When John Chrysostom was brought before the empress Eudoxia, she threatened him with banishment if he insisted on his Christian independence as a preacher.
“You cannot banish me, for this world is my Father’s house.”
“But I will kill you,” said the empress.
“No, you cannot, for my life is hid with Christ in God,” said John.
“I will take away your treasures.”
“No, you cannot, for my treasure is in heaven and my heart is there.”
“But I will drive you away from your friends and you will have no one left.”
“No, you cannot, for I have a friend in heaven from whom you cannot separate me. I defy you, for there is nothing you can do to harm me.”
(summarized by Ray Ortlund)
John Chrysostom standing firm on the promises of God revealed in Scripture … may you and I do the same.
Bernie
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About bwebbjr
A grandfather, father, husband, man, child of God who is following Christ Jesus and working out his salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who is at work in me, both to will and to work for His good pleasure (Philippians 2:12-13) Member @12Stone Church Flowery Branch.
In August 2011, in the midst of a colectomy surgery it was discovered and later confirmed that I had Stage IV metastatic colon cancer. The colectomy surgery instead became a colostomy surgery, which now means the colostomy bag is a part of my everyday life ... with the emphasis on life. God has given us a peace beyond understanding as my wife and I enter into this new stage of our life together. On September 26 I went through my first chemotherapy treatment.
As a result, the subject matter and tone of this blog has changed a bit from its inception just a short time ago. In writing, I am often wrestling with my own personal struggles and beliefs and in the midst God leads me to a lesson He wants me to learn ... or sometimes He simply touches me in the revelation of Himself. My hope is that the result you see here might touch your heart and glorify God.
And let me be clear ... I am not the only one with something to say. Please join in the conversation sharing your faith, your cancer experiences, etc. I would love to hear from you.
Bernie
May we all be as Christ-minded and golden-mouthed!
I have no doubt that the Spirit provides those golden-mouthed words in the moment Richard …
Great answers. May we all have such a view of the hidden spiritual realities.
Yes indeed Don … yes indeed. thanks for stopping by and leaving a complement.
Abide IN Christ Jesus, His love and His words!
Bernie