HH, Sir Godfrey Gregg D.Div
“And they have turned unto me the back, and not the face: though I taught them, rising up early and teaching them, yet they have not hearkened to receive instruction.” Jeremiah 32:33
Perhaps I too am guilty of this perversity.
Suppose that I lift and drink the cup of pleasure — I am turning my back on Him. I am preferring the “voluptuous garden roses” of this world — to the “pure lilies of eternal peace.” I am the boy Passion who will have his good things now — and not the boy Patience who tarries for Heaven.
Suppose that I exalt unduly my human loves — I am turning my back on Him. Mine is an affectionate nature, and indeed I do well to rejoice in the friends whose adoption I have tried. But I need the heavenly Father. I need the merciful and faithful High Priest. I need the abiding Holy Spirit.
Suppose that I am dazzled by the glitter of learning — I am turning my back on Him. It is right that I should reach out after the truth that lies beyond me yet. It is right that I should be teachable to the end. I thank God for all the pathways He opens into the wholesome and inspiring culture. But I am groping in the gloom until Jesus is my Sun.
Suppose that I feed myself on theological speculation — I am turning my back on Him. Theories about God will never save and sanctify me. There is no elixir of eternal life here. I must have God Himself. I must have Jesus, in His Person, His Cross, His Throne, and His Spirit. You, O Christ, are all I want!
