TDR: 8 July (1 Corinthians 14:1)

‘Follow the way of love’ (1 Corinthians 14:1)

CHARITY is love: and what can be so worthy of the Christian’s thought, care, and anxious desire, as LOVE? Love to God, the centre and source of all excellence; to Jesus, the Mediator of the new covenant, the personification of everything that is lovely; to believers, for His sake and because they are His children and representatives; and to sinners, because He commands us.

The law requires it, and the gospel, when applied by the power of the Holy Spirit, produces it. It is not in our hearts by nature (we are ENMITY). It is not to be produced by human effort. It flows from grace. It is produced by the Holy Spirit.

It is connected with evangelical impulses. Its exercise is our happiness and our holiness. There is no real religion without love; and only so much true godliness as there is love. LET US FOLLOW AFTER LOVE.

Let us cultivate love to the Lord’s people, for the Lord’s sake; and not merely those who see things as we see, or attend the same place of worship we attend, and who are our personal friends; this is love to our own. Rather, let us love all who love Jesus, albeit in some things they differ from us.

‘Tis love that makes the cheerful feet
In swift obedience move,
‘Tis love shall tune our joyful songs,
in the sweet realms above.
Jesus, to me this love be given,
Fill me with love, for love is heaven.

THE DAILY REMEMBRANCER by James Smith (1802-1862)

Journal Jottings

‘It comforts me that my concern for souls is as strong, if not stronger than ever, and my preaching and books are made a blessing; I often hear of this. Still, my heart cries out, as heretofore, “Greater things – greater things than these“.