Gratitude is not set forth in the Bible as a primary motive for Christian living. Gratitude is a beautiful thing. There is no Christianity without it. It is at the heart of worship. It should fill the heart of every believer. But when it comes to spelling out the spiritual dynamics of how practical Christian obedience happens, the Bible does not say that it comes from the backward gaze of gratitude, but that it comes from the forward gaze of faith. (John Piper, Future Grace)

by Richard Shin

We’re back with weekly links. Hope you enjoy!

• Kevin DeYoung asks why we must do good even if we are saved.
• Does the virgin birth matter? Does it make us less intellectual? Albert Mohler explores the importance of the virgin birth to the Gospel message as a response to an article published from The New York Times.
• Ray Ortlund writes about advocacy for those who need it. We don’t think of advocacy as a medium for mercy, but Ortlund (with Matt Perman) explains how it truly is.
• “Why do Christians die?… Why do some churches grow loveless and cold?…” These are a couple questions Kevin DeYoung answers in his blog post titled “Hell Bent.”
• Russel Moore encourages women to stop submitting to men. Catch that? Well, go on.
• Matt Perman from What’s Best Next blogs about the meaning of justice in the workplace.

That should keep you busy until next week. Have a great weekend, everyone!

Coram Deo