Fanning the Flame for the Glory of Christ

Trivia Question 1

2012-01-30T06:27:00.000-08:00

Which psalm is the most referenced psalm in the New Testament?

A. Psalm 69
B. Psalm 110
C. Psalm 119
D. Psalm 23

Answer is found in the comment section...

Questions to Your Kids

2012-01-28T16:24:00.000-08:00

I found the following questions on The Great Pursuit blog...these questions are originally from Rick Gamache (senior pastor of Sovereign Grace Fellowship) and he asks them regularly to his children:

• How are your devotions?

• What is God teaching you?

• In your own words, what is the gospel?

• Is there a specific sin you’re aware of that you need my help defeating?

• Are you more aware of my encouragement or my criticism?

• What’s daddy most passionate about?

• Do I act the same at church as I do when I’m at home?

• Are you aware of my love for you?

• Is there any way I’ve sinned against you that I’ve not repented of?

• Do you have any observations for me?

• How am I doing as a dad?

• How have Sunday’s sermons impacted you?

• Does my relationship with mom make you excited to be married?

"On top of these things, with my older kids, I’m always inquiring about their relationship with their friends and making sure God and his gospel are the center of those relationships. And I look for every opportunity to praise their mother and increase their appreciation and love for her."

Pondering...

2012-01-26T06:39:00.000-08:00

"I shall not fall into the falsehood that this day, or any day, is merely another ambiguous and plodding twenty-four hours, but rather a unique event filled, if I so wish, with worthy potentialities. I shall not be fool enough to suppose that trouble and pain are wholly evil parentheses in my existence but just as likely ladders to be climbed toward moral and spiritual manhood." Clyde Kilby

Thinking Upon God: John Piper

2012-01-21T14:28:00.000-08:00

John Piper’s recent book titled “Think: The Life of the Mind and the Love of God” was written with two main passages in mind:

Proverbs 2
and
2 Timothy 2

Among many other things, John Piper addresses the reality that, “Thinking is one of the important ways that we put the fuel of knowledge on the fires of worship and service to the world” (15).

Piper is adamant to stress the importance of the both/and of truth and emotions, rather then to succumb to the either/or of how one can worship God and serve others.

The emphasis in Piper’s book on thinking is not at the expense of emotion and affection; on the contrary, both are crucial to glorifying God. However, “while it is true that mind and heart are mutually enlivening, it is also clear that the mind is mainly the servant of the heart” (36).

Hence, Piper’s book on thinking.

In “Think,” Piper speaks of Relativism and its harmful realities (of which there are seven). He also speaks on Luke 10:17-24 and 1 Corinthians 1:19-24 (passages that some may use to neglect the act of thinking).

Piper ended his book with a couple Appendixes, one of which was titled “The Supremacy of Christ in Christian Learning” addressing the biblical foundations for the Bethlehem College and Seminary. I found this appendix quite helpful and uplifting.

I end with a humble quote from the book:

“I would like to encourage you to think, but not to be too impressed with yourself when you do” (17).

10 Steps to Staying Alive to the Beauty of God's World

2012-01-20T06:37:00.000-08:00

The following was taken from the Desiring God Ministries Blog:

John Piper read G. K. Chesterton at the advice of Clyde Kilby, one of his professors of English Literature at Wheaton College back in the day. And this book recommendation from Kilby didn't come in a vacuum. Piper writes about how Kilby himself was amazed at the world, and that, with a pastoral heart and a poet's eye, he influenced his students to really believe Psalm 19:1, "The heavens declare the glory of God."

In a 1976 lecture, Kilby gave ten steps on how to stay alive to the beauty of God's world:

1. At least once every day I shall look steadily up at the sky and remember that I, a consciousness with a conscience, am on a planet traveling in space with wonderfully mysterious things above me and about me.

2. Instead of the accustomed idea of a mindless and endless evolutionary change to which we can neither add nor subtract, I shall suppose the universe guided by an Intelligence which, as Aristotle said of Greek drama, requires a beginning, a middle and an end. I think this will save me from the cynicism expressed by Bertrand Russell before his death, when he said: "There is darkness without and when I die there will be darkness within. There is no splendour, no vastness anywhere, only triviality for a moment, and then nothing."

3. I shall not fall into the falsehood that this day, or any day, is merely another ambiguous and plodding twenty-four hours, but rather a unique event filled, if I so wish, with worthy potentialities. I shall not be fool enough to suppose that trouble and pain are wholly evil parentheses in my existence but just as likely ladders to be climbed toward moral and spiritual manhood.

4. I shall not turn my life into a thin straight line which prefers abstractions to reality. I shall know what I am doing when I abstract, which of course I shall often have to do.

5. I shall not demean my own uniqueness by envy of others. I shall stop boring into myself to discover what psychological or social categories I might belong to. Mostly I shall simply forget about myself and do my work.

6. I shall open my eyes and ears. Once every day I shall simply stare at a tree, a flower, a cloud, or a person. I shall not then be concerned at all to ask what they are but simply be glad that they are. I shall joyfully allow them the mystery of what Lewis calls their "divine, magical, terrifying and ecstatic" existence.

7. I shall sometimes look back at the freshness of vision I had in childhood and try, at least for a little while, to be, in the words of Lewis Carroll, the "child of the pure unclouded brow, and dreaming eyes of wonder."

8. I shall follow Darwin's advice and turn frequently to imaginative things such as good literature and good music, preferably, as Lewis suggests, an old book and timeless music.

9. I shall not allow the devilish onrush of this century to usurp all my energies but will instead, as Charles Williams suggested, "fulfill the moment as the moment." I shall try to live well just now because the only time that exists is just now.

10. Even if I turn out to be wrong, I shall bet my life in the assumption that this world is not idiotic, neither run by an absentee landlord, but that today, this very day, some stroke is being added to the cosmic canvas that in due course I shall understand with joy as a stroke made by the architect who calls Himself Alpha and Omega.

Quoted in John Piper, "Sky Talk" (1980).

Bronco Update

2012-01-14T19:03:00.000-08:00

Alas! 7 to 35 ... second half ... displeased thus far ...

"Tim Tebow's Fire": Song Remake from the 80's

2012-01-12T19:48:00.001-08:00

Go Broncos!!!

John Piper: Helpful Acronyms

2012-01-09T06:34:00.000-08:00

I have prayed over and used the following acronyms (based on the Scriptures) from John Piper for many years. May they be as eternally exhortative to you as they have been for me.

IOUS: Strategy for Prayer Each Day

I — Incline my heart to Your testimonies (Psalm 119:36)
O — Open my eyes that I might behold wonderful things in Your Word (Psalm 119:8)
U — Unite my heart to fear Your name (Psalm 86:11)
S — Satisfy me in the morning... (Psalm 90:14)

ANTHEM: Strategies for Fighting Lust

A - AVOID as much as is possible and reasonable the sights and situations that arouse unfitting desire. "Flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness" (2 Timothy 2:22).
N - Say NO to every lustful thought within five seconds. And say it with the authority of Jesus Christ. "Resist the devil, and he will flee from you" ( James 4:7).
T - TURN the mind forcefully toward Christ as a superior satisfaction. Fight fire with fire.
H – HOLD the promise and the pleasure of Christ firmly in your mind until it pushes the other images out. "Fix your eyes on Jesus" (Hebrews 3:1).
E – ENJOY Jesus as a superior satisfaction. Cultivate the capacities for pleasure in Christ. "Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love, that we may rejoice and be glad all our days" (Psalm 90:14).
M – MOVE into a useful activity away from idleness and other vulnerable behaviors. Christ died to make you "zealous for good deeds" (Titus 2:14).

2012-01-08T17:33:00.000-08:00

I feel like blogging...because the Denver Broncos won...in the first play...in overtime!!

John Piper: On the Importance of Small Group Fellowship

2012-01-06T05:57:00.000-08:00

Temptaton: John Owen

2012-01-01T14:33:00.000-08:00

It is official – I am now blogging the last Puritan book I have read of the year 2011!

John Owen’s book titled, “Temptation,” is written with one particular verse in mind: Matthew 26:41 “Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation.”

An observation:
1. The evil cautioned against – temptation
2. The means by which it prevails – by our entering into it
3. The way of preventing it – watch and pray

God does not tempt us…so how does temptation come?
1. Satan sometimes tempts by himself without taking advantage of the world, the things or persons in it, or ourselves
2. Satan sometimes tempts making use of the world
3. Satan sometimes tempts by seeking assistance from ourselves (our flesh)

How does temptation gain its hour?
1. By long solicitations causing the mind to think endlessly of the evil temptation
2. By prevailing in such a way that the soul is not filled with dislike and abhorrence of it
3. By intermingling itself with other considerations that perhaps are not absolutely evil

When are we in danger of temptation?
1. While in a season of outward prosperity (indeed, prosperity is a temptation)
2. While in a season when grace sleeps (communion with God is neglected or when duty is formal)
3. While in a season of great spiritual enjoyments (Paul was given the thorn in the flesh, a messenger from Satan, to keep him humble after given spiritual revelations)
4. While in a season of self-confidence (pride comes before the fall)

How do we avoid temptation?
1. Watch
2. Pray

Epiphany: Turning 30

2011-12-29T05:55:00.000-08:00

So, on December 14 at 1:22 a.m. I turned 30 while sleeping soundly in my comfy bed with two pillows, two blankets, and the room temperature just right.

Wikipedia defines an epiphany as “the sudden realization or comprehension of the larger essence or meaning of something.”

So, you ask, “Did I experience an epiphany when I turned 30 years old?”

In order to best answer that question, I must first give a little background on myself. I grew up with a serious sense of my sin, a serious view of the cost it took to forgive my sin and a serious understanding that trials and tribulations are a reality for the Christian. Thus, when I turned 18 I honestly assessed my life and its limited trials and tribulations and wondered when my tribulation would begin? When I turned 20 I wondered the same thing and each additional year I continued to wonder…when would I join the suffering of my brothers and sisters in Christ?

I think that each year I may have possibly been asking the wrong question. Could it be that what I needed most of all was to stream my focused attention upon the faith required to live each day for the glory of God no matter what I may see as my “trial and tribulation?” Perhaps what I needed most was to pray each day in the Spirit and in Jesus’ Name for God my Father to give me the faith I needed each day to live as a light among a dark and dying world. In other words, could it possibly be true that I have been asking the wrong question all these years?

I awoke in the early morning of December 14th in an American-kind-of-comfort-and-ease that my brothers and sisters in Christ in other countries have never experienced and I ask, “What is my epiphany?”

In all honesty, I don’t know if I have one…

Had I come to a sudden comprehension of a larger essence or meaning of life serving God?

In all honesty, I don’t think I have…

…and I think that’s okay. I am realizing that this does not have to be a disappointing or an erroneous thing. Rather, I see this as me maturing little by little as a follower of Christ…a follower who needs to struggle, fight and do battle by the Spirit of God and the grace of God each and everyday to pray for the faith needed to take great delight in the greatest Treasure, Jesus Christ, in whatever circumstances God providentially places me!

I may never join the Church worldwide in their persecution, nor suffer in the same way as them. But, I can live faith-filled-ly in the place and setting in which God has placed me, praying for others’ faith as well and resting in all God is for me in Christ. You never know…maybe God is using my “little” trials of faith to prepare me for a day when my faith will be ultimately tested on the mission field.

Christmas Greetings!

2011-12-25T13:22:00.000-08:00

Christmas Bonus Verses (preached on at Grace Church today!):

Titus 2:11 "For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people..."

Titus 3:4 "But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to His own mercy..."

Bronco Update

2011-12-24T14:39:00.000-08:00

The Denver Broncos are losing...I don't feel like blogging...

Ask the Blogsterrete (4)

2011-12-15T18:08:00.000-08:00

Q: "If you could be any mythological creature from any culture or religion, what creature would you be and why?" - Jenn (co-worker)

A: "I would be a dragon because they can fly, are powerful and can shoot fire from their mouths."

The Reformed Pastor: Objections & Answers to This Duty

2011-12-10T16:12:00.000-08:00

What are some objections pastors may give for not doing this duty of personal instruction, of preaching to the flock privately?

O: We teach our people in public; how then are we bound to teach them, man by man, in addition?

A: “Paul taught every man, and exhorted every man, and that both publicly, and from house to house, night and day, with tears” (212)?

O: The duty takes up too much time; how will a pastor complete all his studies?

A: “I highly value common knowledge, and would not encourage any to set light by it; but I value the saving of souls more” (213). “Get well to heaven, and help your people thither, and you shall know all these things in a moment, and a thousand more, which now, by all your studies, you can never know” (214).

O: This duty may destroy the health of our bodies; does not the bow that is ever bending break at last?

A: “The labour in which we are engaged is not likely much to impair our health. It is true, it must be serious; but that will but excite and revive our spirits, and not so much spend them” (218).

O: The times that Paul lived in required more diligence than ours; why are we to be expected to perform this duty in our time when the times have changed?

A: “Are there so many thousands round about us who are drowned in presumption, security, and sensuality, and, when we have done all we can in the pulpit, will neither feel us nor understand us? […] is the happiness of our times so great, that we may excuse ourselves from personal instruction, because of the less necessity of the times (223-24)?

O: But what purpose is all this, when most of the people will not submit?

A: “The willfulness of the people will not excuse us from our duty. If we offer them not our help, how do we know who will refuse it” (227)?

“There is, therefore, nothing from God, from the Scriptures, or from right reason, to cause us to make any question of our work, or to be unwilling to it” (228).

The Reformed Pastor: Motives for Oversight (2)

2011-12-02T06:56:00.000-08:00

Why is it a good thing that pastors oversee their flock as God’s instruments of grace upon the congregation? Why should a pastor take heed of each individual member of the church in regards to their spiritual maturity? Why spend as much time in personal preaching as to public preaching?

Motives for Oversight of Flock (a sampling):

1. It could be a hopeful means of the conversion of their souls – one must not assume that everyone in his flock are saved for many may yet to be created anew by the Holy Spirit
2. It is essential for the building up of the already converted – meeting with those in the flock for oversight will assist them in establishing their faith in Christ
3. It will make the pastor’s public preaching better understood and applied – private preaching gives another opportunity to shepherd the flock with the Word of God and by the Holy Spirit
4. It gives the shepherd an opportunity to become familiar with his people and to win their affection – with distance and unacquaintedness many in the flock may be less motivated to come to public preaching with open ears, minds and hearts
5. It helps the pastor become more acquainted with the flock’s spiritual state and maturity – how shall pastors watch over their people if they do not know their people – their struggles, their sins and their victories?

May each pastor not “let men perish lest he lose their love, and let them go quietly to hell, lest he should make them angry with [him] for seeking their salvation” (192).

Interrupting "The Reformed Pastor" for a Quick Tebow Update

2011-11-26T13:00:00.000-08:00

Here is a good article on how Denver Broncos' quarterback, Tim Tebow, responded to another player's comments on Tebow's faith in Christ.

A day after former Broncos QB Jake Plummer said in a radio interview that he wished the man currently taking the snaps in Denver, Tim Tebow, would curb his references to Jesus Christ and his faith, Tebow responded.

Asked about Plummer's remarks in an interview on ESPN's First Take, Tebow said:

"If you're married, and you have a wife, and you really love your wife, is it good enough to only say to your wife 'I love her' the day you get married? Or should you tell her every single day when you wake up and every opportunity?

"And that's how I feel about my relationship with Jesus Christ is that it is the most important thing in my life. So any time I get an opportunity to tell him that I love him or given an opportunity to shout him out on national TV, I'm gonna take that opportunity. And so I look at it as a relationship that I have with him that I want to give him the honor and glory anytime I have the opportunity. And then right after I give him the honor and glory, I always try to give my teammates the honor and glory.

"And that's how it works because Christ comes first in my life, and then my family, and then my teammates. I respect Jake's opinion, and I really appreciate his compliment of calling me a winner. But I feel like anytime I get the opportunity to give the Lord some praise, he is due for it."

Plummer had this to say Monday on XTRA Sports 910 in Phoenix:

"Tebow, regardless of whether I wish he'd just shut up after a game and go hug his teammates, I think he's a winner and I respect that about him. I think that when he accepts the fact that we know that he loves Jesus Christ, then I think I'll like him a little better. I don't hate him because of that, I just would rather not have to hear that every single time he takes a good snap or makes a good handoff.

"Like you know, I understand dude where you're coming from ... but he is a baller."

Asked by ESPN's Skip Bayless if God makes him a better football player, Tebow would only grant that his faith gives him peace and comfort on the field.

Before the interview began, Bayless blasted Broncos executive vice president of football operations John Elway for not supporting his young quarterback, who has gone 4-1 this season since being installed as the starter.

During a radio interview in Denver on Monday, Elway would not commit to Tebow as the team's long-term starter, saying: "When you look at our third-down numbers, those have to improve. ... The bottom line is we can't go 3-for-13 and win a world championship."

Elway was hired during the offseason to reverse the team's recent struggles and inherited Tebow, who was drafted by former coach Josh McDaniels. According to The Denver Post, Elway has been actively scouting quarterbacks in advance of the 2012 draft, including Baylor's Robert Griffin III and Oklahoma's Landry Jones.

Tebow declined to get caught up in any perceived slights from the organization, saying he remains thrilled by having the opportunity to start and play in the NFL.

The Reformed Pastor: Motives for Oversight (1)

2011-11-24T17:21:00.000-08:00

Why is it important for a pastor to take heed to his own life and walk with the Lord? Why spend so much time in maturing as a follower of Christ? Why should a pastor see himself as ever dependent upon the Holy Spirit to live his life well to the glory of God?

Motives for Oversight of Oneself:

1. Pastors – take heed to yourself, for many can be tempted to preach powerful sermons of Christ to the congregation and yet neglect Him; of the Holy Spirit and yet resist Him; of faith and yet remain in unbelief; of repentance and yet continue in an unconverted state; of a heavenly life and yet reek of this earthly lust.
2. Pastors – take heed to yourself, for you have a depraved and sinful nature just as those who are under your leadership. In us all there are remnants of pride, unbelief, self-seeking, hypocrisy and the most hateful, deadly sins.
3. Pastors – take heed to yourself, for the tempter will tempt you more than other men. He has before tried to fight the shepherd that he may scatter and divide the flock. His ways are deceptive and cunning – never think you have outwitted him.
4. Pastors – take heed to yourself, for there are many eyes on you and many there will be to observe your falls. “The eclipses of the sun by day are seldom without witnesses.” And think this not a vice, but rather a great mercy given that you have so many eyes watching over you and so many ready to tell you of your faults.
5. Pastors – take heed to yourself, for your sins have greater “heinous aggravations” than others – you typically have more knowledge, so you are held more accountable; your sins have more hypocrisy in them; how oft have you preached against such a sin as you have entertained in your heart
6. Pastors – take heed to yourself, for such a great work as you have to perform requires more grace than others’ require. You have a difficult and taxing (yet rewarding) work to do for the glory of God and the good of your people.
7. Pastors – take heed to yourself, for the honor of your Lord and Master is your command. Seek diligently to rely upon his sustaining grace for such a task!

May you not be a pastor who unsays with his life what he says with his tongue, nor a pastor who studies hard to preach exactly yet studies little to live exactly (63-64).

The Reformed Pastor: The Duty of Personal Instruction

2011-11-19T19:12:00.000-08:00

In his book titled, “The Reformed Pastor,” Richard Baxter exhorts pastors to perform the duty of personal instruction with their flock. He answers the question: why is this work necessary?

The duty of personal instruction is necessary for the glory of God – “Every Christian is obliged to do all he can for the salvation of others; but every minister is doubly obliged, because he is separated to the gospel of Christ, and is to give himself wholly to that work” (196).

The duty of personal instruction is necessary for the welfare of the people – “Brethren, can you look believingly on your miserable people, and not perceive them calling to you for help” (198)?

The duty of personal instruction is necessary for the welfare of the pastor – “This is your work, according to which, among others, you shall be judged […] Gird up the loins of your minds, and quit yourselves like men, that you may end your days with these triumphant words: ‘I have fought a good fight; I have finished my course, I have kept the faith” (199-200).

So, why this duty of personal instruction? “I have found by experience, that some ignorant persons, who have been so long unprofitable hearers, have got more knowledge and remorse of conscience in half an hour’s close discourse, than they did from ten years’ public preaching” (196).

The Reformed Pastor: What Baxter Presupposes

2011-11-16T06:01:00.000-08:00

What does Richard Baxter presuppose when he exhorts pastors to oversee their flock?

1. When pastors are to oversee the flock, it is implied – every flock has its own pastor. As every regiment has its captain and just as every soldier knows his commander, so every church has its own pastor and every member knows the teachers over them in the Lord.

2. When pastors are commanded to take heed of all the flock, it is implied – flocks must ordinarily be no greater than they are capable of overseeing. God will no lay up “natural impossibilities.” The number of souls should not be greater than the pastor(s) is able to take heed to.

I would venture to say that Baxter presupposes one more thing: “It is, you see, all the flock, or every individual member of our charge. To this end it is necessary, that we should know every person that belongeth to our charge; for how can we take heed to them, if we do not know them? We must labor to be acquainted, not only with the persons, but with the state of all our people.”

The Reformed Pastor: Richard Baxter

2011-11-11T06:35:00.000-08:00

What are the qualities of Richard Baxter’s book titled, “The Reformed Pastor,” where Baxter preaches to pastors about heeding their call to shepherd the flock of Christ?

Energy – Baxter is a passionate pastor, whose book “blazes with white-hot zeal, evangelistic fervour, and eagerness to convince” across a three-generation gap.

Reality – Baxter shows himself to be an “honest, earnest, straightforward Christian, thinking and talking about the lost with perfect realism, insisting that we must be content to accept any degree of discomfort, poverty, overwork, and loss of material good, if only souls might be saved, and setting us a marvelously vivid example in his own person of what this may involve.”

Rationality – Baxter knows that men are blind, deaf and dead in their sin, and only God can convert them; but he also knows that God works through means to that end. Thus, Baxter calls preachers to give personal preaching/counseling (over and above their public preaching) to their flock that they may encourage them as to their faith, for this is the rationale means to the desired end of their salvation and perseverance.

Two Great Posts for Singles and Married

2011-11-03T18:39:00.000-07:00

Desiring God and The Gospel Coalition posted a couple blogs on singleness that I found to be helpful/encouraging for married and singles to read.

How to Serve "The Singles" - Ministry to Unmarried Adult in Your Local Church

Dude, Where's Your Bride?

Enjoy!

October 31 - Happy Reformation Day!

2011-10-30T14:15:00.000-07:00

Some say that on October 31 in the 16th century Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the Wittenberg church door. Thus, it seemed appropriate for me to post one of my favorite Steve Camp songs! This is the only video I could find...enjoy...

October 31: The Day the Lord Has Made

2011-10-27T05:54:00.000-07:00

Does anyone else get irritated when people greet you with “Happy Halloween” every October 31st? I have three reasons why I get irritated by such a greeting:

1. “Happy Halloween” is a complete contradiction – how can Halloween be happy when it celebrates nothing that can be defined as happy? Happy Christmas? Yes! Happy Easter? Yes! Happy New Year’s? Yes! But, Happy Halloween…
2. Halloween falls on October 31 and this is the day that the Lord has made each year (Psalm 118) – we are told to rejoice in it…for God’s sake and not for the sake of what the world views as Halloween.

3. Hallow – defined as “ to make or set apart as holy.” May we set apart October 31 as holy unto God rather than a day to indulge in the lusts of the flesh, the lusts of the eyes and the boastful pride of life.

The Book of Ephesians: God's Riches = Ours in Christ

2011-10-22T14:52:00.000-07:00

How many times do you think God speaks through Paul of His riches for us in Christ?

1. Ephesians 1:7 – “In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace…”
2. Ephesians 1:18-19 – “I pray that the eyes of your heart may enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints; and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe.”
3. Ephesians 2:4-5 – “But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ…”
4. Ephesians 2:6-7 – “…and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the ages to come He might sow the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.”
5. Ephesians 3:8 – “To me, the very least of all saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles, the unfathomable riches of Christ…”
6. Ephesians 3:16 – “…that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man…”
Wow!

1 John: How Does John Address Us?

2011-10-16T14:18:00.000-07:00

How does John address us in 1 John?

1. 1 John 2:1 – “My little children, I am writing these things to you…”
2. 1 John 2:12 – “I am writing to you, little children…”
3. 1 John 2:13 – “I have written to you, children…”
4. 1 John 2:18 – “Children, it is the last hour…”
5. 1 John 2:28 – “Now, little children, abide in Him…”
6. 1 John 3:1 – “…that we would be called the children of God…”
7. 1 John 3:2 – “Beloved, now we are children of God…”
8. 1 John 3:7 – “Little children, make sure no one deceives you…”
9. 1 John 3:10 – “By this the children of God and the children of the devil are obvious…”
10. 1 John 3:18 – “Little children, let us not love with word or with tongue…”
11. 1 John 4:4 – “You are from God, little children, and have overcome them…”
12. 1 John 5:2 – “By this we know that we love the children of God…"

13. 1 John 5:21 – “Little children, guard yourselves from idols.”

1 John: What Does John Say About What We Say?

2011-10-14T06:36:00.000-07:00

What does John say in 1 John about what we say?

1. 1 John 1:6 – “I we say that we have fellowship with Him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not practice the truths…”
2. 1 John 1:8 – “If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us.”
3. 1 John 1:10 – “If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar and His word is not in us.”
4. 1 John 2:4 – “The one who says, “I have come to know Him,” and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.”
5. 1 John 2:6 – “…the one who says he abides in Him ought himself to walk in the same manner as He walked.”
6. 1 John 2:9 – “The one who says he is in the Light and yet hates his brother is in the darkness until now.”
7. 1 John 4:19 – “If someone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for the one who does not love his brother whom he has seen, cannot love God whom he has not seen.”

What do we say and what do we do?

1 John: Why Write It?

2011-10-08T19:29:00.000-07:00

Why did John write 1 John?

1. 1 John 1:4 – “These things we write, so that our joy may be made complete.”
2. 1 John 2:1 – “My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin.”
3. 1 John 2:7-8 – "Beloved, I am not writing a new commandment to you, but an old commandment which you have had from the beginning; the old commandment is the word which you have heard. On the other hand, I am writing a new commandment to you, which is true in Him and in you, because the darkness is passing away and the true Light is already shining.
4. 1 John 2:12 – “I am writing to you, little children, because your sins have been forgiven you for His name’s sake.”
5. 1 John 2:13 – “I am writing to you, fathers, because you know Him who has been from the beginning. I am writing to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one. I have written to you, children, because you know the Father.”
6. 1 John 2:14 – “I have written to you, fathers, because you know Him who has been from the beginning. I have written to you, young men, because you are strong and the word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the evil one.”
7. 1 John 2:21 – “I have not written o you because you do not know the truth, but because you do know it, and because no lie is of the truth.”
8. 1 John 2:26 – “These things I have written to you concerning those who are trying to deceive you.”
9. 1 John 5:13 – “These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life.”

Ask the Blogsterrete (3)

2011-10-02T15:26:00.000-07:00

Q: “What is your favorite verse and why?” – Josh (friend)

A: If you are reading this…hi Josh! Long time…no see. Well, if I were to pick a favorite verse I would choose Romans 15:13 – “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.”

The reason why I love this verse is because God is said to be here a “God of hope.” He is said to be filling us, according to this prayer, with “all joy and peace.” He is doing this for us “in believing.” And all this so that we “abound in hope” by the “power of the Holy Spirit.” It’s a great and amazing and exhilarating verse that follows 14 chapters of Christ-centered depth that is dense beyond measure.

Psalm 96

2011-09-27T06:38:00.001-07:00

Keeping the Missions Flame Alive from John Piper on Vimeo.

Don't Waste Your Life

2011-09-19T06:14:00.001-07:00

The True Bounds of Christian Freedom: Samuel Bolton

2011-09-16T19:49:00.000-07:00

The latest Puritan book that I have read is titled, “The True Bounds of Christian Freedom,” written by Samuel Bolton. A main theme of the book was that Christians are freed from the law to obey the law. The law does not save; we find grace through faith alone. We don’t work for justification, but from justification. Bearing fruit for the glory of God is evidence that we are truly saved. Thus, obeying the commands of God is evidence that we have truly been given freedom in Christ.

What are we freed from when we are saved?

1. We are freed from Satan
2. We are freed from sin
3. We are freed from the curse of the law of God

Conversely, those who are not saved are in bondage…bondage to:

1. Satan
2. Sin
3. The curse of the law of God

“What a privilege it is, to be free from the curses and penalties of the law, so that if the law threatens, Christ promises; if the law curses, Christ blesses. This is a high privilege. If God did but let one spark of His wrath and displeasure fall upon your conscience for sin, you would then know what a mercy it is to be thus freed” (34).

John Piper: On the Pillars of Fearlessness

2011-09-10T13:18:00.001-07:00

What an amazing promise is found in Isaiah 41:10! John Piper preached on June 20, 1993, a sermon on this verse that has been an encouragement to me in my walk with the LORD God.

Isaiah 41:10 “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”

He preaches on the two commands of fearlessness:

1. Do not fear
2. Do not be anxious

He preaches on the five pillars of fearlessness (supporting the two commands):

1. "For I am with you"—"Do not fear, for I am with you."
2. "I am your God"—"Do not look anxiously about you, for I am your God."
3. "I will strengthen you."
4. "Surely I will help you."
5. "Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand."

Restated, the five pillars of fearlessness are:

1. God is with me;
2. God is my God;
3. God will strengthen me;
4. God will help me;
5. God will uphold me.

"When God calls you to be free from fear as you do evangelism, as you take a test, as you face an interview, as you take a stand against an unjust business practice, as you confront someone with sin in their life, when you leave a secure position and take a risk in a new venture, when you face an operation or a treatment, when you lose a spouse or a friend—when God calls you to be free from fear (to overcome this natural emotion and have peace), he does not leave the command hanging in the air. He puts pillars under it. Five of them. That's the nature of all biblical commands. They come with divine support."

1. Fear not . . . God is with you;
2. Fear not . . . God is your God;
3. Fear not . . . God will strengthen you;
4. Fear not . . . God will help you;
5. Fear not . . . God will uphold you.

May we rest in the assurance we have in Scripture that God will strengthen us, help us and uphold us in our day-to-day lives!

The Gospel & Poverty

2011-09-03T16:44:00.000-07:00

Here is an interesting section of an article written by David French on his blog titled "The French Revolution" on the cross and the poor.

"For many, many years I spent time “in the trenches” reaching out to at-risk youth. At first I was the stereotypical naive idealist. ”All they need is love and a chance,” I thought. Working in mentoring programs, I spent untold hours playing catch, going to little league games, going to parks, and just hanging out with at-risk kids as part of a variety of programs. Seeing ragged clothes, I’d buy new clothes. Hearing that a mother couldn’t pay the light bill, I’d kick in and help. I spent night after night sleeping in homeless shelters, cooking dinners in the evening, pancake breakfasts in the morning, and fixing snack lunches for hard days on the streets.

I can’t remember when I first realized that I was accomplishing nothing of substance. A few car break-ins taught me that some guys saw me as an easy mark. A few pot purchases with the “gas bill money” taught me that others saw me as an ATM. Admonitions to “stay in school” had little appeal compared to drug-fueled orgies for kids as young as fifteen years old. I tried. God knows I tried. But it was all for naught.

Only one thing really worked. The Cross. There are kids today that Nancy and I worked with who are doing well, who are happily married, and who are pillars of their community. What made the difference for them? The Cross. It wasn’t about my words. It wasn’t about my effort. (After all, I tried just as hard or harder with other kids — who are now in prison or “baby-daddies” or both.) The kids who made it heard the Gospel, repented of sin, and were transformed through the renewing work of the Holy Spirit.

It’s trendy now for churches to put less emphasis on the Gospel and more emphasis on service. I’ve even heard Christians almost brag that their outreach efforts don’t include any proselytizing at all. This is tragic. Billions of dollars of “service” won’t change hearts and lives. We know that now. In fact, those very billions may very well numb the human heart to the gravity of its sin.
So, yes, let’s do “more,” but let’s make sure that “more” is aimed at the real source of American poverty — our depravity."

Ask the Blogsterrete (2)

2011-08-30T19:56:00.000-07:00

Q: "Where's Uncle Ben?" - Ruthie Fox (4-year old niece)

A: "Who cares where Uncle Ben is! What...am I chopped liver!?"

Words Have Meaning: They Matter

2011-08-24T18:52:00.000-07:00

I have given some thought in the past few years about what my words mean in different circumstances and in different scenarios. I have come up with some reasoning behind what I say. I wanted to share some of my reasonings with you.

Awesome – used only to describe God or God-like qualities I see in others

Great – used in a general and wide-ranging sense to describe things that are good

Wonderful – used when I want to convey strong emotion for that which I am describing

Never/Always – used sparingly and only if I am convinced that it truly means “never or always”

Like – used as little as possible (especially when I use it as a “filler word”)

Um – used as a “filler word” if I am tempted to use the word “like” and must resist

Cool – used more frequently now that I have convinced myself that it is okay for me to use words from the 90’s

Nothin’ – used never! Truly, used never (or at least I try not to use it) - Gotta get that “g” sound in there

Greetings – used as my traditional and hallmark salutation in the workplace

Vogue – used as my new word to describe something unique and just plain cool

Praise – used to replace “worship,” which has far too long been used to describe singing songs instead of a life lived for the glory of God

Calvinist – used openly, yet with discernment (due to the fact that many do not understand what it means and one might have incorrect assumptions)

Pastor/Elder/Deacon – used boldly because, unlike those in the Emergent Movement, titles matter and titles have meaning

Digiorno’s Pizza – used every week when I eat my scrumptiously favorite meal

Hate – used only in reference to sin

Love – used with all seriousness and used only to describe my affection for God and people

Good – used far too frequently to describe far too many things (only God is good and only the things He does is good)

Conversate – used as the action of having a conversation (although it is not in the dictionary, many people recognize its meaning)

Missionary – used to describe someone sent out for a mission to the lost (I do not like to use it for people’s day to day activities in the U.S.)

Boring – used with caution, for our life in Christ Jesus should never be tediously mundane

Ask the Blogsterrete (1)

2011-08-14T14:56:00.000-07:00

Q: "If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you live?" - Brad Fox (brother-in-law)

A: "If I could live anywhere in the world, I would live in Zambia, Africa. First of all, I have always wanted to be a missionary to the southern part of Africa (this has been Ben's desire as well). Secondly, the people there are beautiful people. Thirdly, the terrain, animal life and sunsets are an amazing result of God's creation. Lastly, Zambia has larger cities (which I think I could like 50% of the time) along with secluded villages (which I think I could like the remainder 50% of my time)."

The Holy Practice of Self-Denial: Jeremiah Burroughs

2011-08-06T14:47:00.000-07:00

In Jeremiah Burroughs’ book titled, “The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment,” he asks the question:

How does Christ teach contentment?

Christ teaches contentment through many means, one of which is self-denial.

How does Christ teach self-denial for the purpose of true Christian contentment?

The practice of self-denying oneself displays the following characteristics:

1. A person learns to know he is nothing. He knows that in and of himself, he is nothing. Without Christ we are nothing.
2. A person learns to know that he deserves nothing. I am nothing, and I deserve nothing. If we deserve anything, it is God’s holy and righteous wrath.
3. A person learns to know that he can do nothing. God has very little need for us; nay He has no need for us at all. It is a wonder He uses us at all for His glory.
4. A person learns to know that he so vile he cannot of himself receive any good. We are not simply empty vessels; on the contrary, we are corrupt and unclean vessels.
5. A person learns to know that he is worse than nothing. Sin makes us more vile than nothing, for it makes us contrary to good.

Burroughs gives additional characteristics and/or lessons of self-denial, but these five are quite comprehensive in their scope to humble us and give us much needed hope. If we are to learn this rare jewel of contentment in Christ alone, we must display a humble attitude in light of our corruptions outside of Christ and we must display a hopeful attitude in light of our salvation in Christ.

May we rest in the Spirit’s work in us to teach us this practice of self-denial for God’s glory!

“The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment:” Jeremiah Burroughs

2011-07-31T07:17:00.000-07:00

For the record, Jeremiah Burrough’s book titled “The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment” has been one of my favorites in the list of Puritan books I have read thus far. Could this be due to the fact that I am a weakened vessel when it comes to Christian contentment and have so far to grow in this important area of my Christian walk?

Undoubtedly, my thoughts tarry far too long upon what I don’t have rather than upon what I have been given by the gracious hand of God Almighty. Indisputably, my thoughts wander far from the peaceful frame of mind that comes from a steadfast trust in God’s goodness in my life at all times as they stray into what could be, or could have been, or what will be. Shameful as it is to say, I desperately need this lesson on Christian contentment as I struggle to learn living a life fully satisfied in all God is for me in Christ.

The following is Burrough’s definition of Christian contentment:

“Contentment is the inward, quiet, gracious frame of spirit, freely submitting to and taking pleasure in God’s disposal in every condition.”

Each of the words in this definition has meaning and purpose to describing Christian contentment.

Inward – it is a heart issue
Quiet – the heart is not given to murmuring or complaining
Gracious – this kind of heart is given only by the grace of God
Frame of spirit – it is not obtained by outward will, but is from the soul
Freely – not by constraint or mere stupidity
Submitting to – the frame of spirit brought under the hand of God
Pleasure in – delighting in God’s providence in all things
God’s disposal – God’s wisdom in establishing all providences
Every condition – affliction, sorrow, joy…every God-ordained condition

Oh, to be able to say with Paul, “I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.” (Philippians 4:11)

Ask the Blogsterrete: Introduction

2011-07-23T16:21:00.000-07:00

I am going to begin a new series quite similar to the “Getting to Know the Blogsterrete” series I begin in May, 2010. It will be titled “Ask the Blogsterrete” and will feature many people in my life. I will be asking them, "If you could ask me any question, what would it be?" They will then pose their question to me and I will answer it as thoroughly and as truthfully as possible. Stay tuned!

Divided: A Video Worth Watching

2011-07-14T20:12:00.000-07:00

Official Divided the Movie (HD Version) from NCFIC on Vimeo.

My thoughts on the video? Still inconclusive and still pondering...

“A Lifting for the Downcast:” William Bridge

2011-07-09T18:38:00.000-07:00

The latest book I have read from the Puritans was by William Bridge. It was a series of sermons he preached on Psalm 42.

Here are six ways in which believers can combat discouragement:

If you would not be discouraged in any condition, then never make your comforts depend upon your condition, nor be in love with any condition for itself.

Be sure that you think of Christ in a right way and manner, as He suits with your condition, and as He is held forth in the gospel.

If your discouragements begin to rise and press upon you, check yourself, and say, “Why should I multiply thoughts without knowledge? Why should I tire out my soul with these thoughts? Am I able to add one cubit to my spiritual stature? Am I, by all my anxiety, able to alter my condition?”

Whenever you think of anything which is in itself terrible, or matter of discouragement, be sure that you mingle the consideration thereof with those sweet things which God has given and prescribed to you.

If you would not be discouraged whatever your condition be, labor more and more to get your self-love mortified, even religious self-love.

In case temptation presses in upon you, and urges you to sad discouragements, speak to this purpose unto your soul: “Why should I buy my repentance at so dear a rate?” There is none of all these doubtings, unbelieving fears and discouragements, but you will be ashamed and repent of afterwards.

A Good Resource

2011-06-29T17:18:00.000-07:00

A good resource I have been accessing lately is called "I'll Be Honest: Will You?"

Getting to Know the Blogsterrete (7): elizabeth s. davis

2011-06-16T16:32:00.001-07:00

If it is God's will for me to be taken home before the glorious return of my Savior, these two songs would be my requests at my funeral. I love praising God Almighty!

“The Mortification of Sin:” John Owens

2011-06-12T08:05:00.000-07:00

John Owens writes his book, “The Mortification of Sin,” based upon Romans 8:13, which states:

“If by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live.”

In the text we find:

1. To whom it is directed: You believers
2. The condition: If you
3. The means of accomplishment: The Spirit
4. A duty: Put to death the deeds of the body
5. A promise: You will live

Six reasons why we must mortify our sin:

1. Indwelling sin always abides while we are in this world (our flesh)
2. Sin is still acting and laboring to bring forth the deeds of the flesh
3. Sin, if not continually mortified, will bring forth great, cursed, scandalous, and soul-destroying sins
4. The Holy Spirit and our new nature are given to us to oppose sin and lust
5. Neglect of this duty makes the inner man decay instead of renewing him
6. Our spiritual growth is our daily duty

What is mortification? Three things that evidence mortification:

1. A habitual weakening of the lust
2. A constant fight and contention against sin
3. A degree of success in the battle

Ouotes:

“The reason that the natural man does not always pursue a single lust night and day is because he has so many different lusts to serve” (32).

“Mortification from a self-strength, carried on by ways of self-intervention, to the end of a self-righteousness, is the soul and substance of all false religion in the world” (3).

By the work of Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit, you will, “through the good providence of God, live to see your lust dead at your feet” (116).

Come and Welcome to Jesus Christ: John Bunyan

2011-06-08T17:58:00.000-07:00

John Bunyan’s book titled, “Come and Welcome to Jesus Christ,” is a great Puritan writing on John 6:37.

“All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no way cast out.”

Although the book has many good and encouraging words to say on this particular verse, I wanted to focus on his following observation.

Observation of the Text: Coming to Christ is not by the will, wisdom or power of man; rather, it is by the gift, promise and drawing of the Father.

Not by the will of man – John 1:13 and Romans 9:16

Not by the wisdom of man – 1 Corinthians 1:20-21, 2:14, 3:18-20 and Acts 13:27

Not by the power of man – John 5:25; Ephesians 2:1; 1 Corinthians 1:27-30; and Colossians 2:13

BUT

By the gift of the Father we come – John 6:65

By the promise of the Father we come – John 6:45

By the drawing of the Father we come – John 6:44

“Precious Remedies Against Satan’s Devices”: Quotes

2011-05-27T16:24:00.000-07:00

The following quotes are taken from Thomas Brooks’ book titled, “Precious Remedies Against Satan’s Devices,” where he lists some of the ways Satan can attack a believer in Christ and where he lists ways we can defeat such schemes in order to glorify God in obedience and faithfulness.

[A side note: I have found in my reading of Thomas Brooks’ book such a respect for this pastor who seems to have shepherded his flock with humility, tender care and gentle love. I saw this most clearly in his introductory words to his flock and readers]

“For a close, remember this, that your life is short, your duties many, your assistance great, and your reward sure; therefore faint not, hold on and hold up, in ways of well-doing, and heaven shall makes amends to all” (20)

“It is not the bee’s touching of the flower that gathers honey, but her abiding for a time upon the flower that draws out the sweet. It is not he that reads most, but he that meditates most, that will prove the choices, sweetest, wisest and strongest Christian” (20-21).

“A man may have enough of the world to sink him, but he can never have enough to satisfy him” (111).

“Oh! let your souls be greatly affected with the presence, purity, and majesty of that God before whom thou standest. A man would be afraid of playing with a feather, when he is speaking with a king” (135).

“Christians and Psychology”: Q & A with Steve Cole

2011-05-21T13:20:00.000-07:00

Steve Cole, pastor of Flagstaff Christian Fellowship, offers some helpful questions and answers concerning Christians and psychology. Here are some that I have selected from his article:

1. Why can’t we use the best insights of psychology along with the Bible? Isn’t all truth God’s truth?

I guess the real question would be: Is the Bible sufficient for dealing with our deepest psychological and emotional needs or not? As Cole states, “First, we need to look at the Bible’s claims” (1). He then goes on to quote 2 Peter 1:3 and 2 Timothy 3:16-17, both of which argue for the Word of God being sufficient for everything pertaining to life, godliness and every good work, which would certainly include our emotional and psychological balance. If Galatians 5:22-23 (fruits of the Spirit) describes an emotionally and psychologically stable individual and the Holy Spirit is the provider of such fruit, then why must we turn to worldly psychology?

2. We use modern medicine; why not use modern psychology?

The answer is simple: the Bible never claims to sufficiently deal with medical problems; but it does claim to sufficiently deal with problems of the soul (psyche in the Greek).

3. Won’t I be a better Christian if I resolve some of my inner conflicts through the insights of psychology?

Many people have suffered much at the hand of others in this fallen world, experiencing physical, verbal and sexual abuse. God Himself is our healer and His Word promises that He can bind up our wounds and support the afflicted (Psalm 147:3, 6).

4. Don’t I need a healthy self-esteem to be able to serve the Lord? Don’t’ I need to love myself properly so that I can love God and others properly?

“Again, we must go to Scripture, not the psychology, to find the answer” (4). There is not one single verse in the Bible that commands us to love ourselves. Rather, the Bible tells us that the measure of love we should have for others is the intensity of love we have already for ourselves. Matthew 23:39 is not to be interpreted as Jesus commanding us to start loving ourselves. It is quite the contrary!

5. But don’t certain complicated psychological problems require the expertise of a professional therapist?

“Who made you and understands every hidden motive and thought of your heart: a therapist or the living God (Psalm 139)? We can’t even understand our own hearts completely, because we are blinded by sin (Jeremiah 17:9). Only God knows us thoroughly and only in His Word does He tell us how we must live to experience His blessing” (7).

6. What about the popular 12-Step programs?

First of all, the fact that the 12-Step programs work off the basic foundation that you can pick your “Higher Power” (i.e. Buddha, Jesus Christ, Mohammed, Nature) in order to break yourself of your sin is outrageously absurd! Secondly, these types of programs replace biblical terms with psychological terms (i.e. sin = sickness; drunkenness = alcoholism; repentance = recovery). “We don’t repent of sickness, we recover. We don’t recover from sin, we repent” (8). Well-said Steve Cole!

7. What about taking medication for psychological problems?

“There is probably an overlap between the physiology of brain function and the realm of the soul or personhood” (8). There are some situations where medication can assist an individual in “leveling out” their brain chemistry. However, one must do so with caution. Not only is medical science in its beginning stages in regards to brain functioning, but in addition to medication one must always address their underlining sinful thoughts and habits that may have contributed to the need for medication. Lastly, Cole says that medication should be seen as a cast – when one breaks a bone the cast holds the bone in place so it can heal properly. Likewise, medication should be used in correlation with walking, talking and acting in line with God’s Word. Keep in mind: a cast’s design is not that it be worn forever!

The Christian Psychology Movement: Steve Cole

2011-05-15T15:35:00.000-07:00

In Steve Cole’s sermon titled, “How John Calvin Led Me to Repent of Christian Psychology,” he lists five specific areas where Christian psychology is at odds with biblical truth. He was convicted of his view of psychology as he began reading John Calvin’s “Institutes of the Christian Religion.” The five areas are as follows:

1. Christian psychology is built upon an inadequate view of salvation. “I believe that there are many people in evangelical churches who have been told, ‘Peace, peace, when there is no peace.’ They think they’re right with God because they went forward or prayed a prayer, but they have never known anything of their own corruption of heart through the convicting ministry of the Holy Spirit” (5). Christian psychology minimizes the depravity of man and places salvation on the plane of “making a decision.”

2. Christian psychology causes people to focus on themselves rather than on God and His glory. There is no doubt that psychology hinges upon the focal point of self. The building-up of one’s self-esteem permeates psychology. Many teach that one can have a smidge of “self-love,’ but God’s servants should be exhibiting humility, a denial of self for the sake of others and a passion for the glory of God above all.

3. Christian psychology denies the sufficiency of Jesus Christ and the powerful work of the Holy Spirit. “In Him [Jesus Christ] the fullness of Deity dwells in bodily form, and in Him you have been made complete,” (Colossians 2:9, 10). Christ is sufficient! God has not left us alone in our struggles here on earth. He has also freely given to us the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit, that which will enable us to fight sin and be victorious.

4. Christian psychology undermines the sufficiency and authority of Scripture. “Christian psychology tells us that the Word is fine, as far as it goes, but that it does not deal with all the complex problems we face nowadays” (10). Psychology addresses issues that are clearly spoken of in Scripture, namely: anxiety, depression, lust, drunkenness, abusive speech, bitterness and anger. The Bible equips a man of God for every good work.

5. Christian psychology minimizes the biblical view of sin and personal responsibility of sin. Just the other day I sat with a friend at City Brew who is a leader in Celebrate Recovery and is questioning its validity. Just today I spoke with another good friend about her Alcoholics Anonymous group and its influence in the prison system. In all my interactions (and there have been many!) with recovery groups, psychology and the “dysfunctional family,” I do not recall a clear and concise acknowledgement of one’s personal responsibility for their “addiction.” There may have been hints of it here and there, but it was quickly followed up with a sense of victimization that seemed to nullify the confession of sin against a holy and righteous God.

As I was preparing this blog entry, God brought to mind the story of King Nebuchadnezzar: God drove King Nebuchadnezzar away from mankind to dwell among the beasts, to eat like cattle and to grow hair and nails like the wild birds; God caused all of this to happen as a result of the king’s pride and arrogance. It was not until King Nebuchadnezzar acknowledged God’s greatness and sovereignty (Daniel 4:34-35) that he was restored to sanity again. Likewise, people in our generation need to train their thoughts to think upon God and His glory rather than drench their self-worth in the thick sin of worldly psychology blended with hints of Christianity.

May we all (me included!) humbly pray to our patient God for wisdom about the issues facing us today concerning Christian psychology.

Mother's Day - For Those Waiting

2011-05-07T18:17:00.000-07:00

Thomas Watson’s “The Godly Man’s Picture”: Walks with God

2011-05-04T11:42:00.000-07:00

Walking with God is very pleasing to God.

Walking with God is a good means to entice and allure others to walk with God.

Walking with God puts adversaries to silence.

Walking with God is a pleasant walk.

Walking with God is honorable.

Walking with God leads to rest.

Walking with God is the safest walking.

Walking with God makes death sweet.

Walking with God is the best way to know the mind of God.

Walking with God means one shall never be left by God.

Fellow pilgrims - let us walk with God!!!

Thomas Watson’s “The Godly Man’s Picture”: Trained

2011-05-01T12:53:00.000-07:00

A godly man obeys every command of God. He walks according to His Word, pressing onward towards holiness. A godly man:

…is often calling his heart to account.
…is in much private prayer.
…is diligent in his calling.
…is set towards lawful things.
…is careful about moral righteousness.
…is forgiving towards those who do wrong.
…is heartfelt towards the miseries of the church.
…is content with his present condition.
…is fruitful in good works.
…is willing to suffer persecution.

A godly man is trained in godliness by doing these things.

Thomas Watson’s “The Godly Man’s Picture”: Does Not Indulge in Any Sin

2011-04-22T06:15:00.000-07:00

A godly man does not indulge himself in any sin whatsoever. “Though sin lives in him, yet he does not live in sin” (146). Here are four sorts of sin which a godly man does not indulge:

Secret Sins – “Some are more modest than to commit gross sin. That would be a stain on their reputation” (147). Many carry on their sin secretly, behind closed doors. A godly man is wary of such sins!

Gainful Sins – “Those are sad gains that make a man lose peace of conscience and heaven at last” (148). A godly man dare not search for satisfaction among the thorns and thistles of this world.

Beloved Sins – There is usually one sin that is our favorite sin. It is a sin that the heart is most fond of; it is a sin that is the king sin, the darling sin, our favorite sin. A godly man fights against his favored sin.

“Lesser” Sins – There is no such thing as a little sin, yet many find solace as they indulge in “lesser” sins versus other “greater” sins. A godly man is sensitive to the slightest evil thing and he takes every sin seriously.

As I read through Thomas Watson’s section in his book, “The Godly Man’s Picture,” on a godly man refusing to indulge in any sin, I was strongly convicted for the sin in my heart. The following was taken from my journal last month:

“As I think upon what Thomas Watson would call my ‘beloved sin,’ I am ashamed at my attraction, devotion and affection for it. It haunts me, yet it taunts me to its obedience and after I whet my savoring and sickening appetite for it, I wonder with all wonder why I even gave its thoughts the time of the day (or night). Yet, I did and I enjoyed it – how shameful! How utterly disgusting is my fleshly sin! How disheartening is my dedication to it as a love to her beloved! Please take this lust of mine and tear it to pieces by Your Word and in the power of Your Spirit that I may walk in total freedom, the freedom already purchased for me, and that my life would glorify You as a life that takes every sin seriously. I simply cannot defeat it without Your help, my God.
Journal entry - 3/18/2011

Thomas Watson’s “The Godly Man’s Picture”: Loves the Saints

2011-04-16T18:03:00.000-07:00

Thomas Watson’s book titled, “The Godly Man’s Picture,” has been so encouraging in my walk with God. It has convicted me much, all while strengthening me for the race set before me. The following are seven ingredients for the love one must have for the saints in order to be godly. 1. Love to the saints must be sincere: we must love in purity and without deceit. 2. Love to the saints must be spiritual: we must love others because they are saints. 3. Love to the saints must be extensive: we must love ALL who bear God’s image. 4. Love to the saints must be appreciating: we must love them as to esteem them as jewels of precious worth to us. 5. Love to the saints must be social: we must love to be in their company; it is a delight to our soul to be with them. 6. Love to the saints must be demonstrative: we must love in unconcealed ways, showing them active acts of kindness. 7. Love to the saints must be constant: we must love like our heart beats, constantly and without ceasing and without expiration.

May we love our brothers and sisters in Christ in this manner! Amen!

Thomas Watson’s “The Godly Man’s Picture”: Heavenward

2011-04-07T17:19:00.000-07:00

“Heaven is in him before he is in heaven” (103). 1) A godly man is heavenly in his election – when he chooses Christ over this world, his salvation is confirmed, made sure and as solid as the oath of God. 2) A godly man is heavenly in his disposition – when he sets his affections upon heavenly things, he looks upon this world as a beautiful prison. 3) A godly man is heavenly in his communication – when he speaks of the kingdom of heaven, his words drip with the honey and milk of the Promised Land. 4) A godly man is heavenly in his actions – when he lives his life it is one lived sacredly as to bring glory to God and much joy to others; he is a “self-forgetting lover of others” (John Piper). 5) A godly man is heavenly in his expectation – when he hopes, his hopes are above this world as they belong to another world that is so sublime and grand and glorious.

Thomas Watson’s “The Godly Man’s Picture”: Prayer

2011-04-02T09:50:00.000-07:00

The picture of a godly man is of a man of prayer.

Prayer that is with knowledge: “We must put up such petitions as ar exactly adequate and agreeable to God’s will” (89).

Prayer that is with heart and spirit: “If the heart does not accompany duty, it is speaking, not praying” (89).

Prayer that with fervency: it is with groans, sighs, moans and wrestling; Christ prayed with loud cries and tears (Hebrews 5:7).

Prayer that believes: prayers find themselves shipwrecked due to crashing against the rocks of unbelief (90).

Prayer that holy: “Prayer must be offered on the altar of a pure heart” (90-91).

Prayer that is humble: “The lower the heart descends, the higher the prayer ascends (91).

Prayer that in the Name of Christ: prayer in the hope, full assurance and confidence found in Jesus Christ alone.

Prayer that loves prayer: a godly man is most delighted when he is on his knees in prayer to his God.

Prayer that has spiritual goals: “A godly man engages in the trade of prayer so that he may increase in the stock of grace “ (92).

Prayer that is accompanied with the use of means: There must be works, diligence and fruit along with prayer – pray against sin and avoid temptation.

What Does God Take Pleasure In? Psalm 147

2011-03-31T10:04:00.000-07:00

Psalm 147 is a call for us to praise the LORD, for it is becoming of us to do so who have been given His ordinances and who are His people. It is a call for us to remember how the LORD heals the brokenhearted, gathers the outcasts and binds up the wounded. It is a call for us to recognize His mighty hand in the cover of clouds on high, the rain for the earth here below, and the food for every beast of the fields; in wool-like snow, the frost as ash and the ice as fragments – who can stand before His cold? In the wind that blows and the waters that flow; in the grass upon the mountainside and the word that runs swiftly to accomplish all that He has ordained. Psalm 147 is an amazing song of praise to a great, glorious and reigning God!

With this as the context of Psalm 147, I would like to narrow in on two verses that have convicted my heart and trained me in righteousness this day:

“His delight is not in the strength of the horse, nor His pleasure in the legs of a man, but the LORD takes pleasure in those who fear Him, in those who hope in His steadfast love” (verses 10-11).

Lately, I have been focusing a lot of my attention, time and discipline on improving my biking and running times. Although I believe wholeheartedly in the value and command to do all things for the glory of God (i.e. biking and running), I cannot help but be convicted that what is extremely imperative in the process of working as to the LORD and not unto men is to fear God and hope in His steadfast love. All my efforts, all my training, all my dedication are for naught if I neglect such a great command as giving God pleasure in my heart’s motives. It is not in the legs of a man that His pleasure is found; rather, it is in that man’s properly placed fear and hope that bring pleasure to God…while he runs.

Prayfully Humbled

2011-03-29T05:55:00.000-07:00

“We have a sea of sin, and only a drop of suffering” (123) – Thomas Watson

Pray - for our brothers and sisters in Christ who are being persecuted.

Humble - ourselves, for we are great sinners and Jesus a great Savior.

Thomas Watson’s “The Godly Man’s Picture”: Servant

2011-03-26T14:30:00.001-07:00

A servant of God…

1. Leaves all others and follows only one Master – leave your service to sin, for it is a tyrannizing master, and cling to Christ
2. Refrains from independence in order to depend upon another – be at the will of the Master to do whatsoever He commands
3. Binds himself to Christ alone – rather “die by persecution than live by perjury” (38)
4. Wears the armor of God so as to do the work of God – be as Paul and work harder than all the rest unto your last breath
5. Follows hard after the Master – while others choose to wander after their beastly passion, you may tread the steps of the Lamb
6. Finds satisfaction in the allowance of a servant – be willing to live on the provisions of good and sovereign Master

7. Stands up for the honor of the King – be zealous for the honor of such a Master as Christ the LORD and Savior of His sheep

Thomas Watson’s “The Godly Man’s Picture”: Knowledge

2011-03-23T15:26:00.000-07:00

The eight rare ingredients of a godly man’s knowledge of God:

1. It is a grounded knowledge – based upon the Word and the Spirit
2. It is an appreciative knowledge – “He who esteems God above the glory of heaven and the comforts of the earth know Him” (21)
3. It is an enlivening knowledge – like John the Baptist: ‘a burning and a shining lamp’ and animated by truth
4. It is an appropriating knowledge – “A medicine is best when it is applied; [this] applicative knowledge is joyful” (22)
5. It is a transforming knowledge – looking at a surgeon does not make us well; but, looking on Christ wisely makes us holy
6. It is a self-empting knowledge – “True knowledge brings a man out of love with himself” (23)
7. It is a growing knowledge – “True knowledge is like the light of the morning, which increases on the horizon till it comes to the full meridian” (23)It is a practical knowledge – improving a godly man’s sight, pace and obedience to Christ

Characteristics of a Godly Man (2): "The Godly Man's Picture"

2011-03-18T17:39:00.000-07:00

Here are the last 12 characteristics of a godly man in Thomas Watson’s book titled, “The Godly Man’s Picture.”

13. A godly man is a man who is Sincere – who he is on the outside is who he is on the inside: pure gold in deed, thought and motivation
14. A godly man is a man who is Heavenly – “Heaven is in him before he is in heaven” (103)
15. A godly man is a man who is Zealous – for righteousness, purity, holiness and the glory of God
16. A godly man is a man who is Patient – in waiting, in trials, in prayer; patient with the will of God and patient with others
17. A godly man is a man who is Thankful – it is becoming of the redeemed to praise God with thanksgiving always
18. A godly man is a man who Loves the Saints – “The best way to discern grace in oneself is to love grace in others” (139)
19. A godly man is a man who does not Indulge – refusing to give refuge in one’s heart to any kind of sin
20. A godly man is a man who is good in Relationships – “To be good is not enough, but we must show piety in our relationships” (153)
21. A godly man is a man who is Spiritual – doing spiritual things in a spiritual manner (“he is not only for the doing of holy things, but for the holy doing of things” (161))
22. A godly man is a man who Trained – in religion, obeying the commandments of God to the tenth degree
23. A godly man is a man who Walks – with God, under His eye, above the earth, fearfully and pleasantly walking
24. A godly man is a man who strives to be an Instrument – of other godliness, growth, Christ-likeness and sanctification

Lord willing, the next few posts will be focused on narrowing in on some of Watson’s characteristics of a godly man.

Rob Bell's Book: "Love Wins"

2011-03-16T06:22:00.000-07:00

If you have not already heard about Rob Bell's newly released book titled "Love Wins" I am sure you will soon enough. Here are a few good blog entries/videos in response to his unbiblical and heretical thoughts about heaven, hell and the salvation of souls:

Justin Taylor's blog and Kevin DeYoung's blog

Characteristics of a Godly Man: “The Godly Man's Picture"

2011-03-13T15:15:00.000-07:00

The following 12 characteristics are taken from Thomas Watson’s book titled, “The Godly man’s Picture.”

1. A godly man is a man of Knowledge – grounded in God’s Word and enlightened by the Spirit of God
2. A godly man is a man moved by Faith – living, breathing and acting in faith in God
3. A godly man is a man fired with Love – towards God and towards others
4. A godly man is a man that Reflects – being like God by being conformed to Christ
5. A godly man is a man of Worship – being exact and careful about worshipping God Almighty
6. A godly man is a man who is a Servant – serving God with heart, soul, mind and strength
7. A godly man is a man who prices Christ – seeing Christ as precious and valuable beyond words
8. A godly man is a man who is an Evangelical Weeper – weeping over sin and depravity
9. A godly man is a man who loves the Word – reading, meditating and delighting in God’s written Word
10. A godly man is a man who has the Spirit – the Holy Spirit dwells in the children of God
11. A godly man is a man who is Humble – outward and inward humility by God’s grace
12. A godly man is a man who Prays – the godly pray unto a sufficient and all- powerful God

The last 12 characteristics of a godly man will follow, Lord willing, in the next post.

Quotes from “The Godly Man’s Picture”: Thomas Watson

2011-03-05T16:12:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to share a couple quotes from Thomas Watson’s book titled, “The Godly Man’s Picture.”

(7) “The soul being so precious, and salvation so glorious, it is the highest point of prudence to make preparations for another world.”

(37) “A sinner is a slave when he sins with most freedom.”

(21) “To know God out of Christ is to know Him as an enemy, but to know Him in Christ is sweet and delicious.”

What does a picture of a godly man look like? In my next post, I will give 24 characteristics of a godly man.

Getting to Know the Blogsterrete (6): elizabeth s. davis

2011-03-04T17:41:00.000-08:00

Reading such things as this blog post increase my zeal for missions a hundredfold. Please pray that the gospel of Christ is preached boldly in the rural areas of Zambia and that many come to the Living Water - the Savior!

Prayer Request: Alaska-Bound Family

2011-03-03T10:22:00.000-08:00

My brother-in-law, twin sister and two nieces are soon headed indefinitely to the unreached people groups of Alaska to share the immeasurably hopeful gospel of Christ! Although my family is sorrowful at their soon departure, we are also rejoicing at God's perfect timing, ways and purposes. Please pray that God would open doors for them to share the gospel, that they would be encouraged by other believers there and that many in Alaska would respond in faith and repentance to the Word of God being preached. Thank you in advance for all your prayers to our all-sufficient and good God on high!!

Advantages of Meditating upon God’s Providence: For the Dying

2011-02-19T14:22:00.000-08:00

In John Flavel’s book titled, “The Mystery of Providence,” he has a chapter titled, The Advantages of Meditating on Providence. He gives 10 reasons why Christians should meditate upon the providence of God.

The last reason he gives for meditating on God’s providence has been personally exhortative due to fact that there have a number of saved older people in my life and the lives of others I know whom God has chosen to number their days shorter than today (Psalm 90 & 139).

Flavel writes, “Finally, the consideration and study of Providence will be of singular use to us in our dying hour” (174). What may sweeten our death and the death of others? What may bring peace to what otherwise may be our most difficult circumstance ever experienced? What hope must we have that frees us to rejoice inexpressibly in what, or who, lies beyond the grave?

Our souls are most assaulted on our dying beds as our enemy tempts us to doubt, to regret and to think upon “blackened suggestions.” Jesus Himself faced such suggestions from Satan; yet, He responded in prayer and belief in His Father’s goodness of will to be done. So we must likewise respond in our dying hour. So we must pray for those in their dying hour.

May I recommend we pray two things? One – that those who are dying may remember that at death their employment will be of everlastingly sweet worship of their God who saved them by grace. Two – that we who have life’s vigor breath still in us store up for ourselves memory after memory of God’s faithful providences that we may be strong unto the end of our last memory.

LORD God, I pray to You for those around my parents’ age who are witnessing the dying days of their parents, as well as those whose life breath is near the end. Please cause them to rely upon Your sufficient mercies in Christ. I pray that they would hope unlike the world, believe unlike the world and know with full confidence that Christ has conquered death by death.

In Loving Memory: Grandpa Harnish

2011-02-18T12:08:00.001-08:00

Our good and gracious Lord took my Grandfather home this past week. I love thinking upon how God saved my grandpa. Our family had been praying for my grandpa's salvation over many years and with many tears. Then one day the Lord led a pastor from a local Bible church to share the Gospel with my grandpa. That pastor visited him almost every week sharing with him treasures from God's Word and to pray with him. While in his old age, my grandpa was saved by God! He became a new creation and with my memory of him I remember God's faithfulness to our family in saving my grandpa. Soli Deo Gloria [For the Glory of God Alone]!!!!

This is my grandpa with his great-grandchildren.

Practical Implications of God’s Providence: John Flavel

2011-02-13T15:09:00.001-08:00

If God is truly sovereign and we are truly dependant upon Him, then how are we to practically live our lives as to His glory and for our good? John Flavel answers this question in his book, “The Mystery of Providence.”

First, it is our duty to recognize His good and sovereign hand in our comfort and afflictions. What conviction we should have if we neglect to see His good purposes behind all that befalls us, either good or harm!

Second, if God hand’s is behind all that befalls us, it is our duty to recognize what great condescension it is for God Almighty to tenderly care for creatures such as us – dust and vapor. Should He withdraw His care for you for a moment, that moment would be your ruin.

Third, it is our duty, if we hold to all we have thus said, to make every effort to perform our day-to-day activities for His glory and not our own. If God plants the seed of the Word in you, waters it and brings it growth, should we not bear much fruit for His kingdom?!

Fourth, as we live our lives in light of God’s providential hand in all things, we should not fear new afflictions and difficulties that arise in our future. He has taken care of you thus far; trust Him unto the end.

Fifth, it is our duty to pray. God has designed prayer to reach His throne and He has designed His providences to respond to such prayers of faith from His saints. Pray, pray, pray!

Sixth, when we serve, pray, benefit and receive all things by such a great and good God, what response can we give, but a wholeheartedly desire to please such a God. It is our duty to please Him, and what a glorious privilege it is to serve such a One as He!

"The Mystery of Providence": John Flavel

2011-02-06T15:38:00.000-08:00

“I cry unto God Most High; unto God that performeth all things for me.” (Psalm 57:2)

In John Flavel’s book titled, “The Mystery of Providence,” he outlines five areas where God’s good and perfect providence is evident in our lives. This Puritan author does an excellent job of displaying and explaining God’s sovereign goodness to us in all things.

One – God’s providence is evident in our birth and upbringing. (Psalm 139:15) From the place and time of our birth to the formation and protection given us in the womb, God reigns.

Two – God’s providence is evident in our work of conversion. (John 10) Oh, how often we are reminded of the graceful seeds sown in our hearts prior to them sprouting with life by the One who makes them grow?!

Three – God’s providence is evident in our employment. (1 Corinthians 7:20) God’s directs us to not live idle lives; but rather, He blesses us with callings and employments suitable to us.

Four – God’s providence is evident in our family affairs. (Proverbs 18:22; Psalm 127:3) Our good God has given us family members perfectly suited for us and we should see His hand behind every relationship we have.

Five – God’s providence is evident in our perseverance and sanctification. (1 Corinthians 10:13; Romans 8) It is God alone who enables us to endure unto the end and it is He alone who sanctifies by Word and by the Holy Spirit.

“It is the great support and solace of the saints in all the distresses that befall them here, that there is a wise Spirit sitting in all the wheels of motion, and governing the most eccentric creatures and their most pernicious designs to blessed and happy issues.” (15)

IMHO: In My Humble Opinion

2011-01-29T16:33:00.001-08:00

The following thoughts are “in my humble opinion:”

In recent years, brothers and sisters in Christ have increased their focus, prayers, missions and purposes towards those in areas of the world who have yet to be reached with the gospel of Christ. What a wonderful and God-given focus! I praise God for His sovereign hand in leading the Church into missionary positions among the unreached people groups!

However, in my humble opinion, I think it is worth saying that focusing our prayer, resources, missions and purposes in already reached people groups is no less important and God-given. I am thinking specifically of places where the gospel has been already taken, but those living there have no one to disciple them in the way of the Word. May we not neglect the commission to go and make disciples, which was given to us by Jesus our Savior in the Book of Matthew, Chapter 28.

People who I deeply respect have sacrificed immensely to spread the Good News of Jesus Christ to people groups who had never heard the gospel; I would like to encourage us to sacrifice no less for those who desperately need to be discipled in the gospel of Christ. May we refuse to neglect this vital responsibility by praying to our good and sovereign God with all fervency and diligence on their behalf.

President Obama & Abortion: Justin Taylor

2011-01-23T17:59:00.000-08:00

The following was taken from Justin Taylor's blog. May we take serious the genocide that is legally happening in our country and may we diligently pray for the unborn whom God has sovereignly created in His image.

The President’s statement on the Roe v. Wade anniversary:

"Today marks the 38th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, the Supreme Court decision that protects women’s health and reproductive freedom, and affirms a fundamental principle: that government should not intrude on private family matters.

I am committed to protecting this constitutional right. I also remain committed to policies, initiatives, and programs that help prevent unintended pregnancies, support pregnant women and mothers, encourage healthy relationships, and promote adoption.

And on this anniversary, I hope that we will recommit ourselves more broadly to ensuring that our daughters have the same rights, the same freedoms, and the same opportunities as our sons to fulfill their dreams."

Which reminds me of this response to the President a few years ago:

Getting to Know the Blogsterrette (5): elizabeth s. davis

2011-01-22T15:49:00.000-08:00

trep·i·da·tion
1. A state of alarm or dread; apprehension.
2. An involuntary trembling or quivering.

Who has time for that!?

"The Bruised Reed" Quotes: Richard Sibbes

2011-01-22T13:23:00.000-08:00

“After conversion we need bruising so that reeds may know themselves to be reeds, not oaks.” (5)

“It is better to go bruised to heaven than sound to hell.” (13)

“…but keep ourselves under this work [bruising] till sin be the sourest, and Christ the sweetest, of all things.” (13)

“Life in the winter is hid in the root.” (35)

“There is nothing in the world more uneasy than the heart of a wicked man made to listen to spiritual instruction, until, like a thief, he puts out the candle so that he may sin with less restraint.” (41)

“And little sins, when God shall awaken the conscience and ‘set them in order’ before us (Psalm 50:21) will prove great burdens, and not bruise a reed, but shake a cedar.” (60)

“We are only poor for this reason, that we may know our riches in Christ.” (61)

“The least love we have to him is but a reflection of his love first shining upon us.” (66)

“There are those who take up a hope of their own, that Christ will suffer them to walk in the ways to hell, and yet bring them to heaven.” (67-68)

“They seek for heaven in hell that seek for spiritual love in an unchanged heart.” (81)

Why Christ’s Kingdom Must Prevail: Richard Sibbes

2011-01-15T15:15:00.000-08:00

Why will Christ’s government be victorious? Richard Sibbes answers this question in his book The Bruised Reed.

Why We Can Hope That We Will Overcome

1. Christ has conquered all in His own person and He is over all. Through the life, death, resurrection and promise of His second coming, we are made victors against any sinful opposition.
2. Christ has conquered the enemy. “If they [the enemies] rise up again, it is to have the greater fall.” (92) Christ has won!
3. Christ has promised to leave behind the Holy Spirit and His Word. “…both the Word and the Spirit are might in operation (Hebrews 4:12) (92) He who dwells in us will drive out all that rise up against Him.
4. Christ has promised us final victory. “Heaven is our already, only we strive till we have full possession.” (92) The victory over temptation and corruption is a pledge unto us.
5. Christ has become King forever. Where Christ’s kingship reigns, there we will find knees bowed and heads lifted, for His kingdom will be an everlasting and merciful one.
6. Christ has been raised and so we too shall be raised. The power of the Spirit used to raise Christ will be the same power that sanctifies the Church today, that we may overcome sin and the enemy.

What a mighty, sovereign and good God we serve…for He saved us by the blood of the Son and has promised us a sure future salvation!

Offending Christ’s Mercy: Richard Sibbes

2011-01-09T14:16:00.000-08:00

How does one offend Christ’s mercy? Richard Sibbes answers this question in his book The Bruised Reed.

Ways We Offend Christ’s Mercy

1. False despair of Christ’s mercy. There are men who despair to come to Christ because they have such little, if nothing, to offer to Him.
2. False hope of Christ’s mercy. There are those who think Christ will walk with them into hell-becoming sin, yet carry them effortlessly into heavenly bliss.
3. Resisting Christ’s mercy. There are some who put it upon themselves to labor against the kindness of God’s mercy in Christ Jesus.
4. Presuming on Christ’s mercy. There are many in our day who walk carnally according to their flesh and yet think they can presume upon mercy.
5. Seeking another source of mercy. Who could ever bring such saving mercy as Jesus Christ our Savior?!
6. Mistreating the heirs of mercy. There are those who think mistreating Christ’s bride will go unpunished. How shall we receive the mercy of Jesus and not let it overflow into others’ lives?
7. Strife among the heirs of mercy. There is war from enemies without; there is also division at home. This should not be so.
8. Despising the simple means of mercy. There are some who have pride in their hearts, rendering them unable to apprehend the simplicity of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

May we be ever watchful for offending Christ’s mercy, for it is such a glorious gift to us bruised reed and smoking flaxes.

Marks of the Smoking Flax: Richard Sibbes

2010-12-31T17:18:00.000-08:00

My 29th birthday gift from my husband was a Puritan collection set of 14 books. It is my year 2011 goal to read one Puritan book every month for 12 months (plus 2 additional books if time allows). I was so grateful to Ben for his gift!

All this to say: I have begun to read The Bruised Reed by Richard Sibbes on Isaiah 42:1-3. The following was taken from his chapter on “The Marks of the Smoking Flax.”

Enjoy!

Marks of the Smoking Flax that Christ will not Quench

1. If there be any holy fire in us, it must be kindled from on high. Natural men see not the light of truth in the glory of Christ (2 Corinthians 4:6); rather, it is those of a heavenly nature whose wick burns brightly.
2. If there be any holy fire in us, it must produce heat. Even a little spiritual light can make a dark room lit. Even a weak light can do battle against the principalities of darkness.
3. If there be any holy fire in us, it must be directed properly. Some have fire much like lightning – one flash and then they are more in the dark afterwards. This is not so with a true fire. God’s sparks blaze in the proper heavenly direction.
4. If there be any holy fire in us, it must know the difference between things of the flesh and things of the spirit. Our faith in the true fire of God will burn away dross, but leave behind gold.
5. If there be any holy fire in us, it must be a delight to us. A man will put out the light that he may sin; whereas a man of God will welcome the light to put out his sin.
6. If there be any holy fire in us, it must be active. Carnal men may work, but it is the faithful who find their fire active in the Spirit of God to produce good works for God’s glory.
7. If there be any holy fire in us, it must make the metals of our heart pliable. As fire upon a metal makes it pliable and malleable, so this true fire will do to our hearts.
8. If there be any holy fire in us, it must set everything else on fire. What carnal men do in a civil way, spiritual men do wholly to make all things serviceable to the glory of God.
9. If there be any holy fire in us, it must have sparks that float upward. Our minds and hearts should be set upon things in heaven and not things of this earth.
10. If there be any holy fire in us, it must increase in intensity and greatness. A true smoking flax will grow into a flame; praise God for not quenching such a wick as you and I!

Hold Fast: The Book of Hebrews

2010-12-26T13:56:00.000-08:00

What exactly should we be “holding fast” to in this world where holding fast to things (i.e. jobs, money, homes, people, entertainment, comfort, achievement) is so important?

Hebrews 3:6
“…but Christ was faithful as a Son over His house – whose house we are, if we hold fast our confidence and the boast of our hope firm until the end.”

Hebrews 3:14
“For we have become partakers of Christ, if we hold fast the beginning of our assurance firm until the end…”

Hebrews 4:14
“Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession.”

Hebrews 10:23“Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.”

Dreams 29-35: Order, Particular, Not

2010-12-18T10:59:00.000-08:00

29. Be a park ranger and guide with my husband
30. Be a bridesmaid at Lacey Stovall's future wedding to a godly man who plays guitar, wants to go on missions to Gaza, is crazy about her (who couldn’t be!), is a risk-taker for the gospel and lives in or near Billings, Montana
31. Discuss the sovereignty of God with Chrissy and Michael Boyd over a DiGiorno pizza in their bungalow
32. Be a professional swing dancer
33. Be the happiest person in Christ on the face of the planet on any given day
34. Live to see Christ’s second coming

35. Read all of John Piper’s sermons (I am currently in February, 1988)

Dreams 22-28: Order = Not Particular

2010-12-15T19:47:00.001-08:00

22. Master a Puritan author (haven’t picked which one yet)
23. Be fluent in another language
24. Meet Steve Camp in person
25. Be a Christian songwriter
26. Publicly debate William P. Young concerning his book The Shack
27. Start a one-year Bible institute with my husband
28. Smuggle Bibles into China

Dreams 15-21: In No Particular Order

2010-12-12T12:11:00.000-08:00

15. Study physics in college-level courses
16. Play in one professional women’s basketball game
17. Bike up the Beartooth Mountains
18. Work as an F.B.I. agent
19. Write a children’s book series on the sovereignty of God in daily living
20. See the Denver Broncos win next year’s Super Bowl XLVI with Tim Tebow as quarterback and Mike Shannahan as head coach
21. Live to see Kiefer Sutherland be saved (Jack Bauer on 24)

My Dreams: 8-14: In No Particular Order

2010-12-08T05:45:00.001-08:00

8. Memorize all the psalms and epistles
9. See someone be made into a new creation as I share with them the gospel
10. Visit every national park at least once
11. Hike every trail in Glacier National Park
12. Be a mother to 10 + kiddos
13. Work as an archaeologist
14. Visit Vermont in the fall

My Dreams 1-7: In No Particular Order

2010-12-04T10:30:00.000-08:00

1. Work among the Lozi people of Zambia, Africa with HeartCry Ministries
2. Work in an orphanage for the glory of God
3. Compete in a triathlon
4. Write a book of personal poems
5. Publish a non-fiction short story
6. Get my masters degree
7. Live at least one year in a tepee made by TurningBear Mason

Getting to Know the Blogsterrete (4): elizabeth s. davis

2010-11-28T15:11:00.000-08:00

Enough about me - I want to know about you!

Interview #2: Shilloy Lowe

2010-11-26T18:06:00.000-08:00

Elizabeth Davis & Jonathan Edwards: A Fictional Interview

2010-11-18T18:25:00.000-08:00

The following was written for my Church History class. Enjoy!

Elizabeth Davis [hereby ED]: Welcome Jonathan! We are so glad you could join us today!

Jonathan Edwards [hereby JE]: Thank you! I am ecstatic and elated to be here, Elizabeth!

ED: Well, we have a lot on our plate to talk with you about, so we had better get started. Jonathan, I am sure you are aware of the different topics we will be discussing today concerning your publication of Freedom of the Will. However, first of all, I would like to read you a statement by Perry Miller, an interpreter of the Puritanism movement. He claims that your treatise, Freedom of the Will, could establish you as the greatest philosopher/theologian ever to grace America.[1] Would you say that your view of the freedom of man’s will still coincides with what you once wrote in the eighteenth century?

JE: I most certainly adhere to the sovereignty of God in the midst of man’s depravity, thus establishing the solid foundational truths evidenced in my treatise, Freedom of the Will.

ED: That now established, I would like to please delve into Sam Storms’ dissertation on your document and its implications upon your view of the will in direct correlation with Adam’s sin in the garden.[2] Have you read Storms’ exposition?

JE: I have, Elizabeth, and I found it to be thorough, accurate, yet needing some clarification in its Adamic perspective of the origin of sin.

ED: That brings me to my first question: how did Adam sin?

JE: You do start out with the most complex questions, don’t you? To answer your question comprehensively, I think we must first begin with my critique of libertarianism and concept of the will, as Storms has done in his essay, and then proceed to address the more difficult questions involving the original sin, as well as its origination.

ED: I agree wholeheartedly, Jonathan. Why don’t you tell our readers a little bit about libertarianism, as well as your response to its contradictions to Calvinist theology?

JE: The libertarian freedom concept incoherently and incompletely answers the questions of the “will.” Libertarians insist “the will must exercise a certain sovereignty over itself whereby it determines or causes itself to act and choose.”[3] The result of this belief is infinite regress; or to put it in a simpler manner, if someone’s initial will chooses to act, then a second will independent of their initial will must choose to act, resulting in a third will independent of their second will choosing to act, and so on into infinity. Consequently, you can see how libertarianism thought collides directly with Calvinist theology (i.e. original sin, sovereignty of grace, the nature of saving faith, conversion).[4]

ED: How would you answer their argument that acts of will come in and of themselves, independent of second, third, and fourth wills? That they happen spontaneously? Mysteriously?

JE: “Nothing is causeless, except the uncaused First Cause, God. To argue for volitional spontaneity would render all human choice random and haphazard, with no reason, intent, or motive accounting for its existence.”[5]

ED: Well, how about an indifferent will that chooses between two or more things that are perfectly equal in desire as perceived by the mind?

JE: That is simple, Elizabeth. Storms himself states that, “to choose is, by definition, to prefer”[6] or fancy; therefore, what is fancied obviously exercises a greater influence on the will. Next question, please.

ED: I must say…you are very acquainted with Storms’ article! Jonathan, those supporting the libertarian viewpoint might contest that it is not so much a matter of the act of the will, but in the determining so to act. How would you address that argument?

JE: “What is asserted is, that the will, while it yet remains in perfect equilibrium, without preference, determines to change itself from that state, and excite in itself a certain choice or preference.”[7] Logically, this is absurd! This argument is subject to my earlier objection that of: what is fancied obviously exercises a greater influence on the determination of the will.

ED: Finally, my last question on this subject before we launch into the problematic issue of Adam’s first sin: what if the acts of the will were unnecessary? What if they could easily not happen as happen?[8]

JE: I must confess that to amply answer that question, I would need to give over an hour’s response. The answer would involve the conceptual differences of natural necessity and moral necessity; if your readers would like to learn more on these topics, Storm’s explanation in his essay is satisfactory.

ED: Well, now is the time to address a controversial subject: the origin of sin. Jonathan, I am sure you are well aware of the various explanations for sin’s origination. I am sure that you are also aware of the fact that Storms courageously tackles your explanation of Adam’s first sin, concluding your viewpoint to be one of two things: either incomprehensive or irreverent.

JE: I am aware of his fundamental issues with my viewpoint; however, I know he would agree with me that God was not the cause of the existence of sin. Unexplainably and unambiguously, the question still remains: why and how did Adam sin?

ED: Yes. And that is the question our readers would like to hear you wrestle with in our time remaining. Please indulge us with your wisdom.

JE: By God grace alone, I will attempt to humbly answer such a lofty question. My first line of response would be that of the notion of divine permission. “There is a great difference between God’s being concerned, thus, by his permission, in an event and act, which in the inherent subject and agent of it, is sin…and his being concerned in it by producing it and exerting the act of sin…”[9] Are you following me, Elizabeth?

ED: I am. Please continue.

JE: My second line of response would be that of explaining my view of the nature of Adam and his will created before the fall. “When God made man at first, he implanted in him two kinds of principles. There was an inferior kind, which may be called natural, being the principles of mere human nature; such as self-love, with those natural appetites and passions, which belong to the nature of man, in which his love to his own liberty, honor and pleasure were exercised.” Additionally, there were “superior principles, that were spiritual, holy and divine, summarily comprehended in divine love; wherein consisted the spiritual image of God, and man’s righteousness and true holiness; which are called in Scripture the divine nature.”[10] Consequently, when Adam sinned, these superior principles, or original righteousness, departed from his nature, thus resulting in the total corruption of the heart.

ED: As you know, Jonathan, Storms states, “If total corruption of the heart followed the initial transgression, and was therefore not its cause, but its consequence, how did Adam sin?”[11]

JE: It is easy “to give an account, how total corruption of heart should follow on man’s eating the forbidden fruit, though that was but one act of sin, without God’s putting any evil into his heart, or implanting any bad principles, or infusing any corrupt taint and so being the author of depravity.”[12] I wholeheartedly believe that Adam’s sin was not self-determined, nor did God initiate sin; therefore, I believe that the withdrawal from Adam of the divine nature was subsequent to his transgression. The fall and departure of God’s grace resulted from an imperfection in the created, not from God.

ED: Yet how do you combat the logical conclusion that if God is exempt from the initial transgression of Adam and Adam is a righteous, yet imperfect being of a Perfect God, then again, how do you explain man’s first sin? “What in Adam was subject to being deceived to sin if, as argued, Adam was righteous?”[13]

JE: Adam was created upright and righteous, preferring good from the moment of his inception. What happened was not so much that God took away His grace from Adam prior to Adam’s temptation to transgress, but that in the moment of temptation, God did not give him more grace. God gave Adam “sufficient” grace, but not “efficacious” grace.[14]

ED: I think we would both agree that this question of the origin of sin might never be completely understood this side of Heaven. I think we would also agree that it is only by God’s grace alone that we prevail in the midst of sin’s tempting lures.

JE: Yes, and what we most hold fast to at all times is the absolute sovereignty of God; for when those trials do come, we can rest assured that our God exercises dominion over all!

ED: Jonathan, thank you for joining us here at One Desire. Would you like to please end by quoting your favorite verse?

JE: Most certainly. 1 Timothy 1:17 “Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.”

[1] John H. Gerstner, Jonathan Edwards: A Mini-Theology (Wheaton: Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., 1987), 9.
[2] Sam Storms. “Edwards on the Will”; available from http://www.enjoyinggodministries.com/article/edwards-on-the-will; Internet; accessed 27 April 2008.
[3] Ibid.
[4] Ibid.
[5] Ibid.
[6] Ibid.
[7] Ibid.
[8] Ibid.
[9] Ibid.
[10] Ibid.
[11] Ibid.
[12] Ibid.
[13] Ibid.
[14] Ibid.

Biblical Counseling: A Puritan Model

2010-11-13T19:34:00.000-08:00

[The following is taken from an article written by Tim Keller on the CCEF website]

The works of the Puritans are a rich resource for biblical counselors because:

1. The Puritans were committed to the functional authority of the Scripture. For them it was the comprehensive manual for dealing with all problems of the heart.

The Bible was the main authority for the Puritans in helping souls in distress. They considered the Scripture more than comprehensive enough to deal with every basic human condition or problem.
2. The Puritans developed a sophisticated and sensitive system of diagnosis for personal problems, distinguishing a variety of physical, spiritual, tempermental and demonic causes.

John Owen was representative when he taught that every pastor must understand all the various cases of depression, fear, discouragement, and conflict that are found in the souls of men.
3. The Puritans developed a remarkable balance in their treatment because they were not invested in any one ‘personality theory’ other than biblical teaching about the heart.

The Puritans were so balanced in their diagnosis of the causes of personal problems. We should not be surprised to discover that they were just as balanced in their prescriptions and treatments.
4. The Puritans were realistic about difficulties of the Christian life, especially conflicts with remaining, indwelling sin.

The Puritans, with just a few exceptions, were staunchly Reformed in their theology. They believed, therefore, in the radical depravity of man’s heart and in the continued presence of indwelling sin in the believer.
5. The Puritans looked not just at behavior but at underlying root motives and desires. Man is a worshipper; all problems grow out of ‘sinful imagination’ or idol manufacturing.

To understand better the Puritans’ counseling approach, we must observe that they considered the essential character of sin to be ‘idoltry’ and the fundamental nature of man to be creature who must worship.

6. The Puritans considered the essential spiritual remedy to be belief in the gospel, used in both repentance and the development of proper self-understanding.

Believers receive power and boldness and joy to the degree that they grasp the reality of their standing in Christ. Spirit power comes from filling the mind with, reflecting on, and acting in accord with our position: a son, a temple of the Holy Spirit, a king seated and reigning.

May our present day pastoral counseling reflect the gospel-richness our Puritan brothers modeled for us so long ago.

"I Think My Wife's A Calvinist"

2010-11-06T12:21:00.000-07:00

Check out this hilarious video on Believers' Bungalow blog.

How Can I Glorify God?

2010-11-02T18:53:00.000-07:00

The following is taken from Kevin DeYoung's blog.

I imagine most readers of this blog want to glorify God. The chief end of man, after all, is to glorify God and enjoy him forever. But have you ever thought about how to glorify God—I mean practically in every day life?

Here are twenty biblical ways you can:

1. Give God verbal declarations of praise (Rev. 4:8-9).
2. Live a life of noticeable piety (Matt. 5:16; James 1:27; 1 Peter 2:12).
3. Ask God for things in Jesus’ name (John 14:13).
4. Bear fruit and show yourself to be a disciple of Jesus (John 15:8).
5. Declare the truth about Jesus (John 16:14).
6. Love your life less than God (John 21:19; 1 Peter 1:7; 4:16).
7. Worship God as God (Rom. 1:21).
8. Live a life of sexual purity (1 Cor. 6:20).
9. Live a life of generosity (2 Cor. 9:13).
10. Rejoice in God’s glory displayed in creation (Psalm 19:1).
11. Do the works of faith (2 Thess. 1:12).
12. Use your gifts in God’s strength (1 Peter 4:11).
13. Make sure everyone knows you’re not God (Acts 12:23).
14. Live a life of gratitude (Psalm 50:23; 2 Cor. 4:15).
15. In matters of liberty, seek the good of others (1 Cor 10:31).
16. Extend grace to sinners (2 Cor. 8:19).
17. Be a part of a local church (2 Cor. 8:23; Eph. 3:20-21).
18. Tell God you are wrong and he is right (Josh. 7:19; Jer. 13:16; Rev. 16:9).
19. Obey God (Lev. 10:3; Mal. 2:2).
20. Go from a Christ-despiser to a Christ-worshiper (Gal. 1:24).

J.C. Ryle: The Duty of Parents

2010-10-23T08:44:00.000-07:00

Prayer:

Parents, if you love your children, do all that lies within your power to train them to have a habit of prayer. Show them how to begin. Tell them what to say. Encourage them to persevere. Remind them if they become careless and slack about it. Let it not be your fault, if they never call on the name of the Lord.

Soul:

Precious, no doubt, are these little ones in your eyes; but if you truly love them, then often think about their souls. Nothing should concern you as greatly as their eternal destiny. No part of them should be so dear to you as that part which will never die.

This is the thought that should be uppermost on your mind in all that you do for your children. In every step you take about them, in every plan, and scheme, and arrangement that concerns them, do not leave out that mighty question, ‘How will this affect their souls?’

Bible:

“See that they read it all. You need not shrink from bringing any doctrine before them. You need not assume that the leading doctrines of Christianity are things which children cannot understand. Children understand far more of the Bible than we are apt to suppose.

Ephesians: Six Layers of Corruption

2010-10-17T15:08:00.000-07:00

In John Piper’s sermon series on Ephesians 4-5 in 1986, he gives us six layers of corruptions in unbelievers written about in Ephesians 4:17-21. They are as follows:

1. Hardness of heart (18)
2. Darkened understanding (18)
3. Ignorance of reality (18)
4. Covetousness and licentiousness (19)
5. Life of futility (17)
6. Alienated from the life of God (18)

But by the grace of God go I…

John Calvin: Can't Wait to See Christ

2010-10-09T18:46:00.000-07:00

“Let us consider this settled, that no one has made progress in the school of Christ who does not joyfully await the day of death and final resurrection.”

Interview #1 - Alayna

2010-10-09T18:41:00.000-07:00

Getting to Know the Blogsterette (3): elizabeth s. davis

2010-10-05T18:36:00.000-07:00

A little know fact about me – I am a massively huge Denver Bronco fan. I named my late dog “McCaffery” after wide receiver, number 87, Denver Bronco player Ed McCaffery. I made plans at the age of 10 to name my children after John Elway. I had a life-size cutout of Elway in my bedroom, kept every newspaper the year the Broncos won Super Bowl 32 in 1998, and owned Bronco candy, cereal, popcorn and shoelaces. My favorite colors were blue and orange. And I carried a Denver Bronco lunchbox to school daily until my later middle school years when the boys kept taunting me for my loyalty to a losing team (the Broncos lost so many games my 6th grade year that I was afraid to go to school at times).

Needless to say, God was working on my heart during my younger years because I was oftentimes obsessed with the Denver Broncos. I honestly needed to repent of my idolatry at times. Presently, I am a solid fan who cares more for God’s glory than the win of my favorite team.

With this in mind, I cannot help but pray for Tim Tebow. Our brother in Christ is in the midst right now of a battlefield…not on the playfield, but in the heavenly realms. He is idolized by many, he has many expectations upon him by many and he is, like all of us, susceptible to the flesh. Our passion for God’s glory should compel us to pray for Tebow as he is among the famous, the rich and the proud.

Recently, I read an article about how Tebow has honored God with his faithful walk of purity, humility and gentleness. However, people are surrounding him with praise that, I pray, will not cause him to stumble; I pray he will stand strong upon God’s Word and not yearn for men’s appraisal; I pray that he will glorify God greatly as He is the one placing Tebow in the spotlight.

For the record, in due time I will get getting a Tebow Bronco jersey…and Ben and I will not be naming our children after John Elway…just so you know.

Mercy & Grace: In the Life of Peter

2010-09-24T18:32:00.001-07:00

It amazes me every time I think upon this reality of God's mercy and grace:

Matthew 10:32-33 “Therefore everyone who confesses Me before men, I will also confess him before My Father who is in heaven. But whoever denies Me before men, I will also deny him before My Father who is in heaven.”

Matthew 26:75 “And Peter remembered the word which Jesus had said, ‘Before a rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.’ And he went out and wept bitterly.”

And Peter was forgiven.

The enemy's Plan: May We Fight for Unity

2010-09-19T16:05:00.000-07:00

The enemy knows he cannot separate or divide us from Christ (Romans 8:38-39); therefore, he knows the only separation or dividing he can do is between brothers and sisters in Christ. May we be alert to the enemy’s scheme and fight for unity in the Church (Psalm 133). Let us dwell together in love for the glory of our King!

True Humility: The Belief in God's Sovereignty and Goodness

2010-09-10T17:22:00.000-07:00

Please check out this link from the Believers Bungalow blog about humble orthodoxy. She shares her story of how she came to embrace Reformed theology. I enjoyed her humility, zeal and passion for truth, as well as gentleness in desiring unity among believers. Enjoy!

Psalm 65:5: Is He My Trust?

2010-09-06T09:36:00.000-07:00

I have been meditating on this verse lately:

Psalm 65:5

“You who are the trust of all the ends of the earth and of the farthest sea.”

J.C. Ryle: Private Prayer

2010-08-31T17:28:00.000-07:00

This is a summary of an article I read on prayer by J.C. Ryle in the Reformed Perspectives Magazine (Volume 10, Number 23). There was much more he wrote than what is here and it is definitely worth the read.

“Prayer is the most important subject in practical religion. All other subjects are second to it. Reading the Bible, keeping the Sabbath, hearing sermons, attending public worship, going to the Lord’s Table, — all these are very weighty matters. But none of them are as important as private prayer.”

Seven truths about private prayer:

1. Prayer is absolutely needful to a man’s salvation.

“But that a man can have salvation without asking for it, I cannot see in the Bible. That a man will receive pardon of his sins, who will not so much as lift up his heart inwardly, and say, “Lord Jesus, give it to me,” this I cannot find. I can find that nobody will be saved by his prayers, but I cannot find that without prayer anybody will be saved.”

2. A habit of prayer is one of the surest marks of a true Christian.

“Just as the first sign of life in an infant when born into the world, is the act of breathing, so the first act of men and women when they are born again, is praying.”

“I have looked carefully over the lives of God’s saints in the Bible. I cannot find one of whose history much is told us, from Genesis to Revelation, who was not a man of prayer. I find it mentioned as a characteristic of the godly, that “they call on the Father,” that “they call on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.” I find it recorded as a characteristic of the wicked, that “they call not upon the Lord.” (1 Peter i. 17; 1 Cor. i. 2; Psalm xiv. 4.)

I have read the lives of many eminent Christians who have been on earth since the Bible days. Some of them, I see, were rich, and some poor. Some were learned, and some unlearned. Some of them were Episcopalians, some Presbyterians, some Baptists, some Independents. Some were Calvinists, and some Armenians. Some have loved to use a liturgy, and some to use none. But one thing, I see, they all had in common. They have all been men of prayer.”

3. There is no duty in religion so neglected as private prayer.

“I believe that thousands never say a word of prayer at all. They eat; they drink; they sleep; they rise; they go forth to their labour; they return to their homes; they breathe God’s air; they see God’s sun; they walk on God’s earth; they enjoy God’s mercies; they have dying bodies; they have judgment and eternity before them. But they never speak to God!”

Have you forgotten that it is not natural to anyone to pray? […]Therefore I say boldly, I believe that few pray.

Have you forgotten that it is not fashionable to pray? […]I believe that few pray.

Have you forgotten the lives that many live? Can we really suppose that people are praying against sin night and day, when we see them plunging right into it? […] I believe that few pray.

Have you forgotten the deaths that many die? How many, when they draw near death, seem entirely strangers to God. […]This also leads me to believe that few pray.

4. Prayer is that act of religion to which there is the greatest encouragement.

There is a way by which any man, however sinful and unworthy, may draw near to God the Father. […]Think of this. Is not this encouragement?

There is an advocate and intercessor always waiting to present the prayers of those who will employ Him. […]Think of this. Is not this encouragement?

There is the Holy Spirit ever ready to help our infirmities in prayer. […]Think of this. Is not this encouragement?

There are exceeding great and precious promises to those who pray. […]If this is not encouragement to pray, words have no meaning at all.

There are wonderful examples in Scripture of the power of prayer. […]Think of this. Is not this encouragement?

5. Diligence in prayer is the secret of eminent holiness.

“What is the reason that some believers are so much brighter and holier than others? I believe the difference, in nineteen cases out of twenty, arises from different habits about private prayer. I believe that those who are not eminently holy pray little, and those who are eminently holy pray much.”

6. Neglect of prayer is one great cause of backsliding.

“Bibles read without prayer, sermons heard without prayer, marriages contracted without prayer, journeys undertaken without prayer, residences chosen without prayer, friendships formed without prayer, the daily act of private prayer itself hurried over or gone through without heart, — these are the kind of downward steps by which many a Christian descends to a condition of spiritual palsy, or reaches the point where God allows him to have a tremendous fall.”

7. Prayer is one of the best recipes for happiness and contentment.

“The only way to be really happy, in such a world as this, is to be ever casting all our cares on God. It is the trying to carry their own burdens which so often makes believers sad. If they will only tell their troubles to God He will enable them to bear them as easily as Samson did the gates of Gaza.”

“I want the readers of this paper to be really happy Christians. I am certain I cannot urge on them a more important duty than prayer.”

---J.C. Ryle