He Strives to Make All as Miserable and Unhappy as Himself
Christians must seek assurance with all their might to counter the efforts of Satan, who strives to keep them miserable and unhappy.
Thomas Brooks emphasizes the vital role of assurance in a Christian's life, portraying it as essential sustenance and protection against the adversities posed by Satan. He illustrates how assurance serves as a remedy for spiritual ailments and a source of strength, while warning that the enemy strives to keep believers from attaining this assurance, seeking to spread misery and unhappiness. Brooks urges Christians to earnestly pursue this assurance, likening it to a precious 'white stone' that brings peace amidst turmoil.
Text
Satan knows that assurance is the Christian's . . .
manna in a wilderness,
water out of a rock,
a cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night.
He knows that assurance is . . .
a salve for all sores,
a medicine for all diseases,
a remedy against every malady.
He knows that assurance is the Christian's . . .
anchor at sea,
shield upon land;
staff to support him,
sword to defend him,
pavilion to hide him,
cordial to cheer him.
And therefore it is that he labors, both as
a lion and as a serpent, to keep poor souls
from a well-grounded assurance.
This son of the morning has fallen from the top
of glory to the bottom of misery, and therefore
he strives to make all as miserable and
unhappy as himself.
Ah! Christians, have not you need to seek assurance
with all your might, who have to do with so mighty
an adversary, who cares not what torments he heaps
upon himself, so that he may prove your tormentor,
by keeping your souls and assurance asunder? Oh that
this very consideration might make you restless, until
you have got this "white stone" in your bosoms!
Sermon Outline
- The Importance of Assurance
- Assurance as a source of strength
- Assurance as a remedy for spiritual diseases
Key Quotes
“Assurance is the Christian's manna in a wilderness, water out of a rock, a cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night.” — Thomas Brooks
“This son of the morning has fallen from the top of glory to the bottom of misery, and therefore he strives to make all as miserable and unhappy as himself.” — Thomas Brooks
Application Points
- Christians should be mindful of the powerful adversary they face and seek assurance with all their might.
- Assurance is a source of strength and comfort that can help Christians navigate times of adversity.
- Satan's goal is to torment and afflict Christians, but they can resist this by seeking a well-grounded assurance.