The editor of this book of devotions based on George Whitefield’s writings chose Matthew 4:17 as the scripture for this. At first glance it seemed out of place, until I read it in context. It immediately follows Jesus’ temptation to sin by Satan in the wilderness, and His victory over that temptation. All of a sudden it made perfect sense.
When we consider how heinous and aggravating our offenses are in the sight of a holy God, that they bring down His wrath upon our heads, and occasion us to live under His indignation, how ought we thereby to be deterred from evil, or at least engaged to study to repent thereof, and not commit the same again. But man is so thoughtless of an eternal state, and has so little consideration of the welfare of his immortal soul, that he can so sin without any thought that he must give an account of his actions at the day of judgment; or if he, at times, has any reflections on his behavior, they do not drive him to true repentance. He may, for a short time, refrain from falling into some gross sins which he had lately committed; but then, when the temptation comes again with power, he is carried away with a lust. Thus, he goes on promising and resolving, and in breaking both his resolutions and his promises, as fast almost as he made them. This is highly offensive to God; it is a mocking of Him. My brethren, when grace is given us to repent truly, we shall turn wholly unto God. Let me beseech you to repent of your sins, for the time is hastening when you will have neither time nor call to repent; there is none in the grave, whither you are going. Do not be afraid, for God often receives the greatest sinner to mercy through the merits of Christ Jesus. This magnifies the riches of His free grace; and should be an encouragement for you, who are great and notorious sinners, to repent, for He will have mercy upon you, if you, through Christ, return to Him.
From “Daily Readings: George Whitefield” for February 7.
