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Graces Increased by Exercise, September 11
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
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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.
Genius, talents, and money are not essential in order to exert this
influence; but it is essential that you abide in Christ, and that He abide in
you, for thus your fruit will be unto righteousness.
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