Prayer Is Work
I was recently encouraged by a friend who reminded me that ‘prayer is work.’ The New Testament certainly presents this idea, even if it doesn’t use that word. It speaks of striving in prayer (Romans 15:30), devoting oneself to prayer…
The Unrushed Life
It was a favorite saying of the Emperor Caesar Augustus, Festina lente – Hasten slowly. I am told that the emperor considered there to be few things more unbecoming in a noble man than haste. I don’t normally write much…
The First Rule of Religion
The first rule of religion is so simple that even a child can understand it, but it is exceedingly difficult to learn. You cannot have a relationship with God without first bowing to this simple rule – and you will…
“The Principle Things of Religion” – Selections from Theological Lectures
The following selections come from Archbishop Robert Leighton’s ‘Theological Lectures,’ which may be found HERE. Mankind “looks for a happy life in the region of death.” (Augustine) “To know God is wisdom, and to worship him, justice.” (Lactantius) “But the…
The Abuse of Knowledge
In previous ages, there was great benefit to knowing and accessing information. Today, that has changed; the benefit exists for those who know how to use information. It is no longer difficult, for example, to have access to textbooks and…
How to Use Earthly Joy and Sorrow
In a changeable world – where joy is fleeting and sorrow is prevalent – Christians are able to live unhindered by their earthly circumstances. This is Paul’s teaching in 1 Corinthians 7. At first glance, it appears to be a…
The Christian Convert Warned of Discouragements – Doddridge
The following is a modernized, paraphrased, and condensed excerpt from Philip Doddridge’s book ‘The Rise and Progress of Religion in the Soul.’ This excerpt comes from Chapter 16. The full title of the chapter is, “The Christian Convert Warned of,…
The Six Characteristics of Kind People
This list doesn’t claim to be comprehensive. It’s just my simple attempt to list out some of the characteristics that define kind people. I’m blessed to know many of them – and challenged each day to grow in these attributes….
On Contentment and Patience
The following excerpts, from Philip Doddridge’s ‘Rise and Progress of Religion in the Soul,’ describes the Christian graces of contentment and patience. “The divine philosophy of the blessed Jesus will also teach you ‘a contented temper.’ It will moderate your…
Judson on Submitting to God’s Providence
“If the Lord has other purposes, it becomes us meekly to acquiesce, and willingly to sacrifice our dearest hopes to the Divine will. We rest assured that, in either case, the perfections of God will be displayed.” “Our obedience was…
