December 28

There is forgiveness with the Lord Jesus. No matter what the trouble, this truth brings comfort to saints. You know how a cool spring is welcomed in a parched desert. And when you recall what sweet refreshment you have had from God's wells of salvation you will cry out with David: "I will never forget thy precepts: for with them thou hast quickened me" (Psalm 119:93). It is no surprise that Satan tries to stop your well of comfort; but it is more than tragic if he can persuade you to do it yourself.

As the veins in the body have arteries to bring them life, so precepts in the Word have promises to encourage and empower Christians to perform their vows to God. Is there a command to play? There is also a promise: "Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered" (Romans 8:26). Does God ask for your heart? The promise says, "A new heart also will I give you" (Ezekiel 36:26). Does He require us to crucify the flesh? Not without His promise: "Sin shall not have dominion over you" (Romans 6:14). But to make this promise serve your need, you must humbly and boldly press it believingly at the throne of grace. What the precept commands, the prayer of faith begs and receives. In other words, first conquer heaven and then you do not need to fear overcoming hell.

Do not forget-- you are warring at God's expense, not your own. David was a military man who could handle one enemy as well as another, but he dared not promise himself success until he had heard from God: "Order my steps in thy word: and let not any iniquity have dominion over me" (Psalm 119:133). But if you have decided to steal victory in your own strength, expect an overthrow. It will be a mercy, for defeat will bring humility with it but victory will increase your pride in your own strength.

Return to menu
Previous devotions