Many a blemish, many a defect, many an infirmity

(J.C. Ryle, "Holiness, Its Nature, Hindrances, Difficulties, and Roots" 1879)

"I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out." Romans 7:18

"O What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death?" Romans 7:24

Let us always remember that a true Christian may have many a blemish, many a defect, many an infirmity — and yet be a true Christian nevertheless. We do not despise gold — because it is mixed with much dross. We must not undervalue grace — because it is accompanied by much corruption.