory by Christ Jesus." - Philippians 4:19
PAUL'S God is our God, and He will supply all our need. Paul felt sure of this in reference to the Philippians, and we feel sure of it as to ourselves. God will do it, for it is like Him: He loves us, He delights to bless us, and it will glorify Him to do so. His pity, His power, His love, His faithfulness, all work together that we be not famished.
What a measure doth the Lord go by: "According to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus." The riches of His grace are large, but what shall we say of the riches of His glory? His "riches of glory by Christ Jesus," who shall form an estimate of this? According to this immeasurable measure will God fill up the immense abyss of our necessities. He makes the Lord Jesus the receptical and the channel of His fullness, and then He imparts to us His wealth of love in its highest form. Hallelujah!
The writer knows what it is to be tried in the work of the Lord. Fidelity has been recompensed with anger, and liberal givers have stopped their subscriptions. But He whom they sought to oppress has not been one penny the poorer; nay, rather He has been the richer, for this promise has been true, "My God shall supply all our need." God's supplies are surer than any bank.
-----
What a blessing it is to remember that God's character is to take good care of His children in any way, shape or form. Praise Him for the Joy He gets when providing us with what will grow us in our walk with Him and in our faith. "I think we're silly when we think we need a lot when we have all that we need in Christ." - Amber Uddin. Remember that the riches of this world will all fade away, we should be seeking to store up treasures in Heaven and use the riches down here for the glory of God. Grace&Peace.
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"My God shall supply all your need according to His riches and glory by Christ Jesus." - Philippians 4:19
PAUL'S God is our God, and He will supply all our need. Paul felt sure of this in reference to the Philippians, and we feel sure of it as to ourselves. God will do it, for it is like Him: He loves us, He delights to bless us, and it will glorify Him to do so. His pity, His power, His love, His faithfulness, all work together that we be not famished.
What a measure doth the Lord go by: "According to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus." The riches of His grace are large, but what shall we say of the riches of His glory? His "riches of glory by Christ Jesus," who shall form an estimate of this? According to this immeasurable measure will God fill up the immense abyss of our necessities. He makes the Lord Jesus the receptical and the channel of His fullness, and then He imparts to us His wealth of love in its highest form. Hallelujah!
The writer knows what it is to be tried in the work of the Lord. Fidelity has been recompensed with anger, and liberal givers have stopped their subscriptions. But He whom they sought to oppress has not been one penny the poorer; nay, rather He has been the richer, for this promise has been true, "My God shall supply all our need." God's supplies are surer than any bank.
-----
What a blessing it is to remember that God's character is to take good care of His children in any way, shape or form. Praise Him for the Joy He gets when providing us with what will grow us in our walk with Him and in our faith. "I think we're silly when we think we need a lot when we have all that we need in Christ." - Amber Uddin. Remember that the riches of this world will all fade away, we should be seeking to store up treasures in Heaven and use the riches down here for the glory of God. Grace&Peace.
The Name to Use
The Name to Use, November 14
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"If ye shall ask anything in my name, I will do it." - John 14:14
WHAT a wide promise! Anything! Whether large or small, all my needs are covered by that word "anything." Come, my soul, be free at the mercy seat, and hear thy Lord saying to me, "open thy mouth wide, and I will fill."
What a wise promise! We are always to ask in the name of Jesus. While this encourages us, it also honors Him. This is a constant plea. Occasionally every other plea is darkened, especially such as we could draw from our own relation to God or our experience of His grace; but at such times the name of Jesus is as mighty at the throne as ever, and we may plead it with full assurance.
What an instructive prayer! I may not ask for anything to which I cannot put Christ's hand and seal. I dare not use my Lord's name to a selfish or willful petition. I may only use my Lord's name to prayers which He would Himself pray if He were in my case. It is a high privilege to be authorized to ask in the name of Jesus as if Jesus Himself asked, but our love to Him will never allow us to set that name where He would not have set it.
Am I asking for that which Jesus approves? Dare I put His seal to my prayer? Then I have that which I seek of the Father.
-----
Amazing that we can have boldness and strength to come to the throne of God. When we die to self our prayers become His prayers. He will help us to pray, He will remind us how to pray. It is all about Him and His guidance and will for our lives. What a "high privilege" it is to be able to come before the Holy of Holies and to bow down and worship Him through prayer. Agape.
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"If ye shall ask anything in my name, I will do it." - John 14:14
WHAT a wide promise! Anything! Whether large or small, all my needs are covered by that word "anything." Come, my soul, be free at the mercy seat, and hear thy Lord saying to me, "open thy mouth wide, and I will fill."
What a wise promise! We are always to ask in the name of Jesus. While this encourages us, it also honors Him. This is a constant plea. Occasionally every other plea is darkened, especially such as we could draw from our own relation to God or our experience of His grace; but at such times the name of Jesus is as mighty at the throne as ever, and we may plead it with full assurance.
What an instructive prayer! I may not ask for anything to which I cannot put Christ's hand and seal. I dare not use my Lord's name to a selfish or willful petition. I may only use my Lord's name to prayers which He would Himself pray if He were in my case. It is a high privilege to be authorized to ask in the name of Jesus as if Jesus Himself asked, but our love to Him will never allow us to set that name where He would not have set it.
Am I asking for that which Jesus approves? Dare I put His seal to my prayer? Then I have that which I seek of the Father.
-----
Amazing that we can have boldness and strength to come to the throne of God. When we die to self our prayers become His prayers. He will help us to pray, He will remind us how to pray. It is all about Him and His guidance and will for our lives. What a "high privilege" it is to be able to come before the Holy of Holies and to bow down and worship Him through prayer. Agape.
13 November 2008
The Unfailing Watch
The Unfailing Watch, November 13
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep." - Psalm 121:4
JEHOVAH is "the Keeper of Israel." No form of unconsciousness ever steals over Him, neither the deeper slumber, nor the slighter sleep. He never fails to watch the house and the heart of His people This is a sufficient reason for our resting in perfect peace. Alexander said that he slept because his friend Parmenio watched; much more may we sleep because our God is our guard.
"Behold" is here set up to call our attention to the cheering truth. Israel, when he had a stone for his pillow, fell asleep; but His God was awake, and came in vision to His servant. When we lie defenseless, Jehovah Himself will cover our head.
The Lord keeps His people as a rich man keeps his treasure, as a captain keeps a city with a garrison, as a sentry keeps watch over his sovereign. None can harm those who are in such keeping. Let me put my soul into His dear hands. He never forgets us, never ceases actively to care for us, never finds Himself unable to preserve us.
O my Lord, keep me, lest I wander and fall and perish. Keep me, that I may keep thy commandments. By thine unslumbering care, prevent my sleeping like the sluggard and perishing like those who sleep the sleep of death.
-----
God is so good to watch over us. We can rest in His care because we can trust that He is mindful of those evils that lurk and seek to destroy us. But God is greater than all and we are blessed and protected. Grace&Peace.
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep." - Psalm 121:4
JEHOVAH is "the Keeper of Israel." No form of unconsciousness ever steals over Him, neither the deeper slumber, nor the slighter sleep. He never fails to watch the house and the heart of His people This is a sufficient reason for our resting in perfect peace. Alexander said that he slept because his friend Parmenio watched; much more may we sleep because our God is our guard.
"Behold" is here set up to call our attention to the cheering truth. Israel, when he had a stone for his pillow, fell asleep; but His God was awake, and came in vision to His servant. When we lie defenseless, Jehovah Himself will cover our head.
The Lord keeps His people as a rich man keeps his treasure, as a captain keeps a city with a garrison, as a sentry keeps watch over his sovereign. None can harm those who are in such keeping. Let me put my soul into His dear hands. He never forgets us, never ceases actively to care for us, never finds Himself unable to preserve us.
O my Lord, keep me, lest I wander and fall and perish. Keep me, that I may keep thy commandments. By thine unslumbering care, prevent my sleeping like the sluggard and perishing like those who sleep the sleep of death.
-----
God is so good to watch over us. We can rest in His care because we can trust that He is mindful of those evils that lurk and seek to destroy us. But God is greater than all and we are blessed and protected. Grace&Peace.
12 November 2008
Sanctified and Satisfied
Sanctified and Satisfied, November 12
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Charles H. Spurgeon
"My people shall be satisfied with my goodness, saith the Lord." - Jeremiah 31:14
NOTE the "my" which comes twice: "My people shall be satisfied with my goodness."
The kind of people who are satisfied with God are marked out as God's own. He is pleased with them, for they are pleased with Him. They call Him their God, and He calls them his people; He is satisfied to take them for a portion. There is a mutual communion of delight between God's Israel and Israel's God.
These people are satisfied. This is a grand thing. Very few of the sons of men are ever satisfied, let their lot be what it may; they have swallowed the horse leech, and it continually cries, "Give! Give!" Only sanctified souls are satisfied souls. God Himself must both convert us and content us.
It is no wonder that the Lord's people should be satisfied with the goodness of their Lord. Here is goodness without mixture, bounty without stint, mercy without chiding, love without change, favor without reserve. If God's goodness does not satisfy us, what will? What! are we still groaning? Surely there is a wrong desire within if it be one which God's goodness does not satisfy.
Lord, I am satisfied. Blessed be thy name.
-----
"I'm satisfied, in you, My God. And I will Abide, with you, in the light." Praise the Lord for His sanctification and for being our satisfaction. We are truly blessed. Grace&Peace.
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Charles H. Spurgeon
"My people shall be satisfied with my goodness, saith the Lord." - Jeremiah 31:14
NOTE the "my" which comes twice: "My people shall be satisfied with my goodness."
The kind of people who are satisfied with God are marked out as God's own. He is pleased with them, for they are pleased with Him. They call Him their God, and He calls them his people; He is satisfied to take them for a portion. There is a mutual communion of delight between God's Israel and Israel's God.
These people are satisfied. This is a grand thing. Very few of the sons of men are ever satisfied, let their lot be what it may; they have swallowed the horse leech, and it continually cries, "Give! Give!" Only sanctified souls are satisfied souls. God Himself must both convert us and content us.
It is no wonder that the Lord's people should be satisfied with the goodness of their Lord. Here is goodness without mixture, bounty without stint, mercy without chiding, love without change, favor without reserve. If God's goodness does not satisfy us, what will? What! are we still groaning? Surely there is a wrong desire within if it be one which God's goodness does not satisfy.
Lord, I am satisfied. Blessed be thy name.
-----
"I'm satisfied, in you, My God. And I will Abide, with you, in the light." Praise the Lord for His sanctification and for being our satisfaction. We are truly blessed. Grace&Peace.
11 November 2008
The Lord's Free Men
The Lord's Free Men, November 11
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"For sin shall not have dominion over you; for ye are not under the law, but under grace." - Romans 6:14
SIN will reign if it can: it cannot be satisfied with any place below the throne of the heart. We sometimes fear that it will conquer us, and then we cry unto the Lord, "Let not any iniquity have dominion over me." This is His comforting answer: "Sin shall not have dominion over you." It may assail you and even wound you, but it shall never establish sovereignty over you.
If we were under the law, our sin would gather strength and hold us under its power, for it is the punishment of sin that a man comes under the power of sin. As we are under the covenant of grace, we are secured against departing from the living God by the sure declaration of the covenant. Grace is promised to us, by which we are restored from our wanderings, cleansed from our impurities, and set free from the chains of habit.
We might lie down in despair and be "content to serve the Egyptians" if we were still as slaves working for eternal life; but since we are the Lord's free men, we take courage to fight with our corruptions and temptations, being assured that sin shall never bring us under its sway again. God Himself giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.
-----
Praise the Lord that His sovereign grace and protection is continually over us. We may be wounded, scarred and even singed by the flames of sin but God will never let it take dominion and control us because God has saved us from ourselves and from the powers of darkness. I love you, Lord. Thank you for saving me and continually providing protection against the traps of the enemy. Agape.
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"For sin shall not have dominion over you; for ye are not under the law, but under grace." - Romans 6:14
SIN will reign if it can: it cannot be satisfied with any place below the throne of the heart. We sometimes fear that it will conquer us, and then we cry unto the Lord, "Let not any iniquity have dominion over me." This is His comforting answer: "Sin shall not have dominion over you." It may assail you and even wound you, but it shall never establish sovereignty over you.
If we were under the law, our sin would gather strength and hold us under its power, for it is the punishment of sin that a man comes under the power of sin. As we are under the covenant of grace, we are secured against departing from the living God by the sure declaration of the covenant. Grace is promised to us, by which we are restored from our wanderings, cleansed from our impurities, and set free from the chains of habit.
We might lie down in despair and be "content to serve the Egyptians" if we were still as slaves working for eternal life; but since we are the Lord's free men, we take courage to fight with our corruptions and temptations, being assured that sin shall never bring us under its sway again. God Himself giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.
-----
Praise the Lord that His sovereign grace and protection is continually over us. We may be wounded, scarred and even singed by the flames of sin but God will never let it take dominion and control us because God has saved us from ourselves and from the powers of darkness. I love you, Lord. Thank you for saving me and continually providing protection against the traps of the enemy. Agape.
10 November 2008
Walk Without Stumbling
Walk Without Stumbling, November 110
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"He will not suffer thy foot to be moved." - Psalm 121:3
IF the Lord will not suffer it, neither men nor devils can do it. How greatly would they rejoice if they could give us a disgraceful fall, drive us from our position, and bury us out of memory! They could do this to their heart's content were it not for one hindrance, and only one: the Lord will not suffer it; and if He does not suffer it, we shall not suffer it.
The way of life is like traveling among the Alps. Along mountain paths one is constantly exposed to the slipping of the foot. Where the way is high, the head is apt to swim and then the feet soon slide: there are spots which are smooth as glass, and others that are rough with loos stones, and in either of these a fall is hard to avoid. He who throught life is enabled to keep himself upright and to walk without stumbling has the best of reasons for gratitude. What with pitfalls and snares, weak knees, weary feet, and subtle enemies, no child of God would stand fast for an hour were it not for the faithful love which will not suffer his foot to be moved.
"Amidst a thousand snares I stand
Upheld and guarded by thy hand;
That hand unseen shall hold me still,
And lead me to thy holy hill."
-----
Lets reflect upon these words and be blessed by the Lord. Grace&Peace.
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"He will not suffer thy foot to be moved." - Psalm 121:3
IF the Lord will not suffer it, neither men nor devils can do it. How greatly would they rejoice if they could give us a disgraceful fall, drive us from our position, and bury us out of memory! They could do this to their heart's content were it not for one hindrance, and only one: the Lord will not suffer it; and if He does not suffer it, we shall not suffer it.
The way of life is like traveling among the Alps. Along mountain paths one is constantly exposed to the slipping of the foot. Where the way is high, the head is apt to swim and then the feet soon slide: there are spots which are smooth as glass, and others that are rough with loos stones, and in either of these a fall is hard to avoid. He who throught life is enabled to keep himself upright and to walk without stumbling has the best of reasons for gratitude. What with pitfalls and snares, weak knees, weary feet, and subtle enemies, no child of God would stand fast for an hour were it not for the faithful love which will not suffer his foot to be moved.
Upheld and guarded by thy hand;
That hand unseen shall hold me still,
And lead me to thy holy hill."
-----
Lets reflect upon these words and be blessed by the Lord. Grace&Peace.
09 November 2008
Necessary Knowledge
Necessary Knowledge, November 9
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"Thus shall they know that I the Lord their God am with them, and that they, even the house of Israel, are my people, saith the Lord God." - Ezekiel 34:30
TO be the Lord's own people is a choice belssing, but to know that we are such is a comfortable blessing. It is the one thing to hope that God is with us, and another thing to know that He is so. Faith saves us, but assurance satisfies us. We take God to be our God when we believe in Him, but we get the joy of Him when we know that He is ours and that we are His. No believer should be content with hoping and trusting; he should ask the Lord to lead him on to full assurance so that matters of hope may become matters of certainty.
It is when we enjoy covenant blessings and see our Lord Jesus raised up for us as a plant of renown, that we come to a clear knowledge of the favor of God toward us. Not by law, but by grace, do we learn that we are the Lord's people. Let us always turn our eyes in the direction of free grace. Assurance of faith can never come by the works of the law. It is an evangelical virtue and can only reach us in a gospel way. Let us not look within. Let us look to the Lord alone. As we see Jesus we shall see our salvation. Lord, send us such a floodtide of thy love that we shall be washed beyond the mire of doubt and fear.
-----
All I really can say is Amen! Love you all. Grace&Peace.
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"Thus shall they know that I the Lord their God am with them, and that they, even the house of Israel, are my people, saith the Lord God." - Ezekiel 34:30
TO be the Lord's own people is a choice belssing, but to know that we are such is a comfortable blessing. It is the one thing to hope that God is with us, and another thing to know that He is so. Faith saves us, but assurance satisfies us. We take God to be our God when we believe in Him, but we get the joy of Him when we know that He is ours and that we are His. No believer should be content with hoping and trusting; he should ask the Lord to lead him on to full assurance so that matters of hope may become matters of certainty.
It is when we enjoy covenant blessings and see our Lord Jesus raised up for us as a plant of renown, that we come to a clear knowledge of the favor of God toward us. Not by law, but by grace, do we learn that we are the Lord's people. Let us always turn our eyes in the direction of free grace. Assurance of faith can never come by the works of the law. It is an evangelical virtue and can only reach us in a gospel way. Let us not look within. Let us look to the Lord alone. As we see Jesus we shall see our salvation. Lord, send us such a floodtide of thy love that we shall be washed beyond the mire of doubt and fear.
-----
All I really can say is Amen! Love you all. Grace&Peace.
08 November 2008
The Magnitude of Grace
The Magnitude of Grace, November 8
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"My grace is sufficient for thee; for my strength is made perfect in weakness." - II Corinthians 12:9
OUR weakness should be prized as making room for divine strength. We might never have known the power of grace if we had not felt the weakness of nature. Blessed be the Lord for the thorn in the flesh and the messenger of Satan, when they drive us to the strength of God.
This is a precious word from our Lord's own lips. It has made the writer laugh for joy. God's grace is enough for me! I should think it is. Is not the sky enough for the bird, and the ocean enough for the fish? The All-Sufficient is sufficient for my largest want. He who is sufficient for earth and heaven is certainly able to meet the case of one poor worm like me.
Let us, then, fall back upon our God and his grace. If He does not remove our grief He will enable us to bear it. His strength shall be poured into us till the worm shall thresh the mountains; and a nothing shall be victor over all the high and mighty ones. It is better for us to have God's strength than our own; for if we were a thousand times as strong as we are, it would amount to nothing in the face of the enemy; and if we could be weaker than we are, which is scarecly possible, yet we could do all things through Christ.
-----
Amen, God is sufficient for all our needs, His grace that covered our sins - covered ALL our sins. He is most worthy to be praised. We love you, Lord. Agape.
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"My grace is sufficient for thee; for my strength is made perfect in weakness." - II Corinthians 12:9
OUR weakness should be prized as making room for divine strength. We might never have known the power of grace if we had not felt the weakness of nature. Blessed be the Lord for the thorn in the flesh and the messenger of Satan, when they drive us to the strength of God.
This is a precious word from our Lord's own lips. It has made the writer laugh for joy. God's grace is enough for me! I should think it is. Is not the sky enough for the bird, and the ocean enough for the fish? The All-Sufficient is sufficient for my largest want. He who is sufficient for earth and heaven is certainly able to meet the case of one poor worm like me.
Let us, then, fall back upon our God and his grace. If He does not remove our grief He will enable us to bear it. His strength shall be poured into us till the worm shall thresh the mountains; and a nothing shall be victor over all the high and mighty ones. It is better for us to have God's strength than our own; for if we were a thousand times as strong as we are, it would amount to nothing in the face of the enemy; and if we could be weaker than we are, which is scarecly possible, yet we could do all things through Christ.
-----
Amen, God is sufficient for all our needs, His grace that covered our sins - covered ALL our sins. He is most worthy to be praised. We love you, Lord. Agape.
07 November 2008
True Humility Rewarded
True Humility Rewarded, November 7
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"He that humbleth himself shall be exalted." - Luke 18:14
It ought not to be difficult for us to be humble ourselves, for what have we to be proud of? We out to take the lowest place without being told to do so. If we are sensible and honest we shall be little in our own eyes. Especially before the Lord in prayer, we shall shrink to nothing. There we cannot speak of merit, for we have none. Our one and only appeal must be to mercy: "God be merciful to me a sinner."
Here is a cheering word from the throne. We shall be exalted by the Lord if we humble ourselves. For us the way upward is downhill. When we are stripped of self, we are clothed with humility, and this is the best of wear. The Lord will exalt us in peace and happiness of mind; He will exalt us in peace and happiness of mind; He will exalt us into knowledge of His Word and fellowship with Himself; He wiill exalt us in the enjoyment of sure pardon and justification. The Lord puts His honors upon those who can wear them to the honor of the Giver. He gives usefulness, acceptance, and influence to those who will not be puffed up by them, but will be abased by a sense of greater responsibility. Neither God nor man will care to lift up a man who lifts up Himself; but both God and good men unite to honor modest worth.
O Lord, sink me in self that I may rise in thee.
-----
This reminds me of a conversation I had with Bud, our friend who was teaching a bible study was trying to explain to his group that we are not strengthened by God but weakened. In a sense, yes we are stronger but its not strength that we have or strength that we make on our own accord. Its the opposite, the more we submit to the Lord, the weaker WE will be and the stronger HE is within us. Its a much better plan of attack with regards to how we go about our life. Lord please take away me and fill it with you so that I may walk diligently in Your sight, that I may grow in the grace and knowledge of your Gospel. Steady my feet, weaken me till the only motivation and power that I have is from you and not on my own accord. Amen. Grace&Peace.
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"He that humbleth himself shall be exalted." - Luke 18:14
It ought not to be difficult for us to be humble ourselves, for what have we to be proud of? We out to take the lowest place without being told to do so. If we are sensible and honest we shall be little in our own eyes. Especially before the Lord in prayer, we shall shrink to nothing. There we cannot speak of merit, for we have none. Our one and only appeal must be to mercy: "God be merciful to me a sinner."
Here is a cheering word from the throne. We shall be exalted by the Lord if we humble ourselves. For us the way upward is downhill. When we are stripped of self, we are clothed with humility, and this is the best of wear. The Lord will exalt us in peace and happiness of mind; He will exalt us in peace and happiness of mind; He will exalt us into knowledge of His Word and fellowship with Himself; He wiill exalt us in the enjoyment of sure pardon and justification. The Lord puts His honors upon those who can wear them to the honor of the Giver. He gives usefulness, acceptance, and influence to those who will not be puffed up by them, but will be abased by a sense of greater responsibility. Neither God nor man will care to lift up a man who lifts up Himself; but both God and good men unite to honor modest worth.
O Lord, sink me in self that I may rise in thee.
-----
This reminds me of a conversation I had with Bud, our friend who was teaching a bible study was trying to explain to his group that we are not strengthened by God but weakened. In a sense, yes we are stronger but its not strength that we have or strength that we make on our own accord. Its the opposite, the more we submit to the Lord, the weaker WE will be and the stronger HE is within us. Its a much better plan of attack with regards to how we go about our life. Lord please take away me and fill it with you so that I may walk diligently in Your sight, that I may grow in the grace and knowledge of your Gospel. Steady my feet, weaken me till the only motivation and power that I have is from you and not on my own accord. Amen. Grace&Peace.
06 November 2008
Delight and Desires
Delight and Desires, November 6
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"Delight thyself also in the Lord; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart." - Psalm 37:4
DELIGHT in God has a transforming power and lifts a man above the gross desires of our fallen nature. Delight in Jehovah is not only sweet in itself, but it sweetens the whole soul, till the longings of the heart become such that the Lord can safely promise to fulfill them. Is not that a grand delight which moulds our desires till they are like the desires of God?
Our foolish way is to desire and then set to work to compass what we desire. We do not go to work in God's way, which is to seek Him first, and then expect all things to be added unto us. If we will let our heart be filled with God till it runs over with delight, then the Lord Himself will take care that we shall not want any good thing. Instead of going abroad for joys, let us stay at home with God and drink waters out of our own fountain. He can do for us far more than all our friends. It is better to be content with God alone than to go about fretting and pining for the paltry trifles of time and sense. For a while we may have disappointments; but if these bring us nearer to the Lord, they are things to be prized exceedingly, for they will in the end secure to us the fulfillment of all our right desires.
-----
I recently heard of a missionary who would sit in his house and pray ALL day. Now, I know that may sound odd, as our culture has a very "Get It Done!" type of mentality; but this holy man of God had hundreds of people who would come to his house to speak with him because they knew he was holy and was praying. How often I get down on myself because I'm not doing this or I should be doing that - but then I know that if I'm doing what the Lord has instructed me to do, even if its just the smallest of things; then I can rest that He is well pleased and thus I should be pleased also. I was telling a friend of mine who is here in France with me that she shouldn't be self-conscience of singing because she is singing praises to the Lord of Hosts and it pleases Him! So if you find your delight in the Lord, your life will be much more content and you will feel accomplished, knowing you've done right in His sight. Agape.
05 November 2008
What Is Painful Will End
What Is Painful Will End, November 5
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"I will not contend forever, neither will I be always wroth; for the spirit should fail before me, and the souls which I have made." - Isaiah 57:16
OUR heavenly Father seeks our instruction, not our destruction. His contention with us has a kind intention toward us. He will not be always in arms against us. We think the Lord is long in His chastisements, but that is because we are short in our patience. His compassion endureth forever, but not His contention. The night may drag its weary length along, but it must in the end give place to cheerful day. As contention is only for a season, so the wrath which leads to it is only for a small moment. The Lord loves His chosen too well to be always angry with them.
If He were to deal with us always as He does sometimes, we should faint, outright and go down hopelessly to the gates of death. Courage, dear heart! the Lord will soon end His chiding. Bear up, for the Lord will bear you up and bear you through. He who made you knows how frail youa re and how little youc an bear. He will handle tenderly that which He has fashioned so delicately. Therefore, be not afriad because of the painful present, for it hastens to a happy future. He tha smote you will heal you; His little wrath shall be followed by great mercies.
-----
Lets reflect on these words. Thank you Lord for the chastisements and thank you for your mercies! Agape.
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"I will not contend forever, neither will I be always wroth; for the spirit should fail before me, and the souls which I have made." - Isaiah 57:16
OUR heavenly Father seeks our instruction, not our destruction. His contention with us has a kind intention toward us. He will not be always in arms against us. We think the Lord is long in His chastisements, but that is because we are short in our patience. His compassion endureth forever, but not His contention. The night may drag its weary length along, but it must in the end give place to cheerful day. As contention is only for a season, so the wrath which leads to it is only for a small moment. The Lord loves His chosen too well to be always angry with them.
If He were to deal with us always as He does sometimes, we should faint, outright and go down hopelessly to the gates of death. Courage, dear heart! the Lord will soon end His chiding. Bear up, for the Lord will bear you up and bear you through. He who made you knows how frail youa re and how little youc an bear. He will handle tenderly that which He has fashioned so delicately. Therefore, be not afriad because of the painful present, for it hastens to a happy future. He tha smote you will heal you; His little wrath shall be followed by great mercies.
-----
Lets reflect on these words. Thank you Lord for the chastisements and thank you for your mercies! Agape.
04 November 2008
You Make the Trenches
You Make the Trenches, November 4
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"And he said, Thus saith the Lord, Make this valley full of ditches. For thus saith the Lord, Ye shall not see wind, neither shall ye see rain; yet that valley shall be filled with water, that ye may drink, both ye, and your cattle, and your beasts." - II Kings 3:16-17
THREE armies were perishing of thirst, and the Lord interposed. Although He sent neither cloud nor rain, yet He supplied an abundance of water. He is not dependent upon ordinary methods, but can surprise His people with novelties of wisdom and power. Thus are we made to see more of God than ordinary processes could have revealed. Although the Lord may not appear for us in the way we expect, or desire, or suppose, yet He will in some way or other provide for us. It is a great blessing for us to be raised above looking to secondary causes, so taht we may gaze into the face of the great First Cause.
Have we this day grace enough to make trenches into which the divine blessing may flow? Alas! we too often fail in the exhibition of true and practical faith. Let us this day be on the outlook for answers to prayer. As the child who went to a meeting to pray for rain took an umbrella with her, so let us truly and practically expect the Lord to bless us. Let us make the valley full of ditches and expect to see them all filled.
-----
Lord, we expect you to fulfill the blessings you see fit for us. We open our hands to accept your graces and blessings and we love you so much! Amen.
Hope you all got out there to vote today. I sent in my absentee ballot before I left! Whee! Miss you all. I will post some pictures on a separate blog tomorrow, the ones I've taken so far, here in France. Love you and will see you in a week and a half! Agape.
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"And he said, Thus saith the Lord, Make this valley full of ditches. For thus saith the Lord, Ye shall not see wind, neither shall ye see rain; yet that valley shall be filled with water, that ye may drink, both ye, and your cattle, and your beasts." - II Kings 3:16-17
THREE armies were perishing of thirst, and the Lord interposed. Although He sent neither cloud nor rain, yet He supplied an abundance of water. He is not dependent upon ordinary methods, but can surprise His people with novelties of wisdom and power. Thus are we made to see more of God than ordinary processes could have revealed. Although the Lord may not appear for us in the way we expect, or desire, or suppose, yet He will in some way or other provide for us. It is a great blessing for us to be raised above looking to secondary causes, so taht we may gaze into the face of the great First Cause.
Have we this day grace enough to make trenches into which the divine blessing may flow? Alas! we too often fail in the exhibition of true and practical faith. Let us this day be on the outlook for answers to prayer. As the child who went to a meeting to pray for rain took an umbrella with her, so let us truly and practically expect the Lord to bless us. Let us make the valley full of ditches and expect to see them all filled.
-----
Lord, we expect you to fulfill the blessings you see fit for us. We open our hands to accept your graces and blessings and we love you so much! Amen.
Hope you all got out there to vote today. I sent in my absentee ballot before I left! Whee! Miss you all. I will post some pictures on a separate blog tomorrow, the ones I've taken so far, here in France. Love you and will see you in a week and a half! Agape.
03 November 2008
In God's Time
In God's Time, November 3
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry." - Habakkuk 2:3
Mercy may seem slow, but it is sure. The Lord in unfailing wisdom has appointed a time for the outgoings of His gracious power, and God's time is the best time. We are in a hurry; the vision of the blessing excites our desire and hastens our longings; but the Lord will keep His appointments. He never is before His time; He never is behind.
God's word is here spoken of as a living thing which will speak and will come. It is never a dead leatter, as we are tempted to fear when we have long watched for its fulfillment. The living word is on the way from the living God; and though it may seem to linger, it is not in reality doing so. God's train is not behind time. It is only a matter of patience, and we shall soon see for ourselves the faithfulness of the Lord. No promise of His shall fail; "it will not lie." No promise of His will be lost in silence; "it shall speak." What comfort it will speak to the believing ear! No promise of His shall need to be renewed like a bill which could not be paid on the day in which it fell due: "it will not tarry."
Come, my soul, canst though not wait for thy God? Rest in Him, and be still in unutterable peacefulness.
-----
Praise the Lord that we can rest in His faithfulness, knowing that what He's promised to us will come, we can rest in His loving faithfulness, knowing that He is righteous, just and true to His word. I love that when all else fails, we can hold onto the living God and find hope in Him. Agape.
02 November 2008
Heavenly Wealth
Heavenly Wealth, November 2
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"No good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly." - Psalm 84:11
Many pleasing things the Lord may withhold, but "no good thing." He is the best judge of what is good for us. Some things are assuredly good, and these we may have for the asking through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Holiness is a good thing, and this He will work in us freely. Victory over evil tendencies, strong tempers, and evil habits, He will gladly grant, and we ought not to remain without it.
Full assurance He will bestow, and near communion with Himself, and access into all truth, and boldness with prevalence at the mercy seat. If we have not these, it is from want of faith to receive, and not from any unwillingness of God to give. A calm, a heavenly frame, great patience, and fervent love - all these will He give to holy diligence. But note well that we must "walk uprightly." There must be no cross purposes and crooked dealings; no hypocrisy nor deceit. If we walk foully, God cannot give us favors, for that would be a premium upon sin. The way of uprightness is the way of heavenly wealth - wealth so large as to include every good thing.
What a promise to plead in prayer! Let us get to our knees.
-----
God's promises are the only promises we should truly hold on to. My husband, Bud, rarely promises things to me because he knows that he is human and cannot always hold to promises he makes. So knowing that we can plead God's hand to guide us in uprightness, He will follow through with His promises! Praise the Lord! Grace&Peace.
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"No good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly." - Psalm 84:11
Many pleasing things the Lord may withhold, but "no good thing." He is the best judge of what is good for us. Some things are assuredly good, and these we may have for the asking through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Holiness is a good thing, and this He will work in us freely. Victory over evil tendencies, strong tempers, and evil habits, He will gladly grant, and we ought not to remain without it.
Full assurance He will bestow, and near communion with Himself, and access into all truth, and boldness with prevalence at the mercy seat. If we have not these, it is from want of faith to receive, and not from any unwillingness of God to give. A calm, a heavenly frame, great patience, and fervent love - all these will He give to holy diligence. But note well that we must "walk uprightly." There must be no cross purposes and crooked dealings; no hypocrisy nor deceit. If we walk foully, God cannot give us favors, for that would be a premium upon sin. The way of uprightness is the way of heavenly wealth - wealth so large as to include every good thing.
What a promise to plead in prayer! Let us get to our knees.
-----
God's promises are the only promises we should truly hold on to. My husband, Bud, rarely promises things to me because he knows that he is human and cannot always hold to promises he makes. So knowing that we can plead God's hand to guide us in uprightness, He will follow through with His promises! Praise the Lord! Grace&Peace.
01 November 2008
Perfection and Preservation
Perfection and Preservation, November 1
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it." - 1 Thessalonians 5:24
WHAT will He do? He will sanctify us wholly. See the previous verse. He will carry on the work of purification till we are perfect in every part. He will preserve our "whole spirit, and soul, and body, blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ." He will not allow us to fall from grace, nor come under the dominion of sin. What great favors are these? Well may we adore the giver of such unspeakable gifts.
Who will do this? The Lord has called us out of darkness into His marvelous light, out of death in sin into eternal life in Christ Jesus. Only he can do this: such perfection and preservation can only come from the God of all grace.
Why will He do it? Because He is "faithful" - faithful to His own promise which is pledged to save the believer; faithful to His Son, whose reward it is that His people shall be presented to Him faultless; faithful to the work which He has commenced in us by our effectual calling. It is not their own faithfulness, but the Lord's own faithfulness on which the saints rely.
Come, my soul, here is a grand feast to begin a dull month with. There may be fogs without, but there should be sunshine within.
-----
Trusting in the faithfulness of God, knowing that if we are His, He will do a work in our life, preserving, perfecting and regenerating us. Praise the Lord for His glory and His faithfulness. Agape.
Author: Charles H. Spurgeon From the book: Faith's Checkbook
"Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it." - 1 Thessalonians 5:24
WHAT will He do? He will sanctify us wholly. See the previous verse. He will carry on the work of purification till we are perfect in every part. He will preserve our "whole spirit, and soul, and body, blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ." He will not allow us to fall from grace, nor come under the dominion of sin. What great favors are these? Well may we adore the giver of such unspeakable gifts.
Who will do this? The Lord has called us out of darkness into His marvelous light, out of death in sin into eternal life in Christ Jesus. Only he can do this: such perfection and preservation can only come from the God of all grace.
Why will He do it? Because He is "faithful" - faithful to His own promise which is pledged to save the believer; faithful to His Son, whose reward it is that His people shall be presented to Him faultless; faithful to the work which He has commenced in us by our effectual calling. It is not their own faithfulness, but the Lord's own faithfulness on which the saints rely.
Come, my soul, here is a grand feast to begin a dull month with. There may be fogs without, but there should be sunshine within.
-----
Trusting in the faithfulness of God, knowing that if we are His, He will do a work in our life, preserving, perfecting and regenerating us. Praise the Lord for His glory and His faithfulness. Agape.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)