Psalm of the Day: Psalm 107:16-31
Wisdom for the Day: Job 27:1-12
Scripture Reading: Luke 8:49-56
Let us notice how universal is the dominion which death holds over mankind. We see death coming to a rich man's house, and tearing from him the desire of his eyes with a stroke! Such tidings as these, are the bitterest cups which we have to drink in this world. Nothing cuts so deeply into man's heart as to part with beloved ones, and lay them in the grave. Few griefs are so crushing and heavy as the grief of a parent over the death of an only child.
Death is indeed a cruel enemy! He makes no distinction in his attacks. He comes to the rich man's mansion as well as to the poor man's cottage. He does not spare the young, the strong, and the beautiful any more than the old, the infirm, and the grey-haired. Nothing can keep the hand of death from our bodies, in the day of his power.
These thoughts are depressing, and few like to hear of them. The subject of death is one that men shut their eyes at, and refuse to look at. "All men think all men mortal, but themselves!" But why should we treat this great reality in this way? Why should we not rather look the subject of death in the face, in order that when our turn comes we may be prepared to die? Death will come to our houses, whether we like it or not. Death will take each of us away despite our dislike to hearing about it. Surely it is the part of a wise man to get ready for this great change. Why should we not be ready? There is one who can deliver us from the fear of death. Christ has overcome death, and "brought life and immortality to light through the Gospel." He who believes on Him, has everlasting life. Though he dies yet shall he live.
Let us believe in the Lord Jesus and then death will lose his sting. We shall then be able to say with Paul, "To me, to die is gain!" (Philippians 1:2)
Prayer for the Day: Dear Lord, help me to be ready to stand in your presence and give you an account of my life.
Action Plan: Are you ready to meet God? Why or why not? What do you need to set in order right now in case your day to exit this earth is today?
This devotional was taken from The Gospel of Luke by J.C. Ryle published in 1858
and adapted by Pastor Tim Lewis of New England Shores Baptist Church.
