The doctrines of grace humble man without degrading him and exalt him without inflating him.
Interpretation
This quote suggests that true grace brings humility without shame and elevates one's character without arrogance.
Charles Hodge's quote reflects on the nature of grace and its effect on the human spirit. It posits that doctrines of grace lead individuals to a state of humility and self-awareness, allowing them to acknowledge their limitations while also recognizing their worth. This balance helps to cultivate a healthy self-esteem that is rooted in truth rather than vanity, promoting both personal growth and a realistic perspective of oneself in the world.
In practice
During a speech on personal development, one might use this quote to illustrate the importance of humility.
It is because God is infinitely great and good that his glory is the end of all things; and his good pleasure the highest reason for whatever comes to pass. What is man that he should contend with God, or presume that his interests rather than God's glory should be made the final end?
Faith is not a blind, irrational conviction. In order to believe, we must know what we believe, and the grounds on which our faith rests.
Sanctification is not a work of nature, but a work of grace. It is a transformation of character effected not by moral influences, but supernaturally by the Holy Spirit.
To be in Christ is the source of the Christian life; to be like Christ is the sum of his excellence; to be with Christ is the fullness of his joy.
Once a week, do a thorough review of all your projects in as much detail as you need to. If you do, your systems will work. If you don't, no system will work.
Our intentions may be very good, but, because the intelligence is limited, the action may turn out to be a mistake - a mistake, but not necessarily a sin, for sin comes out of a wrong intention.
You have grown abominably lazy, and you like gossip, and waste time on frivolous things, you are contented to be petted and admired by silly people, instead of being loved and respected by wise ones.
If we listen to and follow the promptings of the Spirit, they will serve as a Liahona, guiding us through the unknown, challenging valleys and mountains that are ahead (see 1 Nephi 16).
Nothing is more characteristically juvenile than contempt for juvenility. . . youth's characteristic chronological snobbery.
It means nothing to be open to a proposition we don't understand.
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