In this sermon, Brother Stephen Kahn emphasizes the importance of rejoicing in the Lord always. He explains that the phrase "the Lord is near" refers to the present, rather than the second coming of Jesus. The speaker shares a theme song from a conference he attended, which expresses the desire to know the Lord personally, beyond just witnessing signs and wonders. He concludes by stating that the joy of the Lord is our strength and that by focusing on Him, we can overcome any challenges in life.

This sermon emphasizes the importance of sacrificial giving and worshiping God with a fragrant aroma, focusing on the story of the widow's offering in Mark 12. It challenges believers to offer their lives as living sacrifices, denying themselves for the sake of God's kingdom. The speaker highlights the need for genuine love and sacrifice in all aspects of life, including financial giving, to please God and be filled with the Spirit of Christ.

In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of contentment and its connection to the element of surprise. He shares the story of Michael Cassidy, a young man who had a remarkable conversion and was able to convert others through his testimony. The preacher emphasizes the importance of recognizing that God is near and therefore there is no reason to be anxious. He encourages cultivating an attitude of thanksgiving and appreciation, even when God seems to say no to our requests.

Octavius Winslow emphasizes the profound truth of God's acceptance of the believing sinner, highlighting that our personal acceptance in Christ is essential before our offerings can be accepted. He contrasts the acceptance of Abel's offering with Cain's, illustrating that it is our relationship with Christ that grants value to our sacrifices. Winslow encourages believers to approach God with their prayers, praises, and offerings, reminding them that these are sweet savors to God when presented through the merits of Jesus. He calls for a deeper understanding of this acceptance, which brings peace and joy to the believer's heart. Ultimately, he reassures that God delights in the offerings of those who are accepted in the Beloved.

William MacDonald emphasizes the significance of giving as an act of worship, drawing from Paul's acknowledgment of the Philippians' gift in Philippians 4:18. He highlights that such gifts, though seemingly small, are viewed by God as a 'sweet smell' and a 'sacrifice acceptable,' akin to Christ's ultimate sacrifice. MacDonald encourages believers to see their giving as a form of priestly service, motivated by love rather than obligation, and to recognize the profound impact their generosity has in the spiritual realm. He reminds us that our gifts fill the throne room of God with fragrance, transforming our perspective on giving into an act of joyful worship.

William MacDonald emphasizes the role of deacons in the church as servants who fulfill various ministries, highlighting their qualifications and the importance of integrity and faithfulness in their service. He explains that deacons must be grave, honest, and not greedy, and that their wives or deaconesses should also embody these qualities. MacDonald also discusses the rewards for deacons, which include a good standing among believers and boldness in faith, while stressing the need for proper financial stewardship within the church. He concludes by noting that the New Testament outlines only two roles in church leadership: bishops and deacons, rejecting the notion of a clergy class. The sermon underscores the simplicity and integrity required in church finances, advocating for self-supporting local congregations.

C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes that the church and its people have the privilege of making the Savior glad through their love, praise, and acts of kindness. He acknowledges that while our love may feel faint, it is sweet to Christ, who delights in our affection and gratitude. Spurgeon encourages believers to express their love not just through words but through heartfelt actions, such as forgiving others, giving to the poor, and sharing the gospel. He illustrates that even the smallest offerings, motivated by love, are precious to God. Ultimately, he calls on believers to joyfully honor Christ with their lives, just as the woman who anointed Him with precious oil did.

A.W. Tozer emphasizes the transformative power of experiencing the presence of Christ, likening it to the exquisite fragrance of myrrh and aloes. He reflects on how the scent of Christ's garments can spoil us for anything less, urging believers to seek this divine fragrance in their lives. Tozer recalls his early church experiences, where the presence of God was palpable among the congregation, particularly through the older saints whose lives radiated Christ's essence. He encourages the faithful to cultivate a longing for this spiritual aroma, which enriches their relationship with God and one another.

J.R. Miller reflects on the poignant moment when Mary Magdalene and other women prepared spices for Jesus' body after His crucifixion, highlighting their deep love and devotion despite their despair. He emphasizes that their act of honoring the dead Christ serves as a powerful reminder of the love we should show to the living Christ, who is now resurrected and alive. Miller encourages believers to bring their heartfelt worship, service, and endurance in suffering as fragrant offerings to honor Christ, just as the women did in their sorrow. He illustrates that true worship and acts of love, even in trials, are precious to God and should be a continuous part of a Christian's life. Ultimately, he calls for a life of self-sacrifice and service, reflecting the love of Christ in all circumstances.

Thomas Reade preaches about the sources of consolation for Christians, focusing on the covenant titles of Jehovah, the immutability of God's counsel, the sufficiency of the Savior's grace, the efficacy of His power, and the assurance of future glory. He emphasizes the importance of meditating on the Divine Perfections displayed in our redemption by Jesus Christ and the work of grace in the heart through the Holy Spirit. Reade highlights the security, peace, and blessings that believers in Jesus experience, rooted in the everlasting Covenant and the unbreakable love of God. He encourages believers to find contentment, humility, and strength in Christ, to endure trials with joy, and to look forward to the eternal glory promised to those who love God.

E. Dennett preaches on how the sweet incense placed on the fire before the Lord on the day of atonement symbolizes the graces of Christ being brought out through the holy fire. Christ's exposure to God's judgment on the cross revealed His obedience and perfection, making Him even more precious in God's eyes. Through His sacrifice, Christ's moral graces and complete devotion ascended as a sweet savor to God, glorifying Him.

Mary Wilder Tileston, inspired by the story of the wise men presenting gifts to Jesus, encourages believers to give themselves anew to God's service. She emphasizes that God will provide the desire and power to offer various treasures to Him, whether it be wealth, time, personal service, or even life itself. Tileston highlights that everyone has something to give, from the tears of the penitent to the riches of the wealthy, as long as the vision of Christ is in their hearts. Ultimately, she stresses that all gifts, regardless of size or value, are welcomed by God when given with love and for His glory.

Jonathan Edwards preaches about the significance of Christians being a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, and a peculiar people. He emphasizes how believers are distinct from the world, chosen by God from eternity, and of heavenly descent. Edwards delves into the concept of Christians offering spiritual sacrifices to God, such as dedicating their hearts in repentance and love, offering praise, obedience, charity, and prayers of faith. He highlights how believers, as a spiritual priesthood, have the privilege of near access to God, freedom to offer sacrifices, and the duty to live lives dedicated to God's service.

Charles E. Cowman preaches on the concept of flourishing in the midst of darkness and challenges, drawing parallels between flowers that thrive in gloomy corners of a garden and spiritual growth during tough times. Using the Apostle Paul's experiences in captivity as an example, he highlights how adversity can reveal hidden treasures of grace, love, joy, and peace in Christ, transforming gloom into a place of divine revelation and spiritual inheritance.