I ran across this quote from a great Puritan preacher, John Owen: “On Christ’s glory I would fix all my thoughts and desires, and the more I see of the glory of Christ, the more the painted beauties of this world will wither in my eyes and I will be more and more crucified to this world. It will become to me like something dead and putrid, impossible for me to enjoy.”
As I read the Puritans, I have discovered that (in my mind at least) they had a communion and fellowship in their walk with the Lord that is known by few people today. They speak of a pursuit of holiness and godly living that is missing among most believers in our current age. Their language seems to be of another world, and I suppose that it truly is. When reading their writings, particularly their prayers, they seemed to have an ecstasy that flowed out of the closest walk imaginable.
This prompts an observation that is booth telling and convicting. The observation is this: the Puritans probably didn’t sit around their houses all day with social or entertainment distractions. Yes, I realize they lived long before iPhones, iPads, readers and even television. But they surely had their own temptations to distract them from a singular focus on Christ and becoming like Him. I can’t envision these spiritual giants sitting around shooting the breeze about the latest theatrical performance or checking the newspapers for updates on the games of the day. And I certainly can’t picture them arguing with and berating each other over the latest political news.
No, I think these people knew the secret of setting your minds on things above, not on the things of the earth (Colossians 3:2). Believe me, this is no attempt on my part to point an accusing finger because I have yet to experience the singular focus that was apparent with the Puritans. How I long for it. And I know it requires sacrifice. There are many things I must give up if I am to enjoy the sweetest communion with the Lord of glory. How I long for the things of the world to “wither in my eyes” so that I am “more and more crucified to this world.” In that way, I will be conformed to the image of Christ. That is my goal. It is the goal of every true believer.
I hope this exhortation will encourage you to check your focus. My hope is that your knowledge of the Lord will increase and your fellowship with Him will grow sweeter and sweeter each day. What a joy to be a part of the fellowship of the unashamed and the fellowship of the burning heart. That’s why we study the Word and preach the Word – and that’s why we’re here…..
That You May Know (1 John 5:13)
That You May Know Ministries 