"NOW IT IS THE LORD"

Is it possible to become so enamored of God’s good gifts that we fail to worship Him, the Giver? Invited to preach in a Bible conference in England, Dr. Albert B. Simpson, the founder of The Christian and Missionary Alliance, discovered on his arrival that he was to follow two other Bible teachers. All three had been given the same topic: “Sanctification.” From the pulpit, the first speaker made clear his position that sanctification means eradication—the old carnal nature is removed.

The second, a suppressionist, advised: “Sit on the lid and keep the old nature down!” Dr. Simpson in his turn quietly told his audience that he could only present Jesus Christ Himself as God’s answer. “Jesus Christ is your Sanctifier, your all and in all! God wants you to get your eyes away from the gifts. He wants your gaze to be on the Giver—Christ Himself,” he said. This is a wonderful word for those who would worship rightly: Once it was the blessing; now it is the Lord!

verse

In Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us . . . sanctification.

— 1 Corinthians 1:30

thought

“Jesus Christ is your Sanctifier, your all and in all! God wants you to get your eyes away from the gifts. He wants your gaze to be on the Giver—Christ Himself.”

prayer

Lord, be my vision and my focus. You are the giver of all good gifts, and I worship You today.