December 8 Daily Devotional

Bible Reading

Jeremiah 3:14–17

Devotional

Christ Jesus is joined to his people in marriage-union. In love he espoused his church as a chaste virgin, long before she fell under the yoke of bondage. Full of burning affection he toiled, like Jacob for Rachel, until the whole of her bride-price had been paid. And now, having sought her by his Spirit, and brought her to know and love him, he awaits the glorious hour when their mutual bliss will be consummated at the marriage-supper of the Lamb.

Not yet has the glorious Bridegroom presented his betrothed, perfected and complete, before the Majesty of heaven. Not yet has she actually entered upon the enjoyment of her dignities as his wife and queen. As yet she is still a wanderer in a world of woe, a dweller among the tents of Kedar. But even now she is the bride, the spouse of Jesus, dear to his heart, precious in his sight, written on his hands, and united to his person. On earth he exercises towards her all the affectionate offices of Husband. He makes rich provision for her needs, pays all her debts, and allows her to assume his Name and share in all his wealth.

Nor will he ever act otherwise toward her. He will never mention the word divorce, for he “hates divorce.” Death must sever the conjugal tie between the most loving mortals, but it can never divide the links of this immortal marriage. In heaven they do not marry but are as the angels of God. Yet there is this one marvellous exception to the rule, for in Heaven Christ and his church shall celebrate their joyous nuptials. Just as this affinity is more lasting, so also it is more near than earthly marriage. Let the love of husband be ever so pure and fervent, it is but a faint picture of the flame that burns in the heart of Jesus. Surpassing all human union is that mystical bonding with the church, for which Christ left his Father and became one flesh with her.

[July 22]

Extracted from C. H. Spurgeon, Morning and Evening (public domain), language modernized by Larry E. Wilson.