Sorry It's Been So Long!

Hello everyone, Please alow me to apologize for not posting anything new for several months. Life as a pastor often becomes so demanding that generally simple things, such as blogging, become difficult to fit in to a busy a schedule. Nevertheles, today I just had to make time.

For years I have been reading Charles Spurgeon's, Morning and Evening, daily devotional book. I've tried several other devotionals but none have proven to be nearly as rich as Spurgeon. This morning's read was such an encouragement to me that I felt compelled to share. Here it is:

"For You Lord, have made me glad through Your work."

Psalm 92:4

Do you believe that your sins are forgiven and that Christ has made a full atonement for them? Then you should be a joyful Christian. You should live above the common trials and troubles of this world!

Since your sin is forgiven, can it matter what happens to you now? Luther said, "Smite, Lord, smite, for my sin is forgiven; if You have but forgiven me, smite as hard as You will." In a similar spirit you may say, "Send sickness, poverty, losses, crosses, persecution. Send what You will, You have forgiven me and my soul is glad."

Christian, if you are saved, be glad, grateful, and loving. Cling to the cross that took your sin away. Serve Him who served you. "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service" (Romans 12:1)

Do not let your zeal evaporate in the vapor of some little song. Show your love in expressive expressions. Love the believers in Him who loved you (Romans 12:10). If there is a Mephibosheth who is lame or in need, help him for Jonathan's sake (2 Samuel 9:3ff). Where there are poor tried believers, weep with them; carry their cross for the sake of Him who wept for you and carried your sins.

Since you are forgiven freely (Romans 8:32), for Christ's sake go and tell others the joyful news of pardoning mercy. Do not be content to keep this unspeakable blessing for yourself alone. Preach the story of the cross. Holy gladness and holy boldness will make you a good preacher, and all the world will be your pulpit.

Cheerful holiness is the most forcible of sermons, but the Lord must give it. Seek it this morning before you go into the world. When you rejoice in the Lord's work, there is no need to be afraid of being too glad.

I hope you were as uplifted and challenged by the words of the great preacher as I was. May we all live this day and this life filled with His gladness!

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