August 29
Bible Reading: Acts 14:19-23
Acts 14:22, “…saying that through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.”
This verse brings to mind John Bunyan’s classic allegory, Pilgrim’s Progress—one of the most read books of all time. The book tells the story of Christian’s journey from the City of Destruction to the Celestial City. A journey in which he faced many spiritual trials and challenges, including despair, temptation, persecution, and fear. Christian ultimately overcomes them all and is brought safely to his destination. Charles Spurgeon loved the book, saying: “Next to the Bible, the book I value most is John Bunyan’s Pilgrim’s Progress. I believe I have read it through at least a hundred times. It is a volume of which I never seem to tire; and the secret of its freshness is that it is so largely compiled from the Scriptures.”
John Bunyan was greatly influenced by his own trials in the writing of his book. As a young adult, before coming to faith in Christ, he experienced intense spiritual turmoil in his struggle with his own sin burden. Later, as a lay Baptist preacher, authorities imprisoned him for 12 years for preaching without a license and refusing to stop holding church meetings. During his imprisonment, he suffered immensely from separation from his family, particularly his blind daughter, who he loved dearly. Bunyan’s wife, Mary, died in 1656, leaving him with four young children, including his blind daughter. His second wife had to manage and care for the children during his long imprisonment. Even after his release, Bunyan continued his preaching and writing under the threat of re-arrest and fines. His life and his allegory speak to the true nature of the calling of every Christian.
Paul wasn’t declaring something new when he said, “through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God,” for Jesus had said the same (John 15:20, 16:33). Peter explained to his persecuted readers they should not be surprised by suffering (1 Peter 4:12). We are all called to follow in Jesus’ steps, and His path is one filled with troubles (1 Peter 2:21). But it leads to a place where there will be no more sin or pain or sorrow or death or troubles of any kind.
“God has never promised that we would miss the storm, but He has promised that we would make the harbor!”
AS WE SAIL TO HEAVEN’S SHORE
Storms may rise on seas unknown
While we journey towards our home
Surely we’ll learn what grace is for
As we sail to heaven’s shore.
Send us strength, oh, Pilgrim Guide
Sin would drown us in its tide
Be close at hand and go before
As we sail to heaven’s shore
Holy Spirit, lead us on
Give us courage, bring the song
Lord, we trust Your Father’s care
Will convey us safely there
Open or seal off every door
As we sail to heaven’s shore
Straighten our course with every prayer
Let heaven’s breezes speed us there
And grant us mercy evermore
As we sail to heaven’s shore
Draw us near, oh, finest Friend
From dawn’s light to evening’s end
Each passing day, we love You more
As we sail to heaven’s shore
As we sail to heaven’s shore.
Artist: Steve Green; Songwriters: Greg Nelson, Phill Mchugh.
LookingtoJesus 