Are you depressed by reason of your sin? Let not this discourage you, for his name is purposefully Jesus, because he, and he alone, “shall save his people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21). Listen to the old Puritan, Robert Hawker (1753-1827 AD): "My soul,what do you know practically and personally of this most blessed name … Continue reading When You Take the Name of Jesus on Your Lips…
Scripture Prayer
Martin Luther & Singing the Psalms
Martin Luther encouraged praying the Psalms by providing the common people with singable versions of metrical psalms in their own language. He acknowledged that, the common and ancient custom of the Christian church [was] to sing Psalms. St. Paul himself instituted this in I Corinthians 14:15 and exhorted the Colossians [3:16] to sing spiritual songs … Continue reading Martin Luther & Singing the Psalms
Prayer of Confession by Martin Luther
Behold, Lord, I am an empty vessel that needs to be filled. My Lord, fill it. I am weak in faith; Strengthen me. I am cold in love; Warm me and make me fervent that my love may go out to my neighbor. I do not have a strong and firm faith; at times I … Continue reading Prayer of Confession by Martin Luther
Martin Luther & The Courage to Face Your Fears
On Sunday, October 29th, we will celebrate the 500th Anniversary of the Reformation. We remember on this day that Martin Luther began a process that resulted in the recovery of the biblical gospel. Many congregations will recall the efforts of Martin Luther and will sing his famous hymn based on Psalm 46 entitled "A Mighty … Continue reading Martin Luther & The Courage to Face Your Fears
Preach the Gospel to Yourself – How?
How have believers in the past proclaimed the gospel to their own hearts? Why not reflect on the examples below and then write out your own summary of the gospel? Then use it as a tool in spiritual battle when you are plagued with a sense of condemnation, shame, and guilt: 1. The Apostle Paul … Continue reading Preach the Gospel to Yourself – How?
J.C. Ryle on Christ in the Psalms
A Greater than David is here! We have probably little idea how much deep truth is contained in the book of Psalms. No part of the Bible perhaps is better known in the letter, and none so little understood in the spirit. We err greatly if we suppose that it is nothing but a record … Continue reading J.C. Ryle on Christ in the Psalms
When the Spirit of God Descends Upon Your Heart
The lovely words of the Irish hymn-writer, George Croly serve as a simple reminder of why we desperately need the Holy Spirit poured out upon us: Spirit of God, descend upon my heart, wean it from earth, through all its pulses move; Stoop to my weakness, mighty as Thou art, and make me love Thee … Continue reading When the Spirit of God Descends Upon Your Heart
A Prayer for My Son on His 12th and 21st Birthdays
The below is a part of a letter I wrote my son on his 12th birthday. His 21st birthday is coming soon. My prayers for him have not changed... Son, you are beginning your journey towards manhood. 1 Corinthians 16:13 says: “Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.” … Continue reading A Prayer for My Son on His 12th and 21st Birthdays
Do you feel yourself spiritually and physically weak today?
The prophet Isaiah describes people like us: Bruised reeds and smoldering wicks. Listen to how our Savior deals with people like us: "A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not quench, until he brings justice to victory..." (Matthew 12:20) What are we to understand by the bruised reed and … Continue reading Do you feel yourself spiritually and physically weak today?
Eternally and Completely Satisfied
Psalm 17:15 describes what theologians call the beatific vision... that moment in your future when you shall see God. It reads: “As for me, I shall behold your face in righteousness; when I awake, I shall be satisfied with your likeness.” Think about what you will be in eternity. When you see the King in … Continue reading Eternally and Completely Satisfied
2Cherish2Commend 