'Voices From The Past' Vol. 1 — March 14

We are not only to do God's will, but to also seek to do it with the proper motive. The manner in which we serve God should be considered more than the work itself. Motive is a main emphasis in Scripture. God does not only notice that we pray, but if it is fervent and effectual prayer, and not a drowsy devotion. He notices not only that we hear, but how we hear. He is interested not only that we serve, but that we serve him instantly, and not only that we run, but that we so run. This is the great thing that is put in the balance when God comes to weigh the actions of men; he weighs the heart. We should serve him as the angels in heaven serve him. (1.) Readily—angels immediately hearken to God's word to carry out God's errand. We should be ready and speedy in our obedience. (2.) We must serve willingly, cheerfully, and without murmuring—angels are ready to serve the lowest saints. Devils act murmuringly, they come out rending and tearing. Christ's presence was a burden to them. When we do things reluctantly with murmuring, we are more like the devils than angels. But we are to do them freely: ‘I desire to do your will, O my God' (Psa. 40:8). ‘My food is to do the will of him who sent me' (John 4:34). (3.) Constantly and not wearily—angels do not rest day and night, but are pleased to praise and serve God. Communion with God is ever new and fresh to them. His face is as lovely as it was at the first moment. No weariness creeps upon them. (4.) We must serve faithfully, not picking and choosing. They hearken to his word whatever it might be. We must serve even if it goes against the natural bent of our hearts. David was a man after God's own heart because he did all of God's will. So should our pattern be.

Devotional Readings taken from Puritan Devotional Readings 'Voices From The Past Vol.1.'
Thomas Manton, Works, I:147-149
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