Tuesday Refocus: November 7

“Glory to the Father who created us; glory to the Son who redeemed us; Glory to the Spirit who sanctifies us; glory to the most high and undivided Trinity, whose work is inseparable, whose kingdom abides, world without end. Amen.” - Augustine

We created beings have no glory of our own in which to boast. 

No saving work of our own in which to trust.

No ability of our own to grow up into godliness.

And what a comforting reality that should be!

“Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to your name give glory,

    for the sake of your steadfast love and your faithfulness!” - Psalm 115:1

Father, forgive our attempts at earning, achieving, or possessing our own glory. All glory belongs to You, and You alone. Amen.

Amen,

AB

September 6: Tuesday Refocus

“Love, proceeding from faith, gradually changes the soul, into the likeness of God; and the more it is in exercise the more is that change effected.” - John Owen

Those who know how deeply, how completely, how honestly they have been loved, love in response.

“Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven - for she loved much. But he who is forgiven little loves little.” And he said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” Then those who were at the table with him began to say among themselves, “Who is this, who even forgives sins?” And he said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.” Luke 7:47-50

Lord, may we be aware of Your great love for us in the deepest places of our souls. May it change us over and over into the likeness of Yourself. Amen.

Loved,

AB

August 24: Tuesday Refocus

‘I beg you, Lord, let the fiery, gentle power of your love take possession of my soul, and snatch it away from everything under heaven, that I may die for love of your love as you saw fit to die for love of mine. Amen.’ - Francis of Assisi 

The love of God: 

Fiery enough to awaken hearts of stone and turn them to hearts of flesh (Ezekiel 36:26).  

Gentle enough to not break a bruised reed or extinguish a smoldering wick (Isaiah 42:3).  

Perfect enough to cast out fear (1 John 4:18).

Deeper than feelings or emotions, it is the very person of God (1 John 4:8).

It is God who in love sends His Son (John 3:16).  

It is God who in love welcomes enemies as friends (Romans 5:10).  

And it is God who in love reveals Himself exposing any of our attempts to find love outside of Love Himself.

Lord, in the middle of our half-hearted pursuits, and divided affections, reveal a greater glimpse of Yourself to us.  For Your name sake, amen.

Love,

AB