The Anatomy of God-Centered Resolutions

It is difficult to be a young man in this world. The Word of God addresses young men in some very specific ways:

Indeed, it is difficult to be a young man in our world. I’m so grateful that the Word of God addresses our need. As such, it does not leave young men dangling. Rather, it addresses them directly.

This chapter focuses on the anatomy of God-centered resolutions. In ordered to understand this important topic, we must wrestle with the dilemma and the determination.

THE DILEMMA (Psalm 119:9)

… for the intention of man’s heart is evil from his youth. Neither will I ever again strike down every living creature as I have done. (Gen. 8:21)

Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted. (Isa. 40:30)

So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart. (2 Tim. 2:22)

Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body. Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body. (1 Cor. 6:18–20)

A Key Question

How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word. (Ps. 119:9).

There are at least seven reasons why the psalmist sets his sights on young men (a Hebrew term that points to “a man in his days of adolescence.”

First, young men are vulnerable. Research reveals that one in seven young men aged 16 – 24 experience depression or anxiety each year. The simple fact is that young men are at risk in our world – personally, emotionally, sexually, and spiritually.

Second, young men struggle with discipline. Is it any wonder that the apostle Paul addressed the matter of discipline with the young man, Timothy: “But have nothing to do with worldly fables fit only for old women. On the other hand, discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness” (1 Tim. 4:7, NASB95). Many challenges that young men face stem from a lack of proper discipline.

Third, young men struggle with direction. Ask a young man sometime, “Where you do see yourself in ten years? In most cases, you will be met with blank stares and groans. If you are a young man reading this and have an idea of your future path, good for you. Keep growing in grace. Keep trusting the Lord. Commit your way to him God and bank on his sovereign purposes for your life. But know this, many young men struggle with direction.

Fourth, young men struggle with authority. Whether it is presidents, principals, police officers, or pastors – young men tend to struggle with authority. Why? Because they along with the rest of us have inherited Adam’s sin nature:

“Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned—” (Romans 5:12)

The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it? (Jer. 17:9)

There is no other way to state the obvious: Young men struggle with submitting to authority structures in their lives.

Fifth, young men struggle with worldliness. C.J. Mahaney’s words ring true for all people, but hit closest to home with young men:

Worldliness, then, is a love for this fallen world. It’s loving the values and pursuits of the world that stand opposed to God … It is to gratify and exalt oneself to the exclusion of God. It rejects God’s rule and replaces it with our own. It exalts our opinions above God’s truth. It elevates our sinful desires for the things of this fallen world above God’s commands and promises.1

So the psalmist’s question is of utmost importance:

How can a young man keep his way pure? (Ps. 119:9a)

Way refers to our “course of conduct” or the general pattern of our lives. The psalmist highlights the importance of this term in the first chapter of Psalms:

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers. The wicked are not so, but are like chaff that the wind drives away. Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous; for the LORD knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish. (Ps. 1:1–6)

Pure means “to keep free from immorality or sin.” The Bible is clear about steering clear from worldliness. The apostle John writes, “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him” (1 John 2:15).

The world (kósmos) is that system which is diametrically opposed to God, his Word, and his kingdom:

You adulterous people! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God. (Jas. 4:4)

The kósmos is that system that is perverted to the core:

Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, (Phil. 2:14–15)

The kósmos is that system that is evil and opposed to Christ:

The world cannot hate you, but it hates me because I testify about it that its works are evil. (John 7:7)

The kósmos is that system that aggressively promotes godlessness:

See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ. (Col. 2:8)

The kósmos is that system that is fleeting and fatal:

but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches and the desires for other things enter in and choke the word, and it proves unfruitful. (Mark 4:19)

Mark the word sumpnigō, translated as “choke” in Mark 4:19. It means “to obstruct one’s throat and to deprive a person of air.” That’s exactly what the worldly system does to unsuspecting young men.

Sixth, young men struggle with developing robust theological convictions. Why is it so difficult to develop theological conviction in a postmodern world? Because the zeitgeist (the spirit of the age) is either whispering in young men’s ears or shouting in their faces. The zeitgeist whispers, “No one believes the Bible anymore. Rational people don’t believe in talking snakes or a suffering Messiah.” But the zeitgeist also shouts, “Only fools believe the Bible.” I have interacted personally with young pastors who only give lip-service to the Bible. When it comes to submitting to the authority of God’s Word, these progressive-minded pastors fall short.

Seventh, young men struggle with pride. In his classic work, Thoughts for Young Men, a book that every man needs to read with their sons, J.C. Ryle remarks, “Pride sits sin all our hearts by nature. We are born proud. Pride makes us rest content with ourselves – think we are good enough as we are – keep us from taking advice – refuse the gospel of Christ – turn everyone to his own way. But pride never reigns anywhere so powerfully as in the heart of a young man.”2

Why does the psalmist focus his attention on young men? Because they are vulnerable. They struggle with discipline and direction. They struggle submitting to authority. They battle with worldliness. They have difficulty formulating robust theological convictions. And they struggle mightily with pride.

Now if you’re reading this as a young woman, an older man, or an older woman, you’re feeling pretty good right now! But here is the hard reality. These are all struggles that people experience in a fallen world. I believe the psalmist sets his sights on young men because their struggle is so pronounced. For example, what comes into your mind when you think about a hungry newborn baby? A normal baby will cry when he or she goes for a period of time without food. Have you ever gone for an extended period of time without food? Have you discovered that excessive hunger leads to grumpiness or irritability? Here’s the point:

We all struggle with hunger. In a similar way, each of us wrestle with things unique to young men.

Ever since Adam plunged the human race on the path of sin, it has been difficult to be a young man in this world. If it is difficult to be a young man in a sin-stained world, it follows that it is a battle to be a follower of Christ in any generation.

A Pointed Answer

“How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word.” (Psalm 119:9, ESV)

Guarding is an important term that means “to keep in a certain state or activity.” The word, of course, refers to Scripture. Therefore, the psalmist is arguing that we need to guard our way according to the Word of God.

The Bible is our highest authority. “When God communicates information,” writes John Frame, “we are obligated to believe it. When he tells us to do something, we are obligated to obey.”3 Tragically, many professing Christians maintain their “so-called” right to pick and choose what they believe and obey. But the Bible establishes the guidelines and ground rules for living: “And now, Israel, what does the LORD your God require of you, but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to keep the commandments and statutes of the LORD, which I am commanding you today for your good?” (Deut. 10:12–13).

The Bible provides the side boards for our lives:

  • The Bible tells us how to respond to temptation.
  • The Bible gives us a framework for marriage.
  • The Bible establishes a pattern for authority and submission.
  • The Bible reveals God’s will for our lives.
  • The Bible tells us about life, death, and everything in between.
  • The Bible instructs us how to battle sin.
  • The Bible tells us how to live a holy life.
  • The Bible shows us there is only one way to be in right relationship with God – through his Son, the Lord Jesus Christ.

Since God’s Word is our highest authority, we are obligated to obey the Bible. John Frame reminds us, “When God speaks, our role is to believe, obey, delight, repent, mourn – whatever he wants us to do. Our response should be without reservation, from the heart.”4 Can you hear the rebellious responses from progressive pastors and Christians? Can you hear the excuses that add up among the compromised?

Are you guarding your way by the Word of God as the psalmist counsels? Or have you fallen victim to the spirit of the age? Is your life governed by the Word of God or are you following the marching orders of the worldly system?

We have wrestled with the dilemma in verse 9. Look next at the determination in verses 10-16.

THE DETERMINATION (Psalm 119:10-16)

When Jonathan Edwards was a newly converted Christian in his late teens, he penned seventy resolutions, that helped establish a God-centered focus in his Christian pilgrimage. In verses 10-16, the psalmist proceeds to show how the Word of God will govern his life.

The Formation of God-Centered Resolutions

Godly Pursuits

With my whole heart I seek you; let me not wander from your commandments! (Psalm 119:10)

The Hebrew term translated seek means “to pursue something a person desires.” Notice that the psalmist is all in. “With my whole heart I seek you.” Every fiber of his being (thoughts, will, mind, and knowledge) is consumed with God. His urgent desire is that he would never wander from God’s commands. His heart’s desire is to be governed by the Word of God.

Godly Discipline

I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. (Ps. 119:11)

The apostle Paul echoed the sentiment of the psalmist in his letter to the young pastor, Timothy: “But have nothing to do with worldly fables fit only for old women. On the other hand, discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness.” (1 Timothy 4:7, NASB95). A critical lesson to learn for every follower of Christ is this: There is no godliness apart from discipline.

There are two motivations for a disciplined Christ-follower in Psalm 119:11. First, treasure. The word store could be translated as “treasured.” It means to be regraded as “highly valued.”

  • I have treasured your word in my heart so that I may not sin against you. (Psalm 119:11, CSB)

The second word is triumph. The psalmist writes, “I have treasured your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.” I would consider THAT a triumph; a mighty victory as the psalmist makes discipline a regular part of his Christian journey. Brian Borgman adds, “To keep our life pure according to God’s Word, we must seek God in his Word and store his Word up in our hearts. The Word is ammunition; providing threats and promises to keep us from sinning. The Word shapes our minds and our life. It is the great antidote to sinning against God.”5

How can we be disciplined?

  • We discipline ourselves to read the Word of God.
  • We discipline ourselves to meditate on the Word of God.
  • We discipline ourselves to memorize the Word of God.

Godly discipline, then, is a critical resolution in the life of a God-follower.

Godly Learning

Blessed are you, O LORD; teach me your statutes! (Ps. 119:12)

The cry of the psalmist’s heart is for God to teach him his statutes. Teach means “to impart skills or knowledge.” Please understand that downplaying or demeaning knowledge in the Christian life is not only foolish; it is antithetical to Scripture. A disciple of Jesus Christ is a learner by definition.

  • Do you consider yourself a lifelong learner?
  • Do you have a passion to learn everything you can about God and his Word?
  • Do you delight in opening the Bible and learn about God’s law?

Godly Declaration

With my lips I declare all the rules of your mouth. (Psalm 119:13)

The psalmist makes this resolution:

  • I will tell the truth, no matter the cost.
  • I will tell the nations about Jesus.
  • I will declare the truth of God’s Word!

Godly Affections

In the way of your testimonies I delight as much as in all riches. (Ps. 119:14)

The Hebrew word translated as delight means “to take a high degree of pleasure in something,” in this case, pleasure in the Word of God. Is the Word of God your highest treasure?

Godly Contemplation

I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways. (Ps. 119:15)

The psalmist’s contemplation is fixed squarely on the Word of God. Nothing can deter him. Nothing can move his gaze from the beauty of God’s Word. Jonathan Edwards understood the necessity and the power of godly contemplation:

Resolution 28: Resolved, to study the Scriptures so steadily, constantly, and frequently that I may find, and plainly perceive myself to grow in the knowledge of them.6

Godly Trajectory

I will delight in your statutes; I will not forget your word. (Ps. 119:16)

Once again, the psalmist rehearses his love for the Word of God as he delights in God’s statutes. But notice the godly trajectory that he hammers into the foundation of his life. He purposes to never forget God’s Word. Scripture is etched into his memory and embedded into his heart.

Adrian Rogers led the Southern Baptist Convention to reaffirm without apology the infallibility, inerrancy, and sufficiency of God’s Word. An attorney who represented a liberal group in the SBC told Rogers, “If you don’t compromise, we’ll never get together.” Pastor Roger’s reply is inspiring: “I’m willing to compromise about many things, but not the Word of God. So far as getting together is concerned, we don’t have to get together. The Southern Baptist Convention, as it is, does not have to survive. I don’t have to be the pastor of Bellevue Baptist Church. I don’t have to be loved; I don’t even have to live. But I will not compromise the Word of God.”7

Soul-Food For Weary Saints

We have uncovered the dilemma: How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word. We have also discovered the psalmists determination in a world that is hostile to historic Christianity. His determination involves the formation of God-centered resolutions that will hold strong in times of trouble. What is your determination? What are your God-centered resolutions?

Our hearts are never neutral. We are always worshiping. We are either worshipping the Lord Jesus Christ or we are worshipping lesser things. Jonathan Edwards says, “But the saints (and angels) do behold the glory of God consisting in the beauty of his holiness; and ’tis this sight only, that will melt and humble the hearts of men, and wean them from the world, and draw them to God, and effectually change them.”8

  1. C. J. Mahaney, ed.Worldliness: Resisting the Seduction of a Fallen World (Wheaton: Crossway Books, 2008), 27. ↩
  2. J. C. Ryle, Thoughts for Young Men (Cedar Lake: Waymark Books, 2018), 22. ↩
  3. John M. Frame, The Doctrine of the Word of God (Phillipsburg: P&R Publishing, 2010), 5. ↩
  4. Frame, The Doctrine of the Word of God, 4. ↩
  5. Borgman, An Exile’s Guide to Walking with God, 46. ↩
  6. Stephen J. Nichols, ed. Jonathan Edwards’ Resolutions and Advice to Young Converts (Phillipsburg: P&R Publishing, 2001), 20. ↩
  7. Cited in Daniel L. Akin, Christ-Centered Exposition: Exalting Jesus in Psalm 119 (Nashville: B&H Publishing Group, 2021), 10-11. ↩
  8. The Works of Jonathan Edwards, vol. 2, Religious Affections, ed. John E. Smith (New Haven: Yale University Press, 1959), 264. ↩

Recovering Biblical Manhood and Womanhood – John Piper and Wayne Grudem, Ed.

John Piper and Wayne Grudem, ed. Recovering Biblical Manhood and Womanhood: A Response to Evangelical Feminism

One of the most hotly debated matters in the church concerns the roles of men and women. The battle lines have been drawn and neither side appears willing to concede ground. In 1991, John Piper and Wayne Grudem edited a large volume entitled, Recovering Biblical Manhood & Womanhood: A Response to Evangelical Feminism. The book received the 1993 Christiantiy Today book of the year. That award carries a degree of irony with it since the heralded magazine founded by Billy Graham in 1956. Graham’s vision was to establish a magazine that would be “a flag to follow for believers who did not feel at home in progressive mainline congregations or in reactionary fundamentalist settings.” Fast-forward almost 70 years. The conservative“flag” is waving no longer at CT.

In 2021, Crossway Books published a revised edition of Recovering Biblical Manhood and Womanhood that includes some minor changes. None of the changes detract from the book’s original purpose, which is to respond graciously and forcefully to evangelical feminism, a movement that is growing at a breakneck pace. It is no small understatement to suggest that this book is needed more than ever.

The book is comprised of six sections:

Section 1: Vision and Overview

Section one of the most general in nature but includes some of the post powerful material in the book. Drs. John Piper and Wayne Grudem joins forces to present a vision of biblical complementarity and offer a helpful list of questions and answers. The authors clearly lay out the case for complementarianism. Piper in particular establishes the necessary trajectory at the outset:

At the heart of mature masculinity is a sense of benevolent responsibility to lead, provide for and protect women in ways appropriate to man’s differing relationships.

At the heart of mature femininity is a freeing disposition to affirm, receive and nurture strength and leadership from worthy men in ways appropriate to a woman’s differing relationships.

Section 2: Exegetical and Theological Studies

Section two explores the essence of the controversy as seasoned theologians tackle thorny questions that pertain to the role of men and women. No stone is left unturned in this section. Each chapter is well-written and helps build the case for complementarianism.

Section 3: Studies From Related Disciplines

Section three focuses on matters that pertain to church history, biology, sociology, and legal matters. While pertinent to the subject matter, this section was the least helpful for me, personally.

Section 4: Applications and Implications

Section four addresses matters of practical importance, such as:

  • The family and the church
  • Principles to use in establishing women in ministry
  • Fathers
  • Femininity

Section 5: Conclusion

John Piper and Wayne Grudem pen the closing chapter that ends on a high and hopeful note but at the same time responds to egalitarian arguments.

In a subsequent book, Wayne Grudem argues that evangelical feminism “has become the new path by which evangelicals are being drawn into theological liberalism.” (Evangelical Feminism, 15). Grudem’s contention, while unpopular among feminists and liberals alike, is on target and reaffirms the importance of Recovering Biblical Manhood & Womanhood.

The church owes a debt of gratitude to John Piper and Wayne Grudem for assembling such a stellar team of scholars to tackle one of the most important topics of our times.

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.

Be Killing Sin

Don’t miss this special sale on the Kindle version of Be Killing Sin. Now only $2.99!

Endorsements

“Be Killing Sin is a heart-penetrating read and profitable for both new and seasoned believers who sincerely desire to be exhorted regarding the danger of personal sin and educated in the biblical means of defeating sin in their lives. I highly recommend Dr. Steele’s uncompromising and practical book on this much-needed topic!”

STEVE BALVANZ, Senior Pastor, Spring Creek Bible Church

“I was discipled as a young Christian under the ministry of David Steele. For years, I witnessed his life and sat under his faithful preaching and teaching. I know no man who is more well-read, self-disciplined, or biblically and theologically astute. For decades, one of Pastor Dave’s specialties has been apologetics and engagement with cultural issues, teaching followers of Jesus to be discerning, “think Christianly,” and live for the glory of God in all that they do. So, what you’ll receive in Be Killing Sin is guidance that is as biblically grounded as it gets, and which speaks practically to the issues of sin in our culture and in our hearts. If you need help in the fight against sin (and we all do), take up and read!”

– BROCK EWING, Senior Pastor, Homestead Country Gathering, La Grande, OR

“Dr. David Steele’s book, Be Killing Sin, is an excellent reminder of how every believer ought to live the Christian life on a daily basis. Pastor David provides a strategic blueprint for “fighting the good fight of faith,” while standing against the world, the flesh, and the devil with God’s armor in place. In addition to the clear biblical teaching that permeates this book, David also provides a treasure chest of valuable quotes, references, and biblical truths that you will want to access time and again. I highly recommend that you add this book to your library and read it repeatedly to fortify your soul against the temptations and struggles we all have with sin.”

– BRUCE PARKER, Pastor Emeritus, Faith Bible Church, Hood River, OR

“If you talk about sin in our day, you might get some interesting stares from people, even in the Church. Even in the Church today, a large segment thinks sin is a dirty word, and they believe that perhaps we should do away with it. The only problem is if you do away with sin or even talk about it, you do away with the reason Christ came, bled, died, and rose again. If you minimize sin, you minimize the glory of the grace of God. If you live however you want, you minimize the glory of Christ and the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit who resides in every Christian. If you think you can live however you want or that there are no differences between a man and a woman, you undermine the clear teaching of Scripture. Understanding sin in our day is vital to rightly understand the prescribed medicine in the finished and sufficient work of the Lord Jesus. A surgeon doesn’t deal only with some of the symptoms; he aims to get to the heart of the problem and deal with the issue so the patient is helped and can recover appropriately. With the skill of a surgeon, from the hand of a seasoned pastor- teacher of God’s Word, and the mind of a scholar, David Steele has gifted the Church with a magnificent and needed book in Be Killing Sin: The Art of War on the Battlefield of Faith. Whether you think sin is a “little matter” or a grave matter, this book is needed in a day that devalues sin and focuses on psychological aspects of our humanity, which causes us to look first to ourselves, or worse, to find a cure that isn’t possible outside of Christ. Wherever you are on that spectrum, I encourage you to read this book, to be taught from Scripture about sin, the glory of Christ, and how putting on Christ in all of life is not some part of the Christian life; it is the whole of the Christian life because of our union with Christ.

– DAVE JENKINS, Executive Director, Servants of Grace Ministries, Executive Director, Theology for Life Magazine, Host, Equipping You in Grace, Author, The Word Explored and the Word Matters

DEATH AND JUDGMENT – Jonathan Edwards (1752)

Jonathan_Edwards_engraving“All men of all nations all over the world must die,” writes Jonathan Edwards.  He strikes an immediate chord as he preaches the Word of God to the Stockbridge Indians in March 1752.  Edwards not only appeals to commonsense experience; he appeals to his text, Hebrews 9:27.

Doctrine

After death comes the judgment: when men die, they go to appear before God to be judged.

Edwards makes it clear that God will call all men to account as the text indicates: “God is a just and righteous and holy God; and therefore, there certainly is another world where God will do right and will make good men happy, and will destroy the wicked … He will [hold] them to an account that have heard the gospel preached; [he will ask] whether or no they have repented of their sins and have in their hearts accepted of Jesus Christ as their Savior.”

The postmodern notion of annihilation is the farthest thing for Edwards mind: “And when men are thrown into that fire, there they must be forever and ever. They must never come out any more; they shall never die. The fire will torment ’em and [they] will always be all over full of pain, and they will wish for death, but shall never die.”

Those who turn to Christ, on the other hand, will go to heaven: “There they shall live in a world of light and happiness with God and Jesus Christ.”

Application

Having established the doctrine, Edwards immediately turns to its application.  There is no transition to speak of. He urges the indians to trust in Christ for their eternal salvation: “Now, therefore, this is the counsel I give you: receive instruction, forsake all your sins, and turn from sin to God.”

There is a strong emphasis on repentance here that is missing from the modern pulpit: “And you must repent and be sorry for your sins … God is willing to save sinners no other way than by Christ. You must pray to God to take away your wicked hearts and give you new hearts that you may have clean hearts … Make haste; don’t put off religion, but now  – without delay – forsake your sins and turn to God.”

The Steadfast Love of the Lord – Sam Storms

Sam Storms, The Steadfast Love of the Lord (Wheaton: Crossway Books, 2024), 226 pp.

Every person needs to love and be loved. Yet, most people struggle with both. The Steadfast Love of the Lord: Experiencing the Life-Changing Power of God’s Unchanging Affection by Sam Storms is a powerful book that explores God’s commitment to his people.

Storms carefully unpacks the meaning of God’s love in a way that draws the attention of readers and awakens them to the reality of this important attribute. The book is personal and practical. But even more, the book is biblical. Storms relentlessly pursues the biblical text and invites readers to embrace God’s revelation and receive his love.

“God’s love for you,” writes Storms, “is so infinitely intense and steadfast that he quite literally sings for joy. His affection is so deep that mere words prove paltry and inadequate. His devotion is so profoundly intimate that he bursts forth in sacred song.”

It is impossible to read The Steadfast Love of God without being gripped by this great reality and captivated by the God who rejoices over his people!

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.

Daily Liturgy Devotional – Douglas Sean O’Donnell

Douglas Sean O’Donnell, Daily Liturgy Devotional: 40 Days of Worship and Prayer (Wheaton: Crossway Books, 2024), 255 pp.

The Daily Liturgy Devotional: 40 Days of Worship and Prayer by Sean O’Donnell is a tool for our times. The book contains 40 days of material to meditate upon and lead worshippers into the throne room of the living God.

The book organizes itself around eight themes: The Gospel, Faith, Love, Hope, Wisdom, Holiness, Perseverance, and Witness. Each theme contains five readings that follow a similar pattern, including adoration, confession, thanksgiving, supplication, prayer of illumination, Scripture reading, concise commentary, prayer prompt, memory verse, and hymn.

The author draws from resources in Scripture and church history, all of which point the reader to the Lord Jesus Christ. The predictable pattern, which may annoy some, is actually instructive and helps promote continuity in prayer.

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.

When Character Was King: A Story of Ronald Reagan – Peggy Noonan (2001)

A number of years ago, I began devouring books about my favorite president.  When Character Was King by Peggy Noonan emerges as one of the most thoughtful and inspiring books about the former president.

Noonan paints a compelling portrait of President Reagan; a portrait that is an exceedingly human portrayal of a man who feared God, loved his country, and cherished freedom. The author writes, “As president, Ronald Reagan believed without question that tyranny is temporary, and the hope of freedom is universal and permanent; that our nation has unique goodness, and must remain uniquely strong; that God takes the side of justice, because all our rights are His own gifts.”

Reagan opposed the godless ideology that held millions of Russians hostage from 1917 to 1991. Lenin said in 1920, “We repudiate all morality that proceeds from supernatural ideas that are outside class conceptions. Morality is entirely subordinate to the interests of class war. Everything is moral that is necessary for the annihilation of the old exploiting social order and for uniting the proletariat.”  In contrast, Reagan knew that virtue and morality are directly related to one’s relationship with God.

A few quotes reveal the man we know as President Reagan:

“We had strayed a great distance from our Founding Fathers’ vision of America.  They regarded the central government’s responsibility as that of providing national security, protecting our democratic freedoms, and limiting the government’s intrusion in our lives – in sum, the protection of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.  They never envisioned vast agencies in Washington telling our farmers what to plant, our teachers what to teach, our industries what to build.”

“Don’t give up your ideals. Don’t compromise. Don’t turn to expediency. And don’t for heaven’s sake, having seen the inner workings of the watch, don’t get cynical.”

“All of these things – learning to control the government, limiting the amount of money it can take from us, protecting our country through a strong defense – all of these things revolve around one word, and that word is ‘freedom.'”

President Reagan was and continues to be a breath of fresh air in an increasingly pessimistic political climate. He was unafraid to stare evil in the face.  He courageously stood for the cause of freedom. Indeed, he was jealous to see the flag of freedom fly in every land. He opposed despotism, communism, and socialism.  He promoted free enterprise. President Reagan refused to capitulate in the face of adversity.

“Dancing” in the Cemetery: A Meditation on the Death of Rush Limbaugh

The news of conservative talk show host, Rush Limbaugh’s death prompted responses around the country. He was affectionately referred to as “the Babe Ruth of talk radio.” Sean Hannity said, “He was an innovator. He was a pioneer. He was a trailblazer. He was a great patriot.” Mark Levin referred to Limbaugh as “our George Washington.” Brit Hume called Limbaugh “a giant.” Representative Jim Jordan called him “an icon, patriot, an American hero.” And former Speaker of the House, Newt Gingrich referred to Limbaugh’s death as “a tragic moment.” Gingrich added, “He was a wonderful man and one of the greatest heroic figures of the conservative movement.”

But not everyone was so quick to pay homage to the iconic talk show host. One sentence, in particular, caught my attention yesterday. The vitriolic remark that was directed at Limbaugh saddened and angered me. The comment was so inflammatory and mean-spirited, I’ve chosen not to quote it here. It was that bad.

Abusing Liberty

As Americans, we have been granted the gift of the first amendment which gives us the freedom to speak our minds. We have the freedom to disagree. We have the freedom to dissent. We have the freedom to differ with our ideological opponents. Benjamin Franklin said, “Without Freedom of Thought, there can be no such thing as Wisdom; and no such thing as public liberty, without Freedom of Speech.” And so we exercise our first amendment rights, despite the current trend by Progressives to silence free speech. We offer our opinions and should be able to do so without fear of censorship or persecution.

As Christians, however, we have a higher calling than the first amendment. We are called to love our ideological opponents: “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good and sends rain on the just and on the unjust” (Matthew 5:43–45, ESV).

While we are protected by the first amendment in America, we run the risk of abusing our liberty when we zealously heap unfair insults and accusations on our ideological foes. We abuse our liberty when we “dance” on the tombstone of our ideological enemies. Such a path is simply not an option for a follower of Jesus Christ. “Our chief end,” according to the Westminster Confession of Faith is to “glorify God and enjoy him forever.” One of the ways we glorify God is by loving those with whom we disagree.

The Way Forward

Loving our enemies does not necessarily mean we agree with their worldview, support their ideology, or endorse their political convictions. It is entirely possible to actively oppose our opponents but maintain a posture of respect. For example, former Congressman Harold Ford, Jr. made the following comments after receiving word of Limbaugh’s death:

Sometimes I didn’t agree with him, but I admire him for what he was able to get accomplished. I hope Democrats and Republicans alike take what’s most important about him from him, which is don’t forget the betrayed, forgot, and marginalized in our society whatever they may look like. It turned out to behave, vengeful, try to help them. On his best days, that’s what he tried to do.

Ford is not a political conservative. Yet, he is able to show respect to Limbaugh and honor his legacy. The way forward requires clear thinking and hearts that submit to Scripture. Followers of Christ would do well to remember a few critical principles before we set foot in the graveyard of our enemies.

1. Remember that each person is created in the image of God

Genesis 1:27 says, “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.” Since all people are made in God’s image and created to glorify him (Isa. 43:7), they have inherent dignity. Psalm 8:3-5 says, “When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him, and the son of man that you care for him? Yet you have made him a little lower than the heavenly beings and crowned him with glory and honor.” Helmut Thielicke beautifully expresses the truth of mankind’s dignity:

His greatness rests solely on the fact that God in his incomprehensible goodness has bestowed his love upon him. God does not love us because we are so valuable. We are valuable because God loves us … The primary controlling relation that leads to the definition of what is, therefore, the relation to God.1

2. Remember that Christian compassion should undergird our attitudes and actions

Scripture reminds us, “Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony” (Colossians 3:12–14, ESV).

3. Remember that our words will be read by our opponents, family and friends

Each time I read a piece of angry rhetoric directed at Rush Limbaugh, I wonder how these words affect his wife, Kathryn, or members of his family. Perhaps we should stop and think before we utter a series of words that might cause someone else to experience pain, especially someone who is grieving the death of a loved one.

4. Remember that we are accountable for our words

The Word of God reminds us, “I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned” (Matthew 12:36–37, ESV). Ours is a higher calling. Our challenge is to obey God’s divine standard: “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear” (Ephesians 4:29, ESV). J.C. Ryle says, “May we never care what men say of us, so long as we walk in the light of God’s Word. May we strive and pray to be wholly independent of, and indifferent to man’s opinion, so long as we please God.”2

Post-Mortem: A New Perspective

None of this is to suggest that we hide our views or change our convictions. John Adams said, “Let us dare to read, think, speak, and write.” Our first amendment rights give us the freedom to disagree with our opponents. So argue your case. Make your convictions known. Passionately plead your case and proclaim your worldview. Exercise your God-given rights. Disagree with Rush Limbaugh. Make your voice heard. But if you are unable to be respectful with your ideological opponents who are relegated to the graveyard, keep your opinion to yourself. Find somewhere else to “dance.”

  1. Helmut Thielicke, Nihilism (New York: Harper and Row Publishers, 1961), 110-111. ↩
  2. J.C. Ryle, Warnings to the Churches (Edinburgh: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1967), 37. ↩

The Psalms: A Christ-Centered Commentary, vol. 1-4 – Christopher Ash

Christopher Ash, The Psalms: A Christ-Centered Commentary, vol. 1-4 (Wheaton: Crossway Books, 2024), 2,800 pp.

The book of Psalms breathe life into the human soul. The Holy Spirit-inspired pages of the psalter inspire hope, illuminate the mind, warm the affections, convict the heart, and move hands and feet to action. The Psalms: A Christ-Centered Commentary (vol. 1-4) by Christopher Ash is not only his magnum opus; it is a gracious gift to the church. Almost 3,000 pages of commentary are included in this four volume set.

Each chapter corresponds with one of the 150 chapters in the book of Psalms. A predictable pattern develops at the outset which includes an orientation to the material, the text which overviews the basic structure and author and a detailed commentary, and a closing section of reflection and response.

The core of each chapter is the commentary, which includes pertinent observations and interpretative decisions that are biblically driven and informed. The author utilizes the best scholarship and includes citations from a wide range of evangelical theologians and pastors.

What is most striking about Ash’s work is his relentless pursuit of Christ in the text. The hermeneutical strategy is never forced (which is always something I am sensitive to). Rather, the author naturally draws readers to Christ and guides them on a biblical path whose aim is to glorify God in all things. In the end, this work is not only Christocentric; it is an invitation to worship!

I thank God for Christopher Ash’s fine work and trust that he will receive a wide readership and enhance the understanding of Christ-followers around the world.

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.

The Biggest Story Family Devotional

Kevin DeYoung, ed. The Biggest Story Family Devotional (Wheaton: Crossway Books, 2024), 415 pp.

Family worship is heralded as an important aspect of the Christian family. Yet, children are sometimes left behind in a cloud of theological “dust,” as grown-ups wax eloquent and share their deep insight. The Biggest Story Family Devotional is the perfect cure for families looking for a blend of theology, life application, and gospel focused reality.

The Biggest Family Devotional introduces readers to an overview of the Bible which is broken down into seven parts, including:

Part 1: The Pentateuch (Genesis – Deuteronomy)

Part 2: History (Joshua – Esther)

Part 3: Poetry (Job – Song of Solomon)

Part 4: The Prophets (Isaiah – Malachi)

Part 5: The Gospels (Matthew – John)

Part 6: Acts and Epistles (Acts – Jude)

Part 7: Revelation

Each part includes a series of studies that include an overview of the biblical text, short readings, and questions designed for meaningful discussion. The end of every student includes a gospel connection that helps children understand how Jesus fits into the drama of Scripture, redeems his people of their sin, and will one day make all things new!

Also including in each study is a short video that can be accessed using a convenient QR code via cell phone. These videos are professionally produced and are sure to draw the attention of young and old readers alike. My wife showed one video to a group of 6-8-year-olds at church, who were totally captivated and engaged. These children were primed and ready to discuss the biblical passage with great eagerness.

The artwork by Don Clark is absolutely riveting. This gifted artist is being greatly used by God to warm the affections of children as they learn about God’s redemptive purposes.

Soli Deo gloria!

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.