They Could Have A Crystal Stream, Instead ...

 If they but understood...

All the delights in the sensual life, all the pleasure that ever your lusts gave you, 

are but as the putrid stinking waters of a corrupt pond, 

where toads lie croaking and spawning, 

compared to the crystal streams of the most pure and pleasant fountain.

~ John Flavel in None But Jesus

Image ~ Freepik 4045

A Thought on Providence

If providence had alike prospered every man's designs, and set them upon a level, there had been no occasion to exercise the rich man's charity, or the poor man's patience.

~ John Flavel, in None But Jesus

Painting ~ The Gleaners, 1854, Jules Breton 1827-1906

On Clearing Up The Mistake

It is true, some wicked men die in seeming peace, and some good men in trouble, but both the one and the other are mistaken: the first, as to the good estate he fancies himself in, and the other as to his bad estate; and a few moments will clear up the mistake of both.

~ John Flavel, England’s Duty

Photo ~ Ross Bay Cemetery Fall Colors, Brandon Godfrey CC 2.0

Fullness of Joy

We went to the Worship and Thanksgiving service today of a wise, godly elderly gentleman. We feel blessed to have had the privilege of getting to know him in our small group for the short months since we've moved here. We are so glad our paths crossed for even such a brief time. Sorrow for now, but we shall see him again someday, when we, too, journey Homeward.

Death, to the saints, is the door by which they enter into the enjoyment of God; the dying Christian is almost home, yet a few pangs and agonies more, and then he is come to God, in whose presence is the fullness of joy. The same day we loose from this shore, we shall be landed upon the blessed shore, where we shall see and enjoy God forevermore.

~ John Flavel, Method of Grace

Photo ~ Sunset, giani, Pixabay CC0

When Relief Is Given

When our needs are permitted to grow to an extremity, 

and all visible hopes fail, then to have relief given 

wonderfully enhances the price of such a mercy.

~ John Flavel, The Mystery of Providence

Painting ~ Lost in Thoughts, 1889, Wilhelm Amberg 1822-1899, public domain via WikiCommons