Devotional Archives for Morning & Evening, with Charles Spurgeon
A poignant biblical tale of devotion and sacrifice unfolds as two women, Orpah and Ruth, face a crucial test of faith, with one ultimately choosing to cling to the God of her mother-in-law while the other succumbs to idolatry. Will we too be willing to renounce worldly comforts for the sake of Christ, or will we falter in our devotion like Orpah?
The apostle Paul's profound understanding of his union with Christ is revealed in Galatians 2:20, where he declares himself crucified with Christ, experiencing a death to sin and a new life. This paradoxical reality - being dead to the world yet fully alive unto God - is a central theme in Christian theology, offering a soul-cheering experience of union with the suffering Saviour.
The Christian pilgrim's journey is marked by a remarkable paradox: despite facing trials and tribulations, they grow stronger with each step. Through the promise of God's grace, believers can find renewed strength to persevere, even in the face of adversity.
The Bible teaches that the church is symbolized by a spiritual house with precious windows, including faith, experience, and sanctification, which allow us to glimpse the glory of God despite our limitations. Through these "windows of agate," we can behold the beauty of Christ and heaven, even if our understanding is limited, and long for a deeper revelation of truth.
The Bible teaches that God's grace is abundant and unlimited, unlike earthly resources such as salt, money, or honor. By seeking a large supply of heavenly salt, believers can season their afflictions, preserve their hearts, and kill their sins, bringing joy and fulfillment to their lives.
A Christian's treachery to God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit is a shocking reality that can lead to spiritual despair. By examining Hosea 5:7 and reflecting on personal experiences of faithlessness, believers can confront their own spiritual infidelity and seek forgiveness from their Lord.
God's ways are characterized by their everlasting nature, resulting from His immutable character and the embodiment of irresistible might. This comforting truth is rooted in the stability of divine principles, which cannot be reversed or diminished by external forces, offering hope and confidence to believers.
The apostle Paul's words in Colossians 3:24 challenge the notion that only certain individuals, such as clergy or wealthy believers, can serve God. By emphasizing the importance of serving the Lord Christ in all aspects of life, from humble occupations to daily tasks, Paul reveals a profound truth about the nature of true devotion and the sanctification of even the most mundane activities.
The doctrine of the perseverance of saints teaches that believers are safe and secure in Christ, who is a faithful and immutable preserver. By reflecting on this doctrine with joy and confidence, believers can experience holy security even on earth, knowing that their name is written in God's hand and that He will present them before the throne of God.
The conversion of Lydia, a devout Jewess from Thyatira, is a remarkable example of how providence and the means of grace can lead to spiritual awakening. Through her humble obedience and acts of love towards Paul and the apostles, Lydia's heart was opened to receive the blessings of Jesus, demonstrating that true faith requires surrender and communion with God.