The obedience of a Christian man by William Tyndale (Available from Amazon or free here) - Read the Introductory note and then start the Preface to the reader by reading up to the paragraph beginning 'That thou mayest perceive how that the Scripture ought to be in the mother tongue, and that the reasons which our spirits make for the contrary, are but sophistry and false wiles to fear thee from the light, that though mightest follow them blindfold, and be their captive to honour their ceremonies, and to offer to their belly...'.
In the introductory note we are given a little report of what Anne Boleyn and Henry VIII thought of Tyndale's book.
Then we read half of the lengthy preface. Tyndale teaches us that suffering is common to God's people but is also a blessing from God.
So many great quotes about suffering from someone who indeed knew what it was to suffer.
From among the many quotes, this was one of the finer: 'Let thy care be to prepare thyself with all thy strength for to walk which way he will have thee, and to believe that he will go with thee, and assist thee, and strengthen thee against all tyrants, and deliver thee out of all tribulation. But what way, or by what means he will do it, that commit unto him, and his godly pleasure and wisdom, and cast that care upon him. And though it seem never so unlikely, or never so impossible unto natural reason, yet believe steadfastly that he will do it. And then shall he (according to his old use) change the course of the worlds even in the twinkling of an eye, and come suddenly upon our giants, as a thief in the night, and compass them in their wiles and worldly wisdom : when they cry Peace and all is safe; then shall their sorrows begin, as the pangs of a woman that travaileth with child : and then shall he destroy them, and deliver thee, unto the glorious praise of his mercy and truth. Amen.'
When you suffer, trust that God is with you and will eventually deliver, even though you may not know how or when.
Next week's reading
Conclude the 'Preface to the reader'.
Please post your own notes and thoughts in the comments section below.
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