Forgiveness breaks the chain of causality because he who forgives you — out of love — takes upon himself the consequences of what you have done. Forgiveness, therefore, always entails a sacrifice.
…Dag Hammarskjöld (1905-1961), Markings
[With thanks to Bill Blake at pilgrimwb@aol.com]
As I do no good action here, merely for the interpretation of good men, though that be one good and justifiable reason of my good actions: so I must do nothing for my salvation hereafter, merely for the love I bear to mine own soul, though that also be one good and justifiable reason of that action; but the primary reason in both, as well as the actions that establish a good name, as the actions that establish eternal life, must be the glory of God.
…John Donne (1573-1631)
I am persuaded that love and humility are the highest attainments in the school of Christ and the brightest evidences that he is indeed our Master.
…John Newton (1725-1807)
“Don’t let your worries get the best of you. Remember, Moses started out as a basket case”
Be ye fishers of men. You catch them – He’ll clean them.
The best mathematical equation I have ever seen: 1 cross + 3 nails = 4 given.
If anyone teaches a different doctrine [than submission to masters and faithful service] and does not agree with the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the teaching that accords with godliness, he is puffed up with conceit and understands nothing. He has an unhealthy craving for controversy and for quarrels about words, which produce envy, dissension, slander, evil suspicions, and constant friction among people who are depraved in mind and deprived of the truth, imagining that godliness is a means of gain.
— 1 Timothy 6:3-5 (ESV)
February 9, 2004
A life devoted unto God, looking wholly unto Him in all our actions, and doing all things suitably to His glory, is so far from being dull and uncomfortable, that it creates new comforts in everything that we do.
… William Law (1686-1761)
Meditation:
For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
…Matthew 6:14,15 (KJV)
We Christians must simplify our lives or lose untold treasures on earth and in eternity. Modern civilization is so complex as to make the devotional life all but impossible. The need for solitude and quietness was never greater than it is today.
…A. W. Tozer (1897-1963)