He works in us and with us, not against us or without us; so that his assistance is an encouragement to the facilitating of the work, and no occasion of neglect as to the work itself.
Interpretation
This quote emphasizes the cooperative relationship between individuals and a higher power, suggesting that divine assistance is meant to support, not replace, human effort.
John Owen highlights the concept that a higher power works collaboratively with individuals rather than in opposition or isolation. This relationship serves as a source of encouragement and support, suggesting that divine assistance enhances human efforts in the pursuit of work, rather than leading to complacency or neglect. The essence of the quote underlines the importance of personal agency in conjunction with spiritual help.
In practice
This quote can be shared in a sermon to inspire faith and action among the congregation.
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.
Anyone who can appease a man's conscience can take his freedom away from him.
Some scientists claim that hydrogen, because it is so plentiful, is the basic building block of the universe. I dispute that. I say there is more stupidity than hydrogen, and that is the basic building block of the universe.
Capital as such is not evil; it is its wrong use that is evil. Capital in some form or other will always be needed.
All occasions invite His mercies, and all times are His seasons.
Weapons are ominous tools. They are abhorred by all creatures. Anyone who follows the Way shuns them.
We have to recognize that spirituality is a legitimate dimension in the psyche. It's a legitimate dimension in the universal scheme of things. It doesn't mean that you are superstitious, that you are in to magical, primitive thinking, if you take spirituality seriously.
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