Maturity in the Christian life is measured by only one test: how much closer to his character have we become?
Elyse FitzpatrickUnless we're very intentional about meditating on these truths [that show God's love], they slip from our thoughts like misty dreams that evaporate in the morning light. That's why Luther said we must take heed then, to embrace...the love and kindness of God...[and to] daily excercise [our] faith therein, entertain no doubt of God's love and kindness.
Elyse FitzpatrickThe gospel frees us from demanding our own way, because nothing we desire to obtain is worth sinning against such love and kindness.
Elyse FitzpatrickThe depressed don't simply need to feel better. They need a Redeemer who says, "Take heart, my son, my daughter; what you really need has been supplied. Life no longer need be about your goodness, success, righteousness, or failure. I've given you something infinitely more valuable than good feelings: your sins are forgiven."
Elyse FitzpatrickIdols aren't stone statues. They are thoughts, desires, and longings that we worship in the place of the true God
Elyse FitzpatrickThis is the freeing truth you can learn through your depression: You weren't created to love and worship anything more than you love and worship God; and when you do, you'll feel bad. God has made you to feel pain when you've got other treasures that you've placed above Him. He wants you to treasure Him.
Elyse Fitzpatrick