While reading through John Wesley’s book, The Nature of Holiness, I was struck by his recounting of religious history. He gives a brief overview beginning with Adam. Concerning what would have been his contemporary time, he wrote the following observation:
“In the year 1627, there was a wonderful outpouring of the Spirit in several parts of England as well as in Scotland and the north of Ireland. But riches and honor poured in upon them as well, and their hearts began to be estranged from God and started cleaving to the present world. As soon as persecution ceased, the Christians who were once poor and despised became invested with power, ease, and affluence. Their change of circumstances brought a change of spirit. Riches and honor quickly produced the usual effects. Receiving the world, they quickly loved the world. They no longer panted after heaven, but became more and more attached to the material things of earth.” (emphasis added)
I wonder what his assessment of our modern-day church would be? What a difference it would be if believers of our age would pant after Heaven! If we would but set our affection on things above (Colossians 3:1-3). If we would thirst for that which is holy and heavenly, this world would be marked for His glory. If we would refused to love this world or all that it embraces (1 John 2:15-16), we would see the untold millions become the told!
Lord, help us to pant after Heaven.