Tag: Christ

Antidote To Self Pity

·

Vance Havnerby Vance Havner

Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 2 Corinthians 12:9

After Paul emerges from his height-to-depth experience of the third heaven and thorn in the flesh to rest in the sufficient grace of Christ, he takes pleasure in infirmities, reproaches, necessities, persecutions, distresses for Christ’s sake, for when he is weak then he is strong. He rejoices in the very weakness that drives him to Christ. He does not grumble, he glories. And he does not go on a spree of self-pity. What an opportunity to feel sorry for himself with this trouble that God would not take away!

If God grants you neither a third-heaven experience nor the removal of your thorn, rejoice in whatever He uses to bring you to simple daily dependence on Christ. But do not merely glory in infirmities. Finish the sentence…“that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” All else is incidental to that. Let us major on His strength, not on our weakness.

by Vance Havner

Nearing Home

·

Vance Havnerby Vance Havner

The time of my departure is at hand. 2 Timothy 4:6

How often have I noticed when headed home from my travels a relief and release, a lessening of strain and tension. Nothing bothers me, I feel great, I am going home!

Should it not be so with us Christian pilgrims who seek a country? Why should earth’s cares pester us? We are on our way home, and nothing can stop us. Death itself but speeds the arrival and is a paying proposition, for “to depart and be with Christ is far better.” “To die is gain.”

“One sweetly solemn thought” daily reminds us that we are nearer home than we’ve ever been before. Let time and earth do their worst, they but quicken our heavenward pace! There is nothing to fear. No combination of men or devils can keep us from getting home. Why should I not be hilarious with a song in my heart? I shall soon be beyond all that spoils my peace and joy. My Lord is over there, and more and more of those I love gather on that side. Nothing can hinder me from arriving. I feel like traveling on!

It is great to be nearing home!

by Vance Havner