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C.H. Spurgeon's Evening Devotional
Sunday May 18, 2025
"Afterward."-Hebrews 12:11
How happy are tried Christians, afterwards. No calm more deep than that which succeeds a storm. Who has not rejoiced in clear shinings after rain? Victorious banquets are for well-exercised soldiers. After killing the lion we eat the honey; after climbing the Hill Difficulty, we sit down in the arbour to rest; after traversing the Valley of Humiliation, after fighting with Apollyon, the shining one appears, with the healing branch from the tree of life. Our sorrows, like the passing keels of the vessels upon the sea, leave a silver line of holy light behind them "afterwards." It is peace, sweet, deep peace, which follows the horrible turmoil which once reigned in our tormented, guilty souls. See, then, the happy estate of a Christian! He has his best things last, and he therefore in this world receives his worst things first. But even his worst things are "afterward" good things, harsh ploughings yielding joyful harvests. Even now he grows rich by his losses, he rises by his falls, he lives by dying, and becomes full by being emptied; if, then, his grievous afflictions yield him so much peaceable fruit in this life, what shall be the full vintage of joy "afterwards" in heaven? If his dark nights are as bright as the world's days, what shall his days be? If even his starlight is more splendid than the sun, what must his sunlight be? If he can sing in a dungeon, how sweetly will he sing in heaven! If he can praise the Lord in the fires, how will he extol Him before the eternal throne! If evil be good to him now, what will the overflowing goodness of God be to him then? Oh, blessed "afterward!" Who would not be a Christian? Who would not bear the present cross for the crown which cometh afterwards? But herein is work for patience, for the rest is not for to-day, nor the triumph for the present, but "afterward." Wait, O soul, and let patience have her perfect work.
It's coming to theaters this season. Starting November 5th.
Synopsis:
The Herdman kids are absolutely the worst. They lie, they steal,
they bully…and they’ve hijacked the town Christmas pageant. Directed by
Dallas Jenkins (“The Chosen”) and based on the international bestseller
by Barbara Robinson, THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER follows
six siblings who sneak into church searching for snacks and walk away
with the lead roles in the town pageant. Grace (Judy Greer) is directing
the performance for the very first time; she and her daughter Beth
(Molly Belle Wright) and husband Bob (Pete Holmes) are less than amused.
But the play’s mischievous stars might unwittingly teach a community
the true meaning of Christmas. Featuring Lauren Graham. Screenplay by
Ryan Swanson and Platte F. Clark & Darin McDaniel.
Oh, this is going to be great. I can't wait to see this one. I'm so excited. I love Christmas movies.
• Synopsis: Amid political and spiritual turmoil, Reverend David Hill steps up to run for Congress after an incumbent's sudden death. Battling against Peter Kane, who aims to erase religion from policy, David's fight becomes a beacon of hope and optimism for people seeking moral leadership in a divided world.
I felt this film came out at a wonderful time, especially during this election year. There is nothing more important for us as Americans and Christians than to vote the right person into office. It is an astounding statistic that less than 50% of Christians vote. As Christians we need to make this a movement! Pastor Dave reminds us that we have the greatest blessing in that we are children of the Living God, and as Americans, the greatest title in the world: citizens of the United States of America. This film is uplifting and relevant just like Mr. Smith Goes to Washington was 85 years ago in that Pastor Dave approaches politics with moral courage, loves his country, stands up to corruption, and represents the principles that made America great and continue to make America great. Let's not lose that principle and stand for what is right in this day and age. I think you can agree with me the woke path we are on today isn't making our lives any better.
Most importantly, this film that demonstrates Christians should be optimistic, excited, and hopeful about the future.
The film is engaging with a captivating story and has a renowned cast
that keeps the whole family entertained allowing families and friends to
discuss how to engage in this current political climate with courage. The film stars David A. R. White (GOD’S NOT DEAD, Evening Shade), Isaiah Washington (Grey’s Anatomy) Dean Cain (Lois & Clark), Samaire Armstrong, (The O.C.), Ray Wise (ROBO COP), Scott Baio (Happy Days), Charlene Tilton (Dallas), with guest appearances by Governor Mike Huckabee and Newsboys.