Scotty Smith Posts – The Gospel Coalition https://www.thegospelcoalition.org The Gospel Coalition Wed, 26 Apr 2023 06:49:35 +0000 en-US hourly 1 Grace for Our Thorns, Burrs, Punches, Regrets, and Arrows https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/grace-for-our-thorns-burrs-punches-regrets-and-arrows/ Tue, 25 Apr 2023 10:17:22 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=552625 “Each time he (Abba) said, ‘My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.’ So now I am glad to boast in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me” (2 Cor. 12:9).   Heavenly Father, make this liberating truth more real than ever. You gave Paul “sufficient grace” for his “thorn in the flesh”—though he wanted a “thorn-free” life. But you haven’t promised us that this side of heaven. However, you have promised us we will never experience a “grace-less” day. Thank you, Abba. For our thorns in the flesh: Grant us...]]> Each time he (Abba) said, ‘My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.’ So now I am glad to boast in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me” (2 Cor. 12:9).

 

Heavenly Father, make this liberating truth more real than ever. You gave Paul “sufficient grace” for his “thorn in the flesh”—though he wanted a “thorn-free” life. But you haven’t promised us that this side of heaven. However, you have promised us we will never experience a “grace-less” day. Thank you, Abba.

For our thorns in the flesh: Grant us grace to accept the inconvenient, limiting, painful things going on in our bodies. Free us to “boast in our weaknesses”—not just bemoan them. Release the aroma of grace from our broken places.

For our burrs in the saddle: Father, some of us are dealing with aggravating people and circumstances. Irritation comes easy, but we prefer to be patient, kind, and trusting. Grant us struggle-shaped grace.

For our punches to the gut:  Some of us are reeling from fresh disappointments, betrayals, and un-resolved “situations.” Help us catch our breath, gain Gospel-perspective, and move forward in hope. You are at work in all things for our good. Thank you, Abba.

For our regrets in the past: Father, some of us are quite haunted, shamed, and shaped by past failures. Please free us. Re-convince our fragile hearts that Jesus is our perfect righteousness, not our disgruntled coach.

For our arrows to the heart: Nothing hurts as much as relational pain. Father, grant grace for our messiest, triggerable, complex relationships. Teach us how to abide in Jesus’ love while we live in broken stories. We are SO ready for the Day of all things new, beautiful, and loving. So Very Amen.

 

 

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How Would You Like Our Father to Shock You? https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/how-would-you-like-our-father-to-shock-you/ Mon, 24 Apr 2023 11:14:27 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=552417 “It is God who works in you, both to will and to accomplish his good pleasure” (Phil. 2:13). “By the grace of God, I am what I am” (1 Cor. 15:10). “The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me; your steadfast love, O Lord, endures forever” (Psalm 138:8).   Heavenly Father, thank you for rescuing us from the illusion that we could work our way into your acceptance and love. Where did we ever get the notion that we control your facial expressions—smiling, frowning, scowling—based on our goodness or lack thereof? Hallelujah, the Gospel  has “nuked” every notion of salvation by earning, mercy by...]]> It is God who works in you, both to will and to accomplish his good pleasure” (Phil. 2:13). “By the grace of God, I am what I am” (1 Cor. 15:10). “The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me; your steadfast love, O Lord, endures forever” (Psalm 138:8).

 

Heavenly Father, thank you for rescuing us from the illusion that we could work our way into your acceptance and love. Where did we ever get the notion that we control your facial expressions—smiling, frowning, scowling—based on our goodness or lack thereof? Hallelujah, the Gospel  has “nuked” every notion of salvation by earning, mercy by deserving,  greater love from you by our greater performing for you.

The grace and faith you give us bring Jesus’ perfect everything to our total neediness. Jesus’ work for us is finished, the Spirit’s work in us continues, and you Father, guarantee to finish the work with fullness and a flourish (Phil.1:6).

Because you “will fulfill your purpose for me” (Ps.138:8), and because there is nothing more steadfast and enduring than your love, may the rest of our days be marked by…  Gratitude expressing itself in worship. Faith expressing itself in love. Grace expressing itself in kindness. Hope expressing itself in mission.

Father, this is asking a lot, but since your resources are infinite, help us be ten times more easily encouraged by the Gospel than easily offended by mere people. Shock us with how gentle, kind, resilient, and forgiving you can make us. So Very Amen.

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Dew on Our Heads and Grace in Our Hearts https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/dew-on-our-heads-and-grace-in-our-hearts/ Sun, 23 Apr 2023 09:13:20 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=552380 “How wonderful and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony—(in a Spirit given unity)! For harmony is as precious as the anointing oil that was poured over Aaron’s head, that ran down his beard and onto the border of his robe. Unity is as refreshing as the dew from Mount Hermon that falls on the mountains of Zion. And there the Lord has pronounced his blessing, even life everlasting.” Psalm 133   Lord Jesus, I feel a bit of the refreshing dew resting on my heart this morning, like that which fell on and kissed the mountains of Zion. It’s been a...]]> How wonderful and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony—(in a Spirit given unity)! For harmony is as precious as the anointing oil that was poured over Aaron’s head, that ran down his beard and onto the border of his robe. Unity is as refreshing as the dew from Mount Hermon that falls on the mountains of Zion. And there the Lord has pronounced his blessing, even life everlasting.” Psalm 133

 

Lord Jesus, I feel a bit of the refreshing dew resting on my heart this morning, like that which fell on and kissed the mountains of Zion. It’s been a rich weekend with four other brothers, as diverse as 5 guys can be, but united in our need for you, and grateful for the grace you continue to lavish on us. Thank you.

As you know, Jesus, a lot of what we talked about this weekend has been our relationships. Until you return, Satan will continue his multifaceted attacks on our each of our hearts, our marriages, our friendships, families—really, everywhere we live, work, and play. He’ll do anything/everything to sabotage our connection and sow dissension, erode trust and destroy beauty. It’s what he does as the lord of darkness. He lost us for eternity, so all the devil has is now to mess with us, and rob you of glory..

You reminded us the best way we can resist the devil, and his nefarious schemes, is by marinating in the Gospel, abiding in your love, and walking closely with you and each other. All the way Home, we’re going to need more, not less of your grace—along with honest, real, fun, long-haul friendships.

Each of us wants to be the chief repenter, quickest forgiver, and main encourager in our marriages, our friendships, and other vital relationships. Help us, Jesus, then help us come more, all the way Home. So Very Amen.

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The Peace of Christ Ruling in Our Hearts… Or, What/Who? https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/the-peace-of-christ-ruling-in-our-hearts-or-what-who/ Sat, 22 Apr 2023 09:06:41 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=552310   “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts” (Col. 3:15). “May the Lord of peace himself give you his peace at all times and in every situation” (2 Thess. 3:16).   Lord Jesus, we are thankful there’s no part of our being or story, no sphere of life or place in the universe, outside your interest and care. Today, we come to you as the Lord of Peace. Though you don’t always eliminate our storms, you do inhabit all of them. We’ll simply never know a Christ-absent day. Oh to have a heart actually ruled by your peace—governed,...]]>   “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts” (Col. 3:15). May the Lord of peace himself give you his peace at all times and in every situation” (2 Thess. 3:16).

 

Lord Jesus, we are thankful there’s no part of our being or story, no sphere of life or place in the universe, outside your interest and care. Today, we come to you as the Lord of Peace. Though you don’t always eliminate our storms, you do inhabit all of them. We’ll simply never know a Christ-absent day.

Oh to have a heart actually ruled by your peace—governed, centered, calmed, hope-kissed. Not the mere “peaceful easy feeling” the rock group, the Eagles sang about, or a Zen-like state of non-feeling. Something way more substantive, durative, and easy to reclaim when temporarily lost.

So if your peace isn’t ruling in our hearts, what is? What competes for our heart’s throne? I’m not sure how my praying friends will answer, but I can forfeit my enjoyment of your peace when I drift backward down the lane of vain regrets. The land of “could’ve, would’ve, should’ve” is filled with poison snakes, land mines, and tar pits. Your name is Redeemer, not Re-Do’s. Only you are sovereign, King Jesus, not our choices.

I can also resist the rule of your peace in my heart when I let other people’s happiness, “okay-ness,” and approval determine the state of my heart. Having genuine concern is one thing, but over-needing people to be other than are never ends well. Other peace-saboteurs for me?

Aging issues beg me to be anxious and afraid. Old insecurities and lingering shame sometimes shoot spitballs at my Gospel-freedom, or throw grenades in the direction of my heart-joy. But Jesus, you are my peace, period—when I feel it and when I don’t. Hallelujah, and So Very Amen.

 

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When Being Kind Is Complicated and Confusing https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/when-being-kind-is-complicated-and-confusing/ Fri, 21 Apr 2023 09:14:23 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=552133   “When the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us…”  (Titus 3:4). “He (God) is kind to the ungrateful and wicked” (Luke 6:35). “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you” (Eph. 4:32).   Heavenly Father, this waterfall of “kindness verses” is shocking, encouraging, and convicting. The breadth of your kindness is as broad as the rivers of your grace—from the banks of “ingratitude” to the shoreline of “wickedness.” This doesn’t mean you are indifferent to “wickedness.” It means even the wicked aren’t beyond the reach of redemption....]]>   “When the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us…”  (Titus 3:4). “He (God) is kind to the ungrateful and wicked” (Luke 6:35). “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you” (Eph. 4:32).

 

Heavenly Father, this waterfall of “kindness verses” is shocking, encouraging, and convicting. The breadth of your kindness is as broad as the rivers of your grace—from the banks of “ingratitude” to the shoreline of “wickedness.” This doesn’t mean you are indifferent to “wickedness.” It means even the wicked aren’t beyond the reach of redemption.

It also means there’s no such thing as “mere” ingratitude. To live thanklessly before you is to live presumptively and small-heartedly. Father, forgive us. And also help us take more seriously than ever our calling to be kind to one another—just as you are kind towards us in Jesus.

When did we start taking offense quicker than we give mercy? How did our “heart-skin” get so thin and our anger-triggers so “hair-trigger-ish”? Why is it easier for us to remember how others have hurt and failed us than to remember and relish the riches of your grace?

Father, help us pull up the roots of  bitterness and resentment we’ve allowed to take root in our hearts (Heb. 12:15). In some cases, we’ve actually poured Miracle Grow on them. Make getting low to wash feet more our instinct than staying “sassy” to get even. Not forgiving it not a Gospel-option.

Thaw our “chilly” attitudes, humble our haughty hearts, supersize our thankfulness. You know our situations which make being kind complicated and confusing. We can trust you there, and everywhere. So Very Amen.

 

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The Devil’s Design? Zero Intimacy with Jesus and No Friends https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/the-devils-design-zero-intimacy-with-jesus-and-no-friends/ Thu, 20 Apr 2023 11:03:47 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=552019 “Dear friends, build each other up in your most holy faith” (Jude 20)   Lord Jesus, it’s dangerously easy to presume on our most vital friendships—investing less, giving in to gradual heart-drift, busyness trumping connection, pretending replacing vulnerability, shame muting honesty. We’re wise to acknowledge this, and foolish (idiots) to deny it. The older we get, the more we need our friendships—friendships shaped by, and saturated with, the Gospel. “Building each other up in our most holy faith,” rather than falling into cruise control friendship. I wish our hearts naturally drifted towards the priority of friendship, fellowship with you, the...]]> Dear friends, build each other up in your most holy faith” (Jude 20)

 

Lord Jesus, it’s dangerously easy to presume on our most vital friendships—investing less, giving in to gradual heart-drift, busyness trumping connection, pretending replacing vulnerability, shame muting honesty. We’re wise to acknowledge this, and foolish (idiots) to deny it.

The older we get, the more we need our friendships—friendships shaped by, and saturated with, the Gospel. “Building each other up in our most holy faith,” rather than falling into cruise control friendship. I wish our hearts naturally drifted towards the priority of friendship, fellowship with you, the Spirit’s fruit, the joy of repentance, But it just doesn’t work that way. The devil has lost us for eternity, so he is constantly attempting to destroy our love for you (2Cor.11:1-3), and make our friendships “meh,” superficial, and optional.

Predictably, each of us will go through seasons of heart-exhausting challenges, more plates to spins than is sustainable, discovering how weak we really are… along with hard-to-resist temptations,  We really do need each other. As an introvert, I have to work hard at this. As an unglorified believer, I must work hard at it.

Jesus, this is our current and ultimate peace, freedom, and joy: You are our righteousness, holiness, and redemption. You are keeping us for yourself, and you will get us Home safely. But until that day, keep underscoring how important it is for us to be and have heart-friends—Gospel-friends. Aloneness is an option, but a bad and destructive one. So Very Amen.

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All Violence Has an Expiration Date https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/all-violence-has-an-expiration-date/ Wed, 19 Apr 2023 09:04:20 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=551870   “I will make peace your governor and well-being your ruler. No longer will violence be heard in your land, nor ruin or destruction within your borders, but you will call your walls Salvation and your gates Praise.” Isa. 60:17-18      Lord Jesus, I’m up earlier than normal today—simmering, lamenting, sighing, somewhat angry, definitely sad… weary of the madness. How long, O Lord, until you return and put an end to all violence—whether it’s in the hallways of a Christian school, the crowded space of a “sweet-16” party, on the floor of congress, or in the chambers of our hearts? When will...]]>   “I will make peace your governor and well-being your ruler. No longer will violence be heard in your land, nor ruin or destruction within your borders, but you will call your walls Salvation and your gates Praise.” Isa. 60:17-18

 

   Lord Jesus, I’m up earlier than normal today—simmering, lamenting, sighing, somewhat angry, definitely sad… weary of the madness. How long, O Lord, until you return and put an end to all violence—whether it’s in the hallways of a Christian school, the crowded space of a “sweet-16” party, on the floor of congress, or in the chambers of our hearts?

When will the dawn break on the Day of no more fruitless arguments between friends or spiteful pettiness between spouses… no more pointing of guns or even pointing of fingers? Jesus, when will “Peace be our governor” and “Well-being our ruler”? Can you hurry it up, please?

You promised wolves and lambs, calves and lions will live together one Day in kindness (Isa. 11:6-9); and that your glory, not our lovelessness, will cover the earth as the waters cover the sea. When is that actually going to happen, Lord?

We crave it, but can hardly imagine only using our words to praise you and encourage each other—never again weaponizing our disappointments or even thinking ill of anyone. Until then, Jesus, show us how to live by the Gospel, not by the sword—by the way of your cross, not by the gracelessness in our hearts. May we add to the kindness, not the madness. So Very Amen.

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“Yippee!” Soon, Lord, and Thank You https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/yippee-soon-lord-and-thank-you/ Tue, 18 Apr 2023 09:18:07 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=551688   “And this is the plan: At the right time, he (God) will bring everything together in Christ—everything in heaven and on earth.” Eph. 1:10    Heavenly Father, you never promised anything that has not/will not come to pass. You are the perfect planner and “get-it-done-er.” Unlike us, you never have to say, “Lord willing”; for you are the Lord who does as he wills. Jesus is the “Yes!” to all your promises (2Cor.1:20)—not the “Might Be,” “Could Be,” or “Possibly.” Though life often feels like a vulnerability factory, filled with no-so-happy-happenstance, that is only our limited viewpoint—not redemptive-reality. If we could...]]>   “And this is the plan: At the right time, he (God) will bring everything together in Christ—everything in heaven and on earth.” Eph. 1:10 

 

Heavenly Father, you never promised anything that has not/will not come to pass. You are the perfect planner and “get-it-done-er.” Unlike us, you never have to say, “Lord willing”; for you are the Lord who does as he wills.

Jesus is the “Yes!” to all your promises (2Cor.1:20)—not the “Might Be,” “Could Be,” or “Possibly.” Though life often feels like a vulnerability factory, filled with no-so-happy-happenstance, that is only our limited viewpoint—not redemptive-reality. If we could only see what you see and know what you know.

Father, make this one verse from the Apostle Paul (Eph. 1:10) the GPS setting of our hearts, rocket fuel for our peace, and pure oxygen for our hope. Thank you for setting a Day when everything will be united, summed-up, “shalom-ed,” and perfected in Jesus. What a blessed Day that will be…

 

We will see Jesus and be completely like him.

Tears will be wiped, pain redeemed, everything healed.

No more worries, wars, regrets, shame, hurting, or hurting others.

No more political/ideological “Right” or “Left”, only Jesus at the Center.

The earth will be filled with your glory, beloved family, and fulfilled promises.

 

Until then, renew and deepen our love for Jesus. By your grace, supersize our gentleness, humility, and kindness towards people. We are actually glad we get to pray “Lord willing,” because you do all things well, everything you wish, at just the right time, all for your glory. So Very Hallelujah and Amen.

 

 

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Our Truest Reflection https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/our-truest-reflection/ Mon, 17 Apr 2023 10:24:11 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=551583 “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” Col. 3:12   Heavenly Father, before we head out for the day, nothing is more normal than a little “mirror-time.” If we’re in hurry, the mirror is optional, but getting dressed isn’t. But there’s one “mirror” that should never be avoided—the Gospel. When we look into mirror of the Gospel, we’ll never see “bad-hair-day,” “dark-eye-circle-day,” “where did those new wrinkles come from?”, or “I’m-rockin’-it-day.” We’ll see, “chosen by your Father, holy, and dearly loved.” Hallelujah, these three things define us more than anything we’ll...]]> Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” Col. 3:12

 

Heavenly Father, before we head out for the day, nothing is more normal than a little “mirror-time.” If we’re in hurry, the mirror is optional, but getting dressed isn’t. But there’s one “mirror” that should never be avoided—the Gospel.

When we look into mirror of the Gospel, we’ll never see “bad-hair-day,” “dark-eye-circle-day,” “where did those new wrinkles come from?”, or “I’m-rockin’-it-day.” We’ll see, “chosen by your Father, holy, and dearly loved.” Hallelujah, these three things define us more than anything we’ll ever see in a well-lighted piece of reflection-glass.

Chosen by your Father”—which means you wanted us, Abba, adopted us, and delight in us as your beloved children. Holy”—set apart by grace, for a life of grace, and becoming like Jesus more and more. “Dearly loved,”—more so than we can imagine, have yet to experience, or consistently believe.

No matter the temperature, moisture factor, wind, humidity, or activity of the day these three realities will not change, waver, or end. But as Paul states in our verse of the day, they should dictate what we dress our hearts with every day—several times if necessary. The garments of grace that never go out of style include “compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”

Father, as we start this new week, may these 5 pieces of “Gospel-attire” be the most obvious thing about us among whom we work, live, and play. Always in season, always needed, always freely ours in Jesus—thank you Father. So Very Amen.

 

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Missions, Fly Fishing, Swiss Bakeries and the 5 Solas https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/missions-fly-fishing-swiss-bakeries-and-the-5-solas/ Sun, 16 Apr 2023 08:25:47 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=551564 “If it (salvation) is by grace, it is no longer on the basis of works; otherwise grace would no longer be grace.” Romans 11:6   Lord Jesus, right out of the shoot, thank you. Thank you for who you are, for everything you have accomplished on our behalf, and for what you’re doing right now as our resurrected, reigning, and sure-to-return King. I always feel that way, but fresh gratitude is always a good thing. Yesterday afternoon, you ignited my thankfulness through a new friend. We were chatting about world missions, fly-fishing, and Swiss bakeries. I don’t remember the segue,...]]> If it (salvation) is by grace, it is no longer on the basis of works; otherwise grace would no longer be grace.” Romans 11:6

 

Lord Jesus, right out of the shoot, thank you. Thank you for who you are, for everything you have accomplished on our behalf, and for what you’re doing right now as our resurrected, reigning, and sure-to-return King. I always feel that way, but fresh gratitude is always a good thing. Yesterday afternoon, you ignited my thankfulness through a new friend.

We were chatting about world missions, fly-fishing, and Swiss bakeries. I don’t remember the segue, but the “5 Solas” entered our conversation—five Latin phrases which summarize how you, our Father, and the Holy Spirit so generously saves us and relate to us. This “5-pack” bears repeating any day of the week.

 

Sola Scriptura – Only the Bible is our errorless, trustworthy, God-breathed source for what we are to believe about salvation—God, the world, and ourselves.

Solus Christus – Only you, Jesus—and your work on our behalf, are sufficient to save us. We add nothing to our salvation but our need of you. We were dead in our sins, not just misinformed about salvation.

Sola Gratia – Only God’s grace is the source, basis, and guarantee of our entire salvation. Like Paul stated in Romans 11:6, if we try to add anything to God’s grace, “grace ceases to be grace.”

Sola Fide – Only faith is the delivery and receptor “system” for saving grace. Even faith is a gift to us (Eph. 2:8-10). We are so needy, and you are so generous.

Soli Deo Gloria – Jesus, all of these taken together make it clear. From beginning to end, our “salvation is of (from and through) the Lord.” You, our Father, and the Spirit deserve all the glory, and our now and forever praise. So Very Amen.

 

 

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100 Gospel Parties for Every Pity Party https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/100-gospel-parties-for-every-pity-party/ Sat, 15 Apr 2023 08:34:18 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=551535 “Set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you when Jesus Christ returns.” 1 Pet. 1:13   Heavenly Father, from beginning, through the middle, all the way to the end, you always dealt with us by the riches of your grace—your incomparable, unconditional, limitless provision for us in Jesus. Our hope is built on nothing less, nothing more, or nothing other than the person and work of Jesus. Indeed, grace is a Someone, not a something. Jesus is grace personified. Hallelujah!   By grace, you created us as your image-bearers—designed for a life of intimacy with you...]]> Set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you when Jesus Christ returns.” 1 Pet. 1:13

 

Heavenly Father, from beginning, through the middle, all the way to the end, you always dealt with us by the riches of your grace—your incomparable, unconditional, limitless provision for us in Jesus. Our hope is built on nothing less, nothing more, or nothing other than the person and work of Jesus. Indeed, grace is a Someone, not a something. Jesus is grace personified. Hallelujah!

 

  • By grace, you created us as your image-bearers—designed for a life of intimacy with you and engagement in your world.
  • By grace, you raised us to newness of life in Jesus—once dead, now alive; once rebellious, now servants; once idolaters, now Jesus-worshippers.
  • By grace, you relate to us on a daily and momentary basis—being steadfast in your love, unwavering in your kindness, faithful in your providence—even loving in your discipline.

 

And according to this verse from 1st Peter, our future is looking even more off-the-charts fabulous. Grace in part will give way to grace in full. Eternity will be a never-ending, heart-thrilling, imagination-expanding celebration of your love, generosity, and bounty. So set our hearts fully on “future grace” is simply to say we can never be too preoccupied with knowing, loving, and longing for Jesus.

Until He returns, free us to live and love to your glory—serving Jesus, engaging with our neighbors, and praying in view of the Day when Jesus’ every-nation-Bride will stream into the New Jerusalem (Isaiah 2:2; Rev. 21:23-26).

May we worship more than we whine, repent quicker than we criticize, and throw 100 Gospel-parties for every pity-party. So Very, VERY Amen.

 

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Living Towards the Day of All Things New https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/living-towards-the-day-of-all-things-new/ Fri, 14 Apr 2023 08:45:33 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=551402 “Let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching” (Heb. 10:25). “… We will be with the Lord forever. Therefore encourage one another with these words” (1 Thess. 4:17-18)   Lord Jesus, you don’t just call us to encourage one another on a daily basis, but to do so with hearts filled with anticipation, joy, and hope about your second coming. Lest we forget, what’s so awesome about the fact you are coming back? We will become as loving and as lovely as you, Jesus—astonishing, but true. For we will see you, as you are, and we...]]> Let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching” (Heb. 10:25). “… We will be with the Lord forever. Therefore encourage one another with these words” (1 Thess. 4:17-18)

 

Lord Jesus, you don’t just call us to encourage one another on a daily basis, but to do so with hearts filled with anticipation, joy, and hope about your second coming. Lest we forget, what’s so awesome about the fact you are coming back?

  • We will become as loving and as lovely as you, Jesus—astonishing, but true. For we will see you, as you are, and we will be made like you (1 John 3:1-3).
  • The expiration date on all evil, sin, and sickness will have arrived. Everything will be true, good, and beautiful forever. There will be redemption for all of our pain, losses, and failures. Everything sad will come untrue, we’ll never experience any form of death again.
  • It will be like the Garden of Eden on Gospel-steroids. Every longing you’re written into our DNA of your image bearers, and everything you’ve planned for us before the world began will come to fruition and fulfillment.

So, what might encouragement look like, as we live toward that magnificent Day? Forgiving and repenting should become easier for us than ever, because your grace not our sin is forever. Life is too short, and the end of your story is too glorious, for us to stay mad, bitter, and stuck. Our vexation and irritation, fears and worry should shrink, as we see the Day of all things new approaching.

We should live more joyfully as fellow characters in and carriers of your Story of redemption—living and spending “on mission,” supporting the work of the Gospel at home, and around the world. May it be so, Jesus. So Very Amen.

 

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“My Dear Brothers and Sisters…” https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/my-dear-brothers-and-sisters/ Thu, 13 Apr 2023 08:37:41 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=551178 “Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.” James 1:19   Lord Jesus, two things strike me right out of the gate in this very familiar verse. First is the word “dear.” We are beloved—dear to you. Your relationship with us and love for us should define us more than anything else. Second is the word “must.” As challenging as this verse is, you’re not suggesting, you’re commanding us to love as you love us—beginning with our listening, words, and our emotions—especially anger. Help us Jesus....]]> Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.” James 1:19

 

Lord Jesus, two things strike me right out of the gate in this very familiar verse. First is the word “dear.” We are beloved—dear to you. Your relationship with us and love for us should define us more than anything else. Second is the word “must.” As challenging as this verse is, you’re not suggesting, you’re commanding us to love as you love us—beginning with our listening, words, and our emotions—especially anger. Help us Jesus.

May quick, good listening translate into, first and foremost, listening to everything you want to reveal to us about yourself, Jesus. We are all neophytes and babes, when it comes to understanding the riches of your grace, and the truth, goodness, and beauty that are only found in you. From there, help us to…

 

  • Offer each other the gift of engaged un-rushed presence.
  • Stay curious and assume the best of others.
  • Ask more questions than we assume answers.
  • Resist putting our meaning on other people’s words.
  • Say back what we are hearing, for the sake of clarification and connection.
  • Listen with our eyes, hearts, and your kindness—not just hear with our ears.

If we do these things, the “slow to get angry” part will be a lot easier for us. But Jesus, you know our real “anger issues” better than anyone. Help us process with you the irritability, edginess, and short fuses we’re currently carrying; and why we are offended so easily, triggered quickly, and are so reactionary these days. That’s not who we want to be, or who you’ll called us to become. So Very Amen.

 

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Every Promise from Our Father, not “3 Wishes from a Genie” https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/every-promise-from-our-father-not-3-wishes-from-a-genie/ Wed, 12 Apr 2023 09:56:48 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=551050 “God has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them we may participate in the divine nature (become like Jesus) and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires” (2 Peter 1:4).   Heavenly Father, this passage is awesome, because you are awesome and so very generous. Thank you for making promises you alone can keep—“great and precious promises.” You never over-promise and you never under-deliver. You do all things well and on time—even when it doesn’t seem that way to us. In fact, this verse helps us understand the tension we often feel...]]> God has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them we may participate in the divine nature (become like Jesus) and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires” (2 Peter 1:4).

 

Heavenly Father, this passage is awesome, because you are awesome and so very generous. Thank you for making promises you alone can keep—“great and precious promises.” You never over-promise and you never under-deliver. You do all things well and on time—even when it doesn’t seem that way to us.

In fact, this verse helps us understand the tension we often feel between “claiming your promises” and waiting for you to fulfill them. The good news is, we don’t really claim you promises, they claim us. You began a good work in us (and in all of creation) that you will finish. Hallelujah… you aren’t waiting (or needing) us to program you by claiming the right promises. You aren’t our “genie in a bottle,” you’re our Father on his throne. That is so freeing and encouraging.

Indeed, we aren’t limited to “3 wishes”—we are transformed by all your promises and your faithfulness. For, as Peter tells us, your primary promise to us is to make us like Jesus. Thank you, Father. That’s what it means for us to “participate in the divine nature”—to progressively become more Christlike. Oh, how we long for the Day when we will be completely like him (Rom. 8:28-30; 1 John 3:1-3). Hasten that Day. Until then, thank you for being our “very great and precious promise-Keeper.” So Very Amen.

 

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Loved… Loves… Freed… https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/loved-loves-freed/ Tue, 11 Apr 2023 09:54:29 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=550885   “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love” (John 15:9). “To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins…” (Rev. 1:5).   Lord Jesus, help us drink in the wonder and implications of these three verbs: Loved… Loves… Freed… Especially since we are the ones being addressed. How is it possible that you love us just as much as the Father loves you—to the same degree, with the same delight, for the same eternity? And to believe we have already been freed from sin’s penalty, sin’s dominion, and ultimately...]]>   “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love” (John 15:9). “To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins…” (Rev. 1:5).

 

Lord Jesus, help us drink in the wonder and implications of these three verbs: Loved LovesFreed… Especially since we are the ones being addressed. How is it possible that you love us just as much as the Father loves you—to the same degree, with the same delight, for the same eternity?

And to believe we have already been freed from sin’s penalty, sin’s dominion, and ultimately from sin’s presence… if we actually believed you—if we actually took these declarations to heart, it would impact everything about us.

People’s opinions about us would have less alluring, defining, and shaming power. Satan’s condemning voice and wooing seductions would roll off of us more quickly—like rain off a triple Gore-Tex-treated poncho. Our own graceless self-talk would get sabotaged at the intersection of Gospel Riches and Self Pity.

Jesus, no wonder you command us to “abide” in your love—to make your love our permanent address, the air we breathe, the bread we consume, the sheets between we sleep. What a fabulous address… “777 Jesus’ Steadfast Love”—the grace-haven where we can play, pray, process heartache, prostrate ourselves in adoring love, and pursue deeper fellowship with you.

Or… we can easily—too easily, choose to reside “rent-free” in our fears, resentment, regrets, foolishness, comparisons, unbelief, anger, envy, anxieties, etc. The rent may be free, but the eventual cost is heart-cancer and death to faith, hope, and love. Jesus, we choose to abide in your love. So VERY Amen.

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Jesus, Be Our Teacher and Treasure https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/jesus-be-our-teacher-and-treasure/ Mon, 10 Apr 2023 10:21:01 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=550762  (Jesus) said to them, “O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Wasn’t it necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?” And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself. Luke 24:25-27   Lord Jesus, on this Monday after Easter Sunday 2023, you have never been more alive, at work, and worthy of our worship. Like those to whom you revealed yourself on the Emmaus Road, we too are hampered by “slow-heartedness,” chronic unbelief, and Gospel-amnesia....]]>  (Jesus) said to them, “O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Wasn’t it necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?” And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself. Luke 24:25-27

 

Lord Jesus, on this Monday after Easter Sunday 2023, you have never been more alive, at work, and worthy of our worship. Like those to whom you revealed yourself on the Emmaus Road, we too are hampered by “slow-heartedness,” chronic unbelief, and Gospel-amnesia.

For the rest of 2023 and beyond, keep revealing more of yourself to us in the Bible. Be our teacher and treasure. You are all we really need, because you are our “righteousness, holiness, and redemption” (1 Cor. 1:30)—the emphatic “Yes!” to every promise God made (2 Cor. 1:20). Hallelujah, you will make all wars cease (Ps. 46:9), all things new (Rev.21:5), and everything beautiful (Eccl. 3:11).

Jesus, before you were our Redeemer, you were our Creator—destined for supremacy and worship above, on, and below the earth (Col. 1:15-20; Rev.5:13).  And right now you sustain every molecule and atom, ion and eon by your powerful word (Heb. 1:3).

As our great High Priest, you never stop praying and advocating for us (Heb. 4:14-16)—Thank you. As our reigning King, you are sovereign over every king and crisis, tragedy and trauma (Rev. 1:4b-6; Rom. 8:28)—Whew! As our returning Bridegroom, you love us and delight in us right now (Isa. 62:5)—Astonishing. Until the Day our “slow hearts” become perfected hearts, show us more and more of your truth, goodness, and beauty. So Very Amen.

 

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A Well-Timed Easter https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/a-well-timed-easter/ Sun, 09 Apr 2023 11:00:19 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=550729  “The angel said to the women, ‘Don’t be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said’” (Matt. 28:5-6)   Lord Jesus, we add our voices to the angel’s declaration and the disciples celebration. You have risen, indeed, just as you said you would. You died for our salvation and have risen for our justification. The grave has been robbed of its victory, and your grace now flows to us freely. “Beloved” is our eternal name and “In Christ” is our permanent address.  Hallelujah, and...]]>  “The angel said to the women, ‘Don’t be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said’” (Matt. 28:5-6)

 

Lord Jesus, we add our voices to the angel’s declaration and the disciples celebration. You have risen, indeed, just as you said you would. You died for our salvation and have risen for our justification. The grave has been robbed of its victory, and your grace now flows to us freely. “Beloved” is our eternal name and “In Christ” is our permanent address.  Hallelujah, and thank you.

Gathering as your church to worship you on Easter is always a highlight of our year, Lord Jesus, but this year’s celebration could not have come at a better time. Our heart-pain remains fresh, and grieving-well takes time. The tragedy at Covenant School greatly impacted us, dear friends, fellow churches, our city and well beyond.

But even as our tears still come easy… our gratitude is swelling, our fears are melting, and our hope is growing. For we see your hand and heart powerfully at work all around us. Sometimes it’s takes tragedy to slow us down. Sometimes it takes suffering to open us up. Sometimes it takes temporal loss to bring eternal gain.

Thank you for the privilege of bearing each other’s burdens, holding each other’s hearts, and entering each other’s pain. Thank you for this fresh stirring we feel to love and trust you… to be your church, not just go to church… to care for our neighbors and welcome others.

Jesus, is this the beginning of a fresh work of your Spirit… a much longed for and needed renewal in our hearts, churches, and city? We pray so. We hope so.

No one grieved the tragedy at Covenant School more than you; and no one has done more to guarantee the Day of no more harm and harming, anywhere, anytime, by anyone. Until Day, Jesus, continue to heal our hearts and free us to live and love to your glory. So Very Amen, we pray in your glorious and grace-full name.

 

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A Silent, Scary but Redemptive Pause https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/a-silent-scary-but-redemptive-pause/ Sat, 08 Apr 2023 10:53:49 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=550692   “Sir, (Pilate) we remember what that deceiver once said while he was still alive: ‘After three days I will rise from the dead.’ So, we request that you seal the tomb until the third day. This will prevent his disciples from coming and stealing his body and then telling everyone he was raised from the dead! If that happens, we’ll be worse off than we were at first.” Matt. 27:62-64   Lord Jesus, as “Good Friday” segued into “Silent Saturday,” only the courts of heaven knew where this story was heading. The most undeserved death conceivable would give the...]]>   “Sir, (Pilate) we remember what that deceiver once said while he was still alive: ‘After three days I will rise from the dead.’ So, we request that you seal the tomb until the third day. This will prevent his disciples from coming and stealing his body and then telling everyone he was raised from the dead! If that happens, we’ll be worse off than we were at first.” Matt. 27:62-64

 

Lord Jesus, as “Good Friday” segued into “Silent Saturday,” only the courts of heaven knew where this story was heading. The most undeserved death conceivable would give the greatest return calculable. Having lived for us, you died for us. But your last breath is our first hope. “It is finished” created a sad, scary, silent pause. But it was a “redemptive pause”—soon be broken with, “He is risen!”

Jesus, you weren’t merely destined to get the “last laugh” on evil; you are the eternal “Yes!” to every promise God has made. By your cross the devil was routed, death was defeated, and we are beloved. Your fatal wounding guaranteed our eternal healing. Planted as a single grain of wheat, you would be raised for our total salvation and the world’s utter transformation.

The priests and Pharisees had the Scriptures but no clue. Gladdened by your death, they were fearful of your life. O silly men—they’d sooner hold back the rising of the sun than the rising of the Son of God. No amount of Roman tomb-sealing or zealous grave-guarding could stop the inevitable.

Resurrection Sunday was coming, and there was absolutely nothing they could do about it. Everything broken and ugly was “fixin’” to become “all things new” and beautiful. Hallelujah, everything was about to change, everything. So Very Amen.

 

 

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Good Friday: Jesus’ Endured Cross and Awaited Joy https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/good-friday-jesus-endured-cross-and-awaited-joy/ Fri, 07 Apr 2023 10:21:50 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=550645   “We keep our eyes fixed on Jesus—the founder and perfecter of our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, despising and disregarding its shame, and is now seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:2   Lord Jesus, on the “calendar of grace,” we call today “Good Friday” That you had to die for us isn’t at all “good.” That you were glad to do so is quintessential  “goodness,” generosity beyond measure, and “glorious” without equal. No one could take your life from you—not an angry mob, not a legion of...]]>   “We keep our eyes fixed on Jesus—the founder and perfecter of our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, despising and disregarding its shame, and is now seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:2

 

Lord Jesus, on the “calendar of grace,” we call today “Good Friday” That you had to die for us isn’t at all “good.” That you were glad to do so is quintessential  “goodness,” generosity beyond measure, and “glorious” without equal. No one could take your life from you—not an angry mob, not a legion of demons, not a conspiracy of mere men.

You knowingly, freely, painfully laid down your life for us. Not as a brave martyr to be remembered, but as God’s Lamb to be worshipped. Everything you endured, Jesus, you endured for us. How do we wrap our heads and hearts around all this, Lord?

You disregarded the shame of the cross because you regarded us above yourself (Phil. 2:1-11). You “over-paid” the cost of our redemption so that your cry, “It is finished” would be more glorious and trustworthy than we can imagine. Our knees buckle and our hands go up…

Silencing and astonishing us,  you took our full judgment then gave us your perfect righteousness. The incomparable trauma of your temporary “forsakenness” (Psalm 22) secured the inexhaustible wonders of our forever “belovedness” (Zeph. 3:14-17).

So what joy awaited you on the other side of the cross, Jesus? So much joy—so very much joy: Beginning with emptying your tomb, killing death, and occupying your throne. Reuniting with your Father and having us—(yes, actually you and me), as your cherished Bride. The great joy of a crushed devil, eradicated evil, coming kingdom, wiped tears, all-things-new, and everything beautiful.

Jesus, and to think, ponder, and receive… you now pray that we will have the full measure of your joy in us (John 17:13). We are totally undone, and we are gratefully yours. So Very Amen.

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Maundy Thursday, Jesus’ Love, and Our Heart Treasure https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/maundy-thursday-jesus-love-and-our-heart-treasure/ Thu, 06 Apr 2023 09:55:09 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=550555 “(Mary) came to Jesus with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume (300 denarii – a year’s wages) which she poured on his head... (Matt. 26:6). Judas to the chief priests—“What are you willing to give me if I deliver him over to you?” So they counted out for him thirty pieces of silver (the price of a slave) (Matt. 26:14). “Having loved his own who were in the world, he now showed them the full extent of his love. (John 13:1)   Lord Jesus, it’s the day of “Easter Week” we call today Maundy, or “Mandate” Thursday—a day crammed...]]> “(Mary) came to Jesus with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume (300 denarii – a year’s wages) which she poured on his head... (Matt. 26:6).

Judas to the chief priests—“What are you willing to give me if I deliver him over to you?” So they counted out for him thirty pieces of silver (the price of a slave) (Matt. 26:14).

“Having loved his own who were in the world, he now showed them the full extent of his love. (John 13:1)

 

Lord Jesus, it’s the day of “Easter Week” we call today Maundy, or “Mandate” Thursday—a day crammed full of glory and overflowing with grace. Having shared eternal glory with the Father, you now show measureless mercy, the riches of grace, and the costliness of your love to your disciples.

Getting low to wash their feet was a prelude to getting even “lower” to wash their hearts (and ours) by your death on the cross. There is no greater love than the love you demonstrated in laying your life down for your friends, sinners, and God’s enemies (John 15:3; Rom. 5:8-10). What wondrous love is this, indeed? The Good Shepherd gives his life for his lambs—the Lamb of God takes our death that we might live forever.

Jesus… stunned, silenced, moved to awe and worship… that’s what we’re feeling. Judas “sold you out” for the price of a slave. You bought us out from slavery to sin and death with the cost of your life. Mary anointed your head with expensive, perfumed oil—preparing you for your death. As our Good and Risen Shepherd, you now anoint our heads with the oil of your mercy, grace, and love. Jesus, our cup overflows (Psalm 23:5). May our lives overflow with your love to others. So Very Amen.

 

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We Cannot Think too Highly or too Often about Jesus https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/we-cannot-think-too-highly-or-too-often-about-jesus/ Wed, 05 Apr 2023 10:26:57 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=550410   “The Pharisees went out and laid plans to trap him in his words… Surrounded by them, Jesus asked the Pharisees a question: ‘What do you think about the Messiah? Whose son is he?’” Matt. 22:15, 41-42   Lord Jesus, what a holy irony, beautiful twist, and abiding question. It was Wednesday before Good Friday. In two days, you would quietly surrender to the eternal plan of redemption—God’s Lamb taking away the sin of the world. (Isa 53:7; Jn. 1:36), not a helpless victim taken away by an angry mob. Though the Pharisees tried to trap you in your words,...]]>   “The Pharisees went out and laid plans to trap him in his wordsSurrounded by them, Jesus asked the Pharisees a question: ‘What do you think about the Messiah? Whose son is he?’” Matt. 22:15, 41-42

 

Lord Jesus, what a holy irony, beautiful twist, and abiding question. It was Wednesday before Good Friday. In two days, you would quietly surrender to the eternal plan of redemption—God’s Lamb taking away the sin of the world. (Isa 53:7; Jn. 1:36), not a helpless victim taken away by an angry mob. Though the Pharisees tried to trap you in your words, only by your word could they draw their next breath (Heb. 1:3; Col. 1:7). The question you asked them remains for us.

Who do WE think you are, Jesus? Where do we begin? How long do we have? You are Son of Man and God the Son—Creator and Sustainer, Reconciler and Restorer of all things. Jesus, you are the Alpha and Omega, and everything in between. Angels worship you and stars sing to you. Demons tremble before you and …  (long grateful pause) … we belong to you!

Your glory is our chief aim and your cross is our only boast. We are clothed with your righteousness and shepherded by your tenderness. You are high and exalted, yet gentle and lowly—impossible to contain, yet you inhabit our hearts. You are ruler of the kings of the earth and “welcome-er” of the smallest child.

Jesus, you never cease praying for us (Heb. 7:25) or pause in rejoicing over us (Isa. 62:5). You work in all things for our good and will finish making all things new. Your perfect love expels our fears and your soon return ignites our hope. Hallelujah, and So VERY Amen

 

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Jesus’ Beautiful Tears and the Peace He Alone Gives https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/jesus-beautiful-tears-and-the-peace-he-alone-gives/ Tue, 04 Apr 2023 10:36:26 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=550281        As he [Jesus] approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it and said, “If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace—but now it is hidden from your eyes.” Luke 19:41-42   Lord Jesus, your troubled heart on Monday generated tears of lament on Tuesday. You groaned and grieved the way those in the “City of Peace” looked for peace in all the wrong places. Many Jews wanted liberation by revolution, but you came bringing salvation by substitution. They hoped the Messiah would destroy the reign of Rome; but you...]]>  

 

   As he [Jesus] approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it and said, “If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace—but now it is hidden from your eyes.” Luke 19:41-42

 

Lord Jesus, your troubled heart on Monday generated tears of lament on Tuesday. You groaned and grieved the way those in the “City of Peace” looked for peace in all the wrong places.

Many Jews wanted liberation by revolution, but you came bringing salvation by substitution. They hoped the Messiah would destroy the reign of Rome; but you came to destroy the works of the devil. They wanted Israel to be first among all nations, but you came to redeem a Bride from every nation.

As for Rome and her leaders, they would have been fine if you’d simply been a status quo rabbi—peace by accommodation and absorption. But Jesus you came to turn everything upside down that you might put all things right. Every kingdom needs shaking but yours, and only your kingdom will last.

We don’t look down on them or anybody. We look at ourselves in the mirror of your Word, and what we see is how we too look for peace beyond you, or in addition to you. It might be peace by the approval of people or the adoration of a spouse. Peace by acquiring enough money or enough attention from our kids. Sometimes we look to you, Jesus plus something for our peace: You + fewer wrinkles and less hassles. You + our good works and inner-circle inclusion. You + winning at pickleball and not losing the next election.

Jesus, with the eyes of our hearts wide open, we cry out, forgive us… free us. You alone are our Peace—the basis of our peace with God, and the fountain of our peace from God. So Very Amen.

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The Profound Comfort of Jesus’ “Deeply Troubled” Soul https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/the-profound-comfort-of-jesus-deeply-troubled-soul/ Mon, 03 Apr 2023 10:14:59 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=550132   “Now my soul is deeply troubled. Should I pray, ‘Father, save me from this hour’? But this is the very reason I came! Father, bring glory to your name.” John 12:27   Lord Jesus, in a very unexpected way, the “deep trouble” you felt on Monday before “Good Friday” brings me profound comfort today. You surveyed the weightiness of your cross before we could survey its wonders. Of course you felt shocked, distressed, and trauma—long before Gethsemane. Indeed, no surprises awaited you, just an overwhelming assignment—a plan you embraced before the world began (Eph.1:3-14). Within days, you would take the...]]>   “Now my soul is deeply troubled. Should I pray, ‘Father, save me from this hour’? But this is the very reason I came! Father, bring glory to your name.” John 12:27

 

Lord Jesus, in a very unexpected way, the “deep trouble” you felt on Monday before “Good Friday” brings me profound comfort today. You surveyed the weightiness of your cross before we could survey its wonders. Of course you felt shocked, distressed, and trauma—long before Gethsemane.

Indeed, no surprises awaited you, just an overwhelming assignment—a plan you embraced before the world began (Eph.1:3-14). Within days, you would take the judgment and separation we deserve, to give us the grace and reconciliation we could never earn. It was for this “very reason” you came from eternity into time and space—not to be our model to follow, but our substitute to trust.

By your cross, you guaranteed the salvation of your impossible-to-count Bride (Rev. 7:9-12). Beloved by grace—redeemed from every nation, tribe, people, and language. Daughters and sons of mercy—as numerous as the stars in the sky, sand on beaches, and dust of the earth (Gen.12-17).

And gloriously so, your “bruised heel” (Gen. 3:15) crushed Satan’s evil head—securing his defeat, evil’s eradication, and death’s death. Jesus, I’m sure this is why I’m finding great peace today in your troubled heart. You came “to destroy the works of the devil” (1 John 3:8)—works that have been on full display in Nashville this past week.

Jesus, thank you for securing the Day of no more hurting and harming—anywhere, anytime (Isa. 11:9-10); no more burying 9-year-olds or one country invading another; no more automatic weapons, just automatic grace; no more abuse in any form, just beauty in every place (Eccl. 3:11). Thank you, hallelujah, and bring that Day soon, Jesus, very soon. So Very Amen.

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Hope Rode into Jerusalem in Weakness on Smallness https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/hope-rode-into-jerusalem-in-weakness-on-smallness/ Sun, 02 Apr 2023 11:17:36 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=550112    “Behold, your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he, humble and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey… O prisoners of hope; today I declare that I will restore to you double.” Zech. 9:9-12   Lord Jesus, on the “calendar of grace,” today is Palm Sunday, the beginning of “Holy Week.” It marks not only your entrance into Jerusalem, but why you came into our world. Given the events of the past week in our city (Nashville), the “Hosannas” that greeted you have never seemed more hollow, and the “foal of...]]>    “Behold, your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he, humble and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey… O prisoners of hope; today I declare that I will restore to you double.” Zech. 9:9-12

 

Lord Jesus, on the “calendar of grace,” today is Palm Sunday, the beginning of “Holy Week.” It marks not only your entrance into Jerusalem, but why you came into our world.

Given the events of the past week in our city (Nashville), the “Hosannas” that greeted you have never seemed more hollow, and the “foal of a donkey” has never appeared more majestic. Our only hope rode into Jerusalem that day in utter weakness on absolute smallness. You didn’t come to impress us, Jesus, but to save us—to rescue us from sin and death—to secure the expiration of “all-things-evil” and an eternity of “all-things-new.” Thank you, Lord.

When I think of palms today, April 2, 2023, I don’t primarily think of long green branches, but the bottom side of our hands. Palms covering mouths and faces in shock and trauma last Monday. Palms engaged in courageous rescue and compassionate care, that horrific morning. Palms reaching to comfort the inconsolable, with wordless hugs and cascading tears. The palms of your church, extended to serve, give, hold, and care for one another. Palms lowering loved and little ones into fresh graves.

But mostly, Jesus, on this Palm Sunday, I think of your palms. From holding the reigns of the foal, to washing the feet of your disciples, to being bound to the cross—you have come to save us, redeem us, and make us yours. Oh Jesus, only you can make slaves of sin, fear, and despair into prisoners of hope. You have, you are, you will forever. We lift our palms in worship and surrender. So Very Amen.

 

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I’ve Never Been So Ready for “Easter Week” https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/ive-never-been-so-ready-for-easter-week/ Sat, 01 Apr 2023 10:42:48 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=550020   “I will refresh the weary and replenish every languishing soul“ (Jer. 31:25). “You have kept count of my tossings and put my tears in your bottle” (Ps. 56:8).   Lord Jesus, you rule from the throne of grace with eager welcome, great kindness, and burden-bearing love. When we are our weakest and “deplete-est”—like “flickering candles” and “bruised reeds” (Matt.12:20), you don’t critique us, you console us. Thank you for remembering our tossings and tears, but not our sins. Many of us in Nashville (and globally) are nearing sadness overload, as we bury loved ones and little ones. Our “heart-water”...]]>   “I will refresh the weary and replenish every languishing soul“ (Jer. 31:25). “You have kept count of my tossings and put my tears in your bottle” (Ps. 56:8).

 

Lord Jesus, you rule from the throne of grace with eager welcome, great kindness, and burden-bearing love. When we are our weakest and “deplete-est”—like “flickering candles” and “bruised reeds” (Matt.12:20), you don’t critique us, you console us. Thank you for remembering our tossings and tears, but not our sins.

Many of us in Nashville (and globally) are nearing sadness overload, as we bury loved ones and little ones. Our “heart-water” tank is running out, and we’re starting to weep dry tears. Numbness is something we both welcome and fear.

Heart-peace, soul-rest, living-hope—you promise and provide all three, Jesus. Again, thank you. You shoulder-under the weight of our weariness. and walk with us in the ache of our waiting. In 73 years of life and 55 years of knowing you, I’ve never offered and heard so many, “How long, O Lord’s?”

We really are ready for you to come back, Jesus. And we really are grateful “Easter week” is upon us. In the coming days we will ponder afresh why you came into our world, why you came into Jerusalem on the foal of a donkey, and why you came out of your tomb a week later.

Because you did, the goodbyes we offer around these fresh graves are so painful, but so temporary. For you have born our sin and taken our judgment, killed death and robbed the grave. There is devastation in our hearts, but no separation from your love. We grieve so deeply, Jesus, but we grieve with real hope. So VERY Amen.

 

 

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Loving Children, Stewarding Trauma, Trusting Jesus https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/loving-children-stewarding-trauma-trusting-jesus/ Fri, 31 Mar 2023 09:56:29 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=549819   “Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.’” Luke 18:15-16   Lord Jesus, compelled by your love for children and filled with competing emotions, we pray for those traumatized by the Covenant School tragedy. Help us channel our growing sadness, waves of anger, and sense of helplessness in service to others. Receive our wordless groans, streaming and yet-to-be-wept tears, and earnest pleas. We pray for children who have seen and heard things no child should ever experience....]]>   “Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.’” Luke 18:15-16

 

Lord Jesus, compelled by your love for children and filled with competing emotions, we pray for those traumatized by the Covenant School tragedy. Help us channel our growing sadness, waves of anger, and sense of helplessness in service to others. Receive our wordless groans, streaming and yet-to-be-wept tears, and earnest pleas.

We pray for children who have seen and heard things no child should ever experience. By all the means you chose—a direct work of the Holy Spirit, loving parents, family-to-family care, gifted counselors… hold and heal the hearts, minds, and imagination of children. Words fail us, but you won’t, Jesus.

We pray for those seeking to be present and strong in the warzone of so much shock, pain, and confusion. Jesus, help them (us) steward their own grief and trauma, and accept their weakness and limits. Grant parents, pastors, counselors, and friends supernatural help, sufficient grace, and guiltless wisdom to take care of themselves.

We pray for a fresh work of your Spirit and the life-giving power of the Gospel. Jesus, while the devil shouts and whispers, “Where was your trustworthy God on Monday?” … answer for us by saving many, redeeming the unimaginable, and empowering us to live and love to your glory. In this so-hard moment, until the Day of wiped-tears and all things new, Jesus you are with us and for us—alone worthy of our worship and trust.  So Very Amen.

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Hate Evil, Cling to Good, Adore Jesus https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/hate-evil-cling-to-good-adore-jesus/ Thu, 30 Mar 2023 10:11:57 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=549711 “Hate what is evil; cling to what is good” (Rom. 12:9). “O you who love the Lord, hate evil!” (Ps. 97:10). “Hate evil, and love good, and establish justice…” (Amos 5:15). “Love your enemies… for he (our Father) is kind to the ungrateful and the evil. Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful” (Luke 6:35-36)   Lord Jesus, without your Word my imagination runs to places my feet should not take me. My heart conceives things, hat if birthed, would turn my hands into clenched fists and agents of hate. Help me, Jesus, and others like me, who desperately need to “cling to...]]> Hate what is evil; cling to what is good” (Rom. 12:9). “O you who love the Lord, hate evil!” (Ps. 97:10). “Hate evil, and love good, and establish justice…” (Amos 5:15). “Love your enemies… for he (our Father) is kind to the ungrateful and the evil. Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful” (Luke 6:35-36)

 

Lord Jesus, without your Word my imagination runs to places my feet should not take me. My heart conceives things, hat if birthed, would turn my hands into clenched fists and agents of hate.

Help me, Jesus, and others like me, who desperately need to “cling to what is good.” I have friends who heard the shots and smelled the smoke Monday in Covenant School. As a result, I have friends whose funerals will soon take place.

Jesus, thank you for the call to hate evil, for no one hates evil more than you do. And no one has done more to defeat evil. Only you can bring resolution to the angry, fear-full, grasping demand in our hearts… “Somebody has to pay for this!” Jesus, you have. You already have, Jesus.

The resolution we desperately crave won’t come through our revenge and retaliation, only through your resurrection and return. This coming Sunday is Palm Sunday, and four distinct cries will beg for our attention afresh—perhaps with more compelling power than ever: “Hosanna!” …  “Crucify him!” …  “It is finished!” … “He is not here; he has risen, just as he said!”

Jesus, thank you, thank you, thank you. We cling to you as our only good, and adore you as our perfect Savior. Help us steward our anger, confusion, sadness, and fear. Help us hate only evil, by loving you more than we ever have. So Very Amen.

 

 

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Entering Grief and Risking Hope https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/entering-grief-and-risking-hope/ Wed, 29 Mar 2023 11:05:56 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=549553 “Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope.” 1 Thess. 4:13   Heavenly Father, the grief was unrestrainable, the tenderness palpable, your presence undeniable. I went to bed last night close to numb from emotional exhaustion. I rise today grateful for the holy privilege of entering grief and risking hope. Yesterday, our church family was trusted with extending your tender mercies and safe harbor for grieving families, staff, and board members of Covenant School, and to pastors, elders,...]]> Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope.” 1 Thess. 4:13

 

Heavenly Father, the grief was unrestrainable, the tenderness palpable, your presence undeniable. I went to bed last night close to numb from emotional exhaustion. I rise today grateful for the holy privilege of entering grief and risking hope.

Yesterday, our church family was trusted with extending your tender mercies and safe harbor for grieving families, staff, and board members of Covenant School, and to pastors, elders, and deacons of Covenant Presbyterian Church. It was a long day, navigated along a grace-path that led us right into Jesus’ open-ended welcome. “Come to me all of you who are weary and heavily burdened. I will give you rest.”

Some friends I’ve known for 40 years weeping uncontrollably—some of the strongest women and men I know rendered beautifully weak. Shocked parents falling into each other’s arms—needing to say nothing, not wanting to let go, so glad just to be together. Father, thank you for the unsought-gift, shared-calling, and difficult heart-work of grief. We grieve clumsily—often reluctantly, sometimes years after the trauma, loss, heart-rip.

Father, teach us how to grieve, and how to enter each other’s grief. You will never walk us into hopeless-grief. Usually, hope holds us before we can risk it. And, hallelujah, the hope you give doesn’t replace our grief, it transforms it. Hope-kissed-grief makes us gentle, kind, and loving.

But how trustworthy is our hope? Can it sustain the weight of our anguish, the anger in our hearts, and the fear that we feel? We’ll answer in this way, Father. We have never been more ready to celebrate Easter. Our hope is profoundly sure because Jesus’ tomb is completely empty. Hallelujah, and So Very Amen.

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Hold Us Tighter, Jesus https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/hold-us-tighter-jesus/ Tue, 28 Mar 2023 11:03:10 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=549217 When will we never again have to pick caskets for our children, wear black, or be suspicious of anyone anywhere anytime?]]> A cry is heard in Ramah— deep anguish and bitter weeping. Rachel weeps for her children, refusing to be comforted— for her children are gone” (Jer. 31:15). “Abhor what is evil… Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Rom. 12:9, 21). “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death... (Rev. 21:4)

 

Lord Jesus, extreme sadness, the vulnerability of fear and anger… tears, questions, disbelief, numbness… and one prolonged cry, “How long, O Lord?”—all of these come easy for us today, here in Nashville.

First, we pray for grieving families, children, friends, colleagues, neighbors—those most directly impacted by the terror and trauma of the attack at Covenant School. Jesus, you do and will “hold us fast.” Hold us tighter. Hold us in our “deep anguish and bitter weeping.” Hold us as we hold one another. Hold us, as we cry out…

When, Jesus, when? When will we never again have to pick caskets for our children, wear black, or be suspicious of anyone anywhere anytime?

How long, Jesus—how much longer do we have to wait for defeated-evil to become eradicated-evil? That Day is certain, but we want it now. When will there never ever again be any form of harm? (Isa. 11:9). Until then, you tell us, “Don’t be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” But for the Gospel, this would mock our sensibilities, Jesus. Help us. Free us. Hold us tighter.

Free us to live and love towards the Day when all swords, spears, and guns will become instruments of tilling, gardening, and mutual nourishment. (Isa. 2:4; Joel 3:12; Micah 4:3)—the eternal Day when we will we finally and forever “feast in the house of Zion” (Psalm 126:1-3).

Jesus, we know in the courts of heaven, there’s a calendar of grace and providence. And we know if we knew what you know, our hearts would be at rest. But today… thank you for the freedom to hurt so deeply and ask so intensely for you to hurry-up the Day of wiped tears and no more death. So Very Amen.

 

 

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It’s a Mercy Test, Not a Math Test https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/its-a-mercy-test-not-a-math-test/ Mon, 27 Mar 2023 10:12:56 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=549126 A backlit math equation  “Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.” 1 Pet. 4:12–13   Lord Jesus, this portion of your Word comes like a heavenly hug this March Monday—though, like kids, we sometimes pull away from even from your “hugs”. Suffering(s) between your resurrection and return shouldn’t surprise us, but focus, free, and form your heart in us. The “testing” of...]]>   “Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.” 1 Pet. 4:12–13

 

Lord Jesus, this portion of your Word comes like a heavenly hug this March Monday—though, like kids, we sometimes pull away from even from your “hugs”. Suffering(s) between your resurrection and return shouldn’t surprise us, but focus, free, and form your heart in us.

The “testing” of “fiery ordeals” isn’t like a pass-or-fail math test (hallelujah!), but a “mercy test”—a burning away of the dross of our selfishness and “earthbound-ness.” If we “miss-steward” (waste) suffering, it can easily become rocket fuel for fear, resentment, and unbelief. But the “way of the Gospel” is for hardship and heartache to deepen empathy and compassion in us, and make us more like you, Jesus.

This isn’t making lemonade from lemons, or becoming “glass-half-full” people. It’s “participating in your sufferings” —for you are present wherever there is injustice and disease, brokenness and suffering, loss and lack. Gentle us to join you there, fellowship with you there, and serve with you there (Phil. 3:10). Give us joy in our tears and peace in our pain. Supersize our love as we come along side of fellow sufferers.

Lord Jesus… thank you… you suffered once and for all for us on the cross, reconciling us forever to our Father. The Day of no more suffering of any kind is coming (Rev.21:1–5), and what a Day of “overjoy” that will be. So Very Amen.

 

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How Can This Possibly Be True? https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/how-can-this-possibly-be-true/ Sun, 26 Mar 2023 09:41:55 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=549100   “Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning, like servants waiting for their master to return …Truly I tell you, he will dress himself to serve, will have them recline at the table and will come and wait on them.” Luke 12:35–37   Lord Jesus, stunning, that’s what it is. Meditating on this passage dismantles and demolishes the apprehension—even fear, I used to have about your 2nd Coming. “Will I measure up? Will I have done enough? Will I be taken up into heaven?” Those questions have been replaced with, “How soon can you possibly get here,...]]>   “Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning, like servants waiting for their master to return …Truly I tell you, he will dress himself to serve, will have them recline at the table and will come and wait on them.” Luke 12:35–37

 

Lord Jesus, stunning, that’s what it is. Meditating on this passage dismantles and demolishes the apprehension—even fear, I used to have about your 2nd Coming. “Will I measure up? Will I have done enough? Will I be taken up into heaven?”

Those questions have been replaced with, “How soon can you possibly get here, Jesus? “Dressed in his righteousness alone, faultless to stand before the throne”… Jesus, you’ve made us your Bride, adored us in the wedding garment of your grace, and placed your Spirit in our hearts as the first fruit and surety of our wedding and life with you forever. We will run out of the oil of the Spirit as soon as the Holy Spirit ceases being God.

Be ready for service”… of course and most gladly, but the main service highlighted in this passage is—wonder of wonders—your service to us. You’re not coming back with a tape recorder in hand to play all our idle chatter before the angels. You’re not returning with a ledger in hand, to give us the final tab on our law keeping and law breaking.

According to this Scripture, when you return, you will have us, your Bride, “recline at the table,” and you will come and wait on us. Wow! Oh my! What wondrous love is this? How can this possibly be true? Lord Jesus, this is hard for us to take in. We believe you, but free us from the depths of our unbelief.

Lord Jesus, all you’ve ever done is serve us—in creation, redemption, providence, intercession… and you’re coming back to serve us more. Of course, our response—now and forever—is to worship, love, and serve you right back with everything we have and are. May it be, So Very Amen.

 

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Jesus Doesn’t Endure You, He Loves You https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/jesus-doesnt-endure-you-he-loves-you/ Sat, 25 Mar 2023 11:15:44 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=549043   “Jesus wept … Look at how he loved him” (Jn. 11:35-36).   Lord Jesus, thank you. Your passionate, compassionate tears are one of the greatest showers that have fallen on the face of the earth. You knew within moments that your friend, Lazarus, would live again. Yet you wailed as his cold body laid motionless in the tomb. Those ringside that day offered this commentary, “Look at how he loved him!”. No one hates death more than you—no one feels its utter contradiction and heart-rending implications more profoundly. And no one loves each of us more than you do. Oh how...]]>   “Jesus weptLook at how he loved him” (Jn. 11:35-36).

 

Lord Jesus, thank you. Your passionate, compassionate tears are one of the greatest showers that have fallen on the face of the earth. You knew within moments that your friend, Lazarus, would live again. Yet you wailed as his cold body laid motionless in the tomb.

Those ringside that day offered this commentary, “Look at how he loved him!”. No one hates death more than you—no one feels its utter contradiction and heart-rending implications more profoundly. And no one loves each of us more than you do. Oh how you loved Lazarus. Oh how you love us—not tolerate, endure, or put-up-with… but, love us.

No one will welcome the Day of “no more death and dying” more joyfully than you (Rev. 21:4). Only you could secure, not just death’s defeat, but also its extinction. Your death was the death of death itself—”the last enemy” (1Cor.15:26). This great truth and precious hope was on full display yesterday as we buried, Bill—another of your friends, and ours.

Because of your resurrection, we sing in advance of ours, “O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?” (1 Cor. 15:55) Death is now “working backwards,” the Gospel is running forward, and we are longing more than ever for the Day of “all things new” and everything beautiful (Eccl. 3:11). Please make it soon, Jesus.

Today we rest our often-heavy, sometimes-confused, right-now-weary hearts in your strong and loving hands. So Very Amen we pray… in your grave-robbing, life-giving, grace-multiply name.

 

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Jesus’ Right Hand and Loving Heart https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/jesus-right-hand-and-loving-heart/ Fri, 24 Mar 2023 10:59:10 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=548916 “He placed his right hand on me and said: ‘Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive forever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades.’” (Rev.1:17-18).   Lord Jesus, today I am savoring the image of your right hand resting on John, the aging apostle. By your hand all things were created, and by your hand all things are being sustained (Heb.1:2-3). With your hand you heal lepers and welcome rebels, expel darkness and comfort the grieving, work in all things...]]> “He placed his right hand on me and said: ‘Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive forever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades.’” (Rev.1:17-18).

 

Lord Jesus, today I am savoring the image of your right hand resting on John, the aging apostle. By your hand all things were created, and by your hand all things are being sustained (Heb.1:2-3). With your hand you heal lepers and welcome rebels, expel darkness and comfort the grieving, work in all things for our good and rule over the kings of the earth. What a Savior you are, Jesus.

You embraced the nails of your cross more than they held you to it. Because this is true, our gladness will be greater than our sadness as we gather today to bury a dear friend. Just seventeen days ago we planned Bill’s funeral; today we will celebrate your grace-securing, grave-robbing victory over death.

Death isn’t sovereign, you are, Jesus. Sin didn’t triumph, you did. Cancer didn’t “take Bill out,” you took him Home. That’s not our sentimental spin, it’s your supernatural kindness. Death’s keys are in your hand, just like we are—never to be snatched from your grip of grace (John 10:28). Such comfort, peace, and hope can only be found in you.

We will gather today to remember Bill today, but more, to adore you, Jesus. May your beauty be enthralling and your love compelling. Comfort Laurie and the kids, and be exalted in our midst. So Very Amen, we pray.

 

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Active Adoration, Not Fearful Consternation https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/active-adoration-not-fearful-consternation/ Thu, 23 Mar 2023 09:38:02 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=548772  “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he will reign for ever and ever.” And the twenty-four elders, who were seated on their thrones before God, fell on their faces and worshiped God...” Revelation 11:15-16   Lord Jesus, it’s just March 23rd, but my mind is spinning, my heart is soaring, and my hope is glowing. I’m listening to Handel’s “Messiah”—the “Hallelujah Chorus” in particular, as I prepare to teach a Bible study from Revelation 11 in a couple of hours. “And He shall reign forever and ever, King of...]]>  “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he will reign for ever and ever.” And the twenty-four elders, who were seated on their thrones before God, fell on their faces and worshiped God...” Revelation 11:15-16

 

Lord Jesus, it’s just March 23rd, but my mind is spinning, my heart is soaring, and my hope is glowing. I’m listening to Handel’s “Messiah”—the “Hallelujah Chorus” in particular, as I prepare to teach a Bible study from Revelation 11 in a couple of hours.

And He shall reign forever and ever, King of kings! and Lord of lords! Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah!”

Hallelujah indeed… between your resurrection and return, this should be our song every day, not just during “Christmas time.” For you are already King of kings and Lord of lords—the ruler of the kings of the earth, and everything else. Of the increase of your government and peace, there will be no end, Jesus (Isa. 9:6).

Indeed, Lord Jesus, we’re not waiting for your reign to begin, just for it to come in fullness. You were crucified for our sins, and raised for our justification. You ascended for heaven’s coronation, and sat down as our King-in-session.

If we could see you in this moment as the “twenty-four elders” do, we too would fall down on our faces in wonder, love, and praise. Demons tremble when you draw near, and stars sing the wonder of your name. Broken reeds love your appearing, and all creation craves your returning.

Because of you, Jesus, active adoration—not fearful consternation, is the order of this, and every day. So very, very, VERY Amen.

 

 

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Never Fear Overdoing Faith, Hope, and Love https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/never-fear-overdoing-faith-hope-and-love/ Wed, 22 Mar 2023 10:15:21 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=548590 “Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love.” (1 Cor 13:13)   Lord Jesus, in a world of information overload, I love meat-and-potato summations, cutting-to-the-chase presentations, crux-of-the-matter in-a-nutshell declarations. That’s exactly what you’ve given us in this greatly loved verse. What really matters? What will abide forever? What three things will we never overdo? Faith, Hope, and Love.    Faith—not a muscle that gets bigger enabling us to accomplish stuff, but an empty hand that receives more of you, Jesus, and what you freely give us. It’s “the assurance of the things we hope...]]> “Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love.” (1 Cor 13:13)

 

Lord Jesus, in a world of information overload, I love meat-and-potato summations, cutting-to-the-chase presentations, crux-of-the-matter in-a-nutshell declarations. That’s exactly what you’ve given us in this greatly loved verse. What really matters? What will abide forever? What three things will we never overdo? Faith, Hope, and Love.

   Faith—not a muscle that gets bigger enabling us to accomplish stuff, but an empty hand that receives more of you, Jesus, and what you freely give us. It’s “the assurance of the things we hope for, and the certainty about things the natural eye cannot see” (Heb. 11:1)—all because of what you have done on our behalf. It’s a “living, bold trust in God’s grace, so certain of God’s favor that it would risk death a thousand times trusting in it” (Martin Luther).

   Hope—not fingers crossed, a strong hunch, or intense-yet-fragile longings. To hope is to have our hearts increasingly filled with every good thing you won for us, Jesus. It’s to see, savor, and be sure about the life we will enjoy forever in the new heaven and new earth. So much so, we’ll spend the rest of our days “loving mercy, working for justice, and walking humbly with you” (Micah 6:8).

   Love—not a philanthropic action we generate, but a revolutionary gift we receive from you. Indeed, “This is real love—not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins” (1 John 4:10). And now it’s the lifestyle to which you call us and for which you equip us—loving others as you love us (John 13:34-35). Jesus, grow more of all three in us, and show more all three through us… for your glory and the benefit of our neighbors. So Very Amen.

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Peace or Paralysis at Decision-Making Time? https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/peace-or-paralysis-at-decision-making-time/ Tue, 21 Mar 2023 11:16:47 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=548474   “We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps” Prov. (16:9). “What he (Jesus) opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open” (Rev. 3:7). “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight” (Prov. 3:5-6)   Lord Jesus, life is filled with choices. Some decisions before us are “no-brainers,” and some require nothing more than sanctified common sense. Others tie us in knots, rob us of sleep, and keep us second-guessing. These Scriptures remind us that our choices...]]>   “We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps” Prov. (16:9). “What he (Jesus) opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open” (Rev. 3:7). “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight” (Prov. 3:5-6)

 

Lord Jesus, life is filled with choices. Some decisions before us are “no-brainers,” and some require nothing more than sanctified common sense. Others tie us in knots, rob us of sleep, and keep us second-guessing. These Scriptures remind us that our choices aren’t sovereign and ultimate, only you are. Make this truth sweeter and more peace-giving than ever.

Trust the Lord with all your heart?”—Jesus, we have endless reasons to love and trust you, with everything we have and are. You created us for your glory, saved us by your grace, and are working in all things for our good. You’re not pulling for us from afar; you’re shepherding us up close and right now. Help us realize some decisions are more like a circle than a dot—a circle which gives us several good options from which to choose.

Because of you, Jesus, we’re standing in grace, rooted in your love, and resting in your “step-determining” sovereignty. We no longer have to live as though life is a “3-door option-factory,” with only one door leading to “blessing,” and the other two leading to disaster. Life isn’t tied to making the right decisions, but trusting the right Lord, and that is you, Jesus. So Very Amen.

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Gratitude for Our Oases, Refreshers, and Springs of Grace https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/gratitude-for-our-oases-refreshers-and-springs-of-grace/ Mon, 20 Mar 2023 12:00:07 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=548336   “Your love (Philemon) has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the Lord’s people” (Philemon 1:6). “God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus” (2Cor.7:6). “Onesiphorus often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains” (2Tim.1:16)   Heavenly Father, it’s the first day of Spring and we want to thank you for those you’ve placed in our lives who serve as refreshing “springs” of grace. Heck yes, we’re thankful for our favorite preachers and teachers of the Gospel, but today we give a shout-out of thanks to...]]>   “Your love (Philemon) has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the Lord’s people” (Philemon 1:6). “God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus” (2Cor.7:6). “Onesiphorus often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains” (2Tim.1:16)

 

Heavenly Father, it’s the first day of Spring and we want to thank you for those you’ve placed in our lives who serve as refreshing “springs” of grace. Heck yes, we’re thankful for our favorite preachers and teachers of the Gospel, but today we give a shout-out of thanks to those whose pulpit and lectern is a caring presence, a well-timed laugh, a cup of fresh mercy, and the manna of your comfort.

Their eye contact, listening, and kindness “preach” the Gospel to us. Their compassion-antenna and Spirit-sensitivity serve us in timely and uncanny ways. They always seem to know when to call us, when to pursue us, when to push in without being pushy, when to weep over us, and when to nudge us back onto the dance floor of your joy. Their gift of encouragement is life-giving, heart-refreshing, and hope-restoring. Their honesty about their own struggles and weaknesses makes it easier for us to own ours. Bless them Father. Bless them and multiply their tribe.

Abba, and thank you for those who love to pray with us and for us—for they are a critical means of your grace in our lives. One of the great mysteries this side of heaven is how you use our feeble, childlike prayers to reveal your Fatherly sovereignty over all things, in all places, all the time. For these and the other encouragers you’ve placed in our lives, we give you praise. Make us grace-copies of them to others. So Very Amen.

 

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It’s All That Really Matters https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/its-all-that-really-matters/ Sun, 19 Mar 2023 11:45:08 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=548310 “Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love” (Eph. 6:24) ”I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first” (Rev. 2:4). “I have loved you with an everlasting love” (Jer. 31:3).   Dear Lord Jesus, we need the tapestry of these three verses as much as we need air, bread, and water. For they call us to focus of the most important thing in all of life—to love you with everything we have and are. To love you like we did when first felt the wonders of your love,...]]> Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love” (Eph. 6:24) ”I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first” (Rev. 2:4). “I have loved you with an everlasting love” (Jer. 31:3).

 

Dear Lord Jesus, we need the tapestry of these three verses as much as we need air, bread, and water. For they call us to focus of the most important thing in all of life—to love you with everything we have and are. To love you like we did when first felt the wonders of your love, and the certainty of being forgiven, cleansed, desired, and yours.

Burdens lifted, light-headed, and right-hearted for the first ever… Jesus, those were the sweetest days of our lives. We were free, and felt peace and joy throughout our whole being. Making you a priority didn’t require effort; it was all we wanted to do.

Jesus, do it again… become more real, precious, and dear to us than ever before. Even as we needed first-grace to begin loving you, so we need fresh-grace to love you right now as only you deserve to be loved. Your love for us is the only constant in our lives—for you love us with everlasting, unwavering, unabated affection.

Your banner over us is love and your jealousy for us is current. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you, Jesus. Whether we abandoned our first love through the exhaustion of pain, the weariness of fear, or the mirage of “success”—or if we simply drifted into an unguarded, under-nourished, over-busy heart, that’s not where we want to stay. It’s not how we want to end our lives. Come, Jesus, come. Restore our first love, by your never-ending love. So Very Amen.

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Crowned with Grace and Giddiness https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/crowned-with-grace-and-giddiness/ Sat, 18 Mar 2023 12:09:19 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=548282   Those the Lord has rescued will return. They will enter Zion with singing; everlasting joy will crown their heads. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee away. “I, even I, am he who comforts you.” Isa. 51:11–12   Heavenly Father, this is one of the most peace-giving, hope-pregnant, joy-promising passages in the whole of your Word. And like the whole Bible, it finds its glorious fulfillment in Jesus. It affirms that, no matter what else is presently going on in our lives, you have already ransomed, rescued, and redeemed us. And looking ahead… nothing...]]>   Those the Lord has rescued will return. They will enter Zion with singing; everlasting joy will crown their heads. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee away. “I, even I, am he who comforts you.” Isa. 51:11–12

 

Heavenly Father, this is one of the most peace-giving, hope-pregnant, joy-promising passages in the whole of your Word. And like the whole Bible, it finds its glorious fulfillment in Jesus. It affirms that, no matter what else is presently going on in our lives, you have already ransomed, rescued, and redeemed us.

And looking ahead… nothing will keep us from arriving safely Home. Our future involves being “crowned” with everlasting joy. How are we to wrap our heads and hearts around that image? We’ve been “crowned” with other people’s disappointment before, many times before. We’ve even “crowned” ourselves with self-contempt and a sense of failure. But, by your grace, love and welcome, a permanent coronation of “giddiness” awaits us. Thank you Father.

And we know what it feels like to be overtaken with guilt and shame, sadness and fear. But we will be eternally overtaken with “gladness and joy.” Our present standing in grace is going to take us eternal dancing in grace. You are so generous and kind.

We really love this promise and image… “sorrow and sighing will flee away” (not gently saunter, slowly stroll, or casually meander). They will flee, and be gone forever. Until that Day, thank you for being our “Father of compassion and God of all comfort” (2 Cor. 1:3). On this March Saturday, we bring you our hearts, hurts, and hopes. So Very Amen.

 

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Proper Reliance https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/proper-reliance/ Fri, 17 Mar 2023 09:29:33 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=548184   “The best-equipped army can’t save a king, nor is great strength enough to save a warrior. Don’t count on your warhorse to give you victory—for all its strength, it cannot save you. But the Lord watches over those who fear him, those who rely on his unfailing love.” Ps. 33:16-18   Lord Jesus, what an amazing calling—to rely on your unfailing love. So, though we avoid it like the plague, it’s good to come to the end of ourselves. To be in situations where our resources and formulas, our “army” and “warhorses,” our smarts and strategies are totally insufficient. For...]]>   “The best-equipped army can’t save a king, nor is great strength enough to save a warrior. Don’t count on your warhorse to give you victory—for all its strength, it cannot save you. But the Lord watches over those who fear him, those who rely on his unfailing love.” Ps. 33:16-18

 

Lord Jesus, what an amazing calling—to rely on your unfailing love. So, though we avoid it like the plague, it’s good to come to the end of ourselves. To be in situations where our resources and formulas, our “army” and “warhorses,” our smarts and strategies are totally insufficient.

For that’s when we have to abandon ourselves to the Deliverer who parted the Red Sea (Ex. 14). The Warrior who overthrew the Midianite army with 300 gun-less soldiers (Judges 7). The Faithful-One who toppled Goliath with a pebble (1 Sam. 17). And, hallelujah, our Father who raised a dead man (you) for the salvation of his people (1Cor. 15).

This is the measure of your measureless, unfailing love. By your finished work, Jesus, we live in our Father’s permanent favor and watchful care. There is no other resolution for our ache and emptiness. No other balm begins to touch our needs and brokenness. Only your love can calm our fears and fuel our hope Thank you.

Jesus, we bring our poverty to your riches, our confusion to your wisdom, our anxieties to the throne of grace from which you reign. We bring it all to you, Jesus. Indeed, on this March Friday, we bring you us with raised hands and expectant hearts. Thank you for your glad welcome. So “hugely” and Very Amen.

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Theoretical Grace and Actual Karma https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/theoretical-grace-and-actual-karma/ Thu, 16 Mar 2023 10:30:35 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=548057 “My soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him. Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge. Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.” Ps. 62:5-8   Lord Jesus, nothing compares with the rest we have by you, and in you. You are our Sabbath Rest and “Year of Jubilee,” our sovereign King and better-than-Good Shepherd. Abba has made you our “righteousness, holiness, and redemption”...]]> My soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him. Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge. Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.” Ps. 62:5-8

 

Lord Jesus, nothing compares with the rest we have by you, and in you. You are our Sabbath Rest and “Year of Jubilee,” our sovereign King and better-than-Good Shepherd. Abba has made you our “righteousness, holiness, and redemption” (1 Cor. 1:30). Our standing in grace is inviolate, our rootedness in your love is deep, and hiddenness in you is complete. Hallelujah!

All of this is hard for us to grasp, Jesus, for we are riddled with performance-based living, unbelief, and Gospel-amnesia. We theoretically affirm grace, but actually live by karma—“you get what you earn and deserve.”

But our honor and hope come from you, Jesus. Make that more real to us than ever. Continue to free us from looking to people’s words and affection for our honor—that is, our worth and identity. And quickly rescue us when we seek to build our hope on what we see in the mirror, in our savings, and in our world.

Jesus may your kindness tame our restlessness, and your love calm our fears. Bring your grace to our frayed edges, messy stories, and yet-to-be known outcomes. Thank you for being so generous, so at work in all things, and so ready to return for us. So Very Amen.

 

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Full Hearts and Healing Words https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/full-hearts-and-healing-words/ Wed, 15 Mar 2023 10:31:54 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=547861 “The mouth speaks what the heart is full of “ (Matt. 12:34). “The soothing tongue is a tree of life” (Prov.15:4). Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body (Prov.16:24). “A wise tongue brings healing” (Prov. 12:18). “The Sovereign LORD has given me a well-instructed tongue, to know the word that sustains the weary” (Isa. 50:4)   Lord Jesus, appropriately so, all these Scriptures make us think of you. You told us your heart is gentle and lowly (Matt.11:29). No wonder your words are always grace-seasoned, life-giving, and heart-righting. Even your rebukes give us...]]> The mouth speaks what the heart is full of “ (Matt. 12:34). “The soothing tongue is a tree of life” (Prov.15:4). Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body (Prov.16:24). “A wise tongue brings healing” (Prov. 12:18). “The Sovereign LORD has given me a well-instructed tongue, to know the word that sustains the weary” (Isa. 50:4)

 

Lord Jesus, appropriately so, all these Scriptures make us think of you. You told us your heart is gentle and lowly (Matt.11:29). No wonder your words are always grace-seasoned, life-giving, and heart-righting.

Even your rebukes give us encouragement and hope. You aren’t just gracious with “bruised reeds and smoldering wicks.” You are also merciful when, like Jonah, we are pouty, angry, and self-absorbed; or like Job, confused by your ways and tired of life; or like Martha, disappointed you didn’t show up on our timetable (John 11:21), or like Peter, when we address you with two words we’ll always end up eating, “Never Lord” (Matt.16:22; John 13:8).

Jesus, as you spoke our world into existence, and sustain everything by the power of your word (Heb. 1:3), please speak kindness, gentleness, and compassion deep inside us. For our hearts are the factory of our thoughts and the fountain of our words. Fill our hearts with your truth, goodness, and beauty.

As the tongue has the power of life and death, please use our words today to encourage and bless, heal and help others. Hurt people don’t have to hurt other people. Grant us quick repentances when we choose otherwise. Thank you for your patience with us, Jesus. So Very Amen

 

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Nor More Shame and Disgrace, Only Grace and Belovedness https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/nor-more-shame-and-disgrace-only-grace-and-belovedness/ Tue, 14 Mar 2023 10:12:06 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=547726   “Fear not; you will no longer live in shame. Don’t be afraid; there is no more disgrace for you. You will no longer remember the shame of your youth…” Isa. 54:5   Heavenly Father, this portion of your Word makes non-dancers want to follow King David’s onto the dance floor of your grace (2 Sam.6:14-22), non-shouters yell praises (Psalm 98:4-9), and non-hand-raisers reach for the heavens (1 Tim. 2:8-10). Your heart-healing kindness for us is overwhelming. In Isaiah’s words, you intend us to live in grace, not disgrace—to celebrate with joy, not hide in shame… to overflow with hope,...]]>   “Fear not; you will no longer live in shame. Don’t be afraid; there is no more disgrace for you. You will no longer remember the shame of your youth…” Isa. 54:5

 

Heavenly Father, this portion of your Word makes non-dancers want to follow King David’s onto the dance floor of your grace (2 Sam.6:14-22), non-shouters yell praises (Psalm 98:4-9), and non-hand-raisers reach for the heavens (1 Tim. 2:8-10). Your heart-healing kindness for us is overwhelming.

In Isaiah’s words, you intend us to live in grace, not disgrace—to celebrate with joy, not hide in shame… to overflow with hope, not be paralyzed with fear. Hallelujah, there’s nothing left in us for you to discover, causing you to second guess saving us. Your name is Redeemer, and our name is Beloved.

By the riches of the Gospel, you have done SO much for us. This isn’t a list; it’s our very life. You raised us from death to life, and completely forgave of all our sin for all time. You declared Jesus’ cross as our Judgment Day (Gal.2:20), and Christ’s righteousness to be legally ours (1 Cor. 1:30). Citizenship in heaven and being cherished as your adopted children now define us more than our passports and family of origin. Sealed and indwelt by the Holy Spirit, you will finish making us like Jesus one gloriously perfect Day.

Abba, until that much craved Day, make Jesus and the Gospel more palpably real to us—truer, sweeter, and more beautiful than ever before. Father, make us quick repenters and lightning-fast forgivers, as we seek to love others as Jesus loves us. So Very, Very Amen.

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With Ears Wide Open Only to Jesus https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/with-ears-wide-open-only-to-jesus/ Mon, 13 Mar 2023 10:26:17 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=547555 “Come to me with your ears wide open. Listen, and you will find life. I will make an everlasting covenant with you. I will give you all the unfailing love I promised to David.” Isa. 55:3   Dear Jesus… wide open hearts, eyes, and ears, that’s what we bring to you on this March Monday. And why not—you only speak words of eternal life to us (John 6:68). You never flatter, shame, or lie to us. You spoke, and creation came into existence. You still speak, and everything is sustained by your command (Heb. 1:3). Just as surely as you...]]> Come to me with your ears wide open. Listen, and you will find life. I will make an everlasting covenant with you. I will give you all the unfailing love I promised to David.” Isa. 55:3

 

Dear Jesus… wide open hearts, eyes, and ears, that’s what we bring to you on this March Monday. And why not—you only speak words of eternal life to us (John 6:68). You never flatter, shame, or lie to us. You spoke, and creation came into existence. You still speak, and everything is sustained by your command (Heb. 1:3).

Just as surely as you spoke the words to Lazarus, “Come forth,” and he exited his tomb; so you commanded us to life when we were dead in our sins and trespasses (Eph.2:1-8). Hallelujah, and thank you. Jesus, everything you are, say, and do is true, good, and beautiful. It’s why we take to heart this warning you gave through the Apostle Paul:

A time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. They will reject the truth and chase after myths” 2 Tim. 4:3-4.

Jesus, protect us. Protect us when our good longings get hijacked and become selfish desires, screaming emptiness, demanding-to-be-satisfied cravings. For there are false teachers, ear-scratchers, spinmeisters, fool-enablers, and nice liars lying in wait just to tell us what we want to hear. Indeed, protect us.

Jesus, we don’t just want to “hang onto to every word you speak,” we want to marinate, feast, abide, revel, and build on every word. We want to chase after you, Jesus, not “chase after myths.” So Very Amen.

 

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Craving a Fresh Work of the Spirit and Gospel-Renewal https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/craving-a-fresh-work-of-the-spirit-and-gospel-renewal/ Sun, 12 Mar 2023 10:05:40 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=547519    “I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.”  Eph. 3:17-21   Heavenly Father, meditating on Paul’s prayer for believers in Ephesus this morning fills my heart gratitude and groaning. Gratitude—because you have securely rooted us in the fathomless depths and multi-dimensional love of Jesus. Our current status and eternal joy are not in...]]>    “I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.”  Eph. 3:17-21

 

Heavenly Father, meditating on Paul’s prayer for believers in Ephesus this morning fills my heart gratitude and groaning. Gratitude—because you have securely rooted us in the fathomless depths and multi-dimensional love of Jesus. Our current status and eternal joy are not in doubt.

Right now, you love us as much as you love Jesus; for you have hidden our lives in Christ (Col. 3:1-4) and made Jesus’ righteous ours (1 Cor. 1:30). We will “feast in the house of Zion,” the gates of hell will not overcome the growth of your church, or shutdown the forward movement of your kingdom (Matt. 16:18). The entire earth will be filled with your glory one Day. Hallelujah, and soon would be awesome with us.

But here’s where my groaning comes in, Father. Until the Day Jesus returns, we live in constant need of Gospel-renewal—individually and churches. As Jesus’ Bride, we “leak grace” (2 Pet. 3:18), lose heart (2 Thess. 3:13), and forsake our first love (Rev. 2:4). Father, we need a fresh awakening, if not an out-and-out revival. Why not us? Why not now?

Hallelujah, dead bones can live again (Ezekiel 37) and chilly-hearted believers can dance again (Luke 15). Churches can get upward facing, inward renewing, and outward loving (Acts 4:23-35). Father, for your glory, grant us a fresh work of your Spirit and major Gospel-renewal. So Very Amen.

 

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Called, Calmed, Cherished, and Changing https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/called-calmed-cherished-and-changing/ Sat, 11 Mar 2023 10:10:42 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=547496   “May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it.” 1 Thess. 5:23-24   Holy and loving Father, this Gospel-soaked passage makes us weep and dance. Weep over what we missed out on for so long; and dance because we’re finally coming alive to the ways and means of your grace. From beginning to end, our salvation is from you, by you, and for your glory. You called...]]>   “May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it.” 1 Thess. 5:23-24

 

Holy and loving Father, this Gospel-soaked passage makes us weep and dance. Weep over what we missed out on for so long; and dance because we’re finally coming alive to the ways and means of your grace.

From beginning to end, our salvation is from you, by you, and for your glory. You called us to life in Jesus, are transforming us to be like Jesus, and you will keep us blameless for Jesus. Little wonder you’re called “the God of peace,” for nowhere else can such peace and be found. It’s staggering, freeing, and hope-supersizing: Because of what you have done for us in Jesus, we are called, calmed, cherished and changing … all by grace, all the time, all for you.

Father, how did we miss the “goodness” of the good news of the Gospel for so long?  Jesus is to be our “portion” before he’s our pattern—out substitute to trust before he’s our model to follow. Yep, we are saved by works, but by Jesus’ work on our behalf, not by our anything.

As we seek to make more of Jesus, we trust you to make us more like Jesus. Paul boldly declared in this passage, you are faithful and you will do it. We equally declare, with boldness and joy, “Hallelujah, and thank you!” So Very Amen.

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Trusting Our Father When We’d Rather Program Him https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/trusting-our-father-when-wed-rather-program-him/ Fri, 10 Mar 2023 11:49:46 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=547394   “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and don’t lean on your own understanding” (Prov. 3:5). “Blessed are those who fear the Lord… They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord.” (Psalm 112:1, 7)   Heavenly Father, another weekend brings with it dozens of opportunities to trust you with “stuff” we would (I would) rather control. The difference between trusting you from my heart, or having my heart taken over by fear, irritation, anxiety, and anger… well, it’s never been clearer to me. It’s not a pretty sight, but I am...]]>   “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and don’t lean on your own understanding” (Prov. 3:5). “Blessed are those who fear the Lord… They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord.” (Psalm 112:1, 7)

 

Heavenly Father, another weekend brings with it dozens of opportunities to trust you with “stuff” we would (I would) rather control. The difference between trusting you from my heart, or having my heart taken over by fear, irritation, anxiety, and anger… well, it’s never been clearer to me.

It’s not a pretty sight, but I am seeing how easily I can replace just trusting you, with trusting you for certain outcomes. It’s the difference between (1) resting in your grace and love, knowing you’re at work as my sovereign, loving Father… VERSUS… (2) vexing in my fear and “control-freak-ness,” anxious for you to do things my way on my schedule.

Abba, I really, really want the first of these two options to mark more of my heart, worship, and life. Leaning on the flimsy, duct-taped, straw-scaffolding of my “own understanding” never bodes well. You know the beginning, middle, and end of all things. My perspective and understanding are riddled with my agenda, druthers, and desires for my life. All of those things aren’t bad; but not all of them are your will for my life.

Whether it’s “bad news” I get—or inconvenient disruptions, irritating changes, or circumstances that “blow up” my much looked-forward-to plans… Father, give me a steadfast, trusting heart. In my heart of hearts, I DO want you more than I want my way. So Very Amen.

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Friends, Have Done with “Muchness and Many-ness” https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/friends-have-done-with-muchness-and-many-ness/ Thu, 09 Mar 2023 11:00:25 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=547299 “Lord, remind me how brief my time on earth will be. Remind me that my days are numbered—how fleeting my life is… We are merely moving shadows, and all our busy rushing ends in nothing. We heap up wealth, not knowing who will spend it. And so, Lord, where do I put my hope? My only hope is in you.” Ps. 39:4–7   Heavenly Father, though I have zero desire to know the exact day or means by which you’ll take me Home, more than ever I desire to live with that day shaping all other days. Because the Gospel...]]> Lord, remind me how brief my time on earth will be. Remind me that my days are numbered—how fleeting my life is… We are merely moving shadows, and all our busy rushing ends in nothing. We heap up wealth, not knowing who will spend it. And so, Lord, where do I put my hope? My only hope is in you.” Ps. 39:4–7

 

Heavenly Father, though I have zero desire to know the exact day or means by which you’ll take me Home, more than ever I desire to live with that day shaping all other days. Because the Gospel is true, the fear of death has been sabotaged. I can honestly say with Paul, “it is better by far to depart and be with the Lord” (Phil. 1:23).

Accumulating, planning, “muchness and many-ness”, worrying—I’ve done enough of all of that. If you give me 1, 10, 15 more years, how can the Gospel of your kingdom and the riches of your grace claim and fill them? What do I need to make a bigger deal about, and a lesser deal of? What should I let go of, and what should I release? With whom should I be spending more time, heart, and joy? What people and relationships have I given too much power over my heart?

Father I know that only two things define history until Jesus returns—your commitment to redeem your every-nation people, and your commitment to finish making all things new through Jesus. Help me and my friends know we can engage more intentionally with both. Free us from our vain regrets about the past, and fill our gaze with the beauty of Jesus. Abba may your lavish love (for which we are SO grateful)… may it fill the rest of our days, and be our rest in each of those days. So Very Amen.

 

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In Our Face to Drive Us to More Grace https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/in-our-face-to-drive-us-to-more-grace/ Wed, 08 Mar 2023 11:40:32 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=547001   “Resentment kills a fool” (Job. 5:2). “Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many” (Heb. 12:15). “Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Eph. 4:31-32).   Heavenly Father, how much more “in our face” can you get? “Resentment kills a fool.” Couldn’t you’ve have just said. “To be resentful isn’t nice”? But every time you “get in our face,” it’s always to drive us into more of your grace. Thank you,...]]>   “Resentment kills a fool” (Job. 5:2). “Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many (Heb. 12:15). Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Eph. 4:31-32).

 

Heavenly Father, how much more “in our face” can you get? “Resentment kills a fool.” Couldn’t you’ve have just said. “To be resentful isn’t nice”? But every time you “get in our face,” it’s always to drive us into more of your grace. Thank you, and keep doing that.

Resentment can well up as soon as we get overlooked, feel underappreciated, or are unfairly blamed. Or when someone takes the cookie we hid in the frig, or when we’re left off a guest list, or when we get outraced to the intersection, gas pump, parking spot, checkout line… and the list goes on.

Father, that’s not who we want to be. We’d far rather be hair-triggered towards mercy and kindness than irritation and resentment. Today, like every day, we enter a broken world, filled with broken people, as our broken-yet-beloved selves. May we be quicker to overlook than to judge, more likely to extend grace than call down fire, more ready to “cut some slack” than commit homicide in our hearts.

Make the Gospel more defining than any of the normal disappoints we’ll bump into today (or create). And make it more powerful than our big hurts, fresh pain, and real slights. Write stories of redemption today with the kindness of your heart and the ink of your grace. So Very Amen.

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What a Gospel. What a Hope. What a Savior https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/what-a-gospel-what-a-hope-what-a-savior/ Tue, 07 Mar 2023 11:18:45 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=546825   “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Cor. 15:55-57 “No guilt in life, no fear in death. This is the power of Christ in me. From life’s first cry, to final breath. JESUS commands my destiny.” Keith Getty and Stuart Townend   Lord Jesus, in just a few hours I’ll sit with a dear friend, and we’ll plan his imminent funeral. With no fear,...]]>   “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Cor. 15:55-57

“No guilt in life, no fear in death. This is the power of Christ in me. From life’s first cry, to final breath. JESUS commands my destiny.” Keith Getty and Stuart Townend

 

Lord Jesus, in just a few hours I’ll sit with a dear friend, and we’ll plan his imminent funeral. With no fear, spin, or denial, he calmly told me last week, “Scotty, I’ll probably be in heaven before Easter.” In over a half of a century of ministry, Bill’s story, his marriage to Laurie, the tapestry of your grace in their lives… it’s been one of the kindest gifts you have given me. They have pastored me more than I have them.

Bill has been fighting a courageous battle with cancer, which you won, Jesus. Whether you had chosen to heal Bill instantly, or will bring him to yourself in a couple of weeks—or extend his stay here by months… you win because you won. Your death was the death of death, and your resurrection is the guarantee of ours. The gift of your pefect righteousness is the only garment we now care about wearing—as we begin this day, or if it should be our last. The Gospel of your grace is that true, good, and beautiful. Hallelujah!

It was sweet beyond measure to have had a ringside seat to watch you rescue both Bill and Laurie from grace-lite religion, performancism, “he loves me, he loves me not” spirituality. It was knee-buckling joyful, to have officiated their wedding. It will be a multiplied-tear day when we speak our temporary goodbye to Bill.

But Jesus, because you “command our destiny,” we are headed for an eternal Day of unspeakable joy, fulfilled stories, wiped tears, redeemed pain, and perfect everything. Indeed, “No guilt in life, no fear in death”… all because of you Jesus. Thank you and So Very Amen.

 

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Served with a Hope-Subpoena https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/served-with-a-hope-subpoena/ Mon, 06 Mar 2023 10:35:36 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=546652   “I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which God has called you.” Eph. 1:18   Merciful Father, being served with a subpoena isn’t an image we relish, with one exception. Today, like every day, the Gospel knocks on our heart’s door—not like a friend dropping by for a visit, or someone offering yard-care services, or a neighbor handing us our mail delivered to their home. Nope, when the Holy Spirit “rings our doorbell,” we are called… we are subpoenaed to hope. Thank you, and Hallelujah! So...]]>   “I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which God has called you.” Eph. 1:18

 

Merciful Father, being served with a subpoena isn’t an image we relish, with one exception. Today, like every day, the Gospel knocks on our heart’s door—not like a friend dropping by for a visit, or someone offering yard-care services, or a neighbor handing us our mail delivered to their home. Nope, when the Holy Spirit “rings our doorbell,” we are called… we are subpoenaed to hope. Thank you, and Hallelujah!

So on this March Monday, we gladly make ourselves a target of Paul’s petition in this one verse from your Word. Father, open and enlighten our heart-eyes to see, savor, and swim in the hope Jesus has won for us: The hope of an eternity beyond all we can ask or imagine. The hope of finally becoming as lovely and loving as Jesus—on the Day he returns (1 John 3:1-3). The hope of the eradication of all evil, sin, brokenness, and sickness… just to name a few of the many grace-riches you have given us and secured for us.

Father, remove the cataracts from our heart-eyes. Free us from our spiritual astigmatism and myopia. Throw the curtains wide open on Jesus—the Light of the World, where all the beauty comes from, the Sun/Son by whom we see all things as you intend. Truly, our hope is a Someone, not a something.

And if our main “seeing issue” isn’t heart-eye disease—rather, drifting eyes, high distractibility, or the lack of fixing our gaze on Jesus (Heb. 12:2), then forgive us, Father. In the coming hours, days, weeks… make Jesus compellingly, unavoidably beautiful to us. So Very Amen.

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Our Father to Us: “All That Is Mine Is Yours” https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/our-father-to-us-all-that-is-mine-is-yours/ Sun, 05 Mar 2023 11:04:35 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=546613   [The older brother] was angry and refused to go in. His father came out and entreated him…’Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours.’” Luke 15:28–31   Heavenly Father, I need to reflect on this story at least once a week…maybe more. At times my ingratitude and self-pity matches that of the older brother. I can give in to my grace-allergies and whine with the best of them. But, Father, every day—no exceptions, you run to us in the Gospel—inviting, imploring, wooing us to get on the dance floor of your grace—to enjoy the...]]>   [The older brother] was angry and refused to go in. His father came out and entreated him…’Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours.’” Luke 15:28–31

 

Heavenly Father, I need to reflect on this story at least once a week…maybe more. At times my ingratitude and self-pity matches that of the older brother. I can give in to my grace-allergies and whine with the best of them.

But, Father, every day—no exceptions, you run to us in the Gospel—inviting, imploring, wooing us to get on the dance floor of your grace—to enjoy the music of reconciliation, to sing the songs of redemption, to make merry in the gift of your permanent favor and delight.

As with the “elder brother,” you constantly confront our gospel-amnesia, saying to us in the Scriptures: “My son, you’re always with me because I’m always with you. Nothing will separate you from my love, exhaust my grace, or use up my mercies. I greatly delight in you, my child, and rejoice over you with singing” (Zeph.3:14-17).

Everything I have is yours. All your sins are forgiven, and I’ve declared you righteous in my beloved Son. I’ve hidden your life in Jesus. I will complete the good work I began in you (Phil. 1:6). Your sin, sorrows, and wounds all have an expiration date” (Rev. 21:1-5).

“I’ve made you co-heir with Jesus of the entire new heavens and new earth (Rom. 8:17). You are destined for an eternity of perfect relationships and perfect everything. Come, my child, let us rejoice and be glad.”

Father, thank you. I repent right now. Keep beating down my ungratefulness with massive, consistent love blasts of the Gospel. So Very Amen.

 

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Single, Whole-Hearted “Smitten-ness” https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/single-whole-hearted-smitten-ness/ Sat, 04 Mar 2023 10:54:53 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=546572   “Though you have not seen Jesus, you love him  …” (1 Pet. 1:8)   Lord Jesus, of course we love you, and we do so because you first loved us—with a love measured by the gift of your life to give us life. But comparing our current grasp of your greatness and grace, to what remains to be revealed, is like comparing a 15-inch charcuterie plate to a 50 feet long banqueting table filled with “the richest of fare” (Isa. 55:2}. There’s so much more to know and love about you, Jesus. We’re mere babes standing before the Alps of grace-wonder—neophyte...]]>   “Though you have not seen Jesus, you love him  …” (1 Pet. 1:8)

 

Lord Jesus, of course we love you, and we do so because you first loved us—with a love measured by the gift of your life to give us life. But comparing our current grasp of your greatness and grace, to what remains to be revealed, is like comparing a 15-inch charcuterie plate to a 50 feet long banqueting table filled with “the richest of fare” (Isa. 55:2}.

There’s so much more to know and love about you, Jesus. We’re mere babes standing before the Alps of grace-wonder—neophyte prospectors of the inexhaustible riches of the Gospel. We’re young children with water wings, wading into the bottomless ocean of your beauty and goodness—mere eaglets waiting to soar the skies of your majesty and magnificence.. Jesus, increase our capacity for loving and marveling at you.

Keep us magnetically drawn to you and insatiably thirsty for you, till we no longer know you in part (1 Cor.13:9). It will be the sweetest Day ever when we stop parceling out our love to competing affections, temporal ditties, and empty nothings (1 Sam. 12:21). Single, whole-hearted “smitten-ness” is what you deserve, Jesus.

May every idol we reach for fail us, all our broken cisterns stay bone-dry, and each self-staring fantasy we create quickly become an embarrassing flop. Jesus, only you can fill our heart-vacuum, heal our soul-ache, resolve these unrelenting inward groans (Rom. 8:23). Keep us redemptively discontent and eager for that eternal Day. So Very Amen.

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Receiving Not Achieving. Resting Not Vexing https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/receiving-not-achieving-resting-not-vexing-2/ Fri, 03 Mar 2023 10:21:33 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=546493   “To all who did receive him (Jesus), to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” John 1:12   Gracious Jesus, I woke up this morning with these words gladly claiming my attention. “Jesus, I am resting, resting, in the joy of what thou art; I am finding out the greatness of thy loving heart.” (Jean Pigott). I raise my hands in worship much easier than I get on my face. But I’ll never forget the Sunday the truth of this hymn led me, quite literally, to do a faceplant in your...]]>   “To all who did receive him (Jesus), to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” John 1:12

 

Gracious Jesus, I woke up this morning with these words gladly claiming my attention. “Jesus, I am resting, resting, in the joy of what thou art; I am finding out the greatness of thy loving heart.” (Jean Pigott).

I raise my hands in worship much easier than I get on my face. But I’ll never forget the Sunday the truth of this hymn led me, quite literally, to do a faceplant in your grace. All 6 feet of me, from the bottom of my Birkenstocks to the top of my head, were stretched out on the blue carpet in the old CCC sanctuary.

I was a senior pastor, but a junior in freedom, health, and wholeness. Much stress, little sleep, and restless struggle finally caught up with me. (Hallelujah) It felt so good to feel so helpless (and it still does). Helpless enough to receive what you alone can give, Jesus: Grace upon grace, and more grace where that grace came from.

From beginning to end, the Christian life is about receiving, not achieving—resting in you Jesus, not vexing about yesterday, today, or tomorrow. Receiving everything you are—not impressing you, not anguishing over everything we aren’t.

“Finding out the greatness of your loving heart”… that’s what we need more than anything else, Jesus. More than we need all wars to be over; more than we need mere people to “get us” and not fail us. More than we need oxygen, water, and bread. So Very Hallelujah and Amen.

 

 

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Jesus’ Magnificent Sameness https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/jesus-magnificent-sameness/ Thu, 02 Mar 2023 09:52:59 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=546333 “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” Heb. 13:8   Lord Jesus, until the Day “of all things new” and “everything beautiful,” we live in a world of all things broken and everything changeable. Hallelujah, you are the one glorious exception, as this verse affirms. You never change, atrophy, or need to morph into something more relevant. You are eternally perfect and timelessly present, and your fully enjoy the future today. Indeed, you are the Alpha (beginning) and the Omega (end), and not just the Alpha and the Kappa or the Sigma. There’s nothing partial about you...]]> “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” Heb. 13:8

 

Lord Jesus, until the Day “of all things new” and “everything beautiful,” we live in a world of all things broken and everything changeable. Hallelujah, you are the one glorious exception, as this verse affirms.

You never change, atrophy, or need to morph into something more relevant. You are eternally perfect and timelessly present, and your fully enjoy the future today. Indeed, you are the Alpha (beginning) and the Omega (end), and not just the Alpha and the Kappa or the Sigma. There’s nothing partial about you Jesus. You’re never in “discovery mode,” but are always in delight mode. You never try to do anything; you just do everything in your good time and by your generous “dime.”

The implications of your “magnificent sameness” are sweet, freeing, and peace-giving. Your love for us and rule over all things neither peak nor dive, wax or wane, have a high tide or low tide. Jesus, you are the one and only constant in our lives—never static, always redemptively dynamic.

Disruption and change don’t have defining power; only you do. Nothing is random in this world, and nothing catches you off guard. The better we know you, the “unknown” becomes the less threatening “yet-to-be-known.” Difficult circumstances and hard providences become the theatre of your mercy, grace, and redemption.

Hallelujah, what does change is us. As the Gospel and your Spirit do their work in our hearts, your “magnificent sameness” becomes the sheets between we sleep, our everyday feast, the soundtrack of our heart, and our fuel for loving well until you return. So Exceedingly Very Amen.

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Our Anchor in a Sea of Chaos and Consternation https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/our-anchor-in-a-sea-of-chaos-and-consternation/ Wed, 01 Mar 2023 10:58:14 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=546161 “I, Nebuchadnezzar, looked up to heaven. My sanity returned, and I praised and worshiped the Most High and honored the one who lives forever. His rule is everlasting, and his kingdom is eternal… He does as he pleases among the angels of heaven and among the people of the earth. No one can stop him.” Daniel 4:34-35   Lord Jesus, this story gives us deep peace, present hope, and faith-fuel for living in a world that often feels so out of control. Nebuchadnezzar, a pagan king bent on destruction, buckled under the “weight of grace”; because you are much more “bent” on redemption. Jesus, thank you for doing as you...]]> I, Nebuchadnezzar, looked up to heaven. My sanity returned, and I praised and worshiped the Most High and honored the one who lives forever. His rule is everlasting, and his kingdom is eternal… He does as he pleases among the angels of heaven and among the people of the earth. No one can stop him.” Daniel 4:34-35

 

Lord Jesus, this story gives us deep peace, present hope, and faith-fuel for living in a world that often feels so out of control. Nebuchadnezzar, a pagan king bent on destruction, buckled under the “weight of grace”; because you are much more “bent” on redemption.

Jesus, thank you for doing as you please—not as we beg, nag, wish, and pray. You always “do all things well (Mark 7:37)—when we see it, when you hide it, when you delay it. While we under-believe the Gospel and over-believe our fears, you remain steadfast in your love and faithful to your promises. Thank you.

You are sovereign over Russian leaders and Ukrainian children, fiery furnaces and hungry lions (Daniel 3:8-25; 6:1-29)—over the things we wish had never happened to us, and our stories that are yet to be written.

Nothing happens beyond the reach and reasons of heaven. This doesn’t eliminate our sense of vulnerability and mystery; but it does give us an anchor in a sea of chaos and consternation. Jesus, forgive us when we doubt your awareness and goodness. Thank you for understanding when we reply to heartache like Martha did. “Lord, if you had been here,” this hard thing would not have happened (John 11:21).

Jesus, help us when we struggle with your hiddenness, timing, and ways. You laid down your life for us; there is no greater love, or Lord. So Very Amen.

 

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The Heavenly Kiss of Thornbushes https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/the-heavenly-kiss-of-thornbushes/ Tue, 28 Feb 2023 10:25:10 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=545975 “I will block her path with thornbushes; I will wall her in so that she cannot find her way. She will chase after her lovers but not catch them; she will look for them but not find them. Then she will say, ‘I will go back to my husband as at first, for then I was better off than now.’” Hosea 2:6-7   Lord Jesus, I’ve been dazzled by high-altitude wildflowers of Switzerland, mesmerized by arms-swaying, head-dancing sea oats along the Gulf Coast of Florida, and jaw-dropped stunned by the green-on-steroids cliffs of Northern Ireland. But today, I praise you for...]]> I will block her path with thornbushes; I will wall her in so that she cannot find her way. She will chase after her lovers but not catch them; she will look for them but not find them. Then she will say, ‘I will go back to my husband as at first, for then I was better off than now.’” Hosea 2:6-7

 

Lord Jesus, I’ve been dazzled by high-altitude wildflowers of Switzerland, mesmerized by arms-swaying, head-dancing sea oats along the Gulf Coast of Florida, and jaw-dropped stunned by the green-on-steroids cliffs of Northern Ireland. But today, I praise you for the grace-gift of “thornbushes.” They’re not pretty, but they are precious.

You love us so much that when we love you less, you come after us with bulldog-tenacity and severe mercy. When we glance, meander, then start chasing after other “lovers,” you drop a boulder of “disruptive grace” in our path. We whine at first, then we worship you, Jesus. For every time our good longings (and selfish lusts) get hijacked, the delight is temporary and death is the destination. For good reasons you call them “worthless idols” (Jer. 2:5) and “broken cisterns” (Jer. 2:13).

Your love highlights, then mocks the insanity of our sin. What is a “one night stand” compared to an eternal standing in grace? You died to make us your beloved Bride; and now you rejoice over us with great delight and the loving gaze of a Bridegroom (Isa. 62:5). Jesus, forgive us. Free us.

Thank you for your unwavering love, “precious” thornbushes, and certain return. Oh, for the Day when it will be impossible for us to ever sin against your heart, beauty, grace again, Jesus. So Very Amen.

 

 

 

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Loving Jesus with a Living and “Undying Love” https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/loving-jesus-with-a-living-and-undying-love/ Mon, 27 Feb 2023 11:14:07 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=545768   “Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love” (Eph. 6:24). “I fear that just as Eve was deceived by the cunning ways of the serpent, somehow your pure and undivided devotion to Christ will be corrupted” (2 Cor.11:3).   Lord Jesus, this week like every week, our greatest privilege, main calling, and most heart-liberating commitment will be to love you. Not merely admire or greatly appreciate you. Not just think you were the greatest person, leader, or teacher who ever lived. No… 1000 times “No.” We are to love you with a living and...]]>   “Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love” (Eph. 6:24). “I fear that just as Eve was deceived by the cunning ways of the serpent, somehow your pure and undivided devotion to Christ will be corrupted” (2 Cor.11:3).

 

Lord Jesus, this week like every week, our greatest privilege, main calling, and most heart-liberating commitment will be to love you. Not merely admire or greatly appreciate you. Not just think you were the greatest person, leader, or teacher who ever lived. No… 1000 times “No.” We are to love you with a living and “undying love.”

When it comes to investing our attention, affection, adoration, and allegiance, Jesus, there’s just you, and no one and nothing else. You don’t merely deserve first place in our lives—as though there’s a close 2nd, 3rd, and 4th.

Whatever we think about spiritual warfare and the schemes of the devil, it all comes down to this. The “serpent” is always trying to diminish, divert, and destroy our love for you—overtly and covertly. When we don’t make spending time with you and abiding in your love a priority, it all goes downhill from there.

Good things supplant the main thing, then bad things even supplant good things. We get more susceptible to fear, worry, and anger; and sinning with our thoughts, words, and choices becomes easy, too easy.

What is our only hope, Jesus? We’re not saved to the degree we love you. We’re saved because you first loved us and gave yourself for us. Though our love for you waxes and wanes—is sometimes really intense and other times really fickle, your love for us is absolute, unwavering, and inexhaustible. We are now, and forever, grateful. So Very Amen.

 

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For Those Who Do, and Do Not, Celebrate Lent https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/for-those-who-do-and-do-not-celebrate-lent/ Sun, 26 Feb 2023 10:34:01 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=545746   “As long as they have the bridegroom with them, they cannot fast. But days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast in that day.” Mark 2:19-20   Lord Jesus, though my late late-60’s “Jesus Revolution” conversion rooted me in a “non-liturgical” worship style, I’ve come to greatly appreciate the beauty of intentional worship. It’s become so helpful to celebrate special seasons of reflecting on when, why, and how you came to save us. This past Wednesday, many began the season of Lent, which will culminate with the explosive joy of Easter on...]]>   “As long as they have the bridegroom with them, they cannot fast. But days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast in that day.” Mark 2:19-20

 

Lord Jesus, though my late late-60’s “Jesus Revolution” conversion rooted me in a “non-liturgical” worship style, I’ve come to greatly appreciate the beauty of intentional worship. It’s become so helpful to celebrate special seasons of reflecting on when, why, and how you came to save us. This past Wednesday, many began the season of Lent, which will culminate with the explosive joy of Easter on April 9.

It’s not a season for beating ourselves up, but for lifting you up; not 40 days of groveling, but 40 days of “grace-ing.” Surveying the wonders of your cross and reflecting on the depth of our need, can only lead to more glory for you, and more freedom for us.

Should we, like many, choose to “fast” something during Lent, may it be for the singular purpose of intensifying our hunger for you, Jesus. We crave a fresh work of your Spirit in our hearts… like what is currently happening at Asbury, and many other places.

Jesus, you are the perfect Bridegroom who died to make us your cherished Bride. The work has been done, the “dowry” is paid in full, the wedding dress of your righteousness is ours, and the wedding Day is set. Hallelujah!

Until that much longed for Day, teach us how to lament—to embrace the “good grief” and grace-tears of contrition. With no condemnation hanging over us (Rom. 8:1), work fresh conviction inside us. May we repent because of your great love for us. And may we obey you because we are compelled to love you more and more, Jesus. So Very Amen.

 

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Evil-empty, Satan-void, God-glory-filled https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/evil-empty-satan-void-god-glory-filled/ Sat, 25 Feb 2023 11:06:52 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=545708 “The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.” Rom. 16:20   Heavenly Father, among your many names “God of Peace” is one of our favorites, and most needed. Through Jesus’ finished work, you are now at peace with us, and we have peace with you. Your peace now guards our hearts 24/7; and as we surrender to it, it rules in them (Phil 4:7, Col. 3:15). Hallelujah, and thank you. But there’s another “peace”—a glorious shalom for which we long, wait, and pant. The one year “anniversary”...]]> The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.” Rom. 16:20

 

Heavenly Father, among your many names “God of Peace” is one of our favorites, and most needed. Through Jesus’ finished work, you are now at peace with us, and we have peace with you. Your peace now guards our hearts 24/7; and as we surrender to it, it rules in them (Phil 4:7, Col. 3:15). Hallelujah, and thank you. But there’s another “peace”—a glorious shalom for which we long, wait, and pant.

The one year “anniversary” of the war in the Ukraine makes the hope of peace on earth our passionate yearning and insatiable craving. In the verse we’re ponding and praying today, Paul envisioned the Day when everywhere we plant our feet, it will be evil-empty, Satan-void, and God-glory-filled. Hallelujah!

Your promise that this will happen “soon” didn’t come with the specific month, year, or decade revealed. But it did come with your joyful, unbreakable guarantee (Eph.1:13-14, 2 Cor.1:22). Until that magnificent Day, you give us the grace of Jesus as our heart-feast, hope-fuel, and peace-fertilizer. Thank you.

Father, we pray “soon” will be “sooner” than we can imagine. Jesus’ crushed Satan’s head, and we look forward to dancing everywhere we plant our feet in the new heaven and new earth (2 Pet. 3:13, Hab. 2:14, Isa. 11:9, Rom. 8:21, Ps. 150:4). So Very, Very, VERY Amen.

 

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Let These “3′s” Have Their Way in Your Heart https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/let-these-3%e2%80%b2s-have-their-way-in-your-heart/ Fri, 24 Feb 2023 11:55:41 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=545640   “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, constant in prayer.” Rom. 12:12   Lord Jesus, there are so many awesome sets of three in the Scriptures: First and foremost You, the Father, and the Holy Spirit—our glorious Triune God. Then there’s, “faith, hope, and love” (I Cor. 13:13), “called, loved, and kept” (Jude 1:1), “grace, mercy, and peace” 2 John 1:3). Add to that list this timely Gospel-saturated triad in Rom. 12:12. Let it be, Lord.  Joyful in Hope: Jesus, our hope is built on nothing less, more, or other than you, and your finished work for us. In...]]>   “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, constant in prayer.” Rom. 12:12

 

Lord Jesus, there are so many awesome sets of three in the Scriptures: First and foremost You, the Father, and the Holy Spirit—our glorious Triune God. Then there’s, “faith, hope, and love” (I Cor. 13:13), “called, loved, and kept” (Jude 1:1), “grace, mercy, and peace” 2 John 1:3). Add to that list this timely Gospel-saturated triad in Rom. 12:12. Let it be, Lord.

 Joyful in Hope: Jesus, our hope is built on nothing less, more, or other than you, and your finished work for us. In a world of instability, uncertainty, and “sinking sand,” you are our Rock and righteousness, the fuel for our joy and the reason we sing. If we could smell the grass of the new heaven and new earth—the green pastures we will revel in forever, we’d be less anxious and fearful, and more peaceful and loving.

Patient in Affliction: Knowing everything broken, sinful, evil has an expiration date, we can risk patience. But there’s more, Jesus. You are working for our good in the hard stuff now, and will redeem the pain behind our tears when you return. All affliction will end… “Hallelujah!” If there was such a thing as a “1-to-10 adoring Jesus scale,” we’ll go from our daily “3” and occasional “6,” to adoring you at a full bore “11” all the time.

Constant in Prayer: Jesus, we can pray without ceasing because you love us without wavering, and rule over all things without exception. Prayer isn’t us finagling “Yes’s” out of you, but discovering you are the “Yes!” to every promise God has made (2 Cor.1:20). Jesus, we pray to get more of you, not more from you. So Very Amen.

 

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Overwhelmed with Jesus and His Generosity https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/overwhelmed-with-jesus-and-his-generosity/ Thu, 23 Feb 2023 10:42:16 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=545492 “Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in them, singing: ‘To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, forever and ever!’” Revelation 5:13   Dear Lord Jesus, some glimpses of our future overload the circuit board of our imagination and exhaust our heart-capacity for wonder. This one verse is “exhibit A” of such consuming astonishment. Help us. Free us. Enable us to connect with these things more fully—even as John did when you gave...]]> Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in them, singing: ‘To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, forever and ever!’” Revelation 5:13

 

Dear Lord Jesus, some glimpses of our future overload the circuit board of our imagination and exhaust our heart-capacity for wonder. This one verse is “exhibit A” of such consuming astonishment. Help us. Free us. Enable us to connect with these things more fully—even as John did when you gave him this vision.

For we, ourselves, are destined for the perfections and delights of life in the new heaven and new earth (Rev. 21:1-22:6). A life in which “every creature,” (not just your whole redeemed Bride), but every creature “in heaven, on earth, under the earth and in the sea” will sing to you—declaring your worth, glory, and praise. Dolphin and dogs, clams and crickets, elephants and eels, parrots and pompano… angels, anteaters, and armadillo… will all sing to you.

Wolves and lambs will live as neighbors. Cows and bears will eat together, not each other. The entire earth will be filled with your glory and intimate relationship with you (Isaiah 11:6-9). Your impossible-to-count Bride, from every nation and people group that has ever existed (Rev. 7:9-10), will love you and each other… perfectly “forever and ever.”

Jesus, you won this for us, secured it as our inheritance, guarantee it by your resurrection. Thank you seems so lame to say. Falling down before you, and rising to live, love, and worship towards that Day is so appropriate. So Very Amen.

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Who Are You Glad to See in Your Face, on Caller ID, or Anywhere? https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/who-are-you-glad-to-see-in-your-face-on-caller-id-or-anywhere/ Wed, 22 Feb 2023 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=545288 “I rejoice at the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus… for they refreshed my spirit.” (1 Cor. 16:17-18). Jesus, the Good Shepherd… “restores, refreshes, renews my soul” (Psalm 23:3)   Lord Jesus, “Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus” … three guys we’ll know as a part of our forever-family in eternity, but three guys whose names we usually “blow through” to get to the “choice” parts of a chapter or verse in the Bible.    But they themselves were “choice”… crème de la crème, sumptuous fare, and friendship-feast. The Apostle Paul could say of them, “I am always glad to see...]]> I rejoice at the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus… for they refreshed my spirit.” (1 Cor. 16:17-18). Jesus, the Good Shepherd… “restores, refreshes, renews my soul” (Psalm 23:3)

 

Lord Jesus, “Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus” … three guys we’ll know as a part of our forever-family in eternity, but three guys whose names we usually “blow through” to get to the “choice” parts of a chapter or verse in the Bible.

   But they themselves were “choice”… crème de la crème, sumptuous fare, and friendship-feast. The Apostle Paul could say of them, “I am always glad to see these brothers come through the door, for they bring refreshment to my spirit. They have a “knack,” way, and heart for giving me encouragement when I need it the most.”

Jesus, thank you for the sisters and brothers who are like Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus to us. They bring no pressure, critique, or agenda. Instead, they are conduits of your kindness, non-anxious presence, and joy. And that’s exactly who we want to be to others, Jesus. Make it so, increasingly so.

For you, Jesus, are the headwater, river, and fountain of the sweetest, most satisfying, perfectly timed refreshment. “Flickering wicks and crushed reeds” love it when you show up. When you “come through the door,” nobody feels they need to tidy the desk, feign okay-ness, or “present well.” You are near and dear to the brokenhearted, weary, and heavily burdened. Thank. You. Jesus. Be all of that to us, and through us, this very day. So Very Amen.

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Our Generous Father, the Asbury “Awakening,” and Us https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/our-generous-father-the-asbury-awakening-and-us/ Tue, 21 Feb 2023 11:26:15 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=545108   “What father among you, if his son asks for a fish, will instead of a fish give him a serpent; or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? … How much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” Luke 11:11–13   Heavenly Father, you are generous with everything—fish, eggs, mercy, grace, forgiveness, and so much more. With the “awakening” going on at Asbury University and other campuses, it’s time for us to relish your generosity with the Holy Spirit. You have already given your Spirit to each of...]]>   “What father among you, if his son asks for a fish, will instead of a fish give him a serpent; or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? … How much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” Luke 11:11–13

 

Heavenly Father, you are generous with everything—fish, eggs, mercy, grace, forgiveness, and so much more. With the “awakening” going on at Asbury University and other campuses, it’s time for us to relish your generosity with the Holy Spirit.

You have already given your Spirit to each of your children (Rom. 8:9), and we are grateful for these many expressions of his work. By the Holy Spirit, you raised us from spiritual death, gave us faith to believe in Jesus as our Savior, and are now making us like him (2 Cor. 3:17-18). Thank you, and “Hallelujah!”

You sealed us with your Spirit (Eph. 1:13)—making us yours forever, betrothing us to Jesus (2 Cor. 11:2), guaranteeing our eternal inheritance (Eph. 1:14). Through the Holy Spirit, you sing to us every day of your great love and eternal delight (Rom. 8:16). Thank you, Abba.

 SO, Father, we take the promise of your ongoing Spirit-seriously very seriously today. Seeing college students on their feet and on their faces—being set free from sin, guilt, and shame… being renewed in their love for Jesus… adoring, worshipping, exalting you… why would we not want that for ourselves? Why would we not want to be renewed, refreshed, released through a fresh “awakening” by the Holy Spirit in our lives?

Generous Father, we ask… we hunger and thirst… fish and eggs won’t be enough. “Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on me. Break me, melt me, mold me, fill me.” So Very Amen, in Jesus’ name we pray.

 

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Jesus, Our Joy-Anointed King https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/jesus-our-joy-anointed-king/ Mon, 20 Feb 2023 10:57:07 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=544957   To his Son, Jesus, our Father says, “your throne is forever and ever, the scepter of uprightness is the scepter of your kingdom. You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness.” You are “anointed you with the oil of joy beyond your companions.” Heb. 1:8–9   Lord Jesus, nothing is more impactful than what we think about you. Maybe I’m being generous, but we are probably aware of about 1.2% of your glory, beauty, and goodness. Heaven will be an eternal adventure of mining the riches of your grace and the wonders of your love. Today we stop to marvel...]]>   To his Son, Jesus, our Father says, “your throne is forever and ever, the scepter of uprightness is the scepter of your kingdom. You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness.” You are “anointed you with the oil of joy beyond your companions.” Heb. 1:8–9

 

Lord Jesus, nothing is more impactful than what we think about you. Maybe I’m being generous, but we are probably aware of about 1.2% of your glory, beauty, and goodness. Heaven will be an eternal adventure of mining the riches of your grace and the wonders of your love.

Today we stop to marvel at your eternal, sovereign, joyful kingship—a great thing to do on “President’s Day” in America. Jesus, we aren’t waiting for you to become King of kings and Lord of lords, for you already are. Gladness is your anointing, joy is your heartbeat, and righteousness is the culture of your now-and-coming kingdom. And to think—you, the King of glory, died to make us your beloved Bride forever.

You defeated evil and wickedness on the cross, and will eradicate all of it at your return. Thank you and “Hallelujah!” As we await that Day, concern is appropriate for us; but never paralyzing fear or uncertainty about where history is heading. The government of the entire cosmos now rests on your shoulders (Isa. 9:6-7); and we now rest in your “righteousness, peace, and joy” (Rom. 14:17).

Jesus, you are nervous about nothing, and are engaged with everything. How much so? We can trust you with international tensions today, our upcoming medical procedures, the temperature of the earth’s core, the now-and-eternal destiny of our children, the biggest messes we inhabit, and the perfectly timed Day you will usher in the new heaven and new earth. Whew… and So Very Amen.

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Take Heart, Don’t Lose It https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/take-heart-dont-lose-it/ Sun, 19 Feb 2023 11:33:36 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=544926 “I (Jesus) told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth, you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart because I have overcome world.” (John 16:33). “Don’t lose heart… though our outer self is wasting away; our inner self is being renewed day by day. 2 Cor.4:16   Lord Jesus, we are such selective listeners—hearing what we want to hear from you, and editing other stuff out to fit our definition of “the abundant life.” You are so patient and kind. You never tell us to seek “trials and sorrows,” but we...]]> I (Jesus) told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth, you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart because I have overcome world.” (John 16:33). “Don’t lose heart… though our outer self is wasting away; our inner self is being renewed day by day. 2 Cor.4:16

 

Lord Jesus, we are such selective listeners—hearing what we want to hear from you, and editing other stuff out to fit our definition of “the abundant life.” You are so patient and kind. You never tell us to seek “trials and sorrows,” but we have to play “loosey-goosey” with your Word to avoid your clear teaching about life between your resurrection and return.

“Here on earth” we will experience headaches, body-aches, heartaches of all kinds… failures by people we love, opposition from people who don’t love you, the weighty-shame of causing sorrow for those that we love—Jesus, you anticipate and prepare us for every scenario. Thank you.

It’s only because of you we don’t totally lose heart. Heavy hearts, crushed hearts, fearful hearts, angry hearts—and at times, hardened hearts… yep, to lesser and greater degrees, we have all “been there, done that.”

Today, by grace and faith, we choose to obey you, Jesus—to obey the command to “take heart.” You haven’t just overcome everything in the world; you also overcome everything in us. So we “take heart” by taking our multi-need hearts to you. There is no bigger welcome, safer place, or better cardiology care. Thank you Jesus. So Very Amen.

 

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Savor, Own, Rest https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/savor-own-rest/ Sat, 18 Feb 2023 11:41:27 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=544899 2 Cor. 4:7 – “We have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.” Lord Jesus, thank you… to have you plus nothing, makes us as rich as anybody in history, for you are the archetypal, quintessential, unparalleled “treasure.” It’s truly astonishing to realize you have taken up residency in our frailty and finiteness. That’s not a sad story; it’s a glorious one—just the way you want it, designed it, and delight in it. O, the freedom this offers us. Help us treasure you more than we curse our weakness.   2 Cor....]]> 2 Cor. 4:7 – “We have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.”

Lord Jesus, thank you… to have you plus nothing, makes us as rich as anybody in history, for you are the archetypal, quintessential, unparalleled “treasure.” It’s truly astonishing to realize you have taken up residency in our frailty and finiteness. That’s not a sad story; it’s a glorious one—just the way you want it, designed it, and delight in it. O, the freedom this offers us. Help us treasure you more than we curse our weakness.

 

2 Cor. 4:8-9 – “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.”

Jesus, I can’t remember any season when I’ve had more friends in dire straits, difficult stories, and “from-every-side-pressure.” Fortunately, we don’t have to spin it, buck up, or be awesome. None of us is called to be a super-hero, but all of us are called to you—to savor your beauty, own our limits, and rest in your love.

 

2 Cor. 4:10 We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body.

To “carry around your death in our body” is to affirm your cross, not our competency, is to be our boast and trust. There will always be more needs than hours in a day; but there will never be more needs than you are good, faithful, and at work. Reveal more of yourself to us, Jesus, that more of you might be revealed through us. So VERY Amen.

 

 

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Guarding, Giving, “Grabbing Hold” https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/guarding-giving-grabbing-hold/ Fri, 17 Feb 2023 12:05:10 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=544818   “I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart” (Ezek. 36:26). “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it” (Prov. 4:23). “My son, give me your heart” (Prov. 23:26). “Your treasure and heart will share the same address” (Paraphrase of Matt. 6:21).   Heavenly Father, thank you for a new day. We don’t presume on the next day, or even the next breath. And thank you for promising us multiple mercies and fresh grace equal to the needs of this February Friday. What is our greatest need? If...]]>   “I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart” (Ezek. 36:26). “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it” (Prov. 4:23). “My son, give me your heart” (Prov. 23:26). “Your treasure and heart will share the same address” (Paraphrase of Matt. 6:21).

 

Heavenly Father, thank you for a new day. We don’t presume on the next day, or even the next breath. And thank you for promising us multiple mercies and fresh grace equal to the needs of this February Friday.

What is our greatest need? If we take these four verses seriously, the answer is clear. Heart-matters will always matter more than anything else. Hallelujah, you take the condition our heart so seriously, you have already performed the greatest “heart transplant” imaginable. By the Gospel, you removed our heart of stone and gave us a new heart. It’s a new heart, but it’s not a perfected heart. So like every day… today (and the whole upcoming weekend) we must:

 

Guard our heart. Protect, nurture, feed, focus, rest… Father, until Jesus returns, our hearts will need constant care. Nothing is more vulnerable and dangerous than an unguarded heart. There’s simply no such thing as a neutral heart.

 

Give you our heart. Father, this is your expression of desire for us, and your delight in us. What or who is most intensely competing for our heart’s affection and preoccupation? Show us. Free us.

 

Grab hold of you as our greatest heart-treasure… again and again. By the Gospel and the riches of grace, we now declare, “who do we have in heaven but you?” And in our most Gospel-sane moments, “we desire you more than anything on earth” (Ps. 73:25). So Very Amen.

 

 

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“Must-ness” Not “Might-ness” https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/must-ness-not-might-ness/ Thu, 16 Feb 2023 10:43:28 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=544643  “There before me was a door standing open in heaven. And the voice I had first heard speaking to me like a trumpet said, ‘Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after this.’ At once I was in the Spirit, and there before me was a throne in heaven with someone sitting on it”. Revelation 4:1-2   Lord Jesus, of all the gifts you could give your Bride-in-waiting, none is more precious, always-timely, and peace-giving than the truth, goodness, and beauty contained in Revelation 4. What value would we possibly place on these three gifts? An open-door...]]>  “There before me was a door standing open in heaven. And the voice I had first heard speaking to me like a trumpet said, ‘Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after this.’ At once I was in the Spirit, and there before me was a throne in heaven with someone sitting on it”. Revelation 4:1-2

 

Lord Jesus, of all the gifts you could give your Bride-in-waiting, none is more precious, always-timely, and peace-giving than the truth, goodness, and beauty contained in Revelation 4. What value would we possibly place on these three gifts? An open-door gaze into the grandeur and worship of eternity. A clear sighting of heaven’s occupied throne—not, empty chair. An affirmation of your sovereignty over everything in every place until you return. Humbled and in awe, we offer our, “Hallelujah!”

We are so glad, Jesus, you deal in “must-ness,” not “might-ness”—in Kingdom actualities, not circumstantial possibilities. There’s no trial and error in the courts of heaven; there’s just eternal plans with providentially-timed execution. We may not like the timing, but we are so glad nothing’s been left to mere chance. This isn’t fatalism, it’s “Fatherly-ness”—God our Father reigns, and God our Father loves. That is enough.

This doesn’t make life easy or mystery-free, but it does make it good and worth the wait. It doesn’t mean we live stress-void, but we can live peace-full—confident that our Father will complete the good work he began in us, and in all of creation.

Ongoing international crises and conflicts, upcoming surgeries and transitions, didn’t-see-that-one-coming surprises and disappointments—Jesus, help see all things by the grace-fueled light of your empty tomb and heaven’s occupied throne. So Very Amen.

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Leave Your Mirror for the Throne of Grace https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/leave-your-mirror-for-the-throne-of-grace/ Wed, 15 Feb 2023 12:36:41 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=544482  “Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens.” (Ps.68:19). “Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.” (2 Cor. 7:10)   Dear Jesus, 10,000 thanks to you, as we begin this day. You are the Savior who daily bears our burdens—daily, not just annually or “decade-ally.” We get new mercies each morning because we need them every day (Lam. 3:23-24). Of all the heavy burdens we keep throwing into our backpacks and “heart-backs”—”vain regret” may be the heaviest. It masquerades as Spirit-conviction, but it really...]]>  “Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens.” (Ps.68:19). “Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.” (2 Cor. 7:10)

 

Dear Jesus, 10,000 thanks to you, as we begin this day. You are the Savior who daily bears our burdens—daily, not just annually or “decade-ally.” We get new mercies each morning because we need them every day (Lam. 3:23-24).

Of all the heavy burdens we keep throwing into our backpacks and “heart-backs”—”vain regret” may be the heaviest. It masquerades as Spirit-conviction, but it really has nothing to do with the work of the Holy Spirit. In time, it will crush us; and worse, it certainly dishonors you. “Gospel-regret,” on the other hand, will free us. Jesus, you are the difference between the two.

To have “Gospel-regret” is to come before you at the throne of grace. taking responsibility for the unloving things we have thought, said, and done. In that holy place we experience your kind welcome, “godly sorrow,” and the life-giving grace of repentance. It deepens our love for you, Jesus, and frees us to offer the fruit of repentance to those we have failed, hurt, or neglected.

Vain regret, on the other hand, doesn’t bring us before you at all, Jesus. It simply delivers us to the nearest mirror. And there, standing before our own reflection, we get paralyzed with shame, condemnation, and self-contempt. Then we start rehearsing our excuses, blame-shifting, and making plans for face-saving penance and self-salvation. Nothing could be more vain—because it’s all about us. No wonder you call it “worldly sorrow,” and warn its path leads straight to death of heart, joy, peace, freedom, and hope.

Jesus, we don’t want to experience, or give, more death by trying to carry what you bore at the cross, and now bear for us daily. We’re tired of standing in front of our mirrors, so we come falling before your throne of grace.

You know our vain regrets about parenting… “spouse-ing”… old stories and new struggles… the destructive use of our tongues… the weaponizing of our hurts… the withholding of forgiveness… the waste of our time, your grace, and the depth of our unbelief. Jesus, we come to you right now, so grateful the Gospel is true. So Very Amen.

 

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Is It Possible to Be THIS Alive to Jesus’ Love? https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/is-it-possible-to-be-this-alive-to-jesus-love/ Tue, 14 Feb 2023 10:57:23 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=544329   Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you. I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands. I will be fully satisfied as with the richest of foods; with singing lips my mouth will praise you. Ps. 63:3–5   Lord Jesus, King David’s image of uninhibited celebration, deep satisfaction, and whole-being adoration are compelling. If reverence is giving an appropriate response to you and how you delight to be known, then David shatters our image of reverence as sitting quietly and politely with folded hands....]]>   Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you. I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands. I will be fully satisfied as with the richest of foods; with singing lips my mouth will praise you. Ps. 63:3–5

 

Lord Jesus, King David’s image of uninhibited celebration, deep satisfaction, and whole-being adoration are compelling. If reverence is giving an appropriate response to you and how you delight to be known, then David shatters our image of reverence as sitting quietly and politely with folded hands. Your love undid David, then “re-did” him. O, to know you in such a heart-thrilling, soul-satisfying, life-liberating way—or to know you again in that fashion and passion.

Jesus, by the work of the Spirit, take us on a fresh journey into the geography of your great love for us—it’s width, length, height, and depth (Eph. 3:17-19). Nothing is more compelling, nothing is more transforming, nothing is more counterintuitive than your love. On a day in the year (Valentine’s Day) when we will be tempted to measure our value in terms of human romance, may your “better-than-life” love shatter all comparison, and fuel our gratitude.

David danced with shame-free joy because the Ark of the Covenant was returned to Jerusalem (2 Samuel 6:1-23). How much more so should we live (dance) with shame-free joy before you—with the empty tomb behind us, the occupied throne above us, and the wedding feast barreling towards us? Jesus, as long as we live… with full hearts, singing lips, raised hands, surrendered lives, we will praise you. So Very Amen.

 

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Beloved, Desired, and Married to Jesus https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/beloved-desired-and-married-to-jesus/ Mon, 13 Feb 2023 11:13:34 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=544168 “I am my beloved’s, and his desire is for me.” Song of Sol. 7:10 Lord Jesus, on the Gregorian Calendar, tomorrow, February 14th, is Valentine’s Day—a day set aside for celebrating the gift of romantic love. From middle-school infatuation to first “real” love, through break-ups, restarts, walking down the aisle, then walking to the graveside to commit a spouse to eternity—our stories are marked by the wonders, pain, risks, and beauty of love. But all love whispers, hints, and points toward a greater love—the greatest love. On the Calendar of Grace, every day is the perfect day for remembering and...]]> “I am my beloved’s, and his desire is for me.” Song of Sol. 7:10

Lord Jesus, on the Gregorian Calendar, tomorrow, February 14th, is Valentine’s Day—a day set aside for celebrating the gift of romantic love. From middle-school infatuation to first “real” love, through break-ups, restarts, walking down the aisle, then walking to the graveside to commit a spouse to eternity—our stories are marked by the wonders, pain, risks, and beauty of love.

But all love whispers, hints, and points toward a greater love—the greatest love. On the Calendar of Grace, every day is the perfect day for remembering and reveling in the only love better than life. No human relationship, great romance, torrid love affair—even 50 years of a healthy marriage can possibly fill the place in our hearts reserved for you, Jesus.

You are the ultimate Spouse—the one we always craved, whether we know it or not. Every human marriage is temporary; only our marriage to you is forever. In fact, as believers, we are already more married to you, Jesus, than we will ever be to anyone else. This is precisely why we should take our marriages so seriously, Jesus, for they are meant to show and tell how you love a most unlikely, unworthy Bride—each of us.

To be able to say, “I am my beloved’s and his desire for me”—knowing you are the “beloved,” Jesus, and we are the “desired” ones—nothing compares with this state of grace, intimacy, and belovedness. It is the height, depth, width, and breadth of your love for us, Jesus (Eph. 3:14-19; Eph. 5:25-32). Until the Day you return, Jesus, may your love inhabit, shape, and fuel all other loves. So Very Amen.

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Three of Our Forever Family and Their “One Thing” https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/three-of-our-forever-family-and-their-one-thing/ Sun, 12 Feb 2023 10:11:17 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=544121 “One thing I do...” Paul, in Phil. 3:13 – (Living Heavenward). “One thing have I desired of the LORD…” King David, in Ps. 27:4 (Adoring Jesus in All His Beauty). “One thing is necessary, and Mary chose it.” Jesus, Luke 10:42 (Being with Jesus Over Doing for Jesus).   Lord Jesus, mold, zucchini, a bad attitude, clutter, unbelief—they all have this in common. Left unattended, they multiply. They don’t need a lot of planning, nurture, or “weeding” to create a bumper crop. An intimate, robust, thriving relationship with you, Jesus. is an altogether different matter. None of us will just drift in...]]> One thing I do...” Paul, in Phil. 3:13 – (Living Heavenward). “One thing have I desired of the LORD…” King David, in Ps. 27:4 (Adoring Jesus in All His Beauty). “One thing is necessary, and Mary chose it.” Jesus, Luke 10:42 (Being with Jesus Over Doing for Jesus).

 

Lord Jesus, mold, zucchini, a bad attitude, clutter, unbelief—they all have this in common. Left unattended, they multiply. They don’t need a lot of planning, nurture, or “weeding” to create a bumper crop. An intimate, robust, thriving relationship with you, Jesus. is an altogether different matter. None of us will just drift in spiritual maturity and a wholehearted love for you.

So we want to take up Paul, David, and Mary’s “one-thing.” We want to live as focused, intentional “One-thing-ers” too. Paul lived heavenward—filling his heart with the certainty and wonders of life with you forever (Phil. 3:13). David craved your beauty and fellowship with you over more power and great conquests (Ps. 27:4). Mary chose being with you over doing for you in the kitchen with her sister Martha (Lk. 10:42). We want a healthy portion of all three of these friends.

Jesus, do a fresh work in our hearts, one that will lead us to say with childlike wonder and singular joy, “I consider all things rubbish compared to the surpassing excellency of knowing Jesus” (Phil. 3:7-10). Make Asaph’s affirmation our liberation. “Whom have I in heaven but you? I desire you more than anything on earth.” (Psalm 73:25)

May our attitudes, schedules, and choices demonstrate our desire is for you, and our delight is in you, Jesus. Anybody can grow zucchini; we want to live wholehearted towards you. So Very Amen.

 

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Truly, Jesus Meets Us Where We Are https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/truly-jesus-meets-us-where-we-are/ Sat, 11 Feb 2023 14:23:12 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=544070 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Matt. 11:28-30   Dear Jesus, this passage is many things to me. It’s precious because of what it teaches us about your heart. It’s comforting, because you free us from feeling guilty and “unspiritual” if we are weighed down with weariness and burdens. It’s hope-fueling because you promise and provide a rest you alone can give. But I’ll add another reason I’m...]]> Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Matt. 11:28-30

 

Dear Jesus, this passage is many things to me. It’s precious because of what it teaches us about your heart. It’s comforting, because you free us from feeling guilty and “unspiritual” if we are weighed down with weariness and burdens. It’s hope-fueling because you promise and provide a rest you alone can give.

But I’ll add another reason I’m grateful for it this morning. It’s always timely and context inclusive. As you know, last night for me was flat out humbling, scary, miserable, and gut-wrenching—literally. I don’t remember ever having food poisoning before, but if I have, I probably blocked out the memory and trauma.

Here’s what was dear to me, however, Jesus. As I was helpless and powerless to control my body’s violent reaction to “unwelcome intruders,” I was drawn to pray for the tens of thousands of children and elderly in Turkey, Syria, Ukraine.

They aren’t merely suffering a 10-hour bout with food poisoning. They are in circumstances of death, dying, powerlessness, and helplessness not measured in hours… but in months, years, and decades. Jesus, how do we pray, engage, care, and help in response to such overwhelming tragedy, loss, and darkness? It overwhelms us.

We dare not dull our hearts, mute their cries, or simply long for your return (which we do.) Show us, lead us, help us to offer your caring presence, and your gentle and humble heart. So Very Amen.

 

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Don’t Ignore the Grace-bombs, Abba-gifts, and Spirit-kisses https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/dont-ignore-the-grace-bombs-abba-gifts-and-spirit-kisses/ Fri, 10 Feb 2023 11:25:50 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=543922 “I commend the enjoyment of life because there is nothing better for a person under the sun than to eat and drink and be glad. Then joy will accompany them in their toil all the days of the life God has given them under the sun.” Eccles. 8:15   Heavenly Father, thank you for being honest about what we are to expect life to “feel” like between the resurrection and return of Jesus. As we head towards the Day of all things new, we still inhabit a cosmos of all things broken. Life “under the sun” is shorthand for a life...]]> I commend the enjoyment of life because there is nothing better for a person under the sun than to eat and drink and be glad. Then joy will accompany them in their toil all the days of the life God has given them under the sun.” Eccles. 8:15

 

Heavenly Father, thank you for being honest about what we are to expect life to “feel” like between the resurrection and return of Jesus. As we head towards the Day of all things new, we still inhabit a cosmos of all things broken. Life “under the sun” is shorthand for a life of the “already and not yet.”

Jesus’ kingdom has already arrived in part, but not yet fully as it will be. Beauty and brokenness, magnificence and messiness, floral bouquet and blood-drawing thorns will co-exist and co-mingle until Jesus returns. The same relationship that yields moments of unspeakable joy and deep intimacy still generates very speakable irritation and canyon-wide disconnect. This shouldn’t shock us, but we must steward the tension carefully—bringing the wisdom and riches of the Gospel to bare on a daily basis.

Yet, Father, through all the raptures and ruptures on our journey Home—in our highs and lows, during our most Gospel-sane moments and the stretches in which Gospel-amnesia takes over—on the days we are most like Jesus and the days we are most like unconverted, nap-less, whiny 4-year-olds… in all of it, you intend enjoyment and gladness to be our traveling companions all the way Home.

Little Abba-gifts we didn’t see coming show up at the front door of our hearts. Unexpected “grace-bombs” dropped on us from heaven at just the right time. Out-of-season daffodils, Spirit-kisses from the Scriptures, a meal with friends that whispers the soon arrival of wedding feast of the Lamb… thank you Father. Pain-free, disappointment-void, all-brokenness-gone days will fill our eternity. Until then, we already have everything we actually need in Jesus. The not yet is gonna get here right on time. So Very Amen.

 

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Jesus Pursues You Today, and Will Tomorrow Too https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/jesus-pursues-you-today-and-will-tomorrow-too/ Thu, 09 Feb 2023 10:13:37 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=543809 “Look! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends.” Rev. 3:20   Lord Jesus, you spoke these words to those you love and cherish, not to a bunch of strangers, “seekers,” or non-believers. How do we get so busy, religious, shamed, or satisfied with lesser things that we don’t realize when we’re no longer enjoying rich, intimate, heart-flourishing fellowship with you? That knock, that blessed knock on the door of our hearts… it’s not that you’re lonely and cold,...]]> Look! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends.” Rev. 3:20

 

Lord Jesus, you spoke these words to those you love and cherish, not to a bunch of strangers, “seekers,” or non-believers. How do we get so busy, religious, shamed, or satisfied with lesser things that we don’t realize when we’re no longer enjoying rich, intimate, heart-flourishing fellowship with you?

That knock, that blessed knock on the door of our hearts… it’s not that you’re lonely and cold, and you certainly do not need our permission to enter any door. Astonishing… you really desire fellowship with us—individually, and as whole church families.

Thank you for constantly pursuing us, Jesus. Thank you for always initiating fellowship, communion, and nourishment with us. Though we’d never presume to call you “friend,” you call us your friends (John 15:15)—more so, your Bride (Eph. 5:25-27). We believe, help us in our unbelief.

Though you could kick down the door, climb through a window, or come in through the “crawl space”—you knock on the portal of our heart each day. Daily mercies, Gospel-manna, living water, your very self… that’s what you freely give us. Ignore your knock? It’d be better for us to ignore “the knock” of our physical hunger and thirst.

Patient, persistent Jesus, you’re not calling us to “make you Lord,” for you’re already Lord of heaven and earth. You’ve made us yours by your life, death, and resurrection. You love us as no one else ever could or would. Convicted, humbled, and grateful, we welcome you today. So Very Amen.

 

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The Humbling and Troubling Aspects of Forgiveness https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/the-humbling-and-troubling-aspects-of-forgiveness/ Wed, 08 Feb 2023 10:56:02 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=543640 Let’s ponder and pray the main themes of Jesus’ story about the Unmerciful Servant (Matt. 18:21-35). “The kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. As he began the settlement, a man who owed him ten thousand bags of gold (a debt that would take a servant 200,000 years to pay) was brought to him… The servant’s master took pity on him, canceled the debt and let him go…” Dear Jesus, the first part of this story is our favorite part, for it highlights the colossal forgiveness we have received from you in the Gospel. All...]]> Let’s ponder and pray the main themes of Jesus’ story about the Unmerciful Servant (Matt. 18:21-35).

The kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. As he began the settlement, a man who owed him ten thousand bags of gold (a debt that would take a servant 200,000 years to pay) was brought to him… The servant’s master took pity on him, canceled the debt and let him go…”

Dear Jesus, the first part of this story is our favorite part, for it highlights the colossal forgiveness we have received from you in the Gospel. All of our sins—past, present, future are forgiven—sins of thought, word and deed. But they weren’t just “waved off.” Our debt was canceled because it was paid in full by you. It will take our hearts being glorified to understand and feel the astonishing reality of the forgiveness we already have.

But here’s the part of the story that befuddles, troubles, and bothers us. “When that servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred silver coins (a debt payable in several months). He grabbed him and began to choke him. ‘Pay back what you owe me!’ he demanded… The master called the servant in. ‘You wicked servant’… Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?”

Jesus, we don’t really see ourselves carrying a “200,000-year sin-debt.” And we certainly don’t see ourselves as violent, wicked, and demanding as the unmerciful servant. But you’re the one who told the story, not us. Your diagnosis, accounting, and mercy-math are far more accurate than ours.

Here’s what we do understand. You command, implore, warn, and woo us to, “forgive your brother or sister from your heart.” (Matt. 18:35). To help us better understand, you gave us a broken, beloved sister we will know only in heaven: “Her sins—and they are many—have been forgiven, so she has shown me much love. But a person who is forgiven little shows only little love” (Luke 7:47).

Jesus, thank you for forgiving us and loving us. Help us understand our call to forgive others isn’t “letting someone off the hook”; it’s showing you much love. So Very Amen.

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When We Fail to Love Jesus As He Deserves https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/when-we-fail-to-love-jesus-as-he-deserves/ Tue, 07 Feb 2023 12:02:01 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=543489   “Simon son of John, do you love me?” “Yes, Lord,” Peter said, “you know I love you.” “Then take care of my sheep.” John 21:16   Lord Jesus, this was no “normal” chat between you and Peter. It was a demonstration of the only love better than life; a celebration of the restorative reach and riches of the Gospel; a grace-ing of our shamed-filled hearts when we fail you miserably. Peter blew it big time—in fact, big time times 3. After your arrest in Gethsemane, he denied he even knew you. But after your resurrection, you made it very...]]>   “Simon son of John, do you love me?” “Yes, Lord,” Peter said, “you know I love you.” “Then take care of my sheep.” John 21:16

 

Lord Jesus, this was no “normal” chat between you and Peter. It was a demonstration of the only love better than life; a celebration of the restorative reach and riches of the Gospel; a grace-ing of our shamed-filled hearts when we fail you miserably.

Peter blew it big time—in fact, big time times 3. After your arrest in Gethsemane, he denied he even knew you. But after your resurrection, you made it very clear you always knew Peter. You knew his weaknesses when you first called him… just like you know ours.

You didn’t withdraw your love from Peter. You asked him three times, “Do you love me?” No question is more humbling, exposing, centering, and transforming. It is an onramp to redemption and restoration—an onramp we must take.

Do we love you, Jesus? You know everything. You know when like Peter (and Moses, Aaron, Abraham, Jacob, Samson, King David—even Peter’s fellow apostles, James and John, who came to you with their mom seeking self-glory (Matt. 20:20-28)… you know the many ways our thoughts, words, and actions demonstrate our failure to love you.

We grieve it, own it, repent—and would despair if the Gospel wasn’t true. Your grace doesn’t minimize the costly impact of our sin. Your grace demonstrates the costly wonder of the Gospel.

We can’t undo are failures, Jesus. But we can (and must) rest in what you’ve done for us—and will do in and through us as we move forward. We love you only because you first loved us, and still love us. Show us how to love you in the aftermath of our choices and the forever-math of your grace. So Very Amen.

 

 

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Animation, Tears, Kindness, and the Gospel https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/animation-tears-kindness-and-the-gospel/ Mon, 06 Feb 2023 11:20:08 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=543147 “Love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, for he (Jesus) is kind to the ungrateful and the evil” (Luke 6:35). “Resentment kills a fool” (Job 5:2). “Your kindness will reward you, but your cruelty will destroy you” (Prov. 11:17).   Dear Jesus, the tears came unexpectedly, twice. All I was looking for was something to have on as the backdrop to my afternoon power nap. It looked innocent enough, so I hit the button and “The Boy, the Mole, the...]]> Love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, for he (Jesus) is kind to the ungrateful and the evil” (Luke 6:35). “Resentment kills a fool” (Job 5:2). “Your kindness will reward you, but your cruelty will destroy you” (Prov. 11:17).

 

Dear Jesus, the tears came unexpectedly, twice. All I was looking for was something to have on as the backdrop to my afternoon power nap. It looked innocent enough, so I hit the button and “The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse” filled my TV screen and heart. Sixty-eight minutes (I watched it twice) of animated kindness. generated a good bit of heart water and replaced my nap.

Why? What did that story tap into, Jesus? I think your Word makes it pretty clear, and our cultural moment underscores the need. Jesus, we are most like you when we are kind, not when we are calling down fire or turning over tables.

Watching four unlikely companions (a boy, mole, fox, and horse) offer presence and kindness to each other—each marked by some unvoiced story of displacement, hurt, shame, or fear… it just melted my heart and made me so thankful for you, Jesus, and the revolutionary power of the Gospel.

Repaying evil (real, not imaginary) with goodness; giving blessing rather than cursing (when cursing would be quite understandable); loving others (including the ill-deserving) as you love us, Jesus… this is the not-easy—but true, good, and beautiful life to which you have called us. Apart from your cross, it mocks our sensibilities. Thankfully, we live under your cross, not apart from it. So Very Amen.

 

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The Keys and Key to Everything https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/the-keys-and-key-to-everything/ Sun, 05 Feb 2023 10:56:58 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=543104   “I (Jesus) am the living one. I died, but look—I am alive forever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and the grave”(and of everything else).  Rev. 1:18   Lord Jesus, I’ve seriously thought about buying one (several) of those little finder-chips to put on my key fob, so I can locate it with my iPhone. Fortunately, you don’t lose stuff—neither us for eternity, nor anything else. You gave the apostle John these three peace-anchoring words—“I have the keys,” at a time when it looked like peace, hope, and the future, were all about to get permanently lost....]]>   “I (Jesus) am the living one. I died, but look—I am alive forever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and the grave”(and of everything else).  Rev. 1:18

 

Lord Jesus, I’ve seriously thought about buying one (several) of those little finder-chips to put on my key fob, so I can locate it with my iPhone. Fortunately, you don’t lose stuff—neither us for eternity, nor anything else.

You gave the apostle John these three peace-anchoring words—“I have the keys,” at a time when it looked like peace, hope, and the future, were all about to get permanently lost. Hallelujah, the keys that matter most aren’t in the hand of a teenager, chance, evil, or any man or empire. The keys to “death and the grave,” history and hope are securely in your hand—just like we are, and just as “unsnatchable” (John 10:28-30).

We don’t have to fear getting older, the next global “whatever,” implosion of our life-long dreams, spy balloons, or personal catastrophes. You have the keys, Jesus, because you are the key—the source, sum, substance, sustainer, “song,” and Savior of all. All authority in heaven and on earth belong to you (Matt. 28:18).

The implications of these affirmations are measureless, fear-sabotaging, and hope-fueling. History is your storyboard of redemption and restoration. You have the keys, Jesus… along with the steering wheel, GPS, chosen route, and perfectly timed arrival date.

Forgive us for whining like 4-year-olds in the back seat. “Are we there yet?” You aren’t slow to keep your promises, but merciful—redeeming more and more, all the way into the new heaven and new earth. So Very Amen.

 

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When Jesus Has to Make Us Lie Down https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/when-jesus-has-to-make-us-lie-down/ Sat, 04 Feb 2023 10:43:51 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=543061   “The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul.” Psalm 23:1-2   Lord Jesus—compassionate Shepherd, make us lie down in green pastures of grace, for we are restless, anxious, and disquieted. Take us to the calming waters of the Gospel, into refreshing pools of mercy and grace. Give us the peace that isn’t dependent upon anything or anyone changing. As your lambs, none of us lack anything essential; but we need you to help us sort through our feelings. Shepherd our hearts, Jesus. We feel...]]>   “The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul.” Psalm 23:1-2

 

Lord Jesus—compassionate Shepherd, make us lie down in green pastures of grace, for we are restless, anxious, and disquieted. Take us to the calming waters of the Gospel, into refreshing pools of mercy and grace. Give us the peace that isn’t dependent upon anything or anyone changing.

As your lambs, none of us lack anything essential; but we need you to help us sort through our feelings. Shepherd our hearts, Jesus.

We feel vulnerable. We’d love control over disruption, pain, and outcomes. This makes us thankful to know you are “the Lamb at the center of the throne” (Rev. 7:17)—not just any throne, but the place of absolute sovereignty and working-in-all-things-for-our-good kindness (Rm. 8:28).

We feel sad. We have friends who have never been in more pain, some who have never been in direr straights, some who have never been less able to feel your presence. Thank you for your promise, “I will never fail you. I will never abandon you” (Heb. 13:8).

We feel angry. Some of our anger is in response to the atrocities in Ukraine, every form of human trafficking and slavery, the porn and drug-addiction “industries.” Some of our anger, however, isn’t as noble. People hurt us, and we hurt them back. Help us steward our anger, Jesus.

We are loved, and therefore we have hope. Jesus, if we weren’t certain you love us—that you, yourself, are our “righteousness, holiness, and redemption” (1 Cor.1:30), we’d stay stuck in a cycle of anxious fearing, restless meandering, and foolish medicating. Thank you, Jesus. So Very Amen.

 

 

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Taking Jesus More Seriously Than Other People’s Sins https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/taking-jesus-more-seriously-than-other-peoples-sins/ Fri, 03 Feb 2023 11:17:08 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=542885 “Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.” Eph. 4:31-32   Lord Jesus, sometimes I read this passage, and so many others like it, and I’m tempted to think: 1.This is impossible, except for people like Corrie ten Boom. 2. It’s an exaggeration just to make a point. Or, 3. It’s only going to happen in heaven. But that’s just my weakness, defensiveness, and, at times, hopelessness, speaking. This is the life...]]> Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.” Eph. 4:31-32

 

Lord Jesus, sometimes I read this passage, and so many others like it, and I’m tempted to think: 1.This is impossible, except for people like Corrie ten Boom. 2. It’s an exaggeration just to make a point. Or, 3. It’s only going to happen in heaven. But that’s just my weakness, defensiveness, and, at times, hopelessness, speaking. This is the life to which you have called us, and it is the way you relate to us every single day.

Thank you for never grating on the inside or becoming “huffy” on the outside. You don’t roll your eyes in disgust, weaponize being hurt, or withdraw into condescending silence. Jesus, I am so glad you’re not capable of the things of which I am competent. You don’t ever try to justify unloving actions; you justify us by grace through faith.

Indeed, if the Gospel wasn’t true we would surely despair. Jesus, thank you for remaining kind, tenderhearted, and forgiving when we deserve the opposite. One Day we will be as loving as you, for our Father will complete his work in us (Phil. 1:6; Rom. 8:28-30).

Until then, you don’t give us “a pass” for the sinful ways we think, speak, and act. You give us yourself. You convict us without condemning us, and correct our hearts without crushing our spirits. Jesus, you know we are weak, but you also know we are yours. “We need Thee every hour,” including this one. So Very Amen.

 

 

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Perpetual Invitation, Spirit Libation, Grace Hydration https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/perpetual-invitation-spirit-libation-grace-hydration/ Thu, 02 Feb 2023 11:00:35 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=542638   The Spirit and the bride say, “Come.” Let anyone who hears this say, “Come.” Let anyone who is thirsty come. Let anyone who desires drink freely from the water of life. Rev. 22:17   Lord Jesus, will Punxsutawney Phil get it right today—Groundhog Day 2023? Here in Franklin, TN, it’s 31 degrees, with freezing rain; so an early Spring would be awesome. The “Spring” we crave the most, however, is your return, Jesus—the eternal end of “Winter,” and the forever-climate of everything perfect. No critter’s shadow will determine when the arrival of that Day. That’s left to our Father’s...]]>   The Spirit and the bride say, “Come.” Let anyone who hears this say, “Come.” Let anyone who is thirsty come. Let anyone who desires drink freely from the water of life. Rev. 22:17

 

Lord Jesus, will Punxsutawney Phil get it right today—Groundhog Day 2023? Here in Franklin, TN, it’s 31 degrees, with freezing rain; so an early Spring would be awesome. The “Spring” we crave the most, however, is your return, Jesus—the eternal end of “Winter,” and the forever-climate of everything perfect. No critter’s shadow will determine when the arrival of that Day. That’s left to our Father’s perfect discretion. But it’d be fine with us if it was, indeed, somewhere between 6 and 10 weeks.

But until then, we’re grateful the last command you left us with in the Scriptures is a perpetual invitation for us every day. “Come thirsty ones come. Come drink the free water of life—the living waters of my grace.” Jesus, your kindness and care are incomparable, always timely, and ever-needed. You satisfy us as no one and nothing else can.

On New Year’s Eve, most of us could not have imagined how thirsty (desperate) we’d be for living water this early in 2023. But here we are, panting like thirsty deer (Ps. 42:1), grateful and expectant as your beloved Bride. Satisfy us with your everlasting love, abiding peace, and deep heart-hope. Fill us with your Holy Spirit. Hydrate us with your grace. Come soon, Lord Jesus. So Very Amen.

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4 Phrases and An Occupied Throne of Grace https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/4-phrases-and-an-occupied-throne-of-grace/ Wed, 01 Feb 2023 10:52:41 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=542480 “All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.” (Psalm 139:16). “The years of our life are seventy, or even by reason of strength eighty.” (Ps. 90:10). “Fear not; you are of more value than many sparrows.” (Lk 12:7). “You are free… live as God’s servant.“ (1 Pet. 2:16).      Lord Jesus, I love these 4 phrases… “Days ordained for me,” ”Fear not,” “You are of more value,” “You are free.” They are heart-peace, profound joy, and heavenly-chocolate to me. What freedom—your heart and hand number “all the days” ordained...]]> All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.” (Psalm 139:16). “The years of our life are seventy, or even by reason of strength eighty.” (Ps. 90:10). “Fear not; you are of more value than many sparrows.” (Lk 12:7). “You are free… live as God’s servant.“ (1 Pet. 2:16).

 

   Lord Jesus, I love these 4 phrases… “Days ordained for me,” ”Fear not,” “You are of more value,” “You are free.” They are heart-peace, profound joy, and heavenly-chocolate to me.

What freedom—your heart and hand number “all the days” ordained for us. You—sitting comfortably on your throne of grace, are ultimate—not fate, luck, chance, our failures or our anything. This doesn’t make us fatalists, fearful, or foolish; it makes us humble and happy, because it means we’re yours. Bought, beloved, and bound for an eternity of “all things new”—nothing can snatch us from your hand, separate us from your love, or alter your plan for the entire cosmos.

Jesus, I have no clue if I’m in my last decade, year, or month. But I do know the Gospel has never been sweeter, truer, and “real-er” to me. I actually feel better on this this, my 73rd birthday, than I did at 53. I’d love to spend the rest of my days in childlike-wonder overflowing with gratitude, giving encouragement to as many people as possible.

Jesus, thank you for saving me. And thank you for my beloved family, and for my grace-needing, eternity-thinking, mutually-encouraging friends. Everything bad, sad, and broken has an expiration date. Before long, you’re coming back, and “all will be right.” So Very Amen.

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Look for Jesus IN Your Story, Not a Moral to Your Story https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/look-for-jesus-in-your-story-not-a-moral-to-your-story/ Tue, 31 Jan 2023 11:05:31 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=542308 Joseph responded to his brothers, “’You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, so that many people should be kept alive… Don’t fear; I will provide for you and your little ones.’ He comforted them and spoke kindly to them.” Genesis 50:20-21   Heavenly Father, the backstory to this passage is as dark and ugly as it can get. The evil perpetrated by Joseph’s brothers started with throwing him into a pit to die, before trafficking him to pagan strangers, who sold him into slavery in Egypt. After 13 years (not months) as a prisoner and slave,...]]> Joseph responded to his brothers, “’You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, so that many people should be kept alive… Don’t fear; I will provide for you and your little ones.’ He comforted them and spoke kindly to them.” Genesis 50:20-21

 

Heavenly Father, the backstory to this passage is as dark and ugly as it can get. The evil perpetrated by Joseph’s brothers started with throwing him into a pit to die, before trafficking him to pagan strangers, who sold him into slavery in Egypt.

After 13 years (not months) as a prisoner and slave, you “repositioned” Joseph to being second to Pharaoh in the Egyptian government (Gen, 37-50). Only you could have done this, Father. But it wasn’t a “rags to riches” or a “Pollyanna feel-good” story of sweet lemonade coming from bushels of sour lemons. You don’t need or endorse evil in any form. You’re not a “resourceful pragmatist”; you are the three-times-holy, Lord God Almighty.

The good you brought out of this evil is profound; but the evil did not become good or acceptable. Joseph’s brothers weren’t excused; they were humbled and forgiven. They—along with thousands of others, experienced the mystery of your sovereign power, and the greatness of your mercy and grace. Just like we do in the Gospel.

Speaking of us, whether our deepest hurt, hardest story is the result of a random accident, somebody else’s sinful choice (or our own)—from our family genetics or the comprehensive brokenness of our world—here’s the deal … the devil intends to use it for evil. Will we let him? Father, we are desperate for your help with this. Show us Jesus is our story; we don’t need a mere “moral to the story.”

We don’t understand the mystery of your sovereignty over all things and your commitment to work in all things for our good (Rom.8:28). But we count on it, wrestle with it, rest in it, and cannot fathom life without it. Help us, Father. So Very Amen, we pray in Jesus’ name.

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Christ-Supremacy Isn’t a Game https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/christ-supremacy-isnt-a-game/ Mon, 30 Jan 2023 10:44:39 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=542143   “Without love I am nothing (1Cor.13:2). “Joshua went up to (the angel of the LORD) and asked, ‘Are you for us or for our enemies?’ ‘Neither!’”( Jos. 5:13). “I saw a great multitude no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, was standing before the throne and before the Lamb” (Rev.7:9).   Lord Jesus, I’m not sure how many times I was asked over the weekend, “Who you for in the NFL playoffs? Who do see making it to the Super Bowl?” It’s Monday morning, and it’s settled. The Chiefs will play the Eagles. As a Westminster Seminary Philly...]]>   “Without love I am nothing (1Cor.13:2). “Joshua went up to (the angel of the LORD) and asked, ‘Are you for us or for our enemies?’ ‘Neither!’”( Jos. 5:13). “I saw a great multitude no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, was standing before the throne and before the Lamb” (Rev.7:9).

 

Lord Jesus, I’m not sure how many times I was asked over the weekend, “Who you for in the NFL playoffs? Who do see making it to the Super Bowl?” It’s Monday morning, and it’s settled. The Chiefs will play the Eagles. As a Westminster Seminary Philly grad, I’ll pull for the Eagles. But that being said…

Spirited competition in the sports world is one thing, but turning life, culture, and a community into a giant “us” versus “them” arena is hellish, tragic, and anti-Gospel. Jesus, you don’t wear any one team’s jersey or prefer one nation’s flag over another. In fact, the banner that flies over us—your every-nation Bride, is your redeeming, reconciling love (Song of Songs 2:4). And the one garment that doesn’t hide our diversity but unites us as one is the robe of your perfect righteousness.

Stereotypes, prejudice, caricatures, reviling, assuming the worse, cursing-rather-than-blessing… these things are not only unacceptable, but they are also deplorable. Jesus, it is impossible to take your Word seriously and defend any form of racism, nationalism, or supremacy… other than Christ-supremacy (Eph.1:10; Col.1:18).

Forgive us, free us, fuel our hearts with a passion to love as you love us… all of us. There’s only one unshakable Kingdom, and as in Joshua’s day, you don’t take sides, Lord—you take over. Your reign is a reign of grace (Rom.5:20-21). Hallelujah, Jesus, and So Very Amen.

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A Joy Greater Than Terror and Triumph https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/a-joy-greater-than-terror-and-triumph/ Sun, 29 Jan 2023 10:26:41 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=542099   “Nevertheless… rejoice that your names are written in heaven“ (Luke 10:17-20). “Yet, I will rejoice in the LORD! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation!” (Hab. 3:18)      Lord Jesus, what a contrast of stories—each revealing a joy that transcends immediate circumstances. In the first, the 72 disciples revel in ministry success; in the second, the prophet Habakkuk laments Israel’s impending destruction. The 72 disciples watched darkness flee; Habakkuk saw it coming. Taken together, we learn that sometimes joy is the resolution of one’s heart in the midst of really difficult circumstances—less a feeling, more a discipline....]]>   “Nevertheless… rejoice that your names are written in heaven (Luke 10:17-20). “Yet, I will rejoice in the LORD! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation!” (Hab. 3:18)

 

   Lord Jesus, what a contrast of stories—each revealing a joy that transcends immediate circumstances. In the first, the 72 disciples revel in ministry success; in the second, the prophet Habakkuk laments Israel’s impending destruction. The 72 disciples watched darkness flee; Habakkuk saw it coming.

Taken together, we learn that sometimes joy is the resolution of one’s heart in the midst of really difficult circumstances—less a feeling, more a discipline. And sometimes joy is spontaneous gladness, generated by most welcome events and outcomes.

But there is a joy—Gospel-fueled and Spirit-generated, that transcends terror and triumph. It’s not destroyed when there’s no fruit on the vine (Hab. 3:17-18), and it’s not tied to vineyards full of lush grapes. We wish our dance-worthy circumstances would always out-number our fear-fueling, anguish-generating ones. But that’s not what you told us to expect (John 16:33).

In the world we will have trouble; but in you and by you, we do have peace. The peace you give best explains the joy you promise, for they are virtually synonymous. The greatest peace and joy come from knowing we belong to you, Jesus. All kinds of stories will be written into our lives on the way Home—many we’d never choose, many that leave us giddy with gratitude. But the main penmanship we want to live by and rest in, is the day our Father used the permanent ink of his grace to write our names in heaven. It is so, because “It is finished!” (John 19:30). So Very Amen.

 

 

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Jesus Made Us to Be Marvellers https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/jesus-made-us-to-be-marvellers/ Sat, 28 Jan 2023 11:44:19 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=542027 Jesus is returning “to be glorified in his holy people and to be marveled at among all those who have believed. This includes you...” 2 Thess. 1:10   Lord Jesus, thank you for creating us to be marvellers. Those who are filled with awe, silenced by wonder, gladdened by greatness—undone then “re-done,” as we experience the visual, auditory, culinary, aromatic, tactile realities of life. Thank you, Jesus… you didn’t design us for boredom, dullness, and lethargy—but to be alive, fully alive. But everything true, good, and beautiful we experience in this life is just a whisper, prelude, and foretaste of...]]> Jesus is returning “to be glorified in his holy people and to be marveled at among all those who have believed. This includes you...” 2 Thess. 1:10

 

Lord Jesus, thank you for creating us to be marvellers. Those who are filled with awe, silenced by wonder, gladdened by greatness—undone then “re-done,” as we experience the visual, auditory, culinary, aromatic, tactile realities of life. Thank you, Jesus… you didn’t design us for boredom, dullness, and lethargy—but to be alive, fully alive.

But everything true, good, and beautiful we experience in this life is just a whisper, prelude, and foretaste of the life we will enjoy forever in the new heaven and new earth—starting with you, Jesus. As Paul wrote in our passage of the day, you are coming back to be “marveled at” by we who know and love you.

That’s because you are the marvel in marvelous, and the great in greatness. Indeed, Jesus, you are the heartbeat, substance, and crescendo of everything we hope for, dream about, and deeply crave. You will make heaven “heavenly.” You will make eternity eternally exhilarating. On that Day, we will finally and fully realize this.

Jesus, the clearest expression of our sinfulness, brokenness, and foolishness is that look to mere people, and things you have made, to “fill us up.” Thank you for already forgiving us in the Gospel; keep freeing us by the Gospel. You’ve already given us a new heart; keep filling it with yourself. So Very Amen, we pray in your all-glorious name.

 

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The Grand Larceny of Fear, Worry, and Blame https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/the-grand-larceny-of-fear-worry-and-blame/ Fri, 27 Jan 2023 10:41:34 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=541906   The Israelites blasting and blaming Moses, “it would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than to die in the desert!” Moses answered the people, “Don’t be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. You’ll never see the Egyptians again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” Ex. 14:12-14   Heavenly Father, fear, worry, and blame are cunning, persistent, destructive thieves. The Israelites were ready to return to a familiar life of slavery rather than trust you in the wilderness of the unknown. Thank...]]>   The Israelites blasting and blaming Moses, “it would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than to die in the desert!” Moses answered the people, “Don’t be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. You’ll never see the Egyptians again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” Ex. 14:12-14

 

Heavenly Father, fear, worry, and blame are cunning, persistent, destructive thieves. The Israelites were ready to return to a familiar life of slavery rather than trust you in the wilderness of the unknown. Thank you for your patience with us. You opened the Red Sea for them. You opened Jesus’ tomb for us. Hallelujah, and thank you.

But we still struggle to trust you, Father. What is our version of “returning to Egypt”? You constantly tell us of your great love for us in Jesus—how it gives you great joy to meet our deepest longings and greatest needs in the Gospel. Yet we often look to “not-requiring-faith-stuff,” like people’s approval, success at something, control over circumstances, medicating our pain, and financial security to be our saviors. Slavery comes in many forms.

Some of us are facing the map-less hill country of aging. We’d love to run back to the land of “30-something.” Help us trust you as joints get stiffer, memory slower, and death nearer. We’re more certain of heaven than what’s next.

Others of us are waking up today in an unplanned-for transition, a shame-filled journey of our own making, or a story we would have never penned for ourselves. Father, your grace is for sinners, not performers—for the helpless and powerless, not the sanitized and clever. Help us resist the thievery of fear, worry, and blame; get and stay still before you; and trust you to fight for us even as you’ll never stop loving us. So Very Amen.

 

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Stewarding Our “Impossible-with-Man” Stories https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/stewarding-our-impossible-with-man-stories/ Thu, 26 Jan 2023 11:23:36 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=541786   Jesus replied, “What is impossible with man is possible with God.” (Luke 18:27). “Do not be afraid, I am...’ (Rev. 1:17)   Dear Jesus, what would we do without your welcoming heart, steadfast love, and daily mercies? Some of us are running to the throne of grace today, primed for a miracle. Others are moving as quickly as exhausted hearts and legs will let us. Some of us have broken down on the mercy-road, not sure if we can risk hoping again. Thankfully, we don’t have to worry about putting ourselves in a healing pool (John 9:1-12); for our Father...]]>   Jesus replied, “What is impossible with man is possible with God.” (Luke 18:27). “Do not be afraid, I am...’ (Rev. 1:17)

 

Dear Jesus, what would we do without your welcoming heart, steadfast love, and daily mercies? Some of us are running to the throne of grace today, primed for a miracle. Others are moving as quickly as exhausted hearts and legs will let us. Some of us have broken down on the mercy-road, not sure if we can risk hoping again. Thankfully, we don’t have to worry about putting ourselves in a healing pool (John 9:1-12); for our Father has hidden our lives in you, Jesus, and you are living in us as our “hope of glory.” We are now and forever grateful.

Some of us are more certain of “glory”—(being with you when we die), than we are certain we can survive our current crisis, ordeal, and “impossible-with-man” situation. Jesus, these words either voice our own cry, or the cry of people very dear to us. In both cases, we come to you today.

We don’t really care how you do it or deliver it, but please fulfill your promise to do beyond all we can ask or imagine. In fact, Jesus, we’ll gladly settle for what we can ask and imagine. If the storm isn’t going to go away soon, at least let us see you walking on the water towards us. If the fire isn’t going to be extinguished quite yet, or we’ve not going to be delivered from the “heat” by this Saturday, at least let us unmistakably feel your presence with us in the furnace, Jesus.

Though some things are confusing, of this we are certain… and in this hope we will take our next and final breath. Jesus you love us. You are our perfect righteousness, our peace with God, and our forever-trustworthy Shepherd-King. So Very Amen.

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“Such a High Priest TRULY Meets Our Need” https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/such-a-high-priest-truly-meets-our-need/ Wed, 25 Jan 2023 11:21:16 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=541627   “Because Jesus lives forever, he has a permanent priesthood. Therefore, he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them. Such a high priest truly meets our need—one who is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, exalted above the heavens.” Heb. 7:24-26   Lord Jesus, hallelujah… you do live forever. You are no fable, myth, dusty memory, or dead savior. You did live for us. You did die for us. You now forever live on our behalf. Hallelujah… the implications are countless, endless, and most glorious. Because you live forever…...]]>   “Because Jesus lives forever, he has a permanent priesthood. Therefore, he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them. Such a high priest truly meets our need—one who is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, exalted above the heavens.” Heb. 7:24-26

 

Lord Jesus, hallelujah… you do live forever. You are no fable, myth, dusty memory, or dead savior. You did live for us. You did die for us. You now forever live on our behalf. Hallelujah… the implications are countless, endless, and most glorious.

Because you live forever… your banner over us is love, your desire for us is constant, and your delight in us is unwavering. Make this more real to us than anything else. We are citizens of heaven and Abba’s beloved children—fully forgiven and totally robed in your righteousness. 

Because you live forever, Jesus… your prayers for us are perfect, your presence with us is constant, and your return for us is certain. The things that vex, grieve, anger, and sadden us all have expiration dates.

   Because you live forever…  you will finish making all things new, the earth will be filled with God’s glory, and your every-nation Bride will enjoy eternal life to the fullest, gladdest, and

   Jesus, because you live forever, death doesn’t, but we do. If we draw our last breath today, we will begin our first sinless day in heaven. So Very Amen.

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Redeemed, Summoned, and “Passing Through” https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/redeemed-summoned-and-passing-through/ Tue, 24 Jan 2023 11:42:57 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=541484   “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you.” (Isa. 43:1-2)   Lord Jesus, thank you for loving us so well through the Scriptures. Today, in particular, thank you for reminding us that suffering is a normative part of life on our way Home—normative but not ultimate. What is ultimate, presently true, and precious forever is belonging to you, Jesus. We are not our own; we are...]]>   “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you.” (Isa. 43:1-2)

 

Lord Jesus, thank you for loving us so well through the Scriptures. Today, in particular, thank you for reminding us that suffering is a normative part of life on our way Home—normative but not ultimate.

What is ultimate, presently true, and precious forever is belonging to you, Jesus. We are not our own; we are yours. You “own” us in the most profound way imaginable. You bought us with the price of your life—making us your bride to love and cherish, have and hold forever. That’s not a metaphor, simile, idiom, or allegory. It’s flat out glorious true.

Every day in the Gospel, you summon each of us by name—calling us to savor your beauty, love, and presence. Jesus, as we fellowship with you, threatening “waters” and “rivers” of sorrow, pain, and fear are put into perspective.

We are passing through them—enroute to our wedding day and eternal feast of belonging to you. Hallelujah, this parade of grace is undeterrable, even as it passes through waters of “this-is-too-much-Jesus” and rivers of “I-can’t-take-any-more-of-this-Lord.”

The good news, all the “waters” and every “river” knows your name, Jesus. None of them are sovereign; only you are. But the best news—that which we rest in, relish, and at times revel in, is that you know our names… Hallelujah! Jesus, be more real to us today than every fear-fueling form of “H2O.”  So Very Amen.

 

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Health, Healing, and Sufficient Grace https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/health-healing-and-sufficient-grace/ Mon, 23 Jan 2023 10:58:20 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=541298   “I will restore health to you, and your wounds I will heal, declares the LORD” (Jer. 30:17). “Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well” (3 John 2). “We who are living will also be transformed. For our dying bodies must be transformed into bodies that will never die” (1 Cor. 15:52-53).    Heavenly Father, some of us will spend today at a hospital—planned or unexpectedly so. Some of us are in bed with a low-grade temp and a high-grade “yuckiness.” Some of us are physically...]]>   “I will restore health to you, and your wounds I will heal, declares the LORD” (Jer. 30:17). “Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well” (3 John 2). “We who are living will also be transformed. For our dying bodies must be transformed into bodies that will never die(1 Cor. 15:52-53). 

 

Heavenly Father, some of us will spend today at a hospital—planned or unexpectedly so. Some of us are in bed with a low-grade temp and a high-grade “yuckiness.” Some of us are physically fine, but are emotionally and mentally stretched and stressed. Others have awesome cells and sinews, but are in a state of serious soul-sickness—needing the Gospel of grace, more than chemo for cancer.

Father, we are profoundly grateful that every aspect of our being matters to you—body, spirit, soul, emotions, and mind. We also rejoice and rest in the good news that good health claims us in the Gospel; it’s not something we have to talk you into or pray for with the right formula. And we are ever-so-grateful that our resurrection body won’t need replacement joints, or even tissues for a runny nose.

Until the Day of perfect health, we will seek to take care of these “tents” in which we live (2 Cor. 5:1-5), because that honors you. Diet and doctors, sleep and play are themselves an exercise in godliness. We’ll also pray for supernatural healing, and will ask our friends to join us—for this honors you as well.

Father, however you write our stories, we will seek to love and trust you. If you are pleased to give us either instant or progressive healing, awesome, because that’s what we really want. But if you choose to give us “sufficient grace” instead (like Paul in 2 Cor. 12:7-12), we might (will) whine at first, but will be grateful forever. So Very Amen.

 

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It’s Stunning to Realize Who Jesus Has Made Us https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/its-stunning-to-realize-who-jesus-has-made-us/ Sun, 22 Jan 2023 10:33:41 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=541222 “You yourselves are the salt of the earth”; don’t lose your saltiness (Matt. 5:13. “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12).  And “you yourselves are the light of the world… Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good (beautiful) works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven” (Matt. 5:14-16).   Lord Jesus, we’re not just living in a day when individual identity is up for grabs; but also, the identity that comes with knowing you....]]> You yourselves are the salt of the earth”; don’t lose your saltiness (Matt. 5:13. “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12).  And “you yourselves are the light of the world… Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good (beautiful) works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven” (Matt. 5:14-16).

 

Lord Jesus, we’re not just living in a day when individual identity is up for grabs; but also, the identity that comes with knowing you. But you’re not a spiritual add-on to our lives. You are our creator, sustainer, savior, king—our only righteous and very life. We will never think too highly of you, and our greatest peril is to forget the Gospel.

So, this interwoven tapestry of your words should create within us great joy, deep humility and irrepressible hope. Who are we? We’re not simply a bunch of individuals who get to go to heaven one day when we die. First and foremost, we are yours. Bought by your life, death, and resurrection—we are no longer our own (hallelujah), We are your beloved bride, your cherished church, your body in the world. How then shall we live and love?

You’ve made us the “salt of the earth,” (not a “salt shaker” for the church)—sending us into sphere of life to arrest decay, and enhance everything and every place with your truth and grace. Jesus, forgive us and free us from our ingrown-ness.

Because you indwell us and live among us as the light of the world, we too bear that title and calling. We aren’t merely to reflect your light as a warm glow in our church services; we are to be radiant with your beauty, presence, and love everywhere you send and place us. Jesus, again we cry out, forgive us and free us from our ingrown-ness. Bring revival to your Bride, your Church, your World in 2023, starting with us. So Very Amen.

 

 

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Even and Especially “Then” https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/even-and-especially-then/ Sat, 21 Jan 2023 11:26:10 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=541170    Though there’s no fig buds, grapes, olives, sheep, or cattle… even then “I will rejoice in the Lord; I will be joyful in God my Savior. The Sovereign Lord is my strength…” Hab. 3:17-19   Heavenly Father, thank you for including Habakkuk’s faith-struggle in your Word. Where did we ever get the notion that the “blessed” life was an easy life, or that the “abundant life” only contained an abundance of creature comforts and happy days? Your Word makes this  “abundantly” clear: Between the resurrection and return of Jesus, we should expect moments—even seasons of uncontainable joy and being able to say, “I...]]>    Though there’s no fig buds, grapes, olives, sheep, or cattle… even thenI will rejoice in the Lord; I will be joyful in God my Savior. The Sovereign Lord is my strength…” Hab. 3:17-19

 

Heavenly Father, thank you for including Habakkuk’s faith-struggle in your Word. Where did we ever get the notion that the “blessed” life was an easy life, or that the “abundant life” only contained an abundance of creature comforts and happy days?

Your Word makes this  “abundantly” clear: Between the resurrection and return of Jesus, we should expect moments—even seasons of uncontainable joy and being able to say, “I love my life”; along with the pain(s) of life in a very broken world, compelling us to cry out, “How long, O Lord?”

Two of our traveling companions as we journey Home are the mystery of “hard providence” (things that make no sense to us as your children), and a peace that transcends and bypasses all reason. It’s great when they’re both “in the car” with us at the same time. But sometimes they take turns traveling with us, and that’s not as easy or fun.

But this we know by the Gospel, and this we rest in, Sovereign Abba: You began a good work in us that you will complete. Nothing will separate us from your love, alter your perfect plan for us and your entire creation, or keep you from working in all things for our good. Hallelujah, and thank you.

So here’s our Habakkuk-like prayer. Though people fail us, healing is delayed, life seems to contradict what we know about you, grace doesn’t feel quite sufficient, or “mystery” rides shotgun with us more frequently than “peace”… even then—maybe especially then, we will collapse on Jesus, love and trust you, and long for the Day of all things new. So Very Amen.

 

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Hope Has Us https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/hope-has-us/ Fri, 20 Jan 2023 10:58:28 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=541079   “Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he, humble and mounted on a donkey… Return to your stronghold, O prisoners of hope.” (Zech. 9:9-12)   Lord Jesus, I usually meditate on this hope-pregnant passage during “Easter-week”—when we honor your first coming, and your entrance into Jerusalem “mounted on a donkey.” But it has stirred and arrested my heart early in 2023—especially the phrase “prisoners of hope.” By your first coming, we’ve been made “prisoners of hope” (Zech.9:12). Our imprisonment to sin and death...]]>   “Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he, humble and mounted on a donkey… Return to your stronghold, O prisoners of hope.” (Zech. 9:9-12)

 

Lord Jesus, I usually meditate on this hope-pregnant passage during “Easter-week”—when we honor your first coming, and your entrance into Jerusalem “mounted on a donkey.” But it has stirred and arrested my heart early in 2023—especially the phrase “prisoners of hope.”

By your first coming, we’ve been made “prisoners of hope” (Zech.9:12). Our imprisonment to sin and death is forever broken. It is for freedom that you have made us free, and it is for hope that you have “imprisoned” us to hope. The hope of the Gospel legally owns our present and future. We don’t just have hope, hope has us.

The chains of paralyzing fear, anxious uncertainty, and hair-trigger consternation have been broken. To be in you, Jesus—to be “in Christ” is to be in the “slammer” of hope, and there’s no “busting out.”

The next time we see you mounted on the back of an animal, it will look like this: “I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider (Jesus) is called Faithful and True… On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.” (Rev. 19:11,16)

Bridegroom for his bride, King of the cosmos, Lord of the nations, Savior of the world… Jesus, you are coming back. Until “the Day,” may each of our days be shaped by this hope, fueled with the Gospel, and invested for your glory. So Very Amen.

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Daily Heart-Math https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/daily-heart-math/ Thu, 19 Jan 2023 11:49:19 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=540903 A backlit math equation“Everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ” (Phil 3:8). “Now that you have come to know God, or rather to be known by God, how can you turn back ...?” (Gal. 4:9). “Whom have I in heaven but you? I desire you (Jesus) more than anything on earth.” (Psalm 73:25)   Lord Jesus, I often joke that I’m allergic to math. I’m not talking about differential equations, normalizing vectors, or transposing matrices. I mean the most basic algebra, trig, and calculus. I know I’m not alone. That being said, there is one form of...]]> Everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ” (Phil 3:8). “Now that you have come to know God, or rather to be known by God, how can you turn back ...?” (Gal. 4:9). “Whom have I in heaven but you? I desire you (Jesus) more than anything on earth.” (Psalm 73:25)

 

Lord Jesus, I often joke that I’m allergic to math. I’m not talking about differential equations, normalizing vectors, or transposing matrices. I mean the most basic algebra, trig, and calculus. I know I’m not alone. That being said, there is one form of math that is doable, daily, and indispensable for all of us.

The Gospel calls and equips each of us for doing heart-math in every season of life—even on a daily basis. Jesus, in light of you, your great love for us, and everything you’ve won for us, what really matters? What do we need to devalue a bit (or a lot) in light of your eternal, incomparable worth?

All this kind of “math” requires is the new heart you gave us by the Gospel, the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit, and two columns laid out side by side. Sometimes it’s as simple as this.

Infinite Value versus Worthless

Jesus > Everything Else

Knowing Christ > Money, Control, Safety, Status, Relief

Being known by Abba > Reputation, Romance, Approval of People

 

Sometimes it’s more complex. Like when we’re in chronic pain, relational emptiness, or the vulnerability of an unknown future. Or when we’re under financial stress, or when the voice of shame is louder than the Spirit’s witness to our belovedness.

Jesus, you know where each of us are in this very moment. We want to love, trust, and honor you above everything else. Help us, for we are weak; but hallelujah, we are yours. So Very Amen.

 

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Does Jesus Care? https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/does-jesus-care-2/ Wed, 18 Jan 2023 11:50:16 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=540716   Martha came to him Jesus and asked, “Lord, don’t you care?” (Lk 10:40).   Lord Jesus, when Martha called your caring-heart into question, the context of her charge was pretty lame. She felt unseen and unappreciated in her kitchen, while Mary leisurely sat at your feet. There are times, however, when we experience crises, stories, and “accidents” that seem to contradict your compassion, care, and control. Those are the times we get really susceptible to all kinds of voices: To the devil’s toxic whisperings (“Where IS your Jesus now?). Or Karma replacing the Gospel, telling us (“You’re sick because...]]>   Martha came to him Jesus and asked, “Lord, don’t you care?” (Lk 10:40).

 

Lord Jesus, when Martha called your caring-heart into question, the context of her charge was pretty lame. She felt unseen and unappreciated in her kitchen, while Mary leisurely sat at your feet. There are times, however, when we experience crises, stories, and “accidents” that seem to contradict your compassion, care, and control.

Those are the times we get really susceptible to all kinds of voices: To the devil’s toxic whisperings (“Where IS your Jesus now?). Or Karma replacing the Gospel, telling us (“You’re sick because of hidden, unconfessed sin”). Or the narration of a cynical friend or family member, (Job’s wife to Job, “Curse God and die.” Job 2:9). Or our own emotionally exhausted, shame-fueled monologue, (I’ve blown it so badly, I’ve forfeited any claim on grace. Hope, or a tomorrow”).

Most loving and sovereign, Lord Jesus, though you don’t always explain yourself or fix things, you will nevercrush the weakest reed or put out a flickering candle.” We will have days (seasons) when mystery is more real than mercy, heartache is more tangible than hope, and pain is convincing than providence. But, we will never have a Jesus-absent day.

When we’re angry like Jonah (Jonah 4:9), disillusioned like Job (Job.10:15), fearful like Elijah (1 Kings 19:3), doubt you, like John the Baptist (Matt. 11:3), “beastly” like Asaph (Psalm 73:21-22), despairing of life like Paul (2 Cor. 1:8)… you welcome us, and meet us right there.

Jesus, the weary (us) find rest in you, long before the Day of “all things new” (Matt.11:28-30: Rev.21:5). No one cares like you. The Gospel makes that loud and clear.. So Very Amen.

 

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Heart-filling, Grace-thinking, Healing-speaking https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/heart-filling-grace-thinking-healing-speaking/ Tue, 17 Jan 2023 10:53:06 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=540543   “What you say flows from what’s in your heart.” (Luke 6:45). “The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing” (Prov. 12:18). “Let your conversation be always full of grace.” (Col. 4:6).   Lord Jesus, words, language, vocabulary, speaking… it’s never been as simple as “exercise better tongue control.” It’s always a heart-issue. What we say—even “pre-speak,” reflects what we treasure, believe, and what really controls us. You gave us a new heart when you raised us from spiritual death. Though it’s made for wonder, it’ll be prone to wander until we are...]]>   “What you say flows from what’s in your heart.” (Luke 6:45). “The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing” (Prov. 12:18). “Let your conversation be always full of grace.” (Col. 4:6).

 

Lord Jesus, words, language, vocabulary, speaking… it’s never been as simple as “exercise better tongue control.” It’s always a heart-issue. What we say—even “pre-speak,” reflects what we treasure, believe, and what really controls us.

You gave us a new heart when you raised us from spiritual death. Though it’s made for wonder, it’ll be prone to wander until we are glorified. So as this day begins and continues, we set our affection and fill our attention with you, Jesus.

Only you are worthy of everything we have and are. Jesus, you made us. You saved us. You love us like no one ever could or will. From your heart you only speak words of life, healing, and grace to us.

Even when you must convict us of our sin, expose our foolishness, and rescue us from our many side trips to self-righteousness and unrighteousness… you never use condemnation, contempt or disdain. For you took the judgment we deserve when you died for us; and you gave us the righteousness we need when you were raised for us. Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah!

O Lord Jesus, forgive us for the many ways we sin with our thoughts, words, and choices. We are weak, and we make no excuses. As the Gospel fills our hearts and your Spirit gives us strength, may we speak 100 healing words today for every harming syllable. Grant us quick repentances and more grace. So Very Amen.

 

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Hallelujah, We’re Gonna Be “Perfected in Love” https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/hallelujah-were-gonna-be-perfected-in-love/ Mon, 16 Jan 2023 10:58:41 +0000 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/?post_type=scotty-smith&p=540247 “Perfected in love” (1 Jn.4:18)   Lord Jesus, it’s only one part of one verse, but it perfectly sums up what thrills me the most about our coming life in the new heaven and new earth. Will enjoy perfect everything, but especially perfect relationships. Hallelujah, we will be “perfected in love.” Finally and fully, we will love each other the way you love us. But first, foremost, and forever, Jesus, we will love you with everything we have and are. When we see you, we will be made like you (1 John 3:2); and when that happens, everything else relationally...]]> Perfected in love” (1 Jn.4:18)

 

Lord Jesus, it’s only one part of one verse, but it perfectly sums up what thrills me the most about our coming life in the new heaven and new earth. Will enjoy perfect everything, but especially perfect relationships. Hallelujah, we will be “perfected in love.”

Finally and fully, we will love each other the way you love us. But first, foremost, and forever, Jesus, we will love you with everything we have and are. When we see you, we will be made like you (1 John 3:2); and when that happens, everything else relationally will “fall into place.”

All racism, prejudice, and tribalism will be eradicated—replaced with love, honor, and the richest community imaginable. There won’t be any insiders or outsiders, “pecking order” or ordering one another around. It will be impossible for us to break promises or break each other’s hearts ever again. We will never have to apologize, forgive, and reconcile with anyone about anything. Jesus, we believe, help our unbelief.

The United Nations will be a reality, not a building—no more power grabbing, just towel grabbing to wash each other’s feet. Every evidence of evil, sin, and death will be replaced with all things new, beautiful, and stunning.

Until then, Jesus, grant us good grief and quick repentances when we love poorly, (which is daily). Fill us with the riches of the grace and the power of the Holy Spirit, again and again. This life is too short for over-expecting from mere people, unbelieving the Gospel, and way under-adoring you, Jesus. So Very Amen.

 

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