Hearts Aflame, hosted by Dustin Benge and a ministry of Unashamed Truth, is a daily devotional podcast that draws from the rich writings of the Puritans. Each episode pairs timeless truths with Scripture, encouraging believers to deepen their faith and set their hearts aflame with love for Christ.
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Dustin Benge Podcasts
Edward Leigh’s "A System or Body of Divinity" calls us to behold holiness as the true beauty of the soul. In this episode, we explore how holiness is not outward formality but the inward grace of a renewed heart. To be holy is to be like God. Loving what He loves, hating what He hates, and walking humbly in His ways. True holiness restores what sin…
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In this episode, we draw from John Bunyan’s "Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners" to reflect on the life of faith that looks beyond the seen to the unseen. Faith trusts God’s Word when feelings falter, clings to His promises in darkness, and rests on His unchanging character. This is an encouragement to live above the world’s uncertainty and wa…
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In this episode, we meditate on Matthew Henry’s "A Method for Prayer" (1710) and the true happiness of the godly. The believer’s joy is not rooted in circumstances but in peace with God, the promise of eternal life, and the hope of heaven. This is a call to rejoice in your privileges, even in trials, for heaven’s joy is already yours in Christ.…
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In this episode, we reflect on John Preston’s "The Breastplate of Faith and Love" (1630) and the power of Christ’s love to transform the believer’s life. His love is stronger than fear or mere duty, drawing us away from sin and compelling us to live for Him who died and rose again. This is an invitation to keep your heart full of Christ’s love, all…
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In this episode, we consider William Perkins’ classic insight from "The Art of Prophesying" (1592): "the fear of God is the foundation of all true wisdom." We explore how holy fear is not servile dread but reverent awe, leading to obedience, humility, and freedom from the fear of man. This is a call to cherish the fear of the Lord as the root of fa…
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In this episode, we look at the vital role of the conscience in the Christian life, guided by William Ames’ "The Marrow of Theology "(1623). We explore how conscience serves as God’s deputy in the soul, why it must be shaped by Scripture rather than culture or reason alone, and how a pure conscience brings peace, boldness, and joy. This is an encou…
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In this episode, we explore why sound doctrine is essential for the Christian life. Drawing from Samuel Willard’s "A Complete Body of Divinity" (1726), we reflect on the necessity of holding fast to the truth, testing every teaching by Scripture, and guarding against error that leads to spiritual ruin. This is a call to love the truth, live the tru…
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In this episode, we consider John Owen’s sobering call: “Be killing sin, or sin will be killing you.” We explore what it means to put sin to death daily—not merely avoiding outward sins, but striking at the root through the power of the Spirit. Mortification is a lifelong battle, but it is also the path to spiritual strength, peace, and joy. We’ll …
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In this episode, we meditate on the tenderness of Christ toward weak and wounded sinners. Drawing from "The Bruised Reed" by Richard Sibbes, we reflect on how Christ never crushes the bruised reed nor quenches the faintly burning wick, but instead fans even the smallest spark of grace into a flame. If you’ve ever felt hesitant to come to Christ bec…
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In this episode, we meditate on the comforting truth that when sin accuses, Christ intercedes. Drawing from Thomas Goodwin’s "Christ Our Advocate," we explore how Jesus appears before the Father on our behalf, presenting His finished work as the reason we are accepted. His advocacy is not occasional but continual — every moment He stands for His pe…
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In this episode, we reflect on what it means to fix our hearts on God in every circumstance. Drawing from William Bridge’s "A Lifting Up for the Downcast," we explore how faith steadies the soul, quiets fears, and brings perfect peace even when life feels uncertain. We’ll consider how to roll our burdens onto the Lord, trust His promises, and wait …
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In this episode, we reflect on the urgency of using our days wisely. Drawing from Thomas Watson’s "The Great Gain of Godliness," we consider time as a gift and a talent entrusted to us by God—one for which we must one day give an account. Every hour misspent is a pearl thrown away, and the market days of grace will not last forever. Together, we’ll…
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Assurance of your standing in Christ brings peace, as seen in Richard Alleine’s "Heaven Opened" (1670). The Spirit confirms you’re God’s child, sparking love and duty, not carelessness. This episode unpacks how to seek it through Christ’s promises—trust Him today. Are you walking in assurance?
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Being almost a Christian falls short of true faith, as seen in Matthew Mead’s "The Almost Christian Discovered" (1661). Many have outward religion but lack heart conversion—prayer without the Spirit or reform without repentance. This episode urges self-examination to embrace Christ fully—don’t stop short today. Are you truly His?…
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Humility adorns the Christian, as seen in Edward Reynolds’ "A Treatise on the Passions and Faculties of the Soul" (1640). It sees you as a sinner saved by grace, serving without pride, learning from Christ’s lowliness. This episode unpacks how it fuels faith and lifts you up—embrace it today. Are you living humbly?…
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Holiness brings true joy, as seen in George Swinnock’s "The Beauty of Holiness" (1665). Unlike sin’s fleeting pleasures, it crowns your soul with peace, turning duties and trials into worship. This episode unpacks how living holy, like God, starts heaven now—pursue it today. Are you embracing holiness?…
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Prayer unlocks heaven, as seen in John Bunyan’s "A Discourse Touching Prayer" (1663). It’s a heartfelt cry, powered by faith and the Spirit, opening God’s mercy through Christ. This episode unpacks how sincere prayer, even when answers delay, ascends to Him—pray with trust today. Are you using prayer’s key?…
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Heaven’s hope is your sure crown, as seen in John Howe’s "The Blessedness of the Righteous." It promises seeing God, freedom from sin, and perfect joy—steadying you through trials. This episode unpacks how this hope lightens burdens and sweetens duties—look to Christ today. Are you hoping in heaven?
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Repentance turns you fully from sin to God, as seen in Christopher Love’s "The Penitent Pardoned." It’s more than tears—it’s forsaking sin and seeking His cleansing, opening the door to mercy through Christ’s blood. This episode unpacks its necessity for pardon—repent today. Are you turning from sin?…
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God’s Word is alive and powerful, as seen in Richard Greenham’s "Works and Sermons." It cuts sin, comforts the hurting, and guides with the Spirit’s strength—like a hammer or seed. This episode unpacks how to tremble, rejoice, and obey it daily for transformation. Are you living by His Word today?
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Christ’s heart brims with compassion for sinners, as seen in John Preston’s "The Breastplate of Faith and Love." He welcomes the weak with open arms, weeping for them as He did for Jerusalem, eager to forgive. This episode unpacks His readiness to heal—trust His mercy today. Are you coming to Christ?…
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The soul longs for God alone, as seen in Henry Scougal’s "The Life of God in the Soul of Man." Made for Him, it finds no rest in worldly things—only His presence satisfies. This episode unpacks how to stir this desire through prayer and obedience, tasting His grace. Are you seeking God today?
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True joy comes from Christ alone, as seen in Isaac Ambrose’s "Looking Unto Jesus." Unlike fading worldly pleasures, His love and redemption fill you with lasting delight, even in trials. This episode unpacks how to find this joy in Him daily—look to Jesus today. Are you rejoicing in Christ?
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The fear of God starts true wisdom, as seen in William Perkins’ "A Godly and Learned Exposition of the Creed." It’s a holy reverence, not dread, leading to obedience and safety, not sin. This episode unpacks how it shapes a wise, careful life—cultivate it today. Are you fearing God wisely?
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Christ’s intercession continues at God’s right hand, as seen in Stephen Charnock’s "The Knowledge of God in Christ." His blood and scars plead for your mercy, strengthening your weak prayers and silencing sin’s accusations. This episode unpacks how His unending advocacy secures you—trust His prayers today. Are you resting in His intercession?…
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God cares for you as a tender Father, as seen in Robert Bolton’s "Instructions for a Right Comforting Afflicted Consciences." He measures afflictions with love, strengthening the weak, not crushing them. This episode unpacks how His fatherly compassion comforts you in trials—trust His care. Are you resting in His fatherhood today?…
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The world’s charms are fleeting, as seen in Thomas Boston’s "Human Nature in Its Fourfold State." Riches, honors, and pleasures fade, but Christ endures—He’s your true treasure. This episode unpacks how to look beyond vanity to Him, building on His eternal rock. Are you seeking Christ above the world today?…
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The Christian life is a battle, and God’s armor equips you, as seen in William Gurnall’s "The Christian in Complete Armour." Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and God’s Word shield you from evil—worn daily with prayer. This episode unpacks how to use this armor to stand firm against Satan. Are you dressed for battle today?…
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The Spirit brings life to prayer, as seen in Anthony Burgess’ "The True Doctrine of Justification." He gives warmth, faith, and direction, turning cold pleas into fervent cries to God. This episode unpacks how to rely on His help, shaping prayers by His will. Are you depending on the Spirit today?
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The Word of God is your soul’s daily food, as seen in Thomas Manton’s "Sermons on Psalm 119." Like bread sustains the body, Scripture feeds your faith, guides your holiness, and anchors your hope—neglecting it starves you, while delighting in it helps you grow. This episode unpacks how to meditate on it daily for strength against sin. Are you feedi…
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God’s mercy is the heart of His goodness, as seen in John Bunyan’s "The Riches of Grace." It flows abundantly, lifting sinners like Paul and the thief on the cross, offering pardon and life with joy. This episode unpacks how His vast mercy meets your need daily—never despair, trust it. Are you resting in His mercy today?…
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The soul finds rest only in God, as seen in John Owen’s "Communion with God." Created things fade, but fellowship with the Father, Son, and Spirit fills you with joy and peace. This episode unpacks how to turn from empty pursuits to Him, your true home. Are you resting in God today?
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Holiness is the beauty of God’s nature and your calling, as seen in Stephen Charnock’s "The Existence and Attributes of God." It’s an inward change by the Spirit, shaping you like Christ—freeing you from sin’s slavery. This episode unpacks how pursuing holiness brings joy and fits you for heaven. Are you growing in holiness today?…
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Contentment anchors you in trials, as seen in Jeremiah Burroughs’ "The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment." God’s wise providence measures every storm, giving peace when you trust His will over your own. This episode unpacks how faith turns loss into joy, resting in Him. Are you anchored in God today?…
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Adoption into God’s family is your greatest privilege, as seen in Thomas Watson’s "A Body of Divinity." Through Christ, you’re no longer a stranger but a loved child, heir to heaven’s promises—sealed by His Spirit. This episode unpacks how this truth comforts you in trials, giving a secure identity. Are you living as God’s child today?…
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Christ heals all soul-sickness, as seen in Thomas Brooks’ "A Cabinet of Choice Jewels." His blood cures guilt and sin’s power, outdoing worldly fixes. This episode unpacks how to seek His perfect healing—quickly and fully—finding grace for every need. Are you turning to Christ today?
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Watching your heart is vital, as seen in John Flavel’s "Keeping the Heart." It’s the soul’s citadel—pure if guarded, corrupt if neglected—shaping all you do. This episode unpacks how to stay vigilant, cutting sin early and steering toward God daily. Are you guarding your heart today?
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Christ is your source of life, as seen in William Bridge’s "Christ and the Covenant." All grace and comfort flow from Him—He’s your water for guilt, bread for weakness, and life over death. This episode unpacks how to stay near Him, avoiding empty cisterns, to thrive spiritually. Are you drawing from Christ today?…
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Christ’s heart reaches out to the weak, as seen in Richard Sibbes’ "The Bruised Reed." He won’t break a bruised soul or quench a faint faith, lifting sinners with infinite mercy. This episode unpacks His gentle care for your struggles, urging you to come to Him. Are you trusting His tenderness today?…
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Self-denial is key to following Christ, as seen in Richard Baxter’s "The Saints’ Everlasting Rest." It means giving up your will, pride, and comforts for His way, finding true life. This episode unpacks how this inward choice, not just outward acts, leads to freedom and joy. Are you denying yourself for Christ today?…
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God’s providence watches over you always, as seen in John Flavel’s "The Mystery of Providence." From birth to glory, His hand guides and provides, mixing trials with love for your good. This episode unpacks how His wisdom never fails, even in dark times—trust His care today. Are you resting in His providence?…
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Christ is your Advocate now, as seen in Thomas Goodwin’s "Christ Our Advocate." He pleads your case before God, not claiming innocence, but proving your debt paid by His blood. This episode unpacks His ongoing intercession, standing against all accusations with His scars. Rest in His defense today. Are you trusting Christ as your Advocate?…
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Holy zeal sets your soul ablaze for God, as seen in John Reynolds’ "The Christian’s Duty to God." It’s a Spirit-driven fire to love His glory and fight sin, not a cold or rash effort. This episode unpacks how to fuel it with prayer and Scripture, serving Him boldly. Are you living with zeal today?
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God’s covenant gives you unshakable peace, as seen in Edward Leigh’s "A Treatise of the Divine Promises." Sealed by Christ’s blood, it promises pardon and glory, not based on your works but His love. This episode unpacks how to trust this bond, living secure in His faithfulness. Are you resting in His covenant today?…
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A humble heart delights God, as seen in Thomas Adams’ "The Soul’s Refuge." It bows to His will, trusts Christ, and draws His grace, unlike pride. This episode unpacks how to seek humility in prayer, learning from Christ’s example. Are you walking humbly today?
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Fervent prayer gives you strength, as seen in Joseph Hall’s "The Devout Soul." It’s a heartfelt cry, not a dull habit, that moves God when you ask with faith. This episode unpacks how to pray zealously, finding grace and deliverance. Are you praying fervently today?
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Trusting God’s faithfulness brings joy, as seen in William Spurstowe’s "The Wells of Salvation Opened." His love and promises never fail, holding you through storms like a rock. This episode unpacks how to lean on His Word, finding peace and strength. Are you trusting His faithfulness today?
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A clear conscience brings peace, as seen in Vavasor Powell’s "Christ and Moses Excellency." Christ’s blood cleanses it, freeing you from guilt when you confess and live sincerely. This episode unpacks how to keep it pure, finding bold joy in God’s approval. Are you seeking a clear conscience today?
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Self-denial frees you for Christ, as seen in Nathaniel Ranew’s "Solitude Improved by Divine Meditation." Denying lusts and pride opens you to His will, bringing true joy and strength. This episode unpacks how to follow His example, letting go of self for His gain. Are you denying yourself today?
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God’s commandments bring delight and guide to life, as seen in Henry Scudder’s "The Christian’s Daily Walk." They’re not burdens but paths to peace, showing His love and grace. This episode unpacks how to love and obey them daily, finding joy and strength. Are you delighting in His commands today?
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