The Secret of Guidance

F. B. Meyer (1847-1929) wrote from a Christ-centered, grace-oriented perspective. Pastors need guidance from the Lord personally and in their role in leading the "flock." CCEL.org has this classic online for free download: "Many Christians wonder whether or not God has a plan for their future. F.B. Meyer spent his life as a pastor and evangelist ministering to people all over the world about God's unfailing guidance. In his book, The Secret of Guidance, Meyer shares his thoughts on the subject for all Christians to read. In order to receive God's guidance, we must first surrender our wills and seek guidance with pure motives. Meyer tells Christians that prayer and patience are two of the most important habits that must be practiced as they wait for the gradual unfolding of God's plan. Several sections in this text help readers identify the places in their lives where they have gone astray, in hopes that they can improve upon these areas. Meyer reminds Christians that Christ is there to help them bear their sorrows and burdens. Finally, Meyer shares the importance of faith as Christians try to understand the fullness of the Spirit. The Secret of Guidance helps assure uncertain Christians that God is always faithful." http://www.ccel.org/ccel/meyer/guidance.html

Spiritual Antidote for Lust

""When we feel the pull toward the golden-haired woman, we must recognize that 'something deeper is at play' as Augustine said, 'Let my soul praise you for all these beauties, but let it not attach itself to them by the trap of love,'  the trap of addiction because we''ve taken our soul to her for validation.  

But there is an even deeper issue than our question.  What else is it we are seeking from the Woman with the Golden Hair?  What is that ache we are trying to assuage with her?  Mercy, comfort, beauty, ecstasy--—in a word, God.  I'm serious.  What we are looking for is God.

Notice that the struggle with pornography or masturbation is most difficult when you are lonely, or beat up, or longing for comfort in some way...but if this is the water you are truly thirsty for, then why do you remain thirsty after you''ve had a drink?  It's the wrong well.  We must reverse Adam''s choice; we must choose God over Eve.  We take our ache to Him.  For only in God will we find the healing for our wound."

"- John Eldredge

Quoted by Dr. Tom Wood in Graced Again (Church Multiplication Ministries)  http://www.gracedagain.com