Let not that man think he makes any progress in holiness who walks not over the bellies of his lusts. He who doth not kill sin in this way takes no steps toward his journey's end.
Interpretation
True progress in holiness requires overcoming one's desires and sinful inclinations.
This quote by John Owen emphasizes the importance of actively confronting and overcoming sin in one's life as a prerequisite for spiritual growth and holiness. It suggests that mere intentions or feelings of progress are insufficient; individuals must engage in a vigorous struggle against their base desires (lusts) to make any significant strides toward their ultimate spiritual destination.
In practice
In a sermon about personal growth, the pastor quoted John Owen to encourage the congregation to face their internal battles.
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.
Standards are always out of date. That's what makes them standards.
I have always had trouble recognizing myself in the features of the intellectual playing his political role according to the screenplay that you are familiar with and whose heritage deserves to be questioned.
I suppose society is wonderfully delightful. To be in it is merely a bore. But to be out of it is simply a tragedy.
The past grows gradually around one, like a placenta for dying.
However much we guard against it, we tend to shape ourselves in the image others have of us.
Propaganda does not deceive people; it merely helps them to deceive themselves.
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