This liturgy is a two-part book liturgy based on the book “The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment” by Jeremiah Burroughs. when I read the book, and every time I revisit these liturgies, I am challenged again – do I really believe that I have a Good Father who is entirely in control?
The liturgies can be used separately, or could be combined together, doing part 1 and then part 2 one after the other. Part 1 focuses on the tension that exists in the subject of contentment – the reality of a radically good God who uses suffering for deep purpose. And the reality that the prosperity, comforts, and position that we often chase after will never truly satisfy. Part 2 dwells on the deep riches that we have in Christ – riches that satisfy far more deeply than anything this world could offer.
Liturgy – The Art of Contentment
My Father, teach me the art of contentment – the sweet, inward, quiet, and gracious spirit which freely submits to and delights in your wise and fatherly rule in every condition. [19]
Help me to embrace the mystery of this art of contentment:
fully aware of our suffering and yet content with our affliction;
aware and even endeavoring to remove our suffering by all lawful means, and still to be content. [41]
For quietness of heart does not mean we do not feel. Jesus did not say “do not feel your crosses”; he says “take up your cross daily.” [21]
Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice in so far as you share in Christ’s sufferings, that you may rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. [1 Peter 4:12-13]
In Scripture, you do not find one godly man who came out of an affliction worse than when he went into it; though for a while he was shaken, yet at last he was better. [50]
Those who do not understand God’s ways think that when God brings his people into sad conditions he is leaving and forsaking them… But a child of God is not troubled. “My condition is very low” he says “but this is God’s way when he intends the greatest mercy.” [116]
Let us no longer think that if we only had our desire we would be better. We have not been better for obtaining our desires, but often worse. A great many godly men and women have been worse for their prosperity. It is even a curse to be given over to our desires.
Lord, have mercy! [213, 50]
Father, you are glorified by this quiet, trusting spirit. More glorified even as we serve from low conditions. In high conditions our service is too often from self-love. But you do not look so much at the work that is done, as the faithfulness of our hearts in doing it. [198-199]
Jesus cast a look on me,
Give me sweet simplicity
Make me poor and keep me low,
Seeking only Thee to know
All that feeds my busy pride,
Cast it evermore aside
Bid my will to Thine submit,
Lay me humbly at Thy feet
Make me like a little child,
Of my strength and wisdom spoiled
Seeing only in Thy light,
Walking only in Thy might
My Father, teach me the art of contentment – the sweet, inward, quiet, and gracious spirit which freely submits to and delights in your wise and fatherly rule in every condition. [19]
Songs referenced:
Jesus Cast a Look on Me – Indelible Grace