It’s true. The Christmas message, when it’s unwrapped, gives you Easter. The birth of Jesus is barrelling headlong towards his death. In fact that’s the point of the gospel story. It’s even hinted at – more than hinted at – in the immediate post-birth narrative of Luke’s Gospel.   There’s been a great set of... Continue Reading

The Lord’s ultimate sovereignty is displayed through Christ’s incarnation, and Spurgeon helps us shift our focus to again gaze at the divine author of all things: the “great I AM.” Why is it important for us to behold God’s role here? Because it is the great proof of the Father’s love. It was the Father’s plan to... Continue Reading

This is reason for joy: the LORD God has entered the world to save sinners from their rebellion and condemnation; to reconcile them to God; to bless them with the light and smile of his countenance. Mary’s blessing and joy rests ultimately not on her bearing her God and Saviour; but on her believing and receiving... Continue Reading

Meekness is not concerned with its own reputation or its rights, but it is more concerned about the other person. So also, meekness understands that forgiveness is preferable to the punishments of the law. Meekness controls its anger from any violence and vengeance. This is the gentleness of meekness. Indeed, another usage for this word for... Continue Reading

We have to go to war within our own souls or hearts. David’s instruction helps us understand how to do this as well. He writes: Bless the Lord, O my soul, And forget not all His benefits. We must intentionally remind ourselves of the benefits we receive from God. The way we win the war that rages... Continue Reading

Jennens’ choice of Psalm 16 to introduce the resurrection is masterful, as this psalm is pregnant with meaning. His selection invites the thoughtful listener to not only consider David’s original song, but to consider it in light of Peter’s Pentecost sermon (Acts 2:24–27) and Paul’s Antioch sermon (Acts 13:35). In its initial context, David pens Psalm 16 to help his... Continue Reading

Christmas is a time to pause and reflect. Call to mind the whole story of Christmas, not just the warm-and-fuzzy components. Remember that all of it—not only Jesus’ birth in a manger but also his bloody crucifixion, victorious resurrection, and promised return—reminds us of the need for a Warrior-Savior who will crush the Evil One... Continue Reading

God uses these various trials to make us look to Him, and to make us look more like Him. “Count it all joy my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect... Continue Reading

Memorizing the Word of God is like having spiritual medicine always available. When suffering and sorrow arise, we sometimes lack words as we process the pain we are feeling. What if you had Psalm 34:18 in your mind and on your trembling lips, “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are... Continue Reading

Living together before marriage may be a cultural norm. To practice anything else may seem strange and old-fashioned. Yet the way of Jesus is countercultural. Resisting cohabitation is born out of love for and trust in the God who created you to pursue what’s better: genuine marital intimacy built on a foundation of commitment and... Continue Reading