• Very interesting article, thank you, Contenders Edge

    Did Thomas Jefferson Believe In Some Form Of Theistic Evolution?
    https://contendersedge.substack.com/p/did-thomas-jefferson-believe-in-some?publication_id=3237910&post_id=171562730&isFreemail=true&r=1maoyr&triedRedirect=true&utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email
    Very interesting article, thank you, Contenders Edge Did Thomas Jefferson Believe In Some Form Of Theistic Evolution? https://contendersedge.substack.com/p/did-thomas-jefferson-believe-in-some?publication_id=3237910&post_id=171562730&isFreemail=true&r=1maoyr&triedRedirect=true&utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email
    CONTENDERSEDGE.SUBSTACK.COM
    Did Thomas Jefferson Believe In Some Form Of Theistic Evolution?
    In a previous blogpost, I cited a section of a letter that Thomas Jefferson had written back to John Adams in April of 1823 in which he stated how impossible it was for someone, upon the study of nature, to not reach the conclusion that we are an act of creation that we owe our existence to a Creator [1] but in that letter he also mentioned something very curious which led me to wonder if Thomas Jefferson believed in some form of theistic evolution.
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  • Psalms
    Chapter 42

    1 (To the chief Musician, Maschil, for the sons of Korah.) As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God.

    2 My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God?

    3 My tears have been my meat day and night, while they continually say unto me, Where is thy God?

    4 When I remember these things, I pour out my soul in me: for I had gone with the multitude, I went with them to the house of God, with the voice of joy and praise, with a multitude that kept holyday.

    5 Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance.

    6 O my God, my soul is cast down within me: therefore will I remember thee from the land of Jordan, and of the Hermonites, from the hill Mizar.

    7 Deep calleth unto deep at the noise of thy waterspouts: all thy waves and thy billows are gone over me.

    8 Yet the LORD will command his lovingkindness in the daytime, and in the night his song shall be with me, and my prayer unto the God of my life.

    9 I will say unto God my rock, Why hast thou forgotten me? why go I mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?

    10 As with a sword in my bones, mine enemies reproach me; while they say daily unto me, Where is thy God?

    11 Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.


    Psalms
    Chapter 43

    1 Judge me, O God, and plead my cause against an ungodly nation: O deliver me from the deceitful and unjust man.

    2 For thou art the God of my strength: why dost thou cast me off? why go I mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?

    3 O send out thy light and thy truth: let them lead me; let them bring me unto thy holy hill, and to thy tabernacles.

    4 Then will I go unto the altar of God, unto God my exceeding joy: yea, upon the harp will I praise thee, O God my God.

    5 Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.

    Psalms Chapter 42 1 (To the chief Musician, Maschil, for the sons of Korah.) As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God. 2 My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God? 3 My tears have been my meat day and night, while they continually say unto me, Where is thy God? 4 When I remember these things, I pour out my soul in me: for I had gone with the multitude, I went with them to the house of God, with the voice of joy and praise, with a multitude that kept holyday. 5 Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance. 6 O my God, my soul is cast down within me: therefore will I remember thee from the land of Jordan, and of the Hermonites, from the hill Mizar. 7 Deep calleth unto deep at the noise of thy waterspouts: all thy waves and thy billows are gone over me. 8 Yet the LORD will command his lovingkindness in the daytime, and in the night his song shall be with me, and my prayer unto the God of my life. 9 I will say unto God my rock, Why hast thou forgotten me? why go I mourning because of the oppression of the enemy? 10 As with a sword in my bones, mine enemies reproach me; while they say daily unto me, Where is thy God? 11 Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God. Psalms Chapter 43 1 Judge me, O God, and plead my cause against an ungodly nation: O deliver me from the deceitful and unjust man. 2 For thou art the God of my strength: why dost thou cast me off? why go I mourning because of the oppression of the enemy? 3 O send out thy light and thy truth: let them lead me; let them bring me unto thy holy hill, and to thy tabernacles. 4 Then will I go unto the altar of God, unto God my exceeding joy: yea, upon the harp will I praise thee, O God my God. 5 Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.
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  • Believers either trust God or they don't. There's no way to trust God AND trust something else to do what only God can do.
    https://x.com/drtaubraun/status/1963693956123820076
    Believers either trust God or they don't. There's no way to trust God AND trust something else to do what only God can do. https://x.com/drtaubraun/status/1963693956123820076
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  • Christian, are you just in your dealings? In the Old Testament, God required Israel to use fair measures, not only in regard to commerce, but in regard to justice. In the New Testament, Jesus tells us, "Do not judge so that you will not be judged. For in the way you judge, you will be judged; and by your standard of measure, it will be measured to you" (Mt. 7:1-2).

    Do not judge hypocritically. We are called to judge rightly - we are not forbidden from judging. But our judgement must be just, and we should not judge when that judgement could easily be turned on ourselves. Jesus followed His statement about judging with, "Why do you look at the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ and behold, the log is in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye" (Mt. 7:3-5).

    Notice He doesn't say not to judge. He says judge yourself first so that you will not judge in such a way as to bring judgement upon yourself. You can take the speck out of your brother's eye, after you take the plank out of your own.

    Let us always deal justly and non-hypocritically with our brethren (and with all). For "by your standard of measure, it will be measured to you."
    -----------

    Spurgeon's Morning and Evening Devotions

    Evening, September 4

    "Just balances, just weights, a just ephah, and a just hin, shall ye have." Leviticus 19:36

    Weights, and scales, and measures were to be all according to the standard of justice. Surely no Christian man will need to be reminded of this in his business, for if righteousness were banished from all the world beside, it should find a shelter in believing hearts. There are, however, other balances which weigh moral and spiritual things, and these often need examining. We will call in the officer tonight.
    The balances in which we weigh our own and other men's characters, are they quite accurate? Do we not turn our own ounces of goodness into pounds, and other persons' bushels of excellence into pecks? See to weights and measures here, Christian. The scales in which we measure our trials and troubles, are they according to standard? Paul, who had more to suffer than we have, called his afflictions light, and yet we often consider ours to be heavy- surely something must be amiss with the weights! We must see to this matter, lest we get reported to the court above for unjust dealing. Those weights with which we measure our doctrinal belief, are they quite fair? The doctrines of grace should have the same weight with us as the precepts of the word, no more and no less; but it is to be feared that with many one scale or the other is unfairly weighted. It is a grand matter to give just measure in truth. Christian, be careful here. Those measures in which we estimate our obligations and responsibilities look rather small. When a rich man gives no more to the cause of God than the poor contribute, is that a just ephah and a just hin? When ministers are half starved, is that honest dealing? When the poor are despised, while ungodly rich men are held in admiration, is that a just balance? Reader, we might lengthen the list, but we prefer to leave it as your evening's work to find out and destroy all unrighteous balances, weights, and measures.
    Christian, are you just in your dealings? In the Old Testament, God required Israel to use fair measures, not only in regard to commerce, but in regard to justice. In the New Testament, Jesus tells us, "Do not judge so that you will not be judged. For in the way you judge, you will be judged; and by your standard of measure, it will be measured to you" (Mt. 7:1-2). Do not judge hypocritically. We are called to judge rightly - we are not forbidden from judging. But our judgement must be just, and we should not judge when that judgement could easily be turned on ourselves. Jesus followed His statement about judging with, "Why do you look at the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ and behold, the log is in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye" (Mt. 7:3-5). Notice He doesn't say not to judge. He says judge yourself first so that you will not judge in such a way as to bring judgement upon yourself. You can take the speck out of your brother's eye, after you take the plank out of your own. Let us always deal justly and non-hypocritically with our brethren (and with all). For "by your standard of measure, it will be measured to you." ----------- Spurgeon's Morning and Evening Devotions Evening, September 4 "Just balances, just weights, a just ephah, and a just hin, shall ye have." Leviticus 19:36 Weights, and scales, and measures were to be all according to the standard of justice. Surely no Christian man will need to be reminded of this in his business, for if righteousness were banished from all the world beside, it should find a shelter in believing hearts. There are, however, other balances which weigh moral and spiritual things, and these often need examining. We will call in the officer tonight. The balances in which we weigh our own and other men's characters, are they quite accurate? Do we not turn our own ounces of goodness into pounds, and other persons' bushels of excellence into pecks? See to weights and measures here, Christian. The scales in which we measure our trials and troubles, are they according to standard? Paul, who had more to suffer than we have, called his afflictions light, and yet we often consider ours to be heavy- surely something must be amiss with the weights! We must see to this matter, lest we get reported to the court above for unjust dealing. Those weights with which we measure our doctrinal belief, are they quite fair? The doctrines of grace should have the same weight with us as the precepts of the word, no more and no less; but it is to be feared that with many one scale or the other is unfairly weighted. It is a grand matter to give just measure in truth. Christian, be careful here. Those measures in which we estimate our obligations and responsibilities look rather small. When a rich man gives no more to the cause of God than the poor contribute, is that a just ephah and a just hin? When ministers are half starved, is that honest dealing? When the poor are despised, while ungodly rich men are held in admiration, is that a just balance? Reader, we might lengthen the list, but we prefer to leave it as your evening's work to find out and destroy all unrighteous balances, weights, and measures.
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  • I’m going to add a few items CoronaLisa
    , if you don’t mind. FIRST PRESIDENT (THAT I KNOW OF) TO HAVE A MAN WIFE. BIG MIKE, as many of us know. ( Barry even called him Mike in a few videos) FIRST PRESIDENT (THAT I KNOW OF) That BOUGHT his “CHILDREN) from a couple of (doctors) Man and Wife, AND FIRST PRESIDENT (THAT I KNOW OF) that ordered #Pizza (LITTLE GIRLS) AND #Hotdogs, (little BOYS) from Chicago, into the White House. FIRST PEDOPHILE (that I know of) that was a “president” IF YOU ALL DONT’ BELIEVE THIS….LOOK IT UP! Thank you so much, my friend! You are right (The Irony)! CoronaLisa

    Barry Sotoros LEGACY The Irony of his initials
    https://substack.com/home/post/p-172801771
    I’m going to add a few items CoronaLisa , if you don’t mind. FIRST PRESIDENT (THAT I KNOW OF) TO HAVE A MAN WIFE. BIG MIKE, as many of us know. ( Barry even called him Mike in a few videos) FIRST PRESIDENT (THAT I KNOW OF) That BOUGHT his “CHILDREN) from a couple of (doctors) Man and Wife, AND FIRST PRESIDENT (THAT I KNOW OF) that ordered #Pizza (LITTLE GIRLS) AND #Hotdogs, (little BOYS) from Chicago, into the White House. FIRST PEDOPHILE (that I know of) that was a “president” IF YOU ALL DONT’ BELIEVE THIS….LOOK IT UP! Thank you so much, my friend! You are right (The Irony)! CoronaLisa Barry Sotoros LEGACY The Irony of his initials🤣 https://substack.com/home/post/p-172801771
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  • Our God is able to do far more than we ask or imagine (Eph. 3:20). So then, brethren, do we not come before Him with our every need? While Jesus walked the earth, the infirm, the afflicted, the weak all came to Him seeking the solution to their woes.

    We just need to remember, as Jesus taught us to pray, "Your will be done" (Mt. 6:10) and in the garden in His own prayer said the same (Mt. 26:42). Even the leper, when He approached the Lord in Mark 1:40 fell before Him and said, "if You are willing..."

    He will hear and answer our prayers, when they are according to His will: "This is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests which we have asked from Him: (1 Jn. 5:14-15).

    Most importantly, He grants us cleansing, not from illness (though He can grant that as well), but from sin, from spiritual sickness. As He tells us in 1 Pet. 2:24-25, "He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds you were healed. For you were continually straying like sheep, but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Guardian of your souls."

    He died to provide our spiritual healing, so that we might "die to sin and live to righteousness." Like sheep we had gone astray (Isa. 53:6; 1 Pet. 2:25), but the Good Shepherd has gathered us back to Himself.

    Brethren, we are saved because it was His will. Let us now conform ourselves further to His will through prayer and supplication.
    --------

    Spurgeon's Morning and Evening Devotions

    Morning, September 4

    "I will; be thou clean." Mark 1:41

    Primeval darkness heard the Almighty fiat, "light be," and straightway light was, and the word of the Lord Jesus is equal in majesty to that ancient word of power. Redemption like Creation has its word of might. Jesus speaks and it is done. Leprosy yielded to no human remedies, but it fled at once at the Lord's "I will." The disease exhibited no hopeful signs or tokens of recovery, nature contributed nothing to its own healing, but the unaided word effected the entire work on the spot and for ever. The sinner is in a plight more miserable than the leper; let him imitate his example and go to Jesus, "beseeching Him and kneeling down to Him." Let him exercise what little faith he has, even though it should go no further than "Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean"; and there need be no doubt as to the result of the application. Jesus heals all who come, and casts out none. In reading the narrative in which our morning's text occurs, it is worthy of devout notice that Jesus touched the leper. This unclean person had broken through the regulations of the ceremonial law and pressed into the house, but Jesus so far from chiding him broke through the law Himself in order to meet him. He made an interchange with the leper, for while He cleansed him, He contracted by that touch a Levitical defilement. Even so Jesus Christ was made sin for us, although in Himself He knew no sin, that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him. O that poor sinners would go to Jesus, believing in the power of His blessed substitutionary work, and they would soon learn the power of His gracious touch. That hand which multiplied the loaves, which saved sinking Peter, which upholds afflicted saints, which crowns believers, that same hand will touch every seeking sinner, and in a moment make him clean. The love of Jesus is the source of salvation. He loves, He looks, He touches us, WE LIVE.
    Our God is able to do far more than we ask or imagine (Eph. 3:20). So then, brethren, do we not come before Him with our every need? While Jesus walked the earth, the infirm, the afflicted, the weak all came to Him seeking the solution to their woes. We just need to remember, as Jesus taught us to pray, "Your will be done" (Mt. 6:10) and in the garden in His own prayer said the same (Mt. 26:42). Even the leper, when He approached the Lord in Mark 1:40 fell before Him and said, "if You are willing..." He will hear and answer our prayers, when they are according to His will: "This is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests which we have asked from Him: (1 Jn. 5:14-15). Most importantly, He grants us cleansing, not from illness (though He can grant that as well), but from sin, from spiritual sickness. As He tells us in 1 Pet. 2:24-25, "He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds you were healed. For you were continually straying like sheep, but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Guardian of your souls." He died to provide our spiritual healing, so that we might "die to sin and live to righteousness." Like sheep we had gone astray (Isa. 53:6; 1 Pet. 2:25), but the Good Shepherd has gathered us back to Himself. Brethren, we are saved because it was His will. Let us now conform ourselves further to His will through prayer and supplication. -------- Spurgeon's Morning and Evening Devotions Morning, September 4 "I will; be thou clean." Mark 1:41 Primeval darkness heard the Almighty fiat, "light be," and straightway light was, and the word of the Lord Jesus is equal in majesty to that ancient word of power. Redemption like Creation has its word of might. Jesus speaks and it is done. Leprosy yielded to no human remedies, but it fled at once at the Lord's "I will." The disease exhibited no hopeful signs or tokens of recovery, nature contributed nothing to its own healing, but the unaided word effected the entire work on the spot and for ever. The sinner is in a plight more miserable than the leper; let him imitate his example and go to Jesus, "beseeching Him and kneeling down to Him." Let him exercise what little faith he has, even though it should go no further than "Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean"; and there need be no doubt as to the result of the application. Jesus heals all who come, and casts out none. In reading the narrative in which our morning's text occurs, it is worthy of devout notice that Jesus touched the leper. This unclean person had broken through the regulations of the ceremonial law and pressed into the house, but Jesus so far from chiding him broke through the law Himself in order to meet him. He made an interchange with the leper, for while He cleansed him, He contracted by that touch a Levitical defilement. Even so Jesus Christ was made sin for us, although in Himself He knew no sin, that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him. O that poor sinners would go to Jesus, believing in the power of His blessed substitutionary work, and they would soon learn the power of His gracious touch. That hand which multiplied the loaves, which saved sinking Peter, which upholds afflicted saints, which crowns believers, that same hand will touch every seeking sinner, and in a moment make him clean. The love of Jesus is the source of salvation. He loves, He looks, He touches us, WE LIVE.
    Like
    Jesus
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  • Believers, please pray for my friend JC. She is having surgery tomorrow, and she is a little nervous. But she trusts the LORD to see her through. Pray for her husband as he cares for her in her recovery.
    Believers, please pray for my friend JC. She is having surgery tomorrow, and she is a little nervous. But she trusts the LORD to see her through. Pray for her husband as he cares for her in her recovery.
    Jesus
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  • Psalms
    Chapter 41

    1 (To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David.) Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the LORD will deliver him in time of trouble.

    2 The LORD will preserve him, and keep him alive; and he shall be blessed upon the earth: and thou wilt not deliver him unto the will of his enemies.

    3 The LORD will strengthen him upon the bed of languishing: thou wilt make all his bed in his sickness.

    4 I said, LORD, be merciful unto me: heal my soul; for I have sinned against thee.

    5 Mine enemies speak evil of me, When shall he die, and his name perish?

    6 And if he come to see me, he speaketh vanity: his heart gathereth iniquity to itself; when he goeth abroad, he telleth it.

    7 All that hate me whisper together against me: against me do they devise my hurt.

    8 An evil disease, say they, cleaveth fast unto him: and now that he lieth he shall rise up no more.

    9 Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up his heel against me.

    10 But thou, O LORD, be merciful unto me, and raise me up, that I may requite them.

    11 By this I know that thou favourest me, because mine enemy doth not triumph over me.

    12 And as for me, thou upholdest me in mine integrity, and settest me before thy face for ever.

    13 Blessed be the LORD God of Israel from everlasting, and to everlasting. Amen, and Amen.
    Psalms Chapter 41 1 (To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David.) Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the LORD will deliver him in time of trouble. 2 The LORD will preserve him, and keep him alive; and he shall be blessed upon the earth: and thou wilt not deliver him unto the will of his enemies. 3 The LORD will strengthen him upon the bed of languishing: thou wilt make all his bed in his sickness. 4 I said, LORD, be merciful unto me: heal my soul; for I have sinned against thee. 5 Mine enemies speak evil of me, When shall he die, and his name perish? 6 And if he come to see me, he speaketh vanity: his heart gathereth iniquity to itself; when he goeth abroad, he telleth it. 7 All that hate me whisper together against me: against me do they devise my hurt. 8 An evil disease, say they, cleaveth fast unto him: and now that he lieth he shall rise up no more. 9 Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up his heel against me. 10 But thou, O LORD, be merciful unto me, and raise me up, that I may requite them. 11 By this I know that thou favourest me, because mine enemy doth not triumph over me. 12 And as for me, thou upholdest me in mine integrity, and settest me before thy face for ever. 13 Blessed be the LORD God of Israel from everlasting, and to everlasting. Amen, and Amen.
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  • Amazing grace, how sweet the sound
    That saved a wretch like me!
    I once was lost, but now I'm found
    Was blind but now I see...
    'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
    And grace my fears relieved;
    How precious did that grace appear
    The hour I first believed!
    #ThursdayThoughts #Hymns
    Amazing grace, how sweet the sound That saved a wretch like me! I once was lost, but now I'm found Was blind but now I see... 'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear, And grace my fears relieved; How precious did that grace appear The hour I first believed! #ThursdayThoughts #Hymns
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  • Sweet hour of prayer
    Sweet hour of prayer
    That calls me from a world of care
    And bids me at my Father's throne
    Make all my wants and wishes known
    In seasons of distress and grief
    My soul has often found relief
    And oft escaped the tempter's snare
    By Thy return sweet hour of prayer
    Sweet hour of prayer Sweet hour of prayer That calls me from a world of care And bids me at my Father's throne Make all my wants and wishes known In seasons of distress and grief My soul has often found relief And oft escaped the tempter's snare By Thy return sweet hour of prayer
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  • Psalms
    Chapter 40

    1 (To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David.) I waited patiently for the LORD; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry.

    2 He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings.

    3 And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the LORD.

    4 Blessed is that man that maketh the LORD his trust, and respecteth not the proud, nor such as turn aside to lies.

    5 Many, O LORD my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done, and thy thoughts which are to us-ward: they cannot be reckoned up in order unto thee: if I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered.

    6 Sacrifice and offering thou didst not desire; mine ears hast thou opened: burnt offering and sin offering hast thou not required.

    7 Then said I, Lo, I come: in the volume of the book it is written of me,

    8 I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart.

    9 I have preached righteousness in the great congregation: lo, I have not refrained my lips, O LORD, thou knowest.

    10 I have not hid thy righteousness within my heart; I have declared thy faithfulness and thy salvation: I have not concealed thy lovingkindness and thy truth from the great congregation.

    11 Withhold not thou thy tender mercies from me, O LORD: let thy lovingkindness and thy truth continually preserve me.

    12 For innumerable evils have compassed me about: mine iniquities have taken hold upon me, so that I am not able to look up; they are more than the hairs of mine head: therefore my heart faileth me.

    13 Be pleased, O LORD, to deliver me: O LORD, make haste to help me.

    14 Let them be ashamed and confounded together that seek after my soul to destroy it; let them be driven backward and put to shame that wish me evil.

    15 Let them be desolate for a reward of their shame that say unto me, Aha, aha.

    16 Let all those that seek thee rejoice and be glad in thee: let such as love thy salvation say continually, The LORD be magnified.

    17 But I am poor and needy; yet the Lord thinketh upon me: thou art my help and my deliverer; make no tarrying, O my God.
    Psalms Chapter 40 1 (To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David.) I waited patiently for the LORD; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry. 2 He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings. 3 And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the LORD. 4 Blessed is that man that maketh the LORD his trust, and respecteth not the proud, nor such as turn aside to lies. 5 Many, O LORD my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done, and thy thoughts which are to us-ward: they cannot be reckoned up in order unto thee: if I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered. 6 Sacrifice and offering thou didst not desire; mine ears hast thou opened: burnt offering and sin offering hast thou not required. 7 Then said I, Lo, I come: in the volume of the book it is written of me, 8 I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart. 9 I have preached righteousness in the great congregation: lo, I have not refrained my lips, O LORD, thou knowest. 10 I have not hid thy righteousness within my heart; I have declared thy faithfulness and thy salvation: I have not concealed thy lovingkindness and thy truth from the great congregation. 11 Withhold not thou thy tender mercies from me, O LORD: let thy lovingkindness and thy truth continually preserve me. 12 For innumerable evils have compassed me about: mine iniquities have taken hold upon me, so that I am not able to look up; they are more than the hairs of mine head: therefore my heart faileth me. 13 Be pleased, O LORD, to deliver me: O LORD, make haste to help me. 14 Let them be ashamed and confounded together that seek after my soul to destroy it; let them be driven backward and put to shame that wish me evil. 15 Let them be desolate for a reward of their shame that say unto me, Aha, aha. 16 Let all those that seek thee rejoice and be glad in thee: let such as love thy salvation say continually, The LORD be magnified. 17 But I am poor and needy; yet the Lord thinketh upon me: thou art my help and my deliverer; make no tarrying, O my God.
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  • Believer, it is true that God does not tempt us, but He does at times test us. Just as the smith smelts away the dross from silver, so God uses trials to smelt away the dross from our lives. Such is the process of sanctification.

    God would have us holy and wholly devoted to Him. Whether we are encumbered by sin, or our fruitfulness is being choked out by the cares of this world, our testing fortifies our faith and purifies our lives.

    Our faith is more precious than gold, and its testing by fire is to "result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ" (1 Pet. 1:7).

    James tells us to count such trials as joy, because we go through them for our benefit, that we might be "perfect and complete" (Jas. 1:2-4).

    Listen to the words of God given through the prophet Zechariah regarding Israel:

    "'It will come about in all the land,'
    Declares the LORD,
    'That two parts in it will be cut off and perish;
    But the third will be left in it.
    'And I will bring the third part through the fire,
    Refine them as silver is refined,
    And test them as gold is tested.
    They will call on My name,
    And I will answer them;
    I will say, ‘They are My people,’
    And they will say, ‘The LORD is my God.’"

    This is how God treats His chosen ones. So in your trials, do not despair. The end result will far outshadow the short-lived difficulty of any testing.
    ------------

    Spurgeon's Morning and Evening Devotions

    Evening, September 3

    "The Lord trieth the righteous." Psalm 11:5

    All events are under the control of Providence; consequently all the trials of our outward life are traceable at once to the great First Cause. Out of the golden gate of God's ordinance the armies of trial march forth in array, clad in their iron armour, and armed with weapons of war. All providences are doors to trial. Even our mercies, like roses, have their thorns. Men may be drowned in seas of prosperity as well as in rivers of affliction. Our mountains are not too high, and our valleys are not too low for temptations: trials lurk on all roads. Everywhere, above and beneath, we are beset and surrounded with dangers. Yet no shower falls unpermitted from the threatening cloud; every drop has its order ere it hastens to the earth. The trials which come from God are sent to prove and strengthen our graces, and so at once to illustrate the power of divine grace, to test the genuineness of our virtues, and to add to their energy. Our Lord in His infinite wisdom and superabundant love, sets so high a value upon His people's faith that He will not screen them from those trials by which faith is strengthened. You would never have possessed the precious faith which now supports you if the trial of your faith had not been like unto fire. You are a tree that never would have rooted so well if the wind had not rocked you to and fro, and made you take firm hold upon the precious truths of the covenant grace. Worldly ease is a great foe to faith; it loosens the joints of holy valour, and snaps the sinews of sacred courage. The balloon never rises until the cords are cut; affliction doth this sharp service for believing souls. While the wheat sleeps comfortably in the husk it is useless to man, it must be threshed out of its resting place before its value can be known. Thus it is well that Jehovah trieth the righteous, for it causeth them to grow rich towards God.
    Believer, it is true that God does not tempt us, but He does at times test us. Just as the smith smelts away the dross from silver, so God uses trials to smelt away the dross from our lives. Such is the process of sanctification. God would have us holy and wholly devoted to Him. Whether we are encumbered by sin, or our fruitfulness is being choked out by the cares of this world, our testing fortifies our faith and purifies our lives. Our faith is more precious than gold, and its testing by fire is to "result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ" (1 Pet. 1:7). James tells us to count such trials as joy, because we go through them for our benefit, that we might be "perfect and complete" (Jas. 1:2-4). Listen to the words of God given through the prophet Zechariah regarding Israel: "'It will come about in all the land,' Declares the LORD, 'That two parts in it will be cut off and perish; But the third will be left in it. 'And I will bring the third part through the fire, Refine them as silver is refined, And test them as gold is tested. They will call on My name, And I will answer them; I will say, ‘They are My people,’ And they will say, ‘The LORD is my God.’" This is how God treats His chosen ones. So in your trials, do not despair. The end result will far outshadow the short-lived difficulty of any testing. ------------ Spurgeon's Morning and Evening Devotions Evening, September 3 "The Lord trieth the righteous." Psalm 11:5 All events are under the control of Providence; consequently all the trials of our outward life are traceable at once to the great First Cause. Out of the golden gate of God's ordinance the armies of trial march forth in array, clad in their iron armour, and armed with weapons of war. All providences are doors to trial. Even our mercies, like roses, have their thorns. Men may be drowned in seas of prosperity as well as in rivers of affliction. Our mountains are not too high, and our valleys are not too low for temptations: trials lurk on all roads. Everywhere, above and beneath, we are beset and surrounded with dangers. Yet no shower falls unpermitted from the threatening cloud; every drop has its order ere it hastens to the earth. The trials which come from God are sent to prove and strengthen our graces, and so at once to illustrate the power of divine grace, to test the genuineness of our virtues, and to add to their energy. Our Lord in His infinite wisdom and superabundant love, sets so high a value upon His people's faith that He will not screen them from those trials by which faith is strengthened. You would never have possessed the precious faith which now supports you if the trial of your faith had not been like unto fire. You are a tree that never would have rooted so well if the wind had not rocked you to and fro, and made you take firm hold upon the precious truths of the covenant grace. Worldly ease is a great foe to faith; it loosens the joints of holy valour, and snaps the sinews of sacred courage. The balloon never rises until the cords are cut; affliction doth this sharp service for believing souls. While the wheat sleeps comfortably in the husk it is useless to man, it must be threshed out of its resting place before its value can be known. Thus it is well that Jehovah trieth the righteous, for it causeth them to grow rich towards God.
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  • Christian, can you say with honesty that you love the Lord with all your soul? Does the verse, "You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might" (Deut. 6:5, Mt. 22:37) wash over you like a waterfall, or does it ring hollow for you?

    If it rings hollow, set aside time to spend in His word. Read it. Pray over it. Meditate on it.

    Spend time in prayer speaking to God. There is no prescription, there are no special words. Just open your heart up to Him.

    One cannot have a relationship without communication. God speaks to us through His word; we speak to Him through prayer. Both take time, and this time is the only way to build and strengthen that relationship.

    Even if you do feel you love the Lord with all your soul, are you taking the time to truly know Him?

    If you are not already, make today the day you begin spending time with Him in reading and in prayer. In this way you will learn to love Him with all your soul.
    --------

    Spurgeon's Morning and Evening Devotions

    Morning, September 3

    "Thou whom my soul loveth." Song of Solomon 1:7

    It is well to be able, without any "if" or "but," to say of the Lord Jesus- "Thou whom my soul loveth." Many can only say of Jesus that they hope they love Him; they trust they love Him; but only a poor and shallow experience will be content to stay here. No one ought to give any rest to his spirit till he feels quite sure about a matter of such vital importance. We ought not to be satisfied with a superficial hope that Jesus loves us, and with a bare trust that we love Him. The old saints did not generally speak with "buts," and "ifs," and "hopes," and "trusts," but they spoke positively and plainly. "I know whom I have believed," saith Paul. "I know that my Redeemer liveth," saith Job. Get positive knowledge of your love of Jesus, and be not satisfied till you can speak of your interest in Him as a reality, which you have made sure by having received the witness of the Holy Spirit, and His seal upon your soul by faith.

    True love to Christ is in every case the Holy Spirit's work, and must be wrought in the heart by Him. He is the efficient cause of it; but the logical reason why we love Jesus lies in Himself. Why do we love Jesus? Because He first loved us. Why do we love Jesus? Because He "gave Himself for us." We have life through His death; we have peace through His blood. Though He was rich, yet for our sakes He became poor. Why do we love Jesus? Because of the excellency of His person. We are filled with a sense of His beauty! an admiration of His charms! a consciousness of His infinite perfection! His greatness, goodness, and loveliness, in one resplendent ray, combine to enchant the soul till it is so ravished that it exclaims, "Yea, He is altogether lovely." Blessed love this- a love which binds the heart with chains more soft than silk, and yet more firm than adamant!
    Christian, can you say with honesty that you love the Lord with all your soul? Does the verse, "You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might" (Deut. 6:5, Mt. 22:37) wash over you like a waterfall, or does it ring hollow for you? If it rings hollow, set aside time to spend in His word. Read it. Pray over it. Meditate on it. Spend time in prayer speaking to God. There is no prescription, there are no special words. Just open your heart up to Him. One cannot have a relationship without communication. God speaks to us through His word; we speak to Him through prayer. Both take time, and this time is the only way to build and strengthen that relationship. Even if you do feel you love the Lord with all your soul, are you taking the time to truly know Him? If you are not already, make today the day you begin spending time with Him in reading and in prayer. In this way you will learn to love Him with all your soul. -------- Spurgeon's Morning and Evening Devotions Morning, September 3 "Thou whom my soul loveth." Song of Solomon 1:7 It is well to be able, without any "if" or "but," to say of the Lord Jesus- "Thou whom my soul loveth." Many can only say of Jesus that they hope they love Him; they trust they love Him; but only a poor and shallow experience will be content to stay here. No one ought to give any rest to his spirit till he feels quite sure about a matter of such vital importance. We ought not to be satisfied with a superficial hope that Jesus loves us, and with a bare trust that we love Him. The old saints did not generally speak with "buts," and "ifs," and "hopes," and "trusts," but they spoke positively and plainly. "I know whom I have believed," saith Paul. "I know that my Redeemer liveth," saith Job. Get positive knowledge of your love of Jesus, and be not satisfied till you can speak of your interest in Him as a reality, which you have made sure by having received the witness of the Holy Spirit, and His seal upon your soul by faith. True love to Christ is in every case the Holy Spirit's work, and must be wrought in the heart by Him. He is the efficient cause of it; but the logical reason why we love Jesus lies in Himself. Why do we love Jesus? Because He first loved us. Why do we love Jesus? Because He "gave Himself for us." We have life through His death; we have peace through His blood. Though He was rich, yet for our sakes He became poor. Why do we love Jesus? Because of the excellency of His person. We are filled with a sense of His beauty! an admiration of His charms! a consciousness of His infinite perfection! His greatness, goodness, and loveliness, in one resplendent ray, combine to enchant the soul till it is so ravished that it exclaims, "Yea, He is altogether lovely." Blessed love this- a love which binds the heart with chains more soft than silk, and yet more firm than adamant!
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  • Psalms
    Chapter 39

    1 (To the chief Musician, even to Jeduthun, A Psalm of David.) I said, I will take heed to my ways, that I sin not with my tongue: I will keep my mouth with a bridle, while the wicked is before me.

    2 I was dumb with silence, I held my peace, even from good; and my sorrow was stirred.

    3 My heart was hot within me, while I was musing the fire burned: then spake I with my tongue,

    4 LORD, make me to know mine end, and the measure of my days, what it is; that I may know how frail I am.

    5 Behold, thou hast made my days as an handbreadth; and mine age is as nothing before thee: verily every man at his best state is altogether vanity. Selah.

    6 Surely every man walketh in a vain shew: surely they are disquieted in vain: he heapeth up riches, and knoweth not who shall gather them.

    7 And now, Lord, what wait I for? my hope is in thee.

    8 Deliver me from all my transgressions: make me not the reproach of the foolish.

    9 I was dumb, I opened not my mouth; because thou didst it.

    10 Remove thy stroke away from me: I am consumed by the blow of thine hand.

    11 When thou with rebukes dost correct man for iniquity, thou makest his beauty to consume away like a moth: surely every man is vanity. Selah.

    12 Hear my prayer, O LORD, and give ear unto my cry; hold not thy peace at my tears: for I am a stranger with thee, and a sojourner, as all my fathers were.

    13 O spare me, that I may recover strength, before I go hence, and be no more.
    Psalms Chapter 39 1 (To the chief Musician, even to Jeduthun, A Psalm of David.) I said, I will take heed to my ways, that I sin not with my tongue: I will keep my mouth with a bridle, while the wicked is before me. 2 I was dumb with silence, I held my peace, even from good; and my sorrow was stirred. 3 My heart was hot within me, while I was musing the fire burned: then spake I with my tongue, 4 LORD, make me to know mine end, and the measure of my days, what it is; that I may know how frail I am. 5 Behold, thou hast made my days as an handbreadth; and mine age is as nothing before thee: verily every man at his best state is altogether vanity. Selah. 6 Surely every man walketh in a vain shew: surely they are disquieted in vain: he heapeth up riches, and knoweth not who shall gather them. 7 And now, Lord, what wait I for? my hope is in thee. 8 Deliver me from all my transgressions: make me not the reproach of the foolish. 9 I was dumb, I opened not my mouth; because thou didst it. 10 Remove thy stroke away from me: I am consumed by the blow of thine hand. 11 When thou with rebukes dost correct man for iniquity, thou makest his beauty to consume away like a moth: surely every man is vanity. Selah. 12 Hear my prayer, O LORD, and give ear unto my cry; hold not thy peace at my tears: for I am a stranger with thee, and a sojourner, as all my fathers were. 13 O spare me, that I may recover strength, before I go hence, and be no more.
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  • Though we claim to believe the whole of Scripture, in practice we frequently deny much of it by ignoring it.
    ~Martyn Lloyd-Jones
    Though we claim to believe the whole of Scripture, in practice we frequently deny much of it by ignoring it. ~Martyn Lloyd-Jones
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  • Don't believe everything you think. You cannot be trusted to tell yourself the truth. Stay in the Word.
    ~Jerry Bridges
    Don't believe everything you think. You cannot be trusted to tell yourself the truth. Stay in the Word. ~Jerry Bridges
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  • Christian, are you chasing miracles? Do you seek signs? Will you be satisfied if you never see or experience a miracle? Or can you find peace just in knowing Jesus and rest in your faith?

    There were others who sought after signs while Jesus walked among them. He had words for them that weren't pleasant. They wanted the spectacle, but not the One bringing it. Even had they seen, they wouldn't believe.

    Oh believer, do not spend your time running after signs and wonders. Even false Christs and false prophets will produce these (Mt. 24:24). Instead, seek the Lord Himself, and remember, "Jesus said to him, 'Because you have seen Me, have you believed? Blessed are they who did not see, and yet believed.'" (Jn. 20:29)
    -------------

    Spurgeon's Morning and Evening Devotions

    Evening, September 2

    "Except ye see signs and wonders, ye will not believe." John 4:48

    A craving after marvels was a symptom of the sickly state of men's minds in our Lord's day; they refused solid nourishment, and pined after mere wonder. The gospel which they so greatly needed they would not have; the miracles which Jesus did not always choose to give they eagerly demanded. Many nowadays must see signs and wonders, or they will not believe. Some have said in their heart, "I must feel deep horror of soul, or I never will believe in Jesus." But what if you never should feel it, as probably you never may? Will you go to hell out of spite against God, because He will not treat you like another? One has said to himself, "If I had a dream, or if I could feel a sudden shock of I know not what, then I would believe." Thus you undeserving mortals dream that my Lord is to be dictated to by you! You are beggars at His gate, asking for mercy, and you must needs draw up rules and regulations as to how He shall give that mercy. Think you that He will submit to this? My Master is of a generous spirit, but He has a right royal heart, He spurns all dictation, and maintains His sovereignty of action. Why, dear reader, if such be your case, do you crave for signs and wonders? Is not the gospel its own sign and wonder? Is not this a miracle of miracles, that "God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him might not perish"? Surely that precious word, "Whosoever will, let him come and take the water of life freely" and that solemn promise, "Him that cometh unto Me, I will in no wise cast out," are better than signs and wonders! A truthful Saviour ought to be believed. He is truth itself. Why will you ask proof of the veracity of One who cannot lie? The devils themselves declared Him to be the Son of God; will you mistrust Him?
    Christian, are you chasing miracles? Do you seek signs? Will you be satisfied if you never see or experience a miracle? Or can you find peace just in knowing Jesus and rest in your faith? There were others who sought after signs while Jesus walked among them. He had words for them that weren't pleasant. They wanted the spectacle, but not the One bringing it. Even had they seen, they wouldn't believe. Oh believer, do not spend your time running after signs and wonders. Even false Christs and false prophets will produce these (Mt. 24:24). Instead, seek the Lord Himself, and remember, "Jesus said to him, 'Because you have seen Me, have you believed? Blessed are they who did not see, and yet believed.'" (Jn. 20:29) ------------- Spurgeon's Morning and Evening Devotions Evening, September 2 "Except ye see signs and wonders, ye will not believe." John 4:48 A craving after marvels was a symptom of the sickly state of men's minds in our Lord's day; they refused solid nourishment, and pined after mere wonder. The gospel which they so greatly needed they would not have; the miracles which Jesus did not always choose to give they eagerly demanded. Many nowadays must see signs and wonders, or they will not believe. Some have said in their heart, "I must feel deep horror of soul, or I never will believe in Jesus." But what if you never should feel it, as probably you never may? Will you go to hell out of spite against God, because He will not treat you like another? One has said to himself, "If I had a dream, or if I could feel a sudden shock of I know not what, then I would believe." Thus you undeserving mortals dream that my Lord is to be dictated to by you! You are beggars at His gate, asking for mercy, and you must needs draw up rules and regulations as to how He shall give that mercy. Think you that He will submit to this? My Master is of a generous spirit, but He has a right royal heart, He spurns all dictation, and maintains His sovereignty of action. Why, dear reader, if such be your case, do you crave for signs and wonders? Is not the gospel its own sign and wonder? Is not this a miracle of miracles, that "God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him might not perish"? Surely that precious word, "Whosoever will, let him come and take the water of life freely" and that solemn promise, "Him that cometh unto Me, I will in no wise cast out," are better than signs and wonders! A truthful Saviour ought to be believed. He is truth itself. Why will you ask proof of the veracity of One who cannot lie? The devils themselves declared Him to be the Son of God; will you mistrust Him?
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  • Brethren, do you have a family member who is sick? Fall on your knees, call upon Christ, and tell Him. For we are told, "humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you" (1 Pet. 5:6-7).

    Also, forget not that family is a blessing. See your spouse, your siblings, your children, your parents, your in-laws through the eyes of Christ. Are they saved? Show them grace. Are they lost? Show them compassion. Christ must be first in all things, which is why He tells us we must "hate" our families (Lk. 14:26). He does not truly mean we should "hate" them, but that He must hold the primary position in your heart.

    So, let us love and enjoy our families, pray for them in their illnesses, and lead them to Christ, all the while putting Him first. After all, "This is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent" (Jn. 17:3).
    ------------

    Spurgeon's Morning and Evening Devotions

    Morning, September 2

    "But Simon's wife's mother lay sick of a fever, and anon they tell Him of her." Mark 1:30

    Very interesting is this little peep into the house of the Apostolic Fisherman. We see at once that household joys and cares are no hindrance to the full exercise of ministry, nay, that since they furnish an opportunity for personally witnessing the Lord's gracious work upon one's own flesh and blood, they may even instruct the teacher better than any other earthly discipline. Papists and other sectaries may decry marriage, but true Christianity and household life agree well together. Peter's house was probably a poor fisherman's hut, but the Lord of Glory entered it, lodged in it, and wrought a miracle in it. Should our little book be read this morning in some very humble cottage, let this fact encourage the inmates to seek the company of King Jesus. God is oftener in little huts than in rich palaces. Jesus is looking round your room now, and is waiting to be gracious to you. Into Simon's house sickness had entered, fever in a deadly form had prostrated his mother-in-law, and as soon as Jesus came they told Him of the sad affliction, and He hastened to the patient's bed. Have you any sickness in the house this morning? You will find Jesus by far the best physician, go to Him at once and tell Him all about the matter. Immediately lay the case before Him. It concerns one of His people, and therefore will not be trivial to Him. Observe, that at once the Saviour restored the sick woman; none can heal as He does. We may not make sure that the Lord will at once remove all disease from those we love, but we may know that believing prayer for the sick is far more likely to be followed by restoration than anything else in the world; and where this avails not, we must meekly bow to His will by whom life and death are determined. The tender heart of Jesus waits to hear our griefs, let us pour them into His patient ear.
    Brethren, do you have a family member who is sick? Fall on your knees, call upon Christ, and tell Him. For we are told, "humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you" (1 Pet. 5:6-7). Also, forget not that family is a blessing. See your spouse, your siblings, your children, your parents, your in-laws through the eyes of Christ. Are they saved? Show them grace. Are they lost? Show them compassion. Christ must be first in all things, which is why He tells us we must "hate" our families (Lk. 14:26). He does not truly mean we should "hate" them, but that He must hold the primary position in your heart. So, let us love and enjoy our families, pray for them in their illnesses, and lead them to Christ, all the while putting Him first. After all, "This is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent" (Jn. 17:3). ------------ Spurgeon's Morning and Evening Devotions Morning, September 2 "But Simon's wife's mother lay sick of a fever, and anon they tell Him of her." Mark 1:30 Very interesting is this little peep into the house of the Apostolic Fisherman. We see at once that household joys and cares are no hindrance to the full exercise of ministry, nay, that since they furnish an opportunity for personally witnessing the Lord's gracious work upon one's own flesh and blood, they may even instruct the teacher better than any other earthly discipline. Papists and other sectaries may decry marriage, but true Christianity and household life agree well together. Peter's house was probably a poor fisherman's hut, but the Lord of Glory entered it, lodged in it, and wrought a miracle in it. Should our little book be read this morning in some very humble cottage, let this fact encourage the inmates to seek the company of King Jesus. God is oftener in little huts than in rich palaces. Jesus is looking round your room now, and is waiting to be gracious to you. Into Simon's house sickness had entered, fever in a deadly form had prostrated his mother-in-law, and as soon as Jesus came they told Him of the sad affliction, and He hastened to the patient's bed. Have you any sickness in the house this morning? You will find Jesus by far the best physician, go to Him at once and tell Him all about the matter. Immediately lay the case before Him. It concerns one of His people, and therefore will not be trivial to Him. Observe, that at once the Saviour restored the sick woman; none can heal as He does. We may not make sure that the Lord will at once remove all disease from those we love, but we may know that believing prayer for the sick is far more likely to be followed by restoration than anything else in the world; and where this avails not, we must meekly bow to His will by whom life and death are determined. The tender heart of Jesus waits to hear our griefs, let us pour them into His patient ear.
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  • https://x.com/JLRINVESTIGATES/status/1962666757572960345


    https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/two-self-professed-religious-leaders-who-used-physical-and-psychological-abuse-coerce


    Two Self-Professed Religious Leaders Who used Physical and Pshychological Abuse to Coerce Congregation to Solicit Millions in Donations Arrested by the DOJ
    https://x.com/JLRINVESTIGATES/status/1962666757572960345 https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/two-self-professed-religious-leaders-who-used-physical-and-psychological-abuse-coerce Two Self-Professed Religious Leaders Who used Physical and Pshychological Abuse to Coerce Congregation to Solicit Millions in Donations Arrested by the DOJ
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  • Believer, do you trust God fully, at all times? How often do we rely upon our own intellect, emotion, resources, anything but Him? Has He not promised always to provide our needs? (Mt. 6:25-33) Is He a man that He should lie, or a son of man that He should repent? (Num. 23:19)

    We are told instead to "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight." (Pro. 3:5-6) Such simple advice, but at times, so difficult to follow. Yet we know that He will not fail in His purpose; thus we need to remember to cling to Him, not this world which will pass away.
    ---------

    Spurgeon's Morning and Evening Devotions

    Evening, September 1

    "Trust in Him at all times." Psalm 62:8

    Faith is as much the rule of temporal as of spiritual life; we ought to have faith in God for our earthly affairs as well as for our heavenly business. It is only as we learn to trust in God for the supply of all our daily need that we shall live above the world. We are not to be idle, that would show we did not trust in God, who worketh hitherto, but in the devil, who is the father of idleness. We are not to be imprudent or rash; that were to trust chance, and not the living God, who is a God of economy and order. Acting in all prudence and uprightness, we are to rely simply and entirely upon the Lord at all times.

    Let me commend to you a life of trust in God in temporal things. Trusting in God, you will not be compelled to mourn because you have used sinful means to grow rich. Serve God with integrity, and if you achieve no success, at least no sin will lie upon your conscience. Trusting God, you will not be guilty of self-contradiction. He who trusts in craft, sails this way today, and that way the next, like a vessel tossed about by the fickle wind; but he that trusteth in the Lord is like a vessel propelled by steam, she cuts through the waves, defies the wind, and makes one bright silvery straightforward track to her destined haven. Be you a man with living principles within; never bow to the varying customs of worldly wisdom. Walk in your path of integrity with steadfast steps, and show that you are invincibly strong in the strength which confidence in God alone can confer. Thus you will be delivered from carking care, you will not be troubled with evil tidings, your heart will be fixed, trusting in the Lord. How pleasant to float along the stream of providence! There is no more blessed way of living than a life of dependence upon a covenant-keeping God. We have no care, for He careth for us; we have no troubles, because we cast our burdens upon the Lord.
    Believer, do you trust God fully, at all times? How often do we rely upon our own intellect, emotion, resources, anything but Him? Has He not promised always to provide our needs? (Mt. 6:25-33) Is He a man that He should lie, or a son of man that He should repent? (Num. 23:19) We are told instead to "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight." (Pro. 3:5-6) Such simple advice, but at times, so difficult to follow. Yet we know that He will not fail in His purpose; thus we need to remember to cling to Him, not this world which will pass away. --------- Spurgeon's Morning and Evening Devotions Evening, September 1 "Trust in Him at all times." Psalm 62:8 Faith is as much the rule of temporal as of spiritual life; we ought to have faith in God for our earthly affairs as well as for our heavenly business. It is only as we learn to trust in God for the supply of all our daily need that we shall live above the world. We are not to be idle, that would show we did not trust in God, who worketh hitherto, but in the devil, who is the father of idleness. We are not to be imprudent or rash; that were to trust chance, and not the living God, who is a God of economy and order. Acting in all prudence and uprightness, we are to rely simply and entirely upon the Lord at all times. Let me commend to you a life of trust in God in temporal things. Trusting in God, you will not be compelled to mourn because you have used sinful means to grow rich. Serve God with integrity, and if you achieve no success, at least no sin will lie upon your conscience. Trusting God, you will not be guilty of self-contradiction. He who trusts in craft, sails this way today, and that way the next, like a vessel tossed about by the fickle wind; but he that trusteth in the Lord is like a vessel propelled by steam, she cuts through the waves, defies the wind, and makes one bright silvery straightforward track to her destined haven. Be you a man with living principles within; never bow to the varying customs of worldly wisdom. Walk in your path of integrity with steadfast steps, and show that you are invincibly strong in the strength which confidence in God alone can confer. Thus you will be delivered from carking care, you will not be troubled with evil tidings, your heart will be fixed, trusting in the Lord. How pleasant to float along the stream of providence! There is no more blessed way of living than a life of dependence upon a covenant-keeping God. We have no care, for He careth for us; we have no troubles, because we cast our burdens upon the Lord.
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  • Romans 3:22
    Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference...
    #MondayMeditation
    Romans 3:22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference... #MondayMeditation
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  • Acts 13:38-39
    Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that through this Man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins:
    And by Him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses.
    #MondayMeditation
    Acts 13:38-39 Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that through this Man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins: And by Him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses. #MondayMeditation
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  • John 3:14-15
    And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up:
    That whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.
    #MondayMeditation
    John 3:14-15 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: That whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have eternal life. #MondayMeditation
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  • John 11:25
    Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live...
    #MondayMeditation
    John 11:25 Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live... #MondayMeditation
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