We should always take great trials and great temptations as the forerunners of great blessings and growth of fellowship with God.
The obedience of grace obtains for us the profitable knowledge of truth, and teaches us to prize it more than much fine gold. Mere knowledge puffeth up, and the talk of the lips tendeth only to penury. (Prov. 14:23.)
Deep spirituality of mind is only obtained by a thorough crucifixion of self: self-denial is discipline for life—the work of every hour.
To make a good soldier, put him in front of the battle; a good seaman, let him brave the storm: so with the Christian.
True readiness to confess sin, and joy in self-abasement, mark a growth in grace and knowledge of the character of God.
I know of no one who, with so little promise in his beginnings of faith, had a sunset so glorious as had Jacob. (Gen. 48)
It is the constant crucifying the flesh in little things that makes a giant in the Christian warfare. But true self-crucifixion is a thing impossible, save by grace; and to have the needful supplies of that grace we must be in perpetual communion with God: it is only thus we shall overcome in little things.
It is a great salvation wrought for us, if the soul be resolved to suffer the will of God, cost what it may.
Do you desire a humble mind, a soft heart, an obedient spirit? Ask and receive, that your joy may be full. But remember, “The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing” (Prov. 13:4). Be the clean vessel that God delights to fill and use.
Not God’s answering prayer in respect of earthly things and earthly gifts, but growth of the new man, is the true proof that we please God.