'Voices From The Past' Vol. 1 — September 7

We know the kingdom of grace has been set up in our hearts by the change wrought in the soul. There is a new nature, light in the mind, order in the affections, a pliable will, and tenderness in the conscience. If there is no change of heart there is no sign of grace. God's children desire God, like the beating of the pulse indicates life. Saints love him, not only for what he has, but for what he is; not only for his rewards, but for his holiness. Hypocrites may desire him for his jewels, but not for his beauty. A believer cannot be satisfied without God; let the world heap her honours and riches, it will not satisfy. No flower will satisfy the thirsty. The Christian says, ‘I must have Christ, grace, and heaven, though I take it by storm.' We desire Christ more than the world, and more than heaven itself, 'Whom have I in heaven but you?' (Psa. 73:25). Heaven itself would not satisfy without Christ. He is the diamond in the ring. If God were to say, ‘I will put you into heaven, but I will hide my face from you', that would not satisfy. A little of God will not satisfy. The pious desires still more. A drop of water is not enough for thirsty travellers. We are thankful for grace received, but desire more: more knowledge, purity, and more of Christ's presence. We long to see him face to face, and be perfected in glory; to plunge into his sweetness and be swallowed up in him; and to bathe ourselves in the perfumed waters of his pleasures. At first, faith is small. It is full of doubts and fears. As it grows, it will trust God to work a miracle rather than to allow his promises to fail. Though sometimes impertinent thoughts come to mind, they are unwelcome guests. No sooner do they appear, but they are turned out. Faith seeks to obey Christ's rule. Grace mourns and fights sin's corruptions which are now fetters and not a crown.

Devotional Readings taken from Puritan Devotional Readings 'Voices From The Past Vol.1.'
Thomas Watson, The Lord's Prayer, pp. 67-73
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