Soldiers, Strangers, Travelers, Pilgrims
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.
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.
Text
"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."
Sermon Outline
- Christians are Soldiers
- Christians are Strangers
- Christians are Travelers
- Christians are Pilgrims
- Pilgrims are on a journey to a better place
- They must be content with their circumstances
Key Quotes
“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.” — Thomas Brooks
“Christians are soldiers, strangers, travelers, pilgrims;” — Thomas Brooks
“Nature is content with a little, grace with less;” — Thomas Brooks
Application Points
- Recognize that God is your provider and trust Him to meet your needs.
- Cultivate contentment by focusing on God's provision and promises.
- Let go of the love of money and be satisfied with what you have.