Hearts Aflame

"The Art of Prophesying" (1606) by William Perkins highlights the sufficiency and authority of Scripture. Described as the fountain of all wisdom and the guide to true holiness, Scripture provides everything necessary for salvation and godliness. Perkins calls believers to treasure the Bible as divinely inspired, eternal, and unbreakable in its promises. Learn how to engage with God’s Word more deeply—reading with diligence, meditating with humility, and applying its truths by faith. 

John Owen’s "The Glory of Christ" (1684) unveils the beauty of Christ’s humility. The eternal Son of God, rich in glory, became poor and became a servant for our sake. In His self-emptying obedience and love, we see the glory of God’s grace displayed in all its fullness. Today, reflect on how the humility of Christ encourages worship, kills pride, and calls us to imitate His character in our relationships and actions. Let His example of selfless love cultivate humility and thankfulness in your heart. 

In "Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners" (1666), John Bunyan glories in the infinite depth and power of God's grace that was extended to him. He reflects on how the Lord sought him in his sin, drew him to Christ, and assured him of salvation through the fullness of divine grace. This episode invites you to marvel in the inexhaustible grace of God, which cleanses the vilest sinner, comforts the fearful, and secures eternal hope for all true believers.

We turn to Samuel Rutherford’s "Letters of Samuel Rutherford," for a meditation on the beauty and joy of holiness in the Christian life. Rutherford exalts Christ’s loveliness and reminds us that true holiness is the believer’s adornment, joy, and path to deeper communion with our Lord. Discover how holiness transforms our lives, glorifies God, and reflects His beauty to the world. Let Rutherford encourage you to delight in Christ, pursue His holiness, and set your heart on things above. 

Christopher Love’s "The Christian’s Duty to Aspire to Assurance" explores the peace and joy that flow from knowing we are children of God. Assurance is not rooted in the strength of our faith but in the faithfulness of Christ, providing comfort and encouragement for all who trust in Him. Today, reflect on how this gift strengthens your soul, fuels worship, and offers peace in trials.

John Flavel's "Keeping the Heart," highlights the vital and necessary work of mortifying sin in the Christian life. Flavel warns that sin steals peace and hinders communion with God, but through the power of the Holy Spirit, believers can daily put sin to death. Reflect today on how guarding your heart, resisting temptation, and fixing your eyes on Christ’s glory lead to victory over sin and deeper fellowship with God.

In "The Sincere Convert," Thomas Shepherd explores the transforming work of the Holy Spirit in the believer’s life. The Spirit awakens us to salvation, cleanses us through Christ’s sacrifice, and renews our hearts to pursue holiness. As the seal of our adoption and the assurance of our inheritance, the Holy Spirit guides, comforts, and empowers all believers to live for God's glory. Reflect on how the Spirit shapes your daily life, convicts your heart, and strengthens your faith.  

In "On Grace," Christopher Love explores the reality that not all believers are at the same stage of spiritual maturity. Some are strong in faith, while others are weak and struggling. Scripture describes Christians as trees of righteousness, burning flames of zeal, or tender bruised reeds—each with varying degrees of grace. Love reminds us that just as there are stages in natural growth, there are stages in spiritual growth. Every believer, whether new in faith or mature in wisdom, plays a vital role in the beauty of Christ’s church.

In "A Golden Chain," William Perkins teaches that true repentance is not merely feeling sorrow for sin but a complete turning to God, leading to a transformed life. Repentance flows from faith and sanctification, producing the fruit of obedience to Christ. It is the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in the believer, enabling them to deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Christ in daily obedience. This episode explores the nature of repentance as an essential part of the Christian life, emphasizing that it is more than just turning away from sin—it is turning toward Christ in faith.

In "A Lifting Up for the Downcast," William Bridge addresses one of the heaviest burdens a believer can bear—the feeling of spiritual desertion. Though it may seem as if God is distant, His love remains unchanged, and His promises are always true. Bridge reminds us that spiritual dryness is often a test of faith, teaching us to walk by trust rather than feelings. Even when God seems far away, His covenant is unbroken. This episode encourages you to cling to His Word, reject the lies of your emotions, and find peace in His unshakable presence.