Morning & Evening Devotional Reading–

February 13– Morning

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

“Behold, what kind of love the Father has given to us that we should be called the sons of God. This is why the world does not know us.  It is because it does not know God, and we are his sons.” 

—I John 3:1-2

 

We know that we were born into sin, and even now we feel the inner corruption that remains with us.  It is no wonder, then, that we are amazed by our adoption as sons into God’s family. But the Scripture says that we are called “the sons of God.” What a high relationship is that of a son, and what privilege it brings! What care and tenderness the son expects from his father, and what love the father feels towards the son! But all that– and even more than that– we now have through Christ.

It is easy to say that “we are now the sons of God,” but it is not so easy to feel it. How is it with your heart today? Are you in the lowest depths of sorrow? Does corruption rise within your spirit and grace seem like a poor spark trampled under foot? Does your faith almost fail you? Don’t be afraid!  It is not your graces or your feelings on which you are to live; you must live simply by faith in Christ. With all these things against us, it is now– in the very depths of our sorrow, wherever we may be– now, as much in the valley as on the mountain— “now are we the sons of God.”

“Ah, but,” you say, “look at me! My graces do not shine brightly; my righteousness does not shine with great glory.” But read the next part: “It does not yet appear what we shall be; but we know that when he appears we will be like him.” The Holy Spirit will purify our minds, and divine power will refine our bodies. Then, we will see him as he is. [M&E]