I have long enjoyed J.C. Ryle’s “Expository Thoughts on the Gospels.” These are a series of books that have a brief (usually 2-3 page) devotion related to a passage of the Gospels, moving through each book in sequential order, day by day. Being a Victorian-era British preacher, Ryle has a way with words that I find memorable and insightful, which I wish to share a snippet of today.
Writing about Christ’s prayer in the garden of Gethsemane (Mark 14:32-43):
“The first person to whom we should turn in our trouble is God. The first complaint we should make should be in the form of a prayer. The reply may not be given immediately. The relief we want may not be granted at once. The thing that tries us may never be removed and taken away. But the mere act of pouring out our hearts, and unbosoming ourselves at a throne of grace will do us good.”
Ryle, Expository Thoughts on Mark, p.250
Where are your “complaints” directed first? To the Lord? Or to others? How might your faith grow if you would look to – and trust – the Lord first and foremost?
