Can you hear God? A meditation on Exodus 6:9

Sometimes, in the midst of discouragement, it’s hard to see the blessings of God. As an example, consider this morning’s Scripture reading. For all the blessings God had given Abraham (an eternal covenant), Isaac (spared from death on a sacrificial altar!), and Jacob (sons who would be the patriarchs of Israel), there was something He […]

Whate’er my God ordains is right

When we are discouraged, despairing, and disappointed with life and God, we need to be reminded of the truth of God’s character and His trustworthiness. He really is a good and gracious God, we need to be reminded. One such encouragement is an older hymn (which, to my knowledge, I’ve never heard sung), entitled, “Whate’er […]

Today’s Quote – Gratitude (Piper)

John Piper, Future Grace: There are ways that gratitude helps bring about obedience to Christ. One way is that the spirit of gratitude is simply incompatible with some sinful attitudes. I think this is why Paul wrote, “There must be no filthiness and silly talk, or coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving […]

Today’s Quote – Self-Denial (Calvin)

John Calvin, Golden Booklet of the True Christian Life: No on has rightly denied himself unless he has wholly resigned himself to the Lord and is willing to leave every detail to his good pleasure. If we put ourselves in such a frame of mind, then, whatever may happen to us, we shall never feel […]

Are you anxious for anything?

The command of Jesus — do not be worried about your life — is worthy of turning into a heart question. Am I anxious for anything? The question was brought to mind again when I saw this post from Tullian Tchividjian — pastor of Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church in Ft. Lauderdale, FL, which has undergone […]

Today’s Quote – Trials (Cuyler)

Theodore Cuyler, God’s Light on Dark Clouds: Never has [God] promised us an easy road or a smooth road, or such a road as our selfishness may select. He never consents that the flock shall decide as to the lot in which they shall be pastured, or over what deep hills he shall conduct them, […]

Book Review: God’s Light on Dark Clouds

Title: God’s Light on Dark Clouds Author: Theodore L. Cuyler Publisher: Banner of Truth Trust (Reprint), 2008; 134 pp. $10.00 Recommendation (4-star scale): Many years ago, when I was still in seminary, Raye Jeanne and I received a phone call telling us of the death of one of our family members. As we reflected […]

Today’s Quote (10/25/08)

John Piper, What Jesus Demands from the World: …don’t be angry in a way that contradicts your confidence in God’s care over your life. God’s providence should change the way we experience circumstances that would otherwise be totally infuriating.

Having trouble with trust?

Do you ever have trouble with trusting God? You and I are not alone. Several years ago, Reuters reported the story of a London accountant who knew he needed bladder surgery, but didn’t trust the doctor or the hospital, so he attempted the surgery himself — with the anticipated consequence of his untimely death. It […]