God hath work to do in this world; and to desert it because of its difficulties and entanglements, is to cast off His authority. It is not enough that we be just, that we be righteous, and walk with God in holiness; but we must also serve our generation, as David did before he fell asleep. God hath a work to do; and not to help Him is to oppose Him.
Interpretation
This quote emphasizes the importance of actively engaging in the world and fulfilling one's purpose rather than retreating due to challenges.
John Owen's quote underscores the belief that individuals have a divine responsibility to contribute positively to their surroundings despite the obstacles they may encounter. It encourages active participation in life and service to others as a fulfillment of one's spiritual duty, illustrating the significance of walking in faith while addressing the needs of the community.
In practice
This quote can inspire a group of volunteers preparing to serve at a local shelter.
Because he is; that is, because he is an infinitely glorious, good, wise, holy, powerful, righteous, self-subsisting , self-sufficient , and all-sufficient being; the fountain and author of all being and good; the first cause, last end, and sovereign Lord of all; therefore, he is to be worshipped: therefore, are we to admire, adore, and love him; to praise, to trust and to fear him.
If I have observed anything by experience, it is this: a man may take the measure of his growth and decay in grace according to his thoughts and meditations upon the person of Christ, and the glory of Christ's Kingdom, and of His love.
Mortification is the soul's vigorous opposition to self, wherein sincerity is most evident.
The growth of trees and plants takes place so slowly that it is not easily seen. Daily we notice little change. But, in course of time, we see that a great change has taken place. So it is with grace. Sanctification is a progressive, lifelong work (Prov 4:18). It is an amazing work of God's grace and it is a work to be prayed for (Rom 8:27).
Free will is "corrupted nature's deformed darling, the Pallas or beloved self-conception of darkened minds"
A man may be carried on in a constant course of mortification all his days; and yet perhaps never enjoy a good day of peace and consolation.
I wonder if we are all wrong about each other, if we are just composing unwritten novels about the people we meet?
Every criticism, judgment, diagnosis, and expression of anger is the tragic expression of an unmet need.
We live in a society that compels us to go on using these concepts, and we no longer know what they mean.
Eating, drinking, dying - three primary manifestations of the universal and impersonal life. Animals live that impersonal and universal life without knowing its nature. Ordinary people know its nature but don't live it and, if they think seriously about it, refuse to accept it. An enlightened person knows it, lives it, and accepts it completely. He eats, he drinks, and in due course he dies - but he eats with a difference, drinks with a difference, dies with a difference.
Keeping plenty of gold and jade in the palace makes no one able to defend it.
The effect of violent dislike between groups has always created an indifference to the welfare and honor of the state.
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