As if it weren’t enough to have forgiveness and salvation, God promises to love us to the same degree and in the same measure as his only begotten son, the Lord Jesus Christ.
Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: 13 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.
Do you remember the slang term, reality check? It’s a reminder from a friend when one’s thinking is distorted. As the current political drama beats down on all of us, this hymn can serve as a welcome balm and pull us back into a Biblical way of thinking.
“By grace I’m saved, grace free and boundless;
My soul, believe and doubt it not.
Why stagger at this word of promise?
May you remember today this wonderful gift granted through faith in Jesus Christ.
Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. (Luke 12:32)
This hymn was composed by pastor Johann Michael Altenburg in 1631 after having been forced to flee his home and ministry in Som-merda in time of war.
Thomas Haweis’s inspiration for this hymn is the last chapter of the book of Nehemiah. The people of God did not know they were forbidden to bring Ammonites and Moabites into the congregation.
I heard the bells on Christmas day is a civil war hymn. Forgotten stanzas 4 and 5 refer to the despair of brother fighting brother and hate between Christians and those who should be friends.
Early Methodists were persecuted and lived lives of hardship. Charles Wesley, who with his brother John started the Methodist movement, wanted to encourage his followers. He wanted them to be a singing, joyful people and not get discouraged and lose hope.
As they were studying chapter three in the book of Malachi, a group of women came across the verse that says, “He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver.
Swiftly Pass the Clouds of Glory was composed by George Henry Day in 1940. It’s based on Matthew 17:1-8, Mark 9:2-8, and Luke 9:28-36.
The theme is the Transfiguration of the Lord.