Tracts and Letters (Volume 6) by John Calvin (Available from Amazon or free here) - Read Letters CCCCLXX to CCCCLXXXIII.
A lot of today's material concerned the persecution of Protestants.
But among other things, we were treated to a confession of faith from Calvin to the King of France.
What grabbed me
This advice was given to Madame De Rentigny, a noble lady imprisoned by her Roman Catholic husband and relatives: 'Now since he [God] calls you to bear witness to the doctrine in which lie all your wealth, welfare, and glory, reflect in the first place in what consists your obligation to him; and if the condition of discharging your debt seem to you severe and burdensome, console yourself with this thought, that he requires nothing that does not turn to your advantage. I am aware that several will allege that it would be better to consult one's safety, than to deliver one's self without profit ; but in putting your life into the hands of Him to whom it appertains, leave him to dispose of the issue, as it belongs to him, to cause to fructify whatever proceeds from us, which otherwise would be unproductive. In this, as in all the rest, know that you are called to combat; and since it is the time to do battle, arm yourself as necessity requires, not only in meditating on the promises which should fortify you to the end, but also praying the God of all strength to support you by his Spirit in order to render you completely victorious, and you may rest assured that many will keep you company in this request. And for my own part I supplicate him to have you in his holy keeping, to guide you in all wisdom, uprightness, and constancy, so that his name may be glorified in you, as it is fit that it should be.'
Great advice. When persecuted, reflect on your obligation to God and that everything he asks you to do is for your profit.
Next week's reading
Please post your own notes and thoughts in the comments section below.
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