Morning & Evening Devotional Reading–

August 14– Morning

 by C. H. Spurgeon, revised and edited by W. C. Neff

“You, O Lord, have made me glad through your work.” 

—Psalm 92:4

Do you believe that your sins are forgiven and that Christ has made a full atonement for them? If you do, then what a joyful Christian you ought to be! How you should live above the common troubles of this world! Since sin is forgiven, can it matter what happens to you now? Martin Luther once said, “Lord, strike; for my sin is forgiven. If you have forgiven me, then strike as hard as you will.” In a similar spirit you may say, “Send sickness, poverty, losses, crosses, persecution, whatever you will; you have forgiven me, and my soul is glad.”

Christian, if you are saved like this, then be glad; be grateful and loving. Cling to the cross that took your sin away; serve him who served you. As Paul said, “Present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God.”

And don’t’ let your zeal be expressed only in the singing of songs, but show your love in tangible ways— especially to those who belong to him. If you know of a Christian in need or in trial, then help him and weep with him for the Lord’s sake. Carry his cross just as Jesus wept for you and carried your sins.

And tell others the joyful news of his pardoning mercy. Don’t be content to be blessed all by yourself. Holy gladness and holy boldness will make you a good preacher, and the whole world will be your pulpit. Cheerful holiness is one of the hardest sermons to preach, but the Lord must give it you. Seek it today as you go into the world. When we rejoice in the Lord’s work, we don’t need to be afraid of being too glad. [M&E]