Deep Dive into Institutes of the Christian Religion by John Calvin - How We Must Use the Present Life and Its Helps
The sources explain that living according to God's will involves a balanced approach to earthly gifts, which are created for our good and delight, not just necessity. This perspective rejects both extreme asceticism that unduly restricts their use and unbridled indulgence that leads to excess.
A core principle is to recognize God as the Author and Giver of all things, responding with gratitude. Misuse, such as gluttony, drunkenness, or vanity, indicates a lack of thankfulness and can impede spiritual duties or one's divine calling. We are explicitly instructed to "make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires," to curb unchecked carnal appetites.
An overarching requirement is cultivating a "pilgrim's mindset," viewing life as a temporary journey towards the Heavenly Kingdom. This dictates using earthly goods only if they help rather than hinder this spiritual course, embodying the principle to "use this world as if not using it." Such a mindset enables individuals to bear poverty patiently and abundance moderately.
All earthly possessions are "entrusted" gifts for which we are accountable to God. This demands abstinence, sobriety, frugality, and moderation, while condemning excess, pride, and vanity.
Finally, a divine "calling" or "vocation" is fundamental for an ordered life. This specific, God-assigned "sentry post" acts as the "beginning and foundation of well-doing," ensuring that all actions are judged by God and align with His purpose, regardless of human perception. It provides immense consolation, elevating even the most "sordid" tasks to be "precious in God's sight" when done in obedience to one's calling.
Reformed Theologian GPT: https://chat.openai.com/g/g-XXwzX1gnv-reformed-theologian
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