A remedy for wandering thoughts in worship by Richard Steele (Available from Heritage Books or free here) - Read Chapter 3.
Firstly he tells us that it is possible to not be distracted in worship. We know this because we know of the:
(i) precept of God;
(ii) the power of God;
(iii) the promises of God;
(iv) the experience of many servants of God.
Then Steele explains that it is necessary to attend on the Lord without distraction. The necessity is shown by:
(i) the essence or being of the duty;
(ii) the comfort in the duty;
(iii) the prosperity of the duty;
(iv) the communion with Jesus in the duty.
I appreciated the reminder that worship of God without distraction is comforting: 'The service of God is a sweet pot of ointment of a most refreshing odour; the gracious soul is refreshed therein as a bed of spices. Distractions are the dead flies, Eccles. x. 1, which dropping into this sweet ointment, cause it to send forth a noisome smell, displeasing to God and unpleasing to the soul. Where can the soul be better than with God? what sweeter company than that which angels keep, or pleasanter employment than conversing in heaven ? But wandering thoughts arise, and like a black cloud quite hide the sweet beams of that Sun of Righteousness from the soul, and then your comfort is gone. The sweetness of music consists in its harmony; when the strings are out of tune, or untunably touched, it is but a harsh sound, there is no music : wandering thoughts are like strings out of tune, there is no music in that duty, the Holy Ghost goes away and likes it not ; and the soul likes it not, is weary of it ; there is no sweetness in that duty. It is a tried maxim, The more seriousness, the more sweetness; the nearer to God, the warmer and merrier is the soul, which inward comfort is some reward to the heart of a Christian, when his particular suit is denied ; so that " in keeping of God's commandments there is a great reward." The choicest of the Spirit's sealing comforts are bestowed in the lively service of God. '
Worship God without distraction and you will be happy.
Next week's reading
Read Chapter 4.
Please post your own notes and thoughts in the comments section below.
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