Charles Spurgeon was a famous Baptist minister in England at the end of the 19^th century. His sermons appeared in American newspapers the week he delivered them in England. I once worshiped in a Methodist church where the pastor’s brother and father, both Methodist ministers, were named “Spurgeon.” He is still quoted in many denominations, and his books and sermons are still available today.

One day as Spurgeon was leaving his house to go to his office in the church, he asked his wife, as usual, “What can I bring you, Wifey?” She was ill, and she answered playfully, “I should like an opal ring, and a piping bullfinch.” He looked surprised, and rather amused; but simply replied, “Ah, you know that I cannot get those for you!”

(Charles Spurgeon Autobiography, vol. 2)

A few days later Charles received a note from an elderly lady asking if someone could come to her house and take a small gift to give to the preacher for his wife. Charles sent his secretary, who returned with a small ring box containing a lovely opal ring. Not long after that Charles was asked to the home of one of his parishioners who said that the little bullfinch she had,was too noisy for her sick husband, and could Charles give it to his wife? Charles Spurgeon was happy to convey both these gifts to his wife, and he remarked, “ I think you are one of your heavenly Father’s spoiled children, and He just gives you whatever you ask for.” I had never thought of a “spoiled child” relationship with God, but in thinking of my own life I could see that at least in part, those words applied to me as well.

Susannah Spurgeon suffered from an illness that caused her considerable pain, but has not been identified. She had twin boys, and raised them at home, but much of the time, she was a semi-invalid. In their later years, Charles and she were separated in the winters, as he could not endure the English winter, and she could not travel. After her husband’s death,she supervised and facilitated the publication and even the distribution of Charles’ voluminous writings.

I am not saying that I will ask the Father on your behalf. No, the Father Himself loves you because you have loved me and believed that I came from God. (John 16: 26-27) Susannah and Charles’ lives were an echo of Jesus’ words to his disciples.

There are times in our lives when each of us could say, “I feel like one of God’s spoiled children,” and it would be true.

Love in Him,

Prue