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  SOLDIERS, STRANGERS, TRAVELERS, PILGRIMS
  by Thomas Brooks
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Summary: As Christians, we must learn to be content with what we have,
trusting that God will provide for our needs and meet us in our journey.

Topics: "Trust in God", "Contentment"
Scripture References: Genesis 28:20, Philippians 4:11, Hebrews 10:34, Hebrews 13:5

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Thomas Brooks emphasizes the importance of contentment in the life of a
Christian, even in times of hardship and loss, as illustrated by the
believing Hebrews who faced plunder. He reminds believers that their
identity as soldiers, strangers, travelers, and pilgrims calls for a
reliance on God rather than material possessions. Brooks highlights that
true contentment comes from grace, which thrives on less, contrasting it
with the insatiable desires of those ruled by their lusts. He draws
parallels from the Israelites' experience in the wilderness and Jacob's
humble request for basic needs, underscoring that God provides enough
for those who trust in Him.

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CONTENT
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"Keep your lives free from the love of money and

be content with what you have, because God has

said--Never will I leave you; never will I forsake

you." Hebrews 13:5

The believing Hebrews had been plundered of all they

had in this world, Heb. 10:34, when the apostle gave

forth this royal command; and yet the apostle requires

them to be content. It is as much the duty of a Christian

to be content when he has nothing, as when all the world

smiles upon him.

Christians are soldiers, strangers, travelers, pilgrims;

and therefore it concerns them to make do with little things,

yes, with anything in this world.

Nature is content with a little, grace with less; though nothing

will satisfy those men's hearts, whose lusts are their masters.

The Israelites had no mirthful clothes, nor no new clothes

in their wilderness condition; but God made their old clothes

to be all clothes to them, and that was enough.

Jacob did not ask God for dainties or ornaments--but for food

and clothing. Gen. 28:20, "Then Jacob made a vow, saying,

If God will be with me and will watch over me on this journey

I am taking and will give me food to eat and clothes to wear,

then shall the Lord be my God."

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/thomas-brooks/soldiers-strangers-travelers-pilgrims/
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