Finding Comfort in the Darkest of Times
Depression and anxiety can be overwhelming, making it difficult to find hope and comfort. However, as 17th-century pastor Richard Baxter so wisely advised, there is always a way forward, even in the darkest of times.
Understanding God’s Goodness
It is essential to remember that our thoughts about God’s infinite goodness should be proportionate to our thoughts about His infinite power and wisdom. This means that we must trust that God has provided a sufficient Savior in Christ, who has made a complete satisfaction for our sins. No sinner will perish due to a lack of pardon or salvation, only those who obstinately refuse Christ and life.
The Covenant of Grace
The covenant of grace is an act of self-sacrifice, where Christ gives Himself with pardon and salvation to all who will penitently and believingly accept the offer. Those who consent to this covenant have true, saving faith, and a right to the blessing of the covenant. The day of grace is coextensive with our lifetime, meaning that whoever truly repents and consents to the covenant before death is certainly pardoned and in a state of life.
Satan’s Temptations and Our Sins
It is crucial to understand that Satan’s temptations are not our sins; it is only our yielding to temptation that is sin. Additionally, the effects of natural sickness or disease are not, in and of themselves, sins. We must also recognize that the smallest sins, those we are most unwilling to commit and least love or enjoy, are less likely to condemn us.
True Repentance and Sanctification
True repentance means that we would rather leave and be delivered from our sins than keep them. This is demonstrated by a genuine desire to be perfect in holiness of heart and life, loving God, and living by faith. Those who possess this desire may know that they are elect, and that their calling is sure.
Making Our Calling Sure
Consenting to the holy covenant is how we make our calling sure, and subsequently, our election sure. However, we must remember that what is a great duty to some may be no duty at all to another who is unable to do it due to physical illness or other limitations.
Practical Wisdom from Richard Baxter
Richard Baxter’s wise and gentle advice offers comfort and strength to those struggling with depression and anxiety. As a prolific author and influential pastor, his words continue to provide hope and guidance to those navigating the darkest of times.
Hope in the Midst of Struggle
Depression and anxiety can be fiery trials, but God hears the cry of the afflicted. He offers hope and eternal perspective in the midst of our struggles. Even in the most difficult seasons, God has a purpose, and He provides a way forward, even when all seems lost.
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