Joy and Strength (Christian life and music)

When we are in the thick of it - being tempted to give up, walk in the flesh, doubt God - this is when we are called to practice patience. The meaning of patience in this case is long suffering.  God knows that we suffer when tempted.  Remember, He was tempted by the devil in the desert and it was no fun!  But Jesus resisted the devil by knowing Who He was and by knowing and speaking Scripture.  Jesus was not passive in this and neither should we be. Verse 4 in the King James translation reads, "But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire , wanting nothing."  The purpose of the trial is to produce patience in us which makes us whole.  When we are whole, we are healed, "wanting nothing." Why does it have to work this way?  I have no idea.  And trying to deny it or fight against it only causes great turmoil and stress. Isn't that the way?  We are tempted.  We feel rotten.  We are uncomfortable and not at peace in that moment. Now here

Once in a while, I read a book that is so overwhelmingly helpful in my walk with Christ that I must tell others about it. I have been reading "Maturity," by Sinclair B. Ferguson.  I am on chapter eight which is about Fighting the Enemy.   Here is the link where you can buy the book.  This is all I want to share with you today, to tell you of this wonderful book to read and ingest.   https://www.amazon.com/Maturity-Growing-Going-Christian-Life/dp/1848718659 I am simply encouraging you to read this book.  It is rich in God's truth.  It is helpful for growing in Christ.  It is chock full of wisdom that we all need. I pray you buy it and read it and that you grow in your faith in and walk with Christ as a result. Lord Jesus, I pray for all those reading these words right now that You would move in their hearts to buy and read "Maturity."  I pray that it moves them to become more serious in their commitment to You, Lord, in this New Year and always.  In Jesus' Na