Graces Increased by Exercise {a devotional}
In
all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing
uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, sound speech, that cannot be
condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having
no evil thing to say of you. Titus 2:7, 8.
A
healthy, growing Christian will not be a passive recipient among his
fellows. He must give as well as receive. Our graces are increased by
exercise. Christian society will furnish us with pure air to breathe,
and in breathing it we must be active. The Christian work performed, the
sympathies, encouragements, and instructions given by us to those who
need them, the self-restraint, love, patience, and forbearance which are
needed, exercised in Christian work, will create in ourselves faith,
obedience, hope, and love to God.... It is essential for spiritual
muscle and strength that the soul have exercise. Work must be done by
putting forth spiritual activity in improving opportunities to do
good.... The more faithful one is in the discharge of Christian duties,
the more soundness will he develop....
Weakness
and vacillation will never secure respect to the Christian profession.
It is impossible to reach men where they are and elevate them unless
some confidence is inspired in them for your sincerity and piety. You
can never reach them by stepping down from the platform of truth and
reform, but by bringing others up to that platform God’s Word has
provided for you. If men opposed to our faith see that you who profess
it are earnest, steadfast, and uncorrupted at all times and under all
circumstances, and that you abide in Christ, the living Vine, and are
unshaken followers of truth and reform, you will reflect the spirit and
character of Christ. In your business, in the associations with
believers and unbelievers, in the sanctuary, at home, in every place,
you will show the influence of a Saviour’s love, which will have a
controlling influence upon believers.
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