February 6: God Despiseth Not Small Things
By John Owen
Know that God despiseth not small things. He takes notice of the least breathings of our hearts after him, when we ourselves can see nor perceive no such thing. He knows the mind of the Spirit in those workings which are never formed to that height that we can reflect upon them with our observation. Every thing that is of him is noted in his book, though not in ours. He took notice that, when Sarah was acting unbelief towards him, yet that she showed respect and regard to her husband, calling him "lord," Gen. xviii. 12; 1 Pet. iii. 6. And even whilst his people are sinning, he can find something in their hearts, words, or ways, that pleaseth him; much more in their duties. He is a skilful refiner, that can find much gold in that ore where we see nothing but lead or clay. He remembers the duties which we forget, and forgets the sins which we remember. He justifies our persons, though ungodly; and will also our duties, though not perfectly godly.1
Much of the glory of heaven may dwell in a simple cottage, and poor persons, even under rags, may be very like unto God.2
Exposition of Psalm 130, Works of John Owen, 6:602-603
Discourse on the Holy Spirit, Works of John Owen, 3:583