Hearts Aflame

William Ames reminds us in "Conscience with the Power and Cases Thereof" that the whole of life is sacred when lived unto God. Every task, when done in faith and love, becomes worship. This episode calls us to bring our faith into the ordinary — to study, work, serve, and rest for God’s glory. The beauty of a Godward life is found in its wholeness: a conscience ruled by Scripture, a heart centered on Christ, and a life poured out as a living sacrifice of love.

Thomas Goodwin’s "The Heart of Christ in Heaven Toward Sinners on Earth" reveals the unchanging tenderness of Jesus toward His people. Exalted in glory, Christ’s heart still beats with compassion for those He redeemed. He intercedes continually, bears our names before the Father, and meets our weakness with mercy. In this episode, we rest in the truth that the same heart that bled for us on earth now pleads for us in heaven — full of love, full of power, and full of grace.

In this episode, we draw from Thomas Case’s "A Treatise of Afflictions" to discover the mercy hidden within God’s discipline. Every trial is a classroom where the Father teaches grace, patience, and holiness. The hand that afflicts is the same hand that upholds, measuring every sorrow with perfect love. This reflection invites believers to see chastening not as punishment, but as a refining fire by which God shapes His children for glory.

Thomas Brooks’ "Heaven on Earth" assures believers of the unchanging mercy of God. His mercies are ever new. In this episode, we rejoice in the mercy that forgives, upholds, and restores. When guilt whispers or trials roar, remember that His compassion never fails. Rest in the certainty that you are held not by your merit, but by His steadfast mercy and everlasting covenant.

In this episode, we reflect on Samuel Annesley’s "A Morning Exercise at Cripplegate" and the transforming power of fervent prayer. True prayer is the soul’s breath and the pulse of spiritual life. Cold prayers freeze before they reach heaven, but those ignited by faith and love prevail with God. Here we’re reminded that prayer is not a mere duty but the believer’s lifeline. Where weakness finds strength and communion with God brings joy and power.

Robert Bolton’s "Instructions for a Right Comforting of Afflicted Consciences" warns against the peril of a divided heart torn between God and the world. In this episode, we consider the restlessness of half-hearted religion and the joy of full devotion to Christ. God desires an undivided heart, wholly His. Discover how unity of heart brings strength, peace, and purpose as you surrender every affection to the Lord who alone can satisfy.

Drawing from Richard Greenham’s "Treatise of the Conscience," this episode explores the blessing of a tender, Spirit-guided conscience. A conscience illuminated by the Word and cleansed by the blood of Christ is one of life’s greatest treasures. It brings peace, humility, and joy. Learn how to guard your conscience from dullness, keep it sensitive to sin, and walk daily in the quiet strength of a clear heart before God and man.

In this episode, we turn to John Flavel’s "The Mystery of Providence" to find comfort in the sovereign care of God. Every joy and sorrow, every step and delay, unfolds under His wise and loving hand. Though His purposes are often hidden, they are never random. This is a call to trust when you cannot trace, to rest in His character when you cannot see His plan, and to believe that every thread of your story is woven by the same faithful hand that guides the stars.

John Cotton’s "The Way of the Churches of Christ in New England" reminds us that the true glory of the church lies not in her size or splendor, but in her purity and faithfulness to Christ. In this episode, we reflect on the beauty of a holy church—one that holds fast to sound doctrine, practices humble obedience, and shines brightly in a dark world. Christ delights to dwell where His people walk in truth and holiness.

From George Swinnock’s "The Christian Man’s Calling," we consider the believer’s greatest joy — communion with God. In this episode, we reflect on how fellowship with God sweetens every sorrow, sanctifies every joy, and transforms daily life into worship. To draw near to God is to taste heaven on earth. Make space for His presence, and you will find the joy that the world can neither give nor take away.