Reformed Doctrine Daily Devotions

Today’s devotion is Luke 18:28-30.  

“²⁸  Peter said, “Behold, we have left our own homes and followed You.”

 29  And He said to them, “Truly I say to you, there is no one who has left house or wife or brothers or parents or children, for the sake of the kingdom of God,

 30  who will not receive many times as much at this time and in the age to come, eternal life.”  Luke 18:28-30. 

In essence, Peter. like many of Jesus’ disciples throughout the ages, was pondering whether or not God was just and would reward His disciples for their work.  Jesus did not rebuke Peter, but rather, Jesus encouraged Peter.  So, we should not be harsh toward Peter nor toward others who struggle to have such faith.  Peter’s statement (like a question) seemed hopeful, innocent and not accusatory.

Hebrews 11:6 teaches us that an element of faith is the hope, even expectation, of a reward.  “And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him.”

I have written about my struggles to have such faith, particularly in the face of financial struggles, in “Gold Mining” which is one of the “tags” at the top of my web site.  Here is one of my letters a/k/a “Gold Mines”.  It is also a good reminder and encouragement for me today, and I pray that it will also encourage you. 

August 21, 1992

Harry:

I am still struggling financially.  This is a hard fight.  “God give me faith”: I pray.  The Lord must think that I can bear a lot and have a lot of faith. I think it is more than I can stand through the flesh, but I trust God for strength.

My daily devotion today covered the book of Ruth.  God particularly gave me Ruth 2:12: ” ‘May the LORD reward your work, and your wages be full from the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to seek refuge.’ ”

What struck me was the focus on the LORD:

1. “the LORD reward your work”

2. “your wages be full from the LORD“

3. “the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to seek refuge”.

The LORD is able to make me stand.  He has helped me in the past and delivered me.  He can do it now.  He can do it later, even when I think it is too late.  But He will rescue me.  Psalm 91:15.

     Bill