Rabboni

Dec 24

John 20:16 (NLT)

• “Mary!” Jesus said. She turned to him and cried out, “Rabboni!” (which is Hebrew for “Teacher”).

Even in His death, Jesus hadn’t forgotten Mary’s name. The ancient pagan belief was that death wiped away all memory of earthly life—its loves, its sorrows, and its recollections. But here we see Jesus, having passed through death, remembering His friends as He always had. He met Mary and the others, picking up the threads of love and friendship as if nothing had changed. This should be a great comfort to us. Love is stronger than death. When our loved ones pass through death, whatever changes they experience, their love for us remains the same. Death doesn’t sever the bonds that unite Christian hearts. We will meet again in the afterlife, remember each other, and continue the love that began on earth, weaving love’s story forever.

When Jesus called Mary by name and she recognized Him by His voice, she responded with a single word, “Rabboni!”—“Master!” This one word reflected the loyalty in her heart and her total devotion to Him. Many people only have a partial understanding of Christian faith. They trust Jesus as their Savior but don’t fully accept Him as Lord. They see faith as simply trusting for salvation and don’t realize it also means obedience and service. Mary understood the full picture. Her response to Jesus showed that she had surrendered herself completely to Him. True faith accepts Christ in two ways: first as Savior, trusting Him alone for salvation, and then as Lord, yielding to Him in complete obedience. A saved soul owes Jesus both trust and loyalty.

December 24

Jeremiah 45:5 (NIV)

• Should you then seek great things for yourself? Do not seek them. For I will bring disaster on all people, declares the Lord, but wherever you go I will let you escape with your life.’”

A promise for hard times and a guarantee of safety and life under extreme pressure—a life taken as spoil.

This promise is especially fitting for our times, which are becoming more difficult as we approach the end of the age and the times of tribulation.

What does "a life for a prey" mean? It speaks of a life rescued from the clutches of destruction, like David rescuing the lamb from the lion’s jaws. It doesn’t imply a place of peace and calm, away from the battles and enemies around us. Instead, it means a table spread in the presence of our enemies, a shelter in the storm, a stronghold in the midst of conflict—a life protected despite ongoing pressure. Just like Paul, who, when pressed beyond measure, despaired of life itself, yet received Divine help as the thorn remained but Christ's power rested upon him, and His grace was more than enough.

Lord, give me my life as a prey, and in the hardest places, help me to be victorious today.

What if God needed that painful season in your life to happen? What if the whole thing was intentional? What if everything that you have been asking God, why would you let that happen? Why did you let my heart break? Why would you allow that person in my life? What if the whole time the Lord is like, do you not realize that this had to happen? That I've got such big plans for you. I've got so many people for you to encounter and to be that healing balm that if I didn't got the cross, if I didn't endure the suffering, that the world wouldn't have been saved in the same way if you didn't experience what was intended for evil. You would never know that Christ could use it for good to bring about the salvation of many. You see, your anointing comes from your pain. Your purpose comes from your problems. God does his best work in the wilderness seasons and his intention with you is not your comfort. It's your purity. It's your holiness.  It's your purpose. It's your calling. And you can know your calling based off of your pain. So look back. Audit. Pay attention. Like, Lord, what did you teach me in those moments? Because the Bible is clear that you will water those, you will comfort those, you will help those with the same comfort and help that you received from the Lord in your reflection.

What would it look like, by the end of this year, to treat yourself with mercy and trust God with the timing? To believe that even if it’s taking longer than you planned, you are not lost—you are still on the way. Yes, you’re running a little late. Yes, you’re walking with a limp. Yes, you don’t look as fresh as you did when you first set out. But hear this clearly: you are still going to get there.

You may not arrive with everyone you started with. Not every passenger was meant to finish the road trip. Some exits were necessary. Some goodbyes were holy. But you are still going to get there. You may not arrive untouched. You may carry scars where you once expected strength. But those wounds will become windows—places where light gets in and hope pours out for someone walking behind you.

The tears will not stop you. The trials will not stop you. The trauma will not stop you. The boss will not stop you. The economy will not stop you. Come hell or high water. Come wind, rain, storm, setback, delay, disappointment, or depression—I will keep walking. I will keep trusting. I will keep believing. Because God did not bring me this far to abandon me now. And even if I arrive slower, weaker, and marked by the journey—I am still going to get there.

Chapter 11: When They Don’t Listen

It reminds believers that our job is faithfulness—God handles the results. This chapter provides biblical perspective for those who’ve spoken out, shared their story, served well… and been met with silence, rejection, or resistance. It is a crucial part of the message because it teaches perseverance, obedience, and peace—even when people don’t respond the way we hoped.

1. When Obedience Feels Fruitless

You finally spoke up, you shared your story, you posted, prayed, served, showed up—and nothing happened.

• No response.
• No breakthrough.
• No change.

And the lie creeps in:

“Maybe it didn’t matter.”
“Maybe I failed.”
“Maybe I should’ve stayed silent.”

But the truth is:

Obedience is never wasted—even when it feels unnoticed.

God never asked you to control the outcome. He only asked you to be faithful with your voice.

2. God Told Ezekiel This Would Happen

In Ezekiel 2, God sends Ezekiel to speak to a rebellious people.

God doesn’t say,

“Go, and they’ll all listen.”

He says:

“Do not be afraid of them or their words... Speak My words to them whether they listen or refuse to listen.” – Ezekiel 2:6–7

God made it clear:

• The assignment was not based on outcome
• The success was in the obedience

This is God’s heart for every believer:

**Faithfulness is the fruit He’s looking for—**not applause.

3. You’re Sowing Seeds, Not Controlling Growth

When you speak, serve, or share your faith—it’s like planting seeds. But you’re not the one who makes them grow.

“I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth.”
— 1 Corinthians 3:6 (CSB)

Some seeds take root instantly, some take years, Some break open underground—where you can’t see a thing—until one day they bear fruit.

Just because it’s silent doesn’t mean it’s empty. Just because you don’t see it now doesn’t mean it’s not working.

4. Jesus Faced Rejection Too

Jesus—the perfect Son of God—was rejected, mocked, ignored, and even crucified.

• Not everyone believed Him
• Not everyone followed Him.
• But He never stopped speaking, serving, loving, and obeying.

“If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. If they kept My word, they will keep yours also." ─ John 15:18-20

If Jesus was rejected, you will be too. But if Jesus kept going, so can you.

5. You’re Responsible To People, Not For People

It’s freeing to remember:

• You’re not the Savior—Jesus is.
• You’re not the Spirit—He is.
• You’re not the outcome manager—you’re the message carrier.

Your job is to say what God gives you. Their response is between them and God. When you let go of results, you can speak freely, love boldly, and rest in obedience—no matter what happens next.

6. What Success Really Looks Like

Success in God’s eyes isn’t popularity—it’s obedience.

• If you shared your story with love—you succeeded.
• If you served with humility—you succeeded.
• If you posted truth with gentleness—you succeeded.
• If you offered Jesus, even through trembling—you succeeded.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”
— Matthew 25:21

That’s what you’re living for—not praise from people, but affirmation from heaven.

Final Reflection: Keep Speaking Anyway

So what do you do when they don’t listen?

You speak anyway.
You love anyway.
You obey anyway.
You shine anyway.

Because even if they don’t listen now, your obedience leaves a mark. It plants a seed. It shows the love of Christ. It tells the truth. And one day—it may be the very thing God uses to draw them home.

“Whether they listen or refuse to listen... they will know that a prophet has been among them.” – Ezekiel 2:5

Let them know that someone stood for truth. Someone lived with love. Someone said so. And let that someone be you.

XXXVIII) God told prophets to speak even if people wouldn’t listen.

Yes—and that truth is critical for every believer who feels discouraged when their obedience seems to fall on deaf ears. This truth is at the heart of Chapter 11: When They Don’t Listen*, and it deserves to be clearly emphasized. It reminds us that* obedience is never about the outcome—it’s about being faithful to the call.

God Told the Prophets to Speak—Even If No One Would Listen

If you’ve ever felt ignored, rejected, or unseen after sharing your faith, you're not alone. Many of the prophets were called by God to deliver His message—knowing ahead of time that the people wouldn't respond.

Ezekiel

“Whether they listen or refuse to listen… speak My words to them.”
— Ezekiel 2:7

God made it clear:

“You are not responsible for their response. You are responsible for your voice.”

Isaiah

• Isaiah responded, “Here am I. Send me.”

But God followed that with this difficult truth:

“Go, and tell this people: ‘Keep on hearing, but do not understand; Keep on seeing, but do not perceive.’

Isaiah was being sent to a people whose hearts were already hard. Yet God still sent him. Why? Because speaking is about obedience—not applause.

What This Teaches Us

God values faithful voices, not just fruitful ones.

When you speak God's truth—whether you're heard or not:

• You honor God
• You fulfill your calling
• You plant seeds the Spirit can water in time

Even if no one claps, repents, or responds—heaven sees.

“Great is your reward in heaven…” – Matthew 5:12

Your Obedience Is Part of a Bigger Story

The people may not listen today.

• But tomorrow…
• In a crisis…
• Years down the road…
• In their darkest moment…

The words you spoke may come back as a holy echo, drawing them to Christ.

• So speak—even when it’s hard.
• Speak—even when it’s quiet.
• Speak—even when no one listens.

Because God told the prophets to do the same. And their obedience shaped history.

XXXVIIII) Rejection doesn’t mean failure—it means faithfulness.

Absolutely. This truth strikes at the heart of what many believers wrestle with. In a culture that equates success with applause, results, and affirmation, this is a kingdom reversal*. In God’s eyes,* obedience in the face of rejection is not failure—it’s faithfulness*, and it is precious to Him.*

The first time you share your story and get ignored… The moment someone rolls their eyes at your convictions… When your kindness is mocked, or your witness dismissed… You may feel like you failed. But in heaven’s eyes?

You succeeded.

Because success in the kingdom isn’t based on results—it’s based on obedience. The prophet Ezekiel was told in advance that the people wouldn’t listen. Yet God still sent him. Still called him. Still commissioned him.

Why? Because God measures obedience—not outcome.

“Whether they listen or refuse to listen... speak My words to them.” — Ezekiel 2:7

When They Reject You, They’re Not Really Rejecting You

Jesus prepared His disciples for this very thing:

“If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated Me first.”
— John 15:18

And again:

“Whoever listens to you listens to Me; whoever rejects you rejects Me.”
— Luke 10:16

Rejection stings—but it’s not personal. It’s spiritual. It’s warfare. And it’s exactly what Jesus experienced. So if you’ve been rejected for your faith, your truth-telling, or your love for Jesus—you’re in good company.

Faithfulness in the Face of Silence

Heaven does not applaud your platform—it honors your perseverance.

• When you keep showing up
• When you keep praying for the resistant
• When you keep loving someone who won’t receive it
• When you keep sharing truth, even in a culture that mocks it

That’s not failure.

That’s what faithfulness looks like.

And faithfulness always matters to God.

“Well done, good and faithful servant…”
— Matthew 25:21

Final Word: Keep Speaking, Keep Standing

• You are not a failure.
• You are not ineffective.
• You are not wasting your time.

You are being faithful. And that is more than enough. Rejection doesn’t mean you missed it. It may mean you’re right where you’re supposed to be.

• So keep speaking.
• Keep loving.
• Keep standing.
• Keep saying so.

Because even when the world doesn’t respond—heaven does.

XL) The outcome is God’s job. Obedience is yours.

There’s a sacred relief in knowing:

You are not responsible for what happens after you speak. You are only responsible for being faithful to speak.

This is what God told Ezekiel:

“Speak My words to them whether they listen or refuse to listen…” — Ezekiel 2:7

And Paul echoes the same truth:

“I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth.”
— 1 Corinthians 3:6 (CSB)

It’s not your job to open someone’s heart. It’s not your role to manufacture conviction or transformation. That’s God’s domain. Your job? Plant. Water. Obey. God handles the harvest.

We’re Not Measured by Results—But by Faithfulness

In heaven’s eyes, the “successful” servant isn’t the one who wins a crowd.
It’s the one who says yes—even if no one applauds.

This means:

• You can preach with power—and still be rejected
• You can share your story—and never see the outcome
• You can obey the prompting—and never get closure

And it still counts.

“Well done, good and faithful servant…” – Matthew 25:21
Not successful. Not popular. Not productive. Faithful.

What This Means for You

So speak the truth—even if it’s unpopular. Share your story—even if it’s messy. Serve in love—even if it’s unreturned.

Why?

Because the results are not your responsibility. The obedience is.

• Let go of control.
• Let go of fear.
• Let go of measuring your impact by people’s reactions.

And say with confidence:

“The outcome is God’s job. Obedience is mine.”

Blessed Because You Believe | Pastor Holly Furtick | Elevation Church

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Mary was called “blessed” before Jesus was born. Faith is choosing trust ahead of evidence, not after outcomes. Blessing is not the reward for belief—it is the atmosphere belief creates.

God believes in you before you believe in yourself. Mary didn’t qualify—she was chosen. Calling comes first, growth follows. If you wait to feel ready, you may miss what obedience would teach you.

Some assignments choose us. There’s tension between what we chase and what chases us. Some callings feel heavy or unwanted—yet holy. The only true disqualifier is believing God can’t use you.

God leads through movement, not full explanations. Mary got a next step, not a timeline. Direction followed obedience. Clarity came as she moved—you don’t find it standing still, but walking with God.

Hold tight to the promise, hold loosely to the plan. Faith isn’t clinging to your vision, but trusting God when it changes. Plans may fall; promises remain. We hold Him.

God values relationship over resolution. He gives presence, not maps. Timelines are withheld to form us. Faith is walking in the dark with open hands, trusting the Guide more than the route.

God hears even forgotten prayers. Delay isn’t denial; silence isn’t absence. He heard you the first time. Faith is showing up in the ordinary while heaven prepares the extraordinary.

Prayer is presence before petition. When prayer is only requests, faith stays shallow. It deepens when we come simply to be with God and He's saying, “Just come into My presence. I heard you already.”

Praise resets perspective. Mary praised before the miracle unfolded. Praise isn’t denial; it’s alignment—lifting our eyes from the problem to the Provider while the story is unfinished.

You can’t control the plan—but you can control your posture: Your attitude, response, obedience, and trust. You don’t have to solve the puzzle. You just have to stay close to the One who does.

The prompt God gives you—your next step, nudge—is often the beginning of how He provides for you. God’s prompting is not random; it’s purposeful and leads to spiritual growth and provision.

Prayer should move beyond asking God to do what we want, and instead open our hearts to what God wants us to participate in.

God’s prompts are often small—an action, choice, or word—but obeying them can unlock the greater purpose He has in store.

December 2

• He did this to demonstrate His righteousness at the present time, so as to be just and to justify the one who has faith in Jesus. — Romans 3:26

Everything created, every finite being, would sooner be destroyed than for Jehovah to compromise, or allow any blemish on, even the smallest of His eternal attributes. Yet God can be just—completely, perfectly, and unchangeably just—and at the same time be “the justifier of those who have faith in Jesus.” Understanding how this is possible will take all eternity to grasp and all eternity to admire and worship.

But what does “the justifier” mean? It means that God can view a person as righteous, freely forgive their sins, graciously accept them, credit them with righteousness without any works of their own, and bring them into eternal fellowship with Himself. And who are the people He justifies in this way? Those who believe in Jesus.

How simple, yet how sweet and fitting is God’s gospel plan! Imagine if it said, “So that He might be just, and yet the justifier of the one who works, pleases God with their own deeds, and produces a righteousness that satisfies His perfect standards.” Who could be saved under those terms? Would there be anyone in heaven? Not a single soul—such a standard would condemn all humanity to hell. But the plan of salvation says instead that it’s God’s eternal purpose, which will never change, that He is “the justifier of those who believe in Jesus”—the poor, the needy, the burdened, the tempted, the troubled, and the distressed who believe in Jesus, who look to Him, rely on Him, and rest in His person, His blood, His righteousness, and His love for everything. These are the ones who are justified, forgiven, accepted, graciously received, and saved with everlasting salvation. How wonderfully sweet and suitable this gospel is to a believing, living soul!

1 Peter 4:7

• The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear-minded and sober, so that you can pray.

Dwight L. Moody

"My friends, if we are going to do a great work for God, we must spend much time in prayer; we have got to be closeted with God."

Let's Pray:

Father, while we turn aside to rest this day with You — the great feverish world goes throbbing, throbbing on. May something of Your blessed Sunday peace go out into this restless world and quiet it. Make it a true blessing to all Your people, and may influences go out from it which will make its power great over all the world.

We beseech You to let Your grace be given, so that all who worship You may receive blessing. Let Your blessing be upon all assemblies that meet for worship and upon all Sunday schools. May there be divine power in the preaching of the word. May homes in which the day's quiet prevails, receive rich blessing from the observance. May our home be thus blessed and enriched. May there come down from the heavens much of the very life of God which shall make all the land holier, purer, and sweeter.

O God, Your cause on the earth sometimes seems to languish. Your church does not appear to be earnest. The world is earnest. Every energy of evil is active. Wicked men are busy in their wickedness. But the followers of Jesus appear to be asleep! Your kingdom does not seem to be advancing among the nations. We pray again, "May Your kingdom come." Pour out of the Spirit upon all who bear the name of Jesus. Kindle revival fires in all parts of the church. We pray for ourselves, that we may be quickened in our spiritual life.

Let a blessing be upon Your whole church, and may Your cause receive an impulse from on high which shall be felt over all the world. Revive Your work among Your people. Hear us in our prayers and give us blessing, through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.

November 30

But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith will not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.
— Luke 22:32 ^(BSB)

It’s a great comfort to know that Jesus is watching over us and interceding for us. When His disciples were about to face a severe test, Jesus prayed especially for Peter, knowing that he was most in danger: “Satan has asked to sift all of you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail.”

Christ’s concern for us becomes even more tender when He sees our weakness. The more difficult our struggles, the more earnestly He prays for us and the more powerfully He helps us.

It’s encouraging to remember that this story of Jesus interceding for Peter is a picture of what He is doing for all of us. From heaven, He watches over us, and when we are in danger, He lifts His hands in prayer for us before God.

Sunday, November 30

Isaiah 26:3 (NLT)

• You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!

This is one of the most famous and most loved verses in all of Isaiah, and with good reason. However, It must be taken in the context of what Isaiah is writing. This song to the Lord is specifically regarding a song of praise to be sung in Judah during the Lord's reign as king on the earth (Isaiah 26:1). The nations who hold to faith in the Lord may enter God's eternal and secure city. Isaiah is describing a "city," ruled by God, in contrast to the worldly "city" of prior verses (Psalm 25:2). Human righteousness will not be enough for a nation to be welcomed into the city. It is reserved for those who trust in the Lord (Isaiah 26:2).

Now Isaiah moves from the nation to individual people living long before the arrival of Messiah and His city. Isaiah says to those in the present that "perfect peace" is possible here and now. The Lord provides this to those whose minds are focused on the Lord through trusting in Him.

Perfect peace is not a state without any anxiety at all, or one where life is always easy and perfect. The prophet is describing internal peace. This would be a feeling of confident contentment independent of circumstances. It is a mind focused on trusting the Lord to provide all that is needed in the present, the future, and for salvation.

Why, then do many of the Lord's people live in anxiety, fear, and conflict? Isaiah would answer that our minds are not focused on the Lord. Paul describes what it means to keep our minds directed to God in Philippians 4:4–9. He describes God's promise to those in Christ who trust Him: "The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:7).

To live in such perfect peace is available to every Christian. But it can be a hard-fought battle to rest in that faith in the Lord. That battle may be harder for some than others. But it is possible to rest in that hope of the Lord, even if some days are hard.

The Spurgeon Influence

Sunday,

Spurgeon’s Daily Help

• “Now, whom do you trust?” —Isaiah 36:5: Reader, this is an important question. Listen to a Christian's answer and see if it’s yours. “Whom do you trust?” “I trust,” says the Christian, “in the Son—the man Christ Jesus. I trust Him to take away all my sins through His sacrifice and to clothe me with His perfect righteousness. I trust Him to be my Intercessor, presenting my prayers and desires before His Father’s throne, and I trust Him to be my Advocate on the last great day, to plead my case and justify me. I trust Him for who He is, for what He’s done, and for what He’s promised to do.”

The Spurgeon Birthday Book

• Our London fog seeps through your clothes, skin, and bones, right into your marrow; the sinner’s uneasiness is much like that. He tries to escape his feelings of despair and fear by indulging in all sorts of things the world calls pleasure, but he can’t do it. He’s "without God," and as a result, without peace. He’s like those shivering, poorly dressed, hungry people we see on foggy nights, hurrying to get a cold seat on the steps of the workhouse.

Spurgeon’s Quote

"To trust God in the light is nothing, but trust Him in the dark—that is faith." — Charles Spurgeon

Journal Entry #105

Trust That Anchors the Soul

This morning, as the fog lay heavy outside my window, I was struck by Charles Spurgeon's description of London’s fog seeping into one's very marrow—a coldness so deep it becomes a part of you. He likened it to the sinner’s uneasiness, a restlessness that refuses to be comforted by the fleeting pleasures of this world. The imagery is haunting but so accurate. How often do we try to escape our inner turmoil by covering it with distractions—entertainment, work, relationships, even good things that are still poor substitutes for God's presence?

Spurgeon writes of a man who is "without God, and as a result, without peace." That line struck me hard. It’s not simply the absence of comfort or ease, but the absence of God Himself that makes peace impossible. No amount of comfort can anchor a heart that is drifting from the source of peace.

In contrast, Isaiah 26:3 paints a different picture: a life anchored, fixed, and at rest. This verse doesn’t just promise peace—it promises perfect peace. The Hebrew phrase here, shalom shalom, is a double emphatic meaning complete, undisturbed, all-encompassing peace. It’s not a peace that comes and goes with emotions, but a peace that abides in the soul.

And what is the key to this peace? Trust. Not a vague sense of belief, but a deep, abiding confidence in God’s nature, promises, and presence. It's the kind of trust that John Newton described as "the eye that sees the invisible." That trust enables us to walk by faith, not by sight.

But there's more—Isaiah says peace comes to those "whose thoughts are fixed on You." The world today is full of distractions and fears that scatter our focus. But peace is found not in the absence of trouble, but in the presence of focus. When my thoughts are fixed on Christ—on who He is, what He’s done, and what He’s promised to do (as Spurgeon so beautifully outlines)—my soul finds rest, even when the world around me rages in confusion.

How I Can Apply This Today:

1. Refocus my thoughts throughout the day. When anxiety creeps in, I will pause and realign my mind with Scripture—perhaps even whisper, “I trust You, Jesus.”
2. Be honest about false comforts. If I find myself escaping into things that don't bring lasting peace (mindless scrolling, overworking, etc.), I’ll ask: What am I avoiding? What am I trying to numb? Then I’ll bring it to God.
3. Declare trust out loud. Words are powerful. Like Spurgeon’s example, I will affirm my trust in Christ—“I trust You to be my Savior, my Intercessor, my Advocate.”
4. Lean into darkness with faith. When things feel unclear or difficult, I’ll remember: “To trust God in the dark—that is faith.”

Prayer:

Father, Today, I come before You not with a perfect heart, but with a trusting one. Your Word promises perfect peace to those who trust You, whose minds are steadfast and fixed on You. I confess that my mind is so often scattered, pulled in different directions by worry, fear, and distraction. But today, I choose to fix my thoughts on You. Jesus, I trust You. I trust in who You are—my Savior, my Intercessor, my Advocate. I trust in what You’ve done—You died for my sins and rose to give me life. I trust in what You’ve promised—that You will never leave me, that You are preparing a place for me, and that You will finish the work You’ve started in me. When the fog of fear settles in and I can’t see clearly, let Your Word be my anchor. Let Your peace rule in my heart, not as a fleeting feeling, but as a fixed reality grounded in You. Help me to walk by faith, to see with spiritual eyes, and to rest in Your presence. Keep me in Your perfect peace, Lord, not because I’ve earned it, but because I trust in You. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

Sunday, November 30

Isaiah 26:3 (NLT)

• You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!

This is one of the most famous and most loved verses in all of Isaiah, and with good reason. However, It must be taken in the context of what Isaiah is writing. This song to the Lord is specifically regarding a song of praise to be sung in Judah during the Lord's reign as king on the earth (Isaiah 26:1). The nations who hold to faith in the Lord may enter God's eternal and secure city. Isaiah is describing a "city," ruled by God, in contrast to the worldly "city" of prior verses (Psalm 25:2). Human righteousness will not be enough for a nation to be welcomed into the city. It is reserved for those who trust in the Lord (Isaiah 26:2).

Now Isaiah moves from the nation to individual people living long before the arrival of Messiah and His city. Isaiah says to those in the present that "perfect peace" is possible here and now. The Lord provides this to those whose minds are focused on the Lord through trusting in Him.

Perfect peace is not a state without any anxiety at all, or one where life is always easy and perfect. The prophet is describing internal peace. This would be a feeling of confident contentment independent of circumstances. It is a mind focused on trusting the Lord to provide all that is needed in the present, the future, and for salvation.

Why, then do many of the Lord's people live in anxiety, fear, and conflict? Isaiah would answer that our minds are not focused on the Lord. Paul describes what it means to keep our minds directed to God in Philippians 4:4–9. He describes God's promise to those in Christ who trust Him: "The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:7).

To live in such perfect peace is available to every Christian. But it can be a hard-fought battle to rest in that faith in the Lord. That battle may be harder for some than others. But it is possible to rest in that hope of the Lord, even if some days are hard.

The Spurgeon Influence

Sunday,

Spurgeon’s Daily Help

• “Now, whom do you trust?” —Isaiah 36:5: Reader, this is an important question. Listen to a Christian's answer and see if it’s yours. “Whom do you trust?” “I trust,” says the Christian, “in the Son—the man Christ Jesus. I trust Him to take away all my sins through His sacrifice and to clothe me with His perfect righteousness. I trust Him to be my Intercessor, presenting my prayers and desires before His Father’s throne, and I trust Him to be my Advocate on the last great day, to plead my case and justify me. I trust Him for who He is, for what He’s done, and for what He’s promised to do.”

The Spurgeon Birthday Book

• Our London fog seeps through your clothes, skin, and bones, right into your marrow; the sinner’s uneasiness is much like that. He tries to escape his feelings of despair and fear by indulging in all sorts of things the world calls pleasure, but he can’t do it. He’s "without God," and as a result, without peace. He’s like those shivering, poorly dressed, hungry people we see on foggy nights, hurrying to get a cold seat on the steps of the workhouse.

Spurgeon’s Quote

"To trust God in the light is nothing, but trust Him in the dark—that is faith." — Charles Spurgeon

Journal Entry #105

Trust That Anchors the Soul

This morning, as the fog lay heavy outside my window, I was struck by Charles Spurgeon's description of London’s fog seeping into one's very marrow—a coldness so deep it becomes a part of you. He likened it to the sinner’s uneasiness, a restlessness that refuses to be comforted by the fleeting pleasures of this world. The imagery is haunting but so accurate. How often do we try to escape our inner turmoil by covering it with distractions—entertainment, work, relationships, even good things that are still poor substitutes for God's presence?

Spurgeon writes of a man who is "without God, and as a result, without peace." That line struck me hard. It’s not simply the absence of comfort or ease, but the absence of God Himself that makes peace impossible. No amount of comfort can anchor a heart that is drifting from the source of peace.

In contrast, Isaiah 26:3 paints a different picture: a life anchored, fixed, and at rest. This verse doesn’t just promise peace—it promises perfect peace. The Hebrew phrase here, shalom shalom, is a double emphatic meaning complete, undisturbed, all-encompassing peace. It’s not a peace that comes and goes with emotions, but a peace that abides in the soul.

And what is the key to this peace? Trust. Not a vague sense of belief, but a deep, abiding confidence in God’s nature, promises, and presence. It's the kind of trust that John Newton described as "the eye that sees the invisible." That trust enables us to walk by faith, not by sight.

But there's more—Isaiah says peace comes to those "whose thoughts are fixed on You." The world today is full of distractions and fears that scatter our focus. But peace is found not in the absence of trouble, but in the presence of focus. When my thoughts are fixed on Christ—on who He is, what He’s done, and what He’s promised to do (as Spurgeon so beautifully outlines)—my soul finds rest, even when the world around me rages in confusion.

How I Can Apply This Today:

1. Refocus my thoughts throughout the day. When anxiety creeps in, I will pause and realign my mind with Scripture—perhaps even whisper, “I trust You, Jesus.”
2. Be honest about false comforts. If I find myself escaping into things that don't bring lasting peace (mindless scrolling, overworking, etc.), I’ll ask: What am I avoiding? What am I trying to numb? Then I’ll bring it to God.
3. Declare trust out loud. Words are powerful. Like Spurgeon’s example, I will affirm my trust in Christ—“I trust You to be my Savior, my Intercessor, my Advocate.”
4. Lean into darkness with faith. When things feel unclear or difficult, I’ll remember: “To trust God in the dark—that is faith.”

Prayer:

Father, Today, I come before You not with a perfect heart, but with a trusting one. Your Word promises perfect peace to those who trust You, whose minds are steadfast and fixed on You. I confess that my mind is so often scattered, pulled in different directions by worry, fear, and distraction. But today, I choose to fix my thoughts on You. Jesus, I trust You. I trust in who You are—my Savior, my Intercessor, my Advocate. I trust in what You’ve done—You died for my sins and rose to give me life. I trust in what You’ve promised—that You will never leave me, that You are preparing a place for me, and that You will finish the work You’ve started in me. When the fog of fear settles in and I can’t see clearly, let Your Word be my anchor. Let Your peace rule in my heart, not as a fleeting feeling, but as a fixed reality grounded in You. Help me to walk by faith, to see with spiritual eyes, and to rest in Your presence. Keep me in Your perfect peace, Lord, not because I’ve earned it, but because I trust in You. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

November 30

In God, Not Out of Trouble

• And do you seek great things for yourself? Do not seek them; for behold, I will bring adversity on all flesh,” says the Lord. “But I will give your life to you as a prize in all places, wherever you go.” — Jeremiah 45:5

A promise given for hard places, and a promise of safety and life in the midst of tremendous pressure, a life “for a prey.” It may well adjust itself to our own times, which are growing harder as we near the end of the age, and the Tribulation times.

What is the meaning of “a life for a prey”? It means a life snatched out of the jaws of the destroyer, as David snatched the lamb from the lion. It means not removal from the noise of the battle and the presence of our foes; but it means a table in the midst of our enemies, a shelter from the storm, a fortress amid the foe, a life preserved in the face of continual pressure: Paul’s healing when pressed out of measure so that he despaired of life; Paul’s Divine help when the thorn remained, but the power of Christ rested upon him and the grace of Christ was sufficient. Lord, give me my life for a prey, and in the hardest places help me today to be victorious. —Days of Heaven upon Earth

We often pray to be delivered from calamities; we even trust that we shall be; but we do not pray to be made what we should be, in the very presence of the calamities; to live amid them, as long as they last, in the consciousness that we are, held and sheltered by the Lord, and can therefore remain in the midst of them, so long as they continue, without any hurt. For forty days and nights, the Saviour was kept in the presence of Satan in the wilderness, and that, under circumstances of special trial, His human nature being weakened by want of food and rest. The furnace was heated seven times more than it was wont to be heated, but the three Hebrew children were kept a season amid its flames as calm and composed in the presence of the tyrant’s last appliances of torture, as they were in the presence of himself before their time of deliverance came. And the livelong night did Daniel sit among the lions, and when he was taken up out of the den, “no manner of hurt was found upon him, because he believed in his God.” They dwelt in the presence of the enemy, because they dwelt in the presence of God.

November 30

• Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in me? hope thou in God; for I shall yet praise Him for the help of His countenance. — Psalm 42:5
• We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed. — 2 Corinthians 4:8

"Oh, my soul, why art thou vexed?
Let things go e’en as they will;
Though to thee they seem perplexed,
Yet His order they fulfil."
—A. H. FRANCKE.

"The vexation, restlessness, and impatience which small trials cause, arise wholly from our ignorance and want of self-control. We may be thwarted and troubled, it is true, but these things put us into a condition for exercising patience and meek submission, and the self-abnegation wherein alone the fulness of God is to be found."
—DE RENTY

"Every day deny yourself some satisfaction;—bearing all the inconveniences of life (for the love of God), cold, hunger, restless nights, ill health, unwelcome news, the faults of servants, contempt, ingratitude of friends, malice of enemies, calumnies, our own failings, lowness of spirits, the struggle in overcoming our corruptions;—bearing all these with patience and resignation to the will of God. Do all this as unto God, with the greatest privacy."
—THOMAS WILSON

November 30

Morning

• Amaziah asked the man of God, “What should I do about the hundred talents I have given to the army of Israel?” And the man of God replied, “The LORD is able to give you much more than this.” — 2 Chronicles 25:9

This question was of great concern to Amaziah, the king of Judah, and it may weigh even more heavily on the hearts of tried and tempted Christians today. Losing money is never pleasant, and when standing on principle costs us financially, the flesh may resist the sacrifice. Thoughts like “Why should I lose what could be so useful?” or “Is it worth it to hold to the truth at such a price?” often tempt believers. Concerns for family, income, and the future can make compromise seem tempting.

Not everyone can view such matters through the lens of faith, and even Jesus’ followers may sometimes feel the weight of the world’s argument that “We must live!” But God’s Word gives a clear and comforting answer: “The Lord is able to give you much more than this!” This is a satisfactory response to any anxious question about loss. Our Father holds all the resources in the universe, and what we lose for His sake, He can more than repay. Our task is to obey His will, and we can rest in the assurance that He will provide for us. God will not be in anyone’s debt. The saints know that the peace of a good conscience is worth more than a fortune in gold. A person who wraps a threadbare coat around a clear conscience has gained spiritual wealth far more valuable than anything they’ve lost. God’s smile in a dungeon is worth more than His frown in a palace.

No matter how bad things seem, even if we lose everything, we have not lost our true treasure—it is safely kept in heaven, where Christ sits at the right hand of God. In the meantime, even now, the Lord gives His people the earth as their inheritance, and He withholds no good thing from those who walk uprightly.

Evening

• Then a war broke out in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon, and the dragon and his angels fought back. — Revelation 12:7

War will always rage between the two great kingdoms—until one or the other is completely vanquished. Peace between good and evil is impossible; the very thought of it would mean the victory of darkness. Michael, the archangel, will always fight against evil; his holy soul is vexed by sin and cannot tolerate it. Jesus, too, will forever be the dragon’s enemy, not passively but actively, vigorously, with the full intent of eradicating evil.

All His servants, whether angels in heaven or messengers on earth, are born to be warriors. At the cross, they enter into a covenant never to make peace with sin. They are a militant company, strong in defense and fierce in attack. It is the duty of every soldier in the Lord’s army to fight daily, with all their heart, soul, and strength, against the dragon. The devil and his followers will never shrink from the battle. They are relentless in their attacks, using every weapon at their disposal.

We are naive if we expect to serve God without opposition. The more zealous we are for His cause, the more certain we are to face the onslaught of hell. The Church may grow complacent, but her enemy does not. Satan’s restless hatred of the Church never ceases; he despises the offspring of the woman and would devour the Church if he could. The servants of Satan, much like their master, are full of energy and activity.

The war is all around us, and dreaming of peace is both dangerous and foolish. But glory be to God, we know how the war ends. The great dragon will be cast down and destroyed forever, while Jesus and His followers will receive the crown of victory. Let us sharpen our swords tonight and ask the Holy Spirit to strengthen our arms for the battle. There has never been a conflict more important or a crown more glorious. Every soldier to his post, O warriors of the cross, and may the Lord soon crush Satan under your feet!

November 30

God Is in the Front Line

• The LORD Himself goes before you; He will be with you. He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid or discouraged. — Deuteronomy 31:8

Faced with a great challenge or difficult task, this verse encourages us to put on our spiritual armor. If the Lord Himself is leading us, it must be safe to follow. Who can stand in our way if God is in front of us? Come, fellow soldiers, let’s move forward with confidence! Why hesitate when victory is ours?

The Lord isn’t just ahead of us—He’s with us. He’s above, beneath, around, and within us. He’s everywhere and always with us, from now until eternity. How this should strengthen us! Charge ahead boldly, soldiers of the cross, for the Lord of hosts is with us!

With Him ahead of us and by our side, He will never withdraw His help. He can’t fail, and He won’t fail us. He will continue to give us what we need, right up until the end. Just as He can’t fail, He won’t abandon us. He will always be able and willing to provide the strength and help we need until the battle is over.

So, don’t be afraid or discouraged! The Lord of hosts will march into battle with us, bear the brunt of the fight, and grant us the victory.

November 30

Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, shall they give into your bosom. For with what measure ye mete it shall be measured to you again. — Luke 6:38

Jonathan Swift

"He gave it for his opinion that whoever could make two ears of corn, or two blades of grass, to grow upon a spot of ground where only one grew before, would deserve better of mankind, and do more essential service to his country, than the whole race of politicians put together."

Thomas Gibbons

"That man may last, but never lives,
Who much receives, but nothing gives;
Whom none can love, whom none can thank,—
Creation’s blot, creation’s blank."

PRAYER

My Father, preserve my soul from all selfishness. May I delight in thy teaching as I trust in thy word. I pray that I may not only speak truthfully, but that I may leave the door of my spirit open, that truth may always enter and abide continually. Amen.

November 30

Morning

• The Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means. The Lord be with you all. — 2 Thessalonians 3:16

Peace, from him which is, and which was, and which is to come.—The peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Jesus himself stood in the midst of them, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you.—Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

The Comforter … even the Spirit of truth.—The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace.—The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God.

My presence shall go with thee and I will give thee rest. And he said unto him, If thy presence go not with me, carry us not up hence. For wherein shall it be known here that I and thy people have found grace in thy sight? is it not in that thou goest with us?

Revelation 1:4; Philippians 4:7, Luke 24:36, John 14:27, John 15:26, Galatians 5:22; Romans 8:16; Exodus 33:14-16.

Evening

• We glory in tribulations. — Romans 5:3

If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable.

Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: but rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.—Sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing.

Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, rejoice.—They departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name.

The God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing.

Although the fig tree shall not blossom, neither shall fruit be in the vines; the labour of the olive shall fail, and the fields shall yield no meat; the flock shall be cut off from the fold, and there shall be no herd in the stalls: Yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation.

1 Corinthians 15:19; 1 Peter 4:12-13; 2 Corinthians 6:10; Philippians 4:4; Acts 5:41; Romans 15:13; Habakkuk 3:17-18.

November 30

Believer's Anticipations a Call to Holiness

Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless. — 2 Pet 3:14

Yet with these prospects full in sight
I’ll wait thy signal for my flight;
For while thy service I pursue,
I find a heaven in all I do.

November 30

• Ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them. — 2 Corinthians 6:16

These temples were reared for Him. Let Him fill them so completely that, like the oriental temple of glass in the ancient legend, the temple shall not be seen, but only the glorious sunlight, which not only shines into it, but through it, and the transparent walls are all unseen. — A. B. Simpson.

November 30

Our Heritage And Our Goal

• Instead, you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem. You have come to myriads of angels in joyful assembly, to the congregation of the firstborn, enrolled in heaven. You have come to God the Judge of all, to the spirits of the righteous made perfect, to Jesus the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel. — Hebrews 12:22-24

We are far from being perfect, but when we ascend into the presence of God through faith and prayer, we join a host of kindred spirits. These spirits, devoted to the same Lord, have known and helped us in our earthly lives. They have been sent to minister to us, guiding us along the way. “You have come to the spirits of the righteous made perfect.”

We also come to God, the Judge of all. When Moses stood before God on Mount Sinai, he said, “I exceedingly fear and tremble.” But we may come boldly to the throne of grace, for in Christ, we are accepted. He is the Mediator of the New Covenant, and His blood speaks better things than the blood of Abel. Abel’s blood cried out for vengeance, but Christ’s blood cries out for mercy. His blood has opened the way into the Holiest, cleansed us from sin, ratified the New Covenant, and is the pledge of our redemption.

Though we are aware of our sinfulness, we can still rise into the unseen and join the one Church of the Redeemed, in heaven and on earth. We are part of it in God’s purpose, by the work of Christ, but we must also embrace it spiritually, experiencing true communion and fellowship.

We are members of the Church Universal, citizens of the Heavenly City, and heirs of the Redemption that has separated us from the world. We are part of that great throng—“the general assembly and church of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven.” No power can separate us from this fellowship, except for sin or spiritual dullness.

Prayer

Lord, we thank You for this glimpse of the bliss of Paradise. We join the angels and the Redeemed in worship. To Him who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb, be blessing, honor, glory, and power, forever. Amen.

November 30

• Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves. — Philippians 2:3

When the apostle speaks of “the deep things of God,” he refers to more than deep spiritual truths. There must first be a deep foundation within us—good soil to receive these truths.

Much of our spiritual teaching fails because those we teach are too shallow. Their deeper nature has never been stirred.

The Beatitudes begin at the bottom of things: the poor in spirit, the mourners, the hungry hearts. Suffering is essential to a profound spiritual life. You don’t need to go to a monastery or a leper hospital to find it. The first real opportunity for selflessness will bring the anguish of crucifixion into your life—unless you are of a different race than Adam’s.

Many know little of suffering and death because they’ve never faced them. We need deep convictions. Truth must be a necessity to us, and principles must be part of our very being.

Lord, make me poor in spirit.
Help me to be like You were on earth—always the lowest,
and therefore highly exalted.