Pithy gems from Matthew Henry

(1662 – 1714)
 

Eve was not taken out of Adam's head to top him, neither out of his feet to be trampled on by him—but out of his side to be equal with him, under his arm to be protected by him, and near his heart to be loved by him.

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We cannot expect too little from man—nor too much from God!

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A garment that is double dyed, dipped again and again—will retain the color a great while. Just so will a truth which is the subject of meditation.

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A life spent in the service of God and communion with Him is the most pleasant life that anyone can live in this world.

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By the light of nature—we see God as a God above us,
by the light of the law—we see Him as a God against us,
but by the light of the gospel—we see Him as Emmanuel, God with us.

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He who feeds His birds, will not starve His babes.

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Those who would not eat the forbidden fruit, must not come near the forbidden tree.

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Every creature is to us what God makes it—a comfort or a cross, a blessing or a curse.

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You may as soon find a living man without breath, as one of God's people without prayer.

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The Bible is a letter God has sent to us.
Prayer is a letter we send to Him.

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Nothing exposes religion more to the reproach of its enemies—than the worldliness and half-heartedness of its professors.

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Nature is content with little;
grace is content with less;
lust is content with nothing!

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Christ's followers cannot expect better treatment in the world than their Master had.

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Whatever we have of this world in our hands, our care must be to keep it out of our hearts—lest it come between us and Christ.

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Extraordinary afflictions are not always the punishment of extraordinary sins—but sometimes the trial of extraordinary graces.

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When God intends great mercy for his people—He first of all sets them praying.

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Saying and doing are two things.

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We should take heed of pride—it is the sin that turned angels into devils!

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Come, and see the victories of the cross!
Christ's wounds—are your healings,
His agonies—are your repose,
His conflicts—are your conquests,
His groans—are your songs,
His pains—are your ease,
His shame—is your glory,
His death—is your life, and
His sufferings—are your salvation!

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It was the greatest honor God did to man—that He made man in His own image.
It is the greatest dishonor man has done to God—that he has made God in his own image.

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Brotherly love is still the distinguishing badge of every true Christian.

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Peace is such a precious jewel—that I would give anything for it but truth.

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God is either your best friend—or your worst enemy.

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Knowledge is vain and fruitless—which is not reduced to practice.

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There is a burden of . . .
  care in getting riches;
  fear in keeping riches;
  temptation in using riches;
  guilt in abusing riches;
  sorrow in losing riches; and
  a solemn account at last to be given concerning riches!

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Out of Christ, God is a consuming fire—but in Christ, God is a reconciled Father.

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Our temptations, if not yielded to, are not sins; they are afflictions only.

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Sin is the sickness, disease, and torment of the soul!
Christ came to take away sin, and so to heal the soul.

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A man may go idle to Hell—but he who will go to Heaven, must be diligent.

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It is the duty of Christians to desire, and aim at, and press towards perfection in grace and holiness.

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Pride is a subtle sin—it creeps into our pious duties, before we are aware.

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If God does not give his people what they ask for, it is because He knows they do not need it, and that it is not for their good.

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The richest of men are indebted to the mercy of God for their daily bread.

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We cannot alter the disposals of Providence, therefore we must humbly submit and resign ourselves to them.

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No guilt is so great, but there is a remedy in Christ's blood which atones for it.
No corruption is so strong, but there is a remedy in his grace which can subdue it.

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Those who are passing with Christ over the ocean of this world, must expect storms.

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The great intention of the blessed Jesus in the redemption he wrought, is to separate our hearts from sin.

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In the grace of the gospel there is a salve for every sore and a remedy for every malady.
There is no spiritual disease, but there is power in Christ for the cure of it.

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What peace can they have—who are not at peace with God?

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The best evidence of our having the truth—is our walking in the truth.

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None can know their election—but by their conformity to Christ; for all who are chosen are chosen to sanctification.

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The first lesson in Christ's school—is self-denial.

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It ought to be the business of every day—to prepare for our last day!

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Hope for the best—prepare for the worst—and then take what God chooses to send!

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Every tear of sorrow sown by the righteous—springs up as a pearl.

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Those who teach by their doctrine must teach by their life—or else they pull down with one hand what they build up with the other.

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Our duty as Christians is always to keep Heaven in our eye—and earth under our feet!

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The meek are those who quietly submit themselves to God, to His Word and to His rod, who follow His directions, and comply with His designs, and are gentle toward all men.

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God has wisely kept us in the dark concerning future events, and reserved for himself the knowledge of them—that he may train us up in a dependence upon himself and a continued readiness for every event.

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There is one death-bed repentance recorded in the Bible (the thief on the cross), so that no one despair—but there is ONLY one, so that no one will presume.

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Afflictions are God's threshing instruments, designed to loosen us from the world, to part us and our chaff, and to prepare us for use.

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When the world begins to smile upon us, we must remember that it is not our home.

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While there are spots in the moon, we must not expect anything spotless under it. The fairest marbles have their flaws.

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There is a burden of . . .
care in getting riches,
fear in keeping riches,
temptations in using riches,
guilt in abusing riches,
sorrow in losing riches, and
account at last to be given concerning riches.
A lively faith enables a man to look upon the wealth of this world with a holy contempt.

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We are in more danger by the charms of a smiling world, than by the terrors of a frowning world.

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The place of our satisfaction, may soon become the place of our affliction.

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Many have been zealous for building and beautifying churches, who yet have been strangers to the power of godliness.

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Nature is content with little,
grace with less,
but lust with nothing.

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God's time to visit His people with His comforts, is when they are most destitute of other comforts and other comforters.

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God proportions his people's trials, to their strength.

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Evil-doers may be found going as far as the best of God's people in the external services of religion!

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God often takes those soonest, whom he loves best!

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If God gives us habitations that are safe and warm and wholesome—we are to be thankful, though they be not magnificent or costly.

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In Noah's family there was a Ham, in Christ's apostles there was a Judas; there is no perfect purity on this side of Heaven.

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Sanctified afflictions are spiritual promotions.

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If God loves us, and has mercy in store for us, He will not allow us to take up our rest anywhere short of Heaven, but will graciously repeat His calls until the good work begun is performed, and our souls repose in God alone.

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It pleases God sometimes to try those with great affliction, that are but young beginners in religion.

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Every comfort in this world has its cross.

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The people of God must take heed of doing anything that looks base or mercenary, or that savors of covetousness and self-seeking.

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God may allow persecutors to trample on His people a great while, yet He will certainly reckon with them at last.

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Religion does not destroy, but improves good manners, and teaches us to honor all men. Civility is a great ornament to piety.

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We ought not to seek for the most delectable food; let us be thankful for necessary food, though it be homely and common.

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Godly people should be (with prudence) generous people.

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Those who, through grace, are themselves delivered out of a sinful state and condition, should do what they can for the deliverance of others, especially relations.

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It is good being a kin to a godly man.

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God's commands are not to be disputed, but obeyed. God calls us to part with an Isaac sometimes, and we must do it with cheerful resignation and submission to His holy will.

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Holy souls love secret retirement with God.

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Honest, useful labor, is that which nobody needs to be ashamed of.

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Those who are ever so careful to keep a good conscience, may not always be sure of a good name.

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Self-abasement befits us in all our approaches to the throne of grace. Christ never commended any of his petitioners as much as he who said, "Lord, I am not worthy!"

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All of our comforts in this world have their alloys.

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The sweetest communions the saints have with God in this world are short and transient.

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It is the wisdom of parents not to bring up their children too delicately, because they know not what hardships providence may reduce them to before they die.

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It is no new thing for the best of men to be falsely accused of the worst of crimes, by those who themselves are the worst of criminals.

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When called to vindicate ourselves, we should avoid speaking ill of others.

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Great gifts appear most graceful and illustrious, when those that have them, use them humbly.

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We often think that to be against us, which is really for us.

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Tears of tenderness and affection are no flaw, even to great and wise men.

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What is abundant wealth good for, but to do good with it.

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Strong affections in the enjoyment of a thing, cause long afflictions in the loss of it.

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Among God's people there is to be found a great variety of dispositions. Let not those of different tempers and gifts envy one another, or censure one another.

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That trial which we most fear, oftentimes proves our greatest joy in the outcome.

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It is no new thing for Christians to meet with a great deal of opposition and discouragement, even from their own mother's children.

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God humbles those first, whom He intends to exalt.

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Those who are qualified for great employments, must not think it strange if they are confined to obscurity.

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Willful hardness of heart, is commonly punished with judicial hardness of heart.

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To be angry at nothing but sin, is the way not to sin in anger.

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We may be in the way of duty, and yet be in great straits—troubled on every side.

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God brings us into straits, that He may bring us to our knees.

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When we are in the way of our duty, though we meet with difficulties, we must go forward.

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God can embitter that to us which we promise ourselves most satisfaction from. He often does so in this wilderness world, that our disappointments in the creature may drive us to the Creator.

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The worst motives are sometimes put upon the best actions.

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We do not find that Joshua's hands were heavy in fighting, but Moses's hands were heavy in praying. In the same way, the more spiritual any service is, the more apt are we to flag in it.

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Cleanse your hands and purify your hearts, and then draw near to God.

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When God has work to do, He will never lack instruments.

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God dispenses His gifts variously: Moses was fittest to govern Israel, but Bezalel was fitter than he to build the tabernacle.

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Those who sincerely design to do their duty, may in faith, beg of God direction and strength for the doing of it.

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We must be content to have our excellencies obscured and a veil drawn over them—never striving to make a fair show in the flesh.

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The offerings were of diverse kinds—some brought gold, some brought goats' hair. God has an eye to the heart of the giver, more than to the value of the gift.

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Even sins of ignorance need to be atoned for by sacrifice. Leviticus 4:27

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The most quieting considerations under affliction are those that are fetched from the Word of God.

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It is a work of great importance, but of great difficulty, to judge of our spiritual state.

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We must not be covetous and grasping, and greedy for everything we can lay any claim to, nor insist upon our right in small and trivial things.

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Friendly reproof is a duty, and we ought both to give it and take it in love.

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If our devotions are ignorant, cold, and trifling, and full of distractions—we but offer the blind, the lame, the sick for sacrifice.

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The more we are humbled for sin, the better are we qualified for the comforts of the Holy Spirit.

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Those are hastening apace to their own ruin, who think it below them to be pious.

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Christian ministers should neither entangle themselves, nor be entangled, in secular affairs.

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No sooner is the tabernacle fully set up in the wilderness, but provision is made for the removal of it. In the same way, even when we are but just settled in the world, and think we are beginning to take root—we must be preparing for changes and relocations, especially for the great change.

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All our relocations in this world, are but from one wilderness to another.

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Those that are of a critical spirit will always find something to quarrel about.

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When we complain without cause, it is just with God to give us cause to complain.

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The best have their infirmities, and fail sometimes in the exercise of that grace which they are most eminent for.

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Even true and great believers sometimes find it hard to trust God under the discouragements of second causes.

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God often grants the desire of lost sinners in his wrath, while he denies the desires of his redeemed people in love.

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That famous cluster of grapes (Numbers 13:23) was to Israel the pledge and specimen of the fruits of Canaan. Such are the present comforts which we have in communion with God—foretastes of the fullness of joy we expect in the heavenly Canaan.

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Those who are zealous friends to lost souls, will stoop to anything for their salvation.

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Those who hate to be reformed, hate those who would reform them!

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Those often fall under the highest censure, who have merited the highest applause.

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The maintenance of the Levitical priests was such as left them disentangled from the affairs of this life. Thus God ordered it, that they might be more entirely addicted to their ministry, and not diverted from it.

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We live in a sinful world.

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How respectfully Balaam speaks of the Word of God, how slightly of the wealth of the world; yet he loved the wages of unrighteousness. It is an easy thing for bad men to speak very good words.

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Many would be saints in Heaven, but not saints on earth.

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When the world smiles, we are apt to desire it, and expect our happiness from it; and so we forget Him who is our only portion.

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"You must destroy them totally. Make no treaty with them, and show them no mercy!" Deuteronomy 7:2. Thus we must deal with our lusts that war against our souls.

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It is very good for us to remember all the ways both of God's providence and grace, by which He has led us hitherto through this wilderness.

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Our gaining possession of the heavenly Canaan, as it must be attributed to God's power, and not to our own might—so it must be ascribed to God's grace, and not to our own merit.

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It is good for us often to remember our former sins with sorrow and shame, and to review the records which conscience keeps of them, that we may see how much we are indebted to free grace, and may humbly own that we never merited anything at God's hand but wrath.

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The comfortable cheerful using of what God has given us, with temperance and sobriety, is really the honoring of God with it. Contentment, holy joy, and thankfulness, make every meal a religious feast.

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Those who consecrate the days of their youth and the prime of their time to the service and honor of God, bring Him their first fruits.

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The Word preached is likely to profit when it comes gently, and sweetly insinuates itself into the hearts and affections of the hearers.

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Sometimes God reserves the brightest discoveries of His grace to His people, to be the support of their dying moments.

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Faith in God's promises ought not to supersede but encourage our diligence in the use of proper means.

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The Word and ordinances of God are spiritual manna with which God nourishes His people in this wilderness; and though often forfeited, yet they are continued while we are here. But when we come to the heavenly Canaan, this manna will cease, for we shall have no longer need of it.

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Under the greatest provocations, it is our wisdom and duty to keep our temper. A good cause needs not anger to defend it; and a bad one is made never the better by it.

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It is no breach of the tenth commandment moderately to desire those comforts and conveniences of this life which we see attainable in a fair and regular way.

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Those bound for Heaven must be willing to swim against the stream, and must not do as the most do, but as the holiest do.

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God often manifests Himself to His people when they are out of the noise and hurry of this world. Silence and solitude befriend our communion with God.

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God often chooses to do great things by those that are little, especially those who are so in their own eyes.

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Let us do our duty, and then trust God with our safety.

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Those who design evil themselves, are commonly most apt to suspect that others design evil. It is no new thing for those that are themselves most culpable, to be most clamorous in accusing the innocent.

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When God makes use of wicked men as instruments in His hand to do His work, He means one thing and they another. Isaiah 10:6, 7

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It is no part of religion to go contrary to the innocent customs of the places where we live.

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Common gifts of providence are often bestowed in greater plenty upon those that are strangers to God, than upon those who know and worship Him.

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This world is embittered to us, that Heaven may be endeared.

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We know not how much good we may do with a kind look, or by speaking friendly to others.

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Humility teaches us not only not to praise ourselves, but not to be forward to publish other men's praises of us.

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We ought to take notice of our comforts, to keep us from over-grieving for our crosses; for our crosses we deserve, but our comforts we have forfeited.

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Prayer is not a thing we have reason to be ashamed of, though we must avoid all appearances of ostentation.

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Nothing brings a greater reproach upon religion, than ministers' covetousness, sensuality, and pride.

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Those who do not restrain the sins of others when it is in their power to do it, make themselves partakers of the guilt.

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Our secret communion with God is not to be proclaimed upon the house tops.

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It is common for those who have estranged themselves from the vitals of religion, to manifest a great fondness for the rituals and external observances of it.

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The devil visits idle men with his temptations.
God visits industrious men with His favors.

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Pride and wantonness have marred our times. Rich parents count it disreputable to employ their sons in courses of frugality, and their pampered children think it a shame to do anything, and so bear themselves as those that hold it their only honor to be either idle or wicked.

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Saul among the prophets, is Saul still.

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Honor, like the shadow, follows those who flee from it; but flies from those who pursue it.

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The work of ministers is to reason with people; not only to exhort and direct them—but to persuade, to convince their judgments, and so to gain their wills and affections.

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Saul was turning aside from God, and yet now he begins to build altars; being most zealous, as many are, for the form of godliness when he was denying the power of it.

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Lots should be cast with prayer, because they are a solemn appeal to Providence.

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God often bears long with those who are marked for ruin.

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Those who come after us, may be reaping the benefit of our good works when we are in our graves.

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The holiest of men are not perfect in their faith, nor will fear be wholly cast out anywhere on this side of Heaven.

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Whatever our calling or profession is, we should aim to excel in it, and do the business of it in the best manner.

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Wisdom commands respect.

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Saul was rejected of God, yet he kept up his observance of the holy feasts. In the same way, there may be the remains of external devotion where there is nothing but the ruins of real virtue.

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God's providences sometimes seem to run counter to His promises.

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Many mourn for their sins who do not truly repent of them. They weep bitterly for them, and yet continue in love and league with them.

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Sinners are often most secure, when they are most in danger and destruction is at the door.

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It is common for men to inveigh severely against those sins which they are in no temptation to at the moment, but afterwards they themselves are overcome by them.

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God's people should always behave themselves so inoffensively, as, if possible, to get the good opinion of all whom they have dealings with.

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Superiors often lose their authority by haughtiness, but seldom by courtesy and condescension.

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Those who forsake God, will be forsaken by God.

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Better a tent of God's appointing, than a temple of our own inventing.

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If providence has raised us, and our friends and their families are brought low—we must not forget former acquaintance, but rather look upon that as giving us so much fairer opportunity of being kind to them.

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Mephibosheth, though the son of a prince, calls himself a dead dog. It is good to have the heart humble under humbling providences.

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Those are commonly most ambitious of preferment, who are least fit for it. The best qualified, are often the most humble.

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Those who are old, must not grudge young people those delights which they themselves are past the enjoyment of.

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We must not think it strange while in this poor world, if the end of one trouble is the beginning of another.

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Those who truly repent of their sins and have them pardoned, yet are often made to smart for them in this world.

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They know not what true religion is—whose care it is to make it cheap and easy to themselves, and are best pleased with that which costs them least of pains and expense.

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See the danger of a prosperous condition, and how hard it is to overcome the temptations of it.

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If Providence calls us to solitude and retirement, it befits us to acquiesce; when we cannot be useful, we must be patient.

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We must not think it strange if we meet with very sharp afflictions, even when we are in the way of duty. When we have the clearest manifestations of God's favor towards us, even then we must prepare for the rebukes of Providence.

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Early piety, it is to be hoped, will become eminent piety.

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It has been the lot of the best and most useful men, to be called and counted the troublers of the land.

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Though the answer of our fervent and believing supplications do not come presently, yet we must continue instant in prayer.

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Great blessings often arise from small beginnings, and showers of plenty may arise from a cloud of a span long.

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Carnal hearts are hardened and enraged against God, by that which should convince and conquer them.

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It concerns us often to inquire whether we are in our place, and in the way of our duty.

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Elijah found Elisha not in the schools of the prophets, not reading or praying, but plowing. Idleness is no man's honor, nor is farming any man's disgrace. An honest calling in the world does not put us out of the way of our heavenly calling.

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The greatest kindness one can do to poor people is to help to improve what little they have, by their own industry and ingenuity.

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It ill becomes a Christian to be ungrateful, or to sponge off of the generous.

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We often create a great deal of uneasiness to ourselves by misinterpreting the words and actions of others, that are well intended. It is a charity to ourselves to think no evil.

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Many have their hearts unhumbled, under humbling providences.

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It is a great mercy to have those who will faithfully tell us our faults and follies, though they are our inferiors.

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Even Christ had a Judas among his followers.

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The means of grace, cannot give grace.

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Those whose faith is strong, ought tenderly to consider and compassionate those who are weak, and of a timorous spirit.

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There is not a surer presage of ruin, than an unhumbled heart under humbling providences.

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There is a time to keep silence, as well as a time to speak; and there are those to whom to offer anything religious, is to cast pearls before swine.

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Those who most fear divine wrath, are least likely to feel it.

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David calls the common people brethren, which speaks his humility and condescension, notwithstanding his kingship.

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Those who are evil, and design evil, are apt to be jealous, and suspect evil of others without cause.

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Ministers should be first and foremost in every good work; for their office obliges them to teach and quicken by their example, as well as by their doctrine.

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Godly men may differ much in natural temper. God's work may be done well and successfully, and yet different methods taken in doing of it.

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Upon special occasions we must be willing to attend for many hours together on the reading and expounding of the word of God. Nehemiah 8:3

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Three hours they spent in reading and expounding Scripture, and three hours in confessing sin. Six hours in the solemn acts of religion, without saying, "Behold what a weariness it is." Nehemiah 9:3

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Even sorrow for sin must not grow so excessive as to hinder our joy in God, and our cheerfulness in His service.

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See the benefit of the public reading of the word of God. When it is duly attended to, it reveals to us sin and duty, good and evil, and shows us wherein we have erred. Nehemiah 13:3

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The falls of great and good men are recorded, that we may take warning by them, to shun the temptations which they were overcome by.

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Job's friends charged him with hypocrisy, because he was greatly afflicted. It is no hard matter for those to calumniate others, who seek an occasion to do so.

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The fire of God fell upon Job's honest servants, not upon the Sabean robbers. God's judgments are unsearchable!

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Grace teaches us in the midst of life's greatest comforts, to be willing to die; and in the midst of its greatest crosses, to be willing to live.

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Good words cost nothing but a little self-denial, yet they purchase great things.

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Gentleness will do what violence will not do.

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Riches and honors in abundance prove to many a clog and a hindrance in the ways of the Lord—an occasion of pride and ostentation.

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Joash, who has but the form of godliness, is more zealous about the repair of the temple than Jehoiada himself. It is easier to build temples, than be temples to God.

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Rashness makes work for repentance.

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Holy duties should be performed with holy gladness.

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We may be in the way of our duty, and yet meet with trouble and danger.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Elijah was charged with troubling Israel; the apostles were charged with turning the world upside down; Christ Himself was charged with perverting the nation.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

God has His elect remnant in all places: Obadiah in the house of Ahab; saints in Caesar's household; and a devout Nehemiah in the heathen palace.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The desolations and distresses of the church ought to be the matter of our grief.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

If God were not more mindful of His promises, than we are of His precepts, we would be undone.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Job, though a man of business, found time to instruct others; he went among his neighbors, talked to them about their souls, and gave them good counsel.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

What little need have we of pastimes, and what great need to redeem time, when time runs on so fast towards eternity, which comes as time goes.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

They that engage in controversy, will find it very hard to keep their temper.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

We cannot judge of men's piety by their plenty, nor of what they have in their heart by what they have in their hand.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Whatever we expect, let us be sure to expect death, as nothing will prevent death.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Many have their houses full of goods, but their hearts empty of grace, and thereby are marked for ruin.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

There is no flying from God's justice, but by flying to His mercy.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

It is a great comfort to those who mean well, that God understands their meaning, though men do not, cannot, or will not.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

God's presence with a man in his house, though it be but a poor hut, makes it both a castle and a palace.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those who mourn with those who mourn, will bear their own sorrows the better when it comes their turn to drink of the bitter cup.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

It is hard to have riches and not to love riches; and that is what makes it so difficult for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those whom God's rod is not the cure of, His sword will be the death of. The consuming fire will prevail, if the refining fire does not.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Contenders are apt with too much boldness to bind one another over to the judgment of God.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

God did not consult us in making the world, yet it is well made. Why should we expect then that He should take His measures from us in governing it?

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Other birds do not envy the peacock its gaudy colors. Why should we repine if we see others wear better clothes than we can afford to wear?

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Even godly people that have no gross enormities to repent of, yet must be greatly afflicted in soul for the workings and breakings out of pride, passion, peevishness, and discontent.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

It is a dangerous thing to judge uncharitably of the spiritual state of others, for in so doing we may perhaps condemn those whom God has accepted.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Christ's church is built upon a rock, and the gates of Hell shall not prevail against it. The moon walks in brightness, though the dogs bark at it.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Whatever we rejoice in in this world, it must always be with trembling, lest we grow proud of it.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

True Christian fortitude consists more in a gracious security and serenity of mind, in patient bearing and waiting, than in daring enterprises with sword in hand.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

David could face Goliath with undaunted bravery, yet melts into tears at the remembrance of his sin.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those are nearest ruin, who set it farthest from them.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Gracious souls, though they still covet more of God, never covet more than God.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

God will not only deliver His people out of their troubles in due time, but He will sustain them and bear them up under their troubles in the mean time.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

There is no escaping God's avenging eye. Rocks and mountains will be no better shelter at the last, than fig leaves were at first.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Spiritual desertions are the saint's sorest afflictions. When their evidences are clouded, divine consolations suspended, their communion with God interrupted, and the terrors of God set themselves in array against them—how sapless are all their comforts!

     ~ ~ ~ ~

David shunned the company not only of wicked persons, but of vain persons who were wholly addicted to mirth and gaiety, and had nothing solid or serious in them. The company of such may perhaps be the more pernicious of the two to a godly man, because he will not be so ready to stand upon his guard against the contagion of vanity, as against that of downright wickedness.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Do we hope that praising God will be the blessedness of our eternity? Surely then we ought to make it the business of our time on earth.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those who truly desire communion with God, will set themselves with diligence to seek after it.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

God will reward the righteous not only for the good they have done, but for the good they have endeavored to do, though they could not complete it.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those that live by faith in God's all-sufficiency lack nothing, for in Him they have enough.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

That is preached best, and with most probability of success to others, which is first preached to ourselves.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

If we take care to keep a good conscience, we may leave it to God to take care of our good name.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

God does not always show a godly man his way at a distance, but leads him step by step, as children are led—and so keeps him in continual dependence on His leading.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The less notice we take of the unkindness and injuries that are done to us, the more we increase the quiet of our own minds.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those who commune much with their own hearts, will often have occasion to chide them.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

We come in vain to holy ordinances, if we do not come to the holy God in them.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

It is not men's having riches that denominates them worldly, but their setting their hearts upon them as the best things.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Thanksgiving is good, but thanksliving is better.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

If there is any true peace on this side of Heaven, it is in secret retirement with God.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Though our innocence will not secure us from troubles, yet it will greatly support and comfort us under our troubles.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

It is a smiling world that is most likely to draw the heart away from God, on whom alone it should be set.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

If God brings His people into a wilderness, He will be sure to go before them in it and bring them out of it.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The faith, even of strong believers, may sometimes be sorely shaken. There are storms that will try the firmest anchors.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

There are many that spend their life in sorrow, who yet shall spend their eternity in joy!

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The sense of present afflictions, should not drown out the remembrance of former mercies.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Who would wish to live a day longer than God has work to do, either by him or upon him?

     ~ ~ ~ ~

That which shall especially turn to the honor of good men, is their liberality and bounty to the poor.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those who live in hope of the kingdom of glory, must neither be ashamed nor afraid to own their obligation to Him who purchased it for them.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The book of Proverbs is a chest of gold rings, not a chain of gold links.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those who faithfully follow the pillar of cloud and fire, shall find though it may lead them about, it leads them the right way, and will bring them to Canaan at last.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Thousands have got more good by Solomon's proverbs than his own son did.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Virtue is the only nobility.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Be very careful in examining whether your way is right before the Lord, and whether it will end well.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

It is as great an instance of wisdom to take a reproof well, as to give it well.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

We often see that scattered by the justice of God, which has been gathered by the injustice of men.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

It contributes to the repose of our own minds to extenuate and excuse injuries and affronts, instead of making the worst of them, as we are apt to do.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Knowing men, if prudent, will carefully avoid everything that savors of ostentation, and not take all occasions to show their learning, but only use it for good purposes.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

If men are wise and godly, riches make them so much the more honorable and useful.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Keep your heart, and that will keep your tongue from sin. Keep your tongue, and that will keep your heart from trouble.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those that would be kept from any sin, must keep themselves from all the occasions and beginnings of it.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

We are allowed a sober and moderate use of the delights of this world.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

After the third day, fish and company become distasteful.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

It is a foolish thing to frighten ourselves from real duties, by imagined difficulties.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

A man is tried by praising him; let him be extolled and honored, and then he will show what he is.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Usefulness shall be the reward of faithfulness, and it is a good reward.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

God reviewed His works, and behold "all was very good." Solomon reviewed the works his hands had wrought, and behold "all was vanity and vexation of spirit."

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Corrupt desires are insatiable.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

A cheerful spirit is a great blessing: it makes the yoke of our employments easy, and the burden of our afflictions light.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

He is much happier who is always content, though he has ever so little; than he who is always coveting, though he has ever so much.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

That will break a proud man's heart, which will not break a humble man's sleep.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

We must show meekness towards all men, for we ourselves were once foolish.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

What God has given us we must make a comfortable use of as we can afford, under the limitations of sobriety and wisdom, and not forgetting the poor.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those who make a profession of religion have need to walk very circumspectly, because many eyes are upon them that watch for their halting. Their character is soon sullied.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those who love Christ, earnestly desire to have communion with Him by His Word, in which He speaks to us; and by prayer, in which we speak to Him.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Oh, how much better is it with the soul when it is love-sick for Christ, than when it is surfeited with the love of this world!

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those who continue seeking Christ shall find Him at last, and when, perhaps, almost ready to despair. The comfort that comes after long waiting, is sweet at last.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The more we withdraw from the bustle of the world, the more likely we are to have acquaintance with Christ, who took His disciples into a garden, there to be witnesses of the agonies of His love.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

By going about our worldly affairs with heavenly, holy hearts, mixing pious thoughts with common actions—we may take Christ with us wherever we go. We should never go, where we cannot in faith ask Him to go with us.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

There are those who are made worse, by the afflictions God takes to make them better.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those are fittest to be employed for God, who are low in their own eyes, and are made deeply sensible of their own unworthiness.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

God is often found of those who seek Him not; much more will He be found of those that seek Him diligently.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those who are most merry and jovial—when they come to be in distress, are commonly most overwhelmed with heaviness.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The grace of meekness will contribute very much to the increase of our holy joy.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

It was a common saying among the old Puritans, "Plain bread and the gospel, is good fare!"

     ~ ~ ~ ~

We must not wonder if, when we are doing well, God sends afflictions to quicken us to do better.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Our being ready for death will make it come never the sooner, but much the easier.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

God has seldom seen fit to entrust His own people with much wealth, as there are so many snares and temptations that attend it.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those who will never be forsaken and left in despair, may yet for a time be perplexed and in distress.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Men may go a great way towards Heaven, and yet come short. Many go to Hell with a good earthly reputation.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The business of ministers is to speak from God to his people, and to God for his people.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

It is a good sign that God is coming toward a people in ways of mercy, when He pours out a spirit of prayer upon them.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

A godly man in such a bad world as this, cannot but be a man of sorrows.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The more we indulge ourselves in the pleasures of this life, the more we unfit ourselves for the troubles of this life.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Dying saints may be justly envied, while living sinners are justly pitied.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The dishonor done to God's name, and the profanation of His holy Word, is the greatest grief imaginable to a gracious soul.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Though the church's prosperity does not come in our time, we must not therefore despair of it, for it will come in God's time.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

God's love is from everlasting in the counsels of it, to everlasting in the continuance of it.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those who keep up a holy fear at all times, have a good hope to support themselves in the worst of times.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

In such a malicious world as this, innocency—nay, excellency—is no fence against calumny.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The frowns of the world would not disquiet us as they do, if we did not foolishly flatter ourselves with the hopes of its smiles.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

There are many that persist in unrepented iniquity, and yet enjoy uninterrupted prosperity.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The best men, and those that are dearest to God, often share not only in the common calamities of this life, but in the public and national judgments that are inflicted for sin.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those who will do anything to purpose in the service of God, must not be afraid of the face of man, for the fear of man will bring a snare which will be very entangling to us in the work of God.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those who are called to preach must find time to study, and a great deal of time, too. They must often shut themselves up in their houses, that they may give attendance to reading and meditation, and so their profiting may appear to all.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Sometimes people with tender consciences perplex themselves with scruples about lawful things.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

By their eager pursuit of wealth, people are drawn into sin; and by their plentiful enjoyment of it, they are hardened in sin.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

There are many whose wealth is their ruin. The gaining of the world is the losing of their souls. It makes them proud, secure, covetous, oppressive, voluptuous.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

We shall find in examining our own hearts, and searching into them—that there is a world of iniquity in them—a great abundance and variety of abominations. After we have found much amiss, still we shall find more, for the heart is desperately wicked!

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those who keep themselves pure in times of common iniquity, God will keep them safe in times of common calamity.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

It is a very wicked thing to be glad at the calamities of others!

     ~ ~ ~ ~

It is very rare to find a humble spirit in the midst of great blessings.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

It befits God's people to be very honest and just in all their dealings, very punctual and exact in rendering to all their due, and very cautious to do wrong to none.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

We know not the uneasiness of many who live in great pomp, and one would think in pleasure too. We look into their houses, and are tempted to envy them, but could we look into their hearts we would rather pity them.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

We have all need to walk circumspectly, because we have many eyes upon us who watch for our halting. It is difficult to carry a full cup without spilling.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

A believing hope of a blessed lot in the heavenly Canaan, will be an effectual support to us when we are going out of this world, and will furnish us with living comforts in dying moments.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

If men will not take away sin from their mirth, God will take away mirth from their sin!

     ~ ~ ~ ~

When God said, "She has forgotten Me," one would think that God would have followed, "Therefore I will abandon her."
But no! "Therefore I will allure her."

     ~ ~ ~ ~

What is unlawfully gained, cannot be comfortably used.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

When men begin to complain more of their sins than of their afflictions, then there begins to be some hope for them.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Preservations from present judgments, if a good use is not made of them—are but reservations for greater judgments.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

We are to be particular in our resolutions against sin, as we ought to be in our confessions, because deceit lies in generalities.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those who labor only for "the food that perishes," will, sooner or later, be ashamed of their labor.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

A person may be filling up the measure of his iniquity apace, and yet keep a course of external performances in religion.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those alone shall be delivered in the great day, who are now effectually called from sin to God, from self to Christ, from things below to things above.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to God. Dissembled piety is double iniquity.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Like Jonah, we may be out of the way of duty, and yet may meet with a favorable gale. The ready way is not always the right way.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

If covetousness reigns in the heart, commonly all compassion is banished from it.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Many are rocked asleep in a fatal security by their church privileges.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

When we go to read and hear the Word of God, we must observe what word of conviction, caution, counsel, and comfort, God gives us.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Converting grace refines the language, not by making the phrases witty, but the substance wise.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Church privileges, when they are not duly improved, are often made the matter of man's pride, and the ground of their security. But that haughtiness is of all other the most offensive to God, which is supported and fed by the pretensions of holiness.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

We must not only not do wrong to any, but we must not so much as desire it or think of it.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Let the truths of God rule in our heads, and let the peace of God rule in our hearts.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

When God intends great mercy for His people, the first thing he does is to set them a-praying.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those ministers, and those alone, are likely to turn men from iniquity, who preach sound doctrine and live good lives!

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The riches we impart—are the only wealth we shall always retain.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

He whose head is in Heaven—need not fear to put his feet into the grave.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

None live so easily, so pleasantly—as those who live by faith.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

In prayer, God's Word must be the guide of our desires—and the ground of our expectations. We must never promise ourselves any more than God has promised us.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those who will not deliver themselves into the hand of God's mercy—cannot be delivered out of the hand of His justice!

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Days of trouble—must be days of prayer.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

No attribute of God is more dreadful to sinners, than His holiness.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

It is not talking, but walking—which will bring us to Heaven.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The fear of God reigning in the heart—is the beauty of the soul.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Men may die like lambs—and yet have their place forever with the goats. "All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will put the sheep on His right—and the goats on His left." Matthew 25:32-33

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Holy joy will be oil to the wheels of our obedience.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Do nothing until you have well considered the end of it.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Humility is the great preserver of peace and order in all Christian churches and societies. Consequently pride is the great disturber of them, and the cause of most dissensions and breaches in the church.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Men cannot expect to do ill—and fare well.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

God will work when he pleases, how he pleases, and by what means he pleases.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Christ died. He left a will in which He gave . . .
His soul to His Father,
His body to Joseph of Arimathea,
His clothes to the soldiers, and
His mother to John.
But to His disciples, who had left all to follow Him, He left neither silver nor gold—but something far better—His peace!

     ~ ~ ~ ~

A modest dress is a very good thing, if it is the genuine indication of a humble heart. But it is a bad thing, if it is the hypocritical disguise of a proud ambitious heart. Let us be really as good as we seem to be—but not seem to be better than really we are.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

When we are calling to God to turn the eye of His favor towards us—He is calling to us to turn the eye of our obedience towards Him.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

That which God plants—He will take care to keep watered.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Thanksgiving is good—but Thanksliving is better.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Man takes great pains to heap up riches, and they are like heaps of manure in the furrows of the field—good for nothing unless they are spread.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those whom God will employ—are first struck with a sense of their unworthiness to be employed.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Seducers are more dangerous enemies to the church, than persecutors.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

It is not enough for us to be where God is worshiped—if we do not ourselves worship him.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

No man will say, "There is no God" until he is so hardened in sin that it has become his interest that there should be no God to call him to account.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Grace is the free, undeserved goodness and favor of God to mankind.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

None are sent empty away from Christ—but those who come to him full of themselves.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

May Christ be our joy, our confidence, our all. May we daily be made more like to Him, and more devoted to His service.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

It is good for us to keep some account of our prayers—that we may not unsay them in our practice.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Wherever the fear of God rules in the heart—it will appear both in works of charity and piety, and neither will excuse us from the other.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those who have a heart to do good, never need complain for lack of opportunity.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The way to preserve the peace of the church, is to preserve its purity.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

None are damned by the justice of God—but those who refuse to be reformed by the grace of God.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

It is easy to be religious when religion is in fashion; but it is an evidence of strong faith and resolution, to swim against the stream to Heaven.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The best we can say to God in prayer, is what He has said to us in His Word.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

If God and his grace do not rule us—then sin and Satan will have possession of us.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Some people do not like to hear much of repentance. I think it is so necessary. that if I should die in the pulpit—I would desire to die preaching repentance; and if I should die out of the pulpit—I would desire to die practicing repentance.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

What we count the adversities of life—are often blessings in disguise, resulting in good to us in the end. Though for the present they are not joyous but grievous—yet, if received in a right spirit, they work out fruits of righteousness for us at last.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Better to get up late and be wide awake—than to get up early and be asleep all day.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

They will soon come to make nothing of God—who will not be content to make him their all.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Prayer is a salve for every sore and a remedy for every malady. When we are afflicted with thorns in the flesh, we should give ourselves to prayer. If an answer is not given to the first prayer, nor to the second, we are to continue praying. Troubles are sent to teach us to pray. They are continued, to teach us to continue instant in prayer.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Goodness makes greatness truly valuable—and greatness makes goodness much more serviceable.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

What God requires of us, he himself works in us—or it is not done. He who commands faith, holiness, and love—creates them by the power of his grace going along with his word, that he may have all the praise.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

We best oppose error—by promoting a solid knowledge of the word of truth. The greatest kindness we can do to children—is to make them early to know the Bible.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

We have no sufficient strength of our own. All our sufficiency is of God. We should stir up ourselves to resist temptations in a reliance upon God's all-sufficiency and the omnipotence of his might.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The Scriptures contain shallows where a lamb could wade—and depths where an elephant would drown.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those who set God always before them and walk before him with all their hearts—shall find him as good as his word and better; he will both keep covenant with them and show mercy to them.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Prayer time must be kept up as duly as meal-time.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those, and those only, can expect to be taught by God, who are ready and willing to do as they are taught. Those who go up to the house of the Lord with an expectation that He will teach them His ways—must go with a humble resolution that they will walk in His paths.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The service of sin is perfect slavery.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The more reverence we have for the Word of God—the more joy we shall find in it.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Everlasting life is a jewel of too great a value, to be purchased by all the wealth of this world.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Nothing can make a man truly great—but being truly godly, and partaking of God's holiness.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The provisions of Christ's gospel appear mean and scanty to the world—yet they satisfy all who feed on him in their hearts by faith with thanksgiving.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those who complain most—are most to be complained of!

     ~ ~ ~ ~

You may as soon find a living man who does not breathe—as a living Christian who does not pray.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Prayer is the midwife of mercy, which helps to bring it forth.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

None so deaf—as those who will not hear.
None so blind—as those who will not see.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Though we cannot by our prayers give God any information—yet we must by our prayers give him honor.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Christ is our temple, in whom by faith all believers meet.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Pride is at the bottom of a great many errors and corruptions; and even of many evil practices, which have a great show and appearance of humility.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The counsels and decrees of God do not truckle to the frail and fickle will of man.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Hard words indeed break no bones—but many a heart has been broken by them.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

God warns, before he wounds.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Death to a godly man, is his release from the imprisonment of this world—and his departure to the enjoyments of another world.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Though He had so much work to do with others—yet He chose sometimes to be alone, to set us an example.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

A man who is endued with the powers of reason, by which he is capable of knowing, serving, glorifying, and enjoying his Maker—and yet lives without God in the world, is certainly the most despicable and the most miserable beast under the sun.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

To wait on God is to live a life of . . .
  desire toward Him,
  delight in Him,
  dependence on Him,
  and devotedness to Him.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

If we would be angry and not sin—we must be angry at nothing but sin. We should be more jealous for the glory of God—than for any interest or reputation of our own.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Brown bread and the Gospel, is good fare.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Were we to think more of our own mistakes and offences—we should be less apt to judge other people.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

It is better to take time to consider—than find time to repent.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

To a godly man, God gives not only wisdom and knowledge—but joy.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

There is a curse which attends that which is ill-gotten—which will waste it. The same corrupt dispositions which incline men to the sinful ways of getting—will incline them to the like sinful ways of spending.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those that abide in Christ as their heart's desire shall have, through Christ, their heart's desire.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

It is more to the honor of a Christian by faith to overcome the world—than by monastic vows to retreat from it. It is more for the honor of Christ to serve him in the city—than to serve him in the monastery.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The beauty of holiness—is that which the grave, which consumes all other beauty, cannot touch, or do any damage to.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

We must believe that He is able to do what He will, wise to do what is best, and good, according to His promise, to do what is best for us—if we love Him, and serve Him.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Prayer is the breath of the new man—drawing in the air of mercy in petitions—and returning it in praises. Prayer proves and maintains the spiritual life.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

In order to the attaining of all useful knowledge this is most necessary, that we fear God. We are not qualified to profit by the instructions that are given to us—unless our minds are possessed with a holy reverence of God, and every thought within us be brought into obedience to Him. As all our knowledge must take rise from the fear of God, so it must tend to it as its perfection and center. Those know enough who know how to fear God, who are careful in everything to please Him and fearful of offending Him in anything—this is the Alpha and Omega of knowledge.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Though we may now think some sins light and little—if the Lord awakens the conscience, we shall feel even the smallest sin heavy upon our souls.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Anger cannot rest in the bosom where love reigns.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

I thank You first because I was never robbed before; second, because although they took my purse they did not take my life; third, because although they took my all, it was not much; and fourth because it was I who was robbed, and not I who robbed.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

See what a hidden life the life of a good Christian is, and how much it is concealed from the eye and observation of the world. The most important part of the business lies between God and our own souls, in the frame of our spirits and the working of our hearts, in our actions that no eye sees except the all-seeing God. Justly are the saints called God's hidden ones, and His secret is said to be with them. They have food to eat and work to do that the world does not know of—as well as joys, griefs, and cares that a stranger does not share.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

All this—and Heaven too!

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Sanctified afflictions are spiritual promotions.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

A godly man is willing to know the worst of himself. Particularly under affliction, he desires to be told why God contends with him and what God designs in correcting him.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

We read of preaching the Word out of season—but we do not read of praying out of season, for that is never out of season.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

No sooner was the wound given—than the remedy was provided and revealed. (Genesis 3:15)

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Esther came to a proud imperious man—but we come to the God of love and grace.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The kingdom of Heaven was never intended to indulge the ease of triflers—but for the rest of those who labor.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Grace in the soul—is Heaven in that soul.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Why will you be so sottish, such an enemy to yourself, as to prefer puddle-water, and that also poisoned and stolen—before pure living waters out of your own well?

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Love is the root—obedience is the fruit.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Riches are a blessing or a curse to a man according as he has or has not a heart to make good use of them.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

When we cannot do the good we would—we must be ready to do the good we can.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Conscience is that candle of the Lord, which was not quite put out by Adam's fall into sin.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Meekness springs from a heart of humility, radiating the fragrance of Christ.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those who go as gold into the furnace—will come out purified.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

We have a cunning adversary, who watches to do mischief—and will promote errors, even by the words of Scripture.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Many a dangerous temptation comes to us in mirthful, fine colors.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those who deceive others, deceive themselves—as they will find at last, to their cost.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Earth is embittered to us—that Heaven may be endeared.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

A state of apostasy—is worse than a state of ignorance.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Brotherly love is the badge of Christ's disciples.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Love is from God. He is the fountain, author, parent, and commander of love—it is the sum of his law and gospel!

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The greatest of men must turn beggars—when they have to do with Christ.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Poor people are as much in danger from an inordinate desire towards the wealth of the world—as rich from an inordinate delight in it.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Riches, in the hands of a man who is wise and generous, are good for something—but in the hands of a sordid, sneaking, covetous miser, they are good for nothing.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

I would think it a greater happiness to gain one soul to Christ—than mountains of silver and gold to myself.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Christ shall supply me with whatever I need. If I have not everything I desire, I may conclude it is either not fit for me—or I shall have it in due time.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

All obedience begins in the affections. Nothing in religion is done right, which is not done there first.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

He who is in haste, may contract much guilt in a little time. What we say or do unadvisedly when we are hot—we must unsay or undo again when we are cool.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

In all God's providences, it is good to compare His word and His works together; for we shall find a beautiful harmony between them, and that they mutually illustrate each other.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

What harrowing is after sowing, the same is meditation after hearing—it hides the Word in the heart.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

It is better to get wisdom than gold. Gold is another's—wisdom is our own. Gold is for the body and time—wisdom for the soul and eternity.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The flower of youth never appears more beautiful, than when it bends toward the sun of righteousness.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Joy in the Lord puts our mouths out of taste for the pleasures with which the tempter baits his hooks.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

God's promises—are to be our pleas in prayer.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Nothing has the like resemblance to the divine nature, as light has. God does not only dwell in light—but he is light. Light is a pure, bright, clear, spiritual, unmixed substance. God is infinitely so.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

If evil thoughts at any time enter into the mind of a godly man—he does not roll them under his tongue as a sweet morsel.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

None shall be saved by Christ, but those only who work out their own salvation, while God is working in them by His truth and His Holy Spirit. We cannot do without God—and God will not do without us.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The sentences in the book of providence are sometimes long—and you must read a great way before you understand their meaning.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Were a man to live as long as Methuselah, and to spend all his days in the highest delights which sin can offer—one hour of the anguish of Hell which must follow, would far outweigh them.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Sin is folly, and sinners are the greatest fools.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those who are not saints on earth, will never be saints in Heaven.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The holiest man in the world must say, "By the grace of God I am what I am"

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The way to preserve the peace of the church is to preserve the purity of it.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Grace does not run in the blood, but corruption does.
A sinner begets a sinner, but a saint does not beget a saint.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

When the law of God is written in our hearts, our duty will be our delight.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

He is much happier who is always content, though he has ever so little—than he who is always coveting, though he has ever so much.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

As God's mercies are new every morning toward His people, so His anger is new every morning against the wicked.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

No attribute of God is more dreadful to sinners than his holiness.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

When we take least notice of our good deeds ourselves, God takes most notice of them.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

It is a good thing to have a heart within us smiting us for sins that seem little. It is a sign that conscience is awake and tender, and will be the means of preventing greater sins.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

To Christians Heaven is a house, a dwelling—place, a resting place, their everlasting home, their Father's house where there are many mansions. It is a house in the heavens that as far excels the palaces of this earth as the heavens are high above the earth. It is a city whose builder and maker is God, and it is eternal in the heavens. The most marvelous thing about it is that God has prepared it for those who love Him.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The woman was made of a rib out of the side of Adam. She was not made out of his head to top him, nor out of his feet to be trampled on by him—but out of his side to be equal with him, under his arm to be protected, and near his heart to be loved by him.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Some people do not like to hear much of repentance. I think it is so necessary that if I should die in the pulpit, I would desire to die preaching repentance, and if out of the pulpit I would desire to die practicing it.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

If we make an idol of any creature, wealth, or pleasure, or honor; if we place our happiness in it, and promise ourselves the comfort and satisfaction in it which are to be had in God alone; if we make it our joy and love, our hope and confidence—then we shall find it a broken cistern, which we take a great deal of pains to hew out and fill, and at the best it will hold but a little water, and that dead and flat, and soon corrupting and becoming nauseous (Jeremiah 2:23).

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Tears are a tribute to our deceased friends. When the body is sown, it must be watered. But we must not sorrow as those that have no hope; for we have a good hope through grace both concerning them and concerning ourselves.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

If our fastings, though frequent, long, and severe, do not serve to increase devout affections, to quicken prayer, to increase Godly sorrow, and to alter the temper of our minds, and the course of our lives, for the better—then they do not at all answer the intention, and God will not accept them as performed to Him.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those who have a saving interest in Christ must be willing to part with all for Him, and leave all to follow Him. Whatever stands in opposition to Christ, or in completion with Him for our love and affection, we must cheerfully leave it, though ever so dear to us.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Many mourn for their sins who do not truly repent of them. They weep bitterly for them, and yet continue in love and league with them.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

If men's religion prevails not to conquer and cure the wickedness of their hearts, it shall not always serve for a cloak. The day is coming when hypocrites will be stripped of their fig—leaves.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Hypocrites do the devil's drudgery in Christ's livery.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The devil visits idle men with his temptations.
God visits industrious men with His blessings.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

When we are out of the way of duty—we are in the way of temptation. Idleness gives great advantage to the tempter. Standing waters gather filth.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Unless we consent to Jesus as our Lord, we cannot expect any benefit by Him as our Savior.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The most unspotted innocence will not always be a defense against reproach.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

When the convinced sinner sees Christ as the gracious Savior, all other things become worthless to his thoughts.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

There is no sin in word or deed, which was not first in the heart. They all come out of the heart, and are fruits of that wickedness which is in the heart, and is wrought there.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The gospel call is a call to repentance; a call to us to change our minds, and to change our ways.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

If we take care about our souls and for eternity, which are more than the body and its life—we may leave it to God to provide for us food and clothing, which are less.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Malicious slanders are poison that kills secretly and slowly.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

If prayerless, then graceless.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

No man's calling or place will be an excuse for sin.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Thoughtfulness for our souls, is the best cure of thoughtfulness for the world.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

When we cannot be sure of God's will, we may be sure of His wisdom and mercy.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

"Jesus rebuked the demon, and it came out of the boy, and he was healed from that moment." Matthew 17:18. Are we astonished to see Satan's bodily possession of this boy, when we see his spiritual possession of every child of Adam from the fall!

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Can we, with dry eyes and unrelenting hearts, behold so many immortal spirits, capable of endless bliss, ready to drop into endless misery? Have pity upon them; think of the happiness they lose, the ruin they fall into, and then, surely, you cannot but mourn over them.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

There are many lost sinners, but few true saints.
There are many weeds, but few flowers.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The law of Christianity is a law of nonconformity to this world.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those whose business it is to call others to mourn for sin, and to mortify it—ought themselves to live a serious life, a life of self-denial, mortification, and contempt of the world.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The heart of every unconverted sinner is the devil's palace, where he dwells and rules.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Making light of Christ and of the great salvation wrought out by him, is the damning sin of the world.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The prosperity of the soul is the best prosperity.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

All God's people are praying people. A little company united in love, exemplary in their conduct, fervent in prayer, and wisely zealous to promote the cause of Christ, are likely to increase rapidly.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The Spirit convinces . . .
of the fact of sin;
of the fault of sin;
of the folly of sin;
of the filth of sin, that by it we are become hateful to God;
of the fountain of sin, the corrupt nature;
and lastly, of the fruit of sin, that the end thereof is death.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Without clear discovery of our guilt and danger, we never shall understand the value of Christ's salvation; but when brought to know ourselves aright, we begin to see the value of the Redeemer.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Whatever we have of the world in our hands, our care must be to keep it out of our hearts, lest it come between us and Christ.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Jesus wore the crown of thorns which we deserved, that we might wear the crown of glory which he merited.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The most beautiful body soon will be food for worms, and the most magnificent building a ruinous heap. Did we truly believe that all earthly things must shortly pass away, we would not set our eyes and hearts so much upon them as we do.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Nothing more hinders our joy in God, than the love of the world.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those who choose the world for their portion in this life, will have Hell for their portion in the eternal world.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The imputed righteousness of Christ, and the sanctification of the Spirit, are both alike necessary.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Hypocrites go by the light of the gospel itself down to utter darkness.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Whatever mask the hypocrite puts on, our Lord Jesus sees through it.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

We can only judge according to outward appearance; but God searches the heart.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

It is just with God to give those up to their hearts' lusts, who obstinately persist in gratifying them.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

There is nothing between sinners and eternal happiness, but their proud and unbelieving unwillingness.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Our merciful God has not only provided food, but a royal feast, for the perishing souls of his rebellious creatures.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

It is required of us in following Christ, that we strictly follow his pattern, and cheerfully submit to his disposals.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The gospel is the only remedy for lost sinners.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

It is hard not to be charmed with a smiling world.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The beginning, progress, and perfecting the work of salvation, depend wholly on the almighty power of God, to which all things are possible.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

A man may go idle to Hell, but he who will go to Heaven, must be diligent.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

God punishes none more than they deserve, and recompenses every service done for him; he therefore does no wrong to any, by showing extraordinary grace to some.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Nothing makes more mischief among brethren, than desire of greatness.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

There is mercy enough in Christ for all who ask.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Cold prayers beg for denials.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

When there is perfection of holiness in Heaven, there will be no occasion for preservatives from sin.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Pretended piety is double iniquity.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

All knowledge is desirable as far as it is in order to practice.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those who take Christ for their King, must lay their all under his feet.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

If Christ came now into many parts of his visible church, how many secret evils he would reveal and cleanse!

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Let us greatly fear the doom denounced on the barren fig-tree.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

It often happens, that the daring rebel is brought to repentance and becomes the Lord's servant, while the formalist grows hardened in pride and enmity.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

How can we, if faithful to his cause, expect a favorable reception from a wicked world, or from ungodly professors of Christianity!

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those, and those only, shall go to Heaven hereafter, that are made ready for Heaven here.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

There is a judgment to come, in which every man shall be sentenced to a state of everlasting happiness, or misery.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Where there is true love in the heart to Jesus Christ, nothing will be thought too good to bestow upon him.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Make us ready, O Lord, to bear the cross you have appointed us, and daily to take it up with cheerfulness, following you.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

That heart is harder than a rock that will not yield, that will not melt—where Jesus Christ is plainly set forth crucified.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Let us, with an eye of faith, behold Christ crucified, and be affected with that great love with which he loved us.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Our days being evil, it is well they are few.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The most eminent saints have always been the most humble.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Sin is the cause of all our pains and sicknesses.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

With God, through Christ, there is mercy to pardon the greatest sins, and grace to change the greatest sinners, and make them holy.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Many do not pay attention to heart-work, without which religion is nothing.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

How imperfect are the best of saints!

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Divine sovereignty, total depravity, unconditional election, limited atonement, irresistible grace, and the certain preservation of God's elect—are like salt and pepper, and bread and butter on the table. Wherever the gospel feast is spread they are always on table.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The more vile we are in our own eyes, the more precious the Lord Jesus is to us.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Nothing can be more nourishing and satisfying to the soul, than the doctrine of Christ's making atonement for sin, and the assurance of a saving interest in that atonement.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Unless we watch and pray always, we may be drawn in the course of the day into those sins which we were in the morning most resolved against.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The natural man cannot be taught spiritual things. He can be taught religion, doctrine, and strict morality—but not the things of God. To learn the things of God he must be born again.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

All of God's elect were redeemed by the Lord Jesus Christ at Calvary, and only God's elect. All the redeemed, and only the redeemed, are called by irresistible grace and omnipotent mercy and born again by the mighty operations of his grace. All the called, and only the called, believe on the Lord Jesus Christ by the gift of his grace. And all who believe on the Lord Jesus Christ are preserved and kept by his grace and power unto life everlasting.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Spirituality is not just reading the Bible, praying, going to church, and listening to sermons. Spirituality involves living a useful, meaningful life, serving God and his people, making the most of your life as a husband or wife, employee or employer. It is visiting the sick, feeding the hungry, helping the needy, comforting the disconsolate, living for others rather than for yourself.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

The distressing, deep-seated evil of the old man in us and the relentless warring of the flesh against the spirit are instruments by which God the Holy Spirit graciously weans from trusting in ourselves, makes Christ more precious, and causes us to look away from self to Christ alone as all our Wisdom, Righteousness, Sanctification, and Redemption.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Wearisomeness with the warfare in our souls is one means by which our heavenly Father graciously causes his child to calmly and joyfully anticipate entering into the rest that awaits us in Heaven.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

It is sad to think how much more most care about their bodies than about their souls.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Those who are most humble and self-denying, most resemble Christ.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Nothing is more likely to ensnare the followers of Christ, than bringing them to meddle with disputes about worldly politics.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Sin, disguised with a show of piety, is double iniquity, so its doom will be doubly heavy.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Right views of Christ crucified will reconcile the believer to the thought of death; he longs to behold, love, and praise, as he ought, that Savior who was wounded and pierced to save him from the wrath to come.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Death, deprived of its sting, will soon end the believer's sorrows, as it ended those of the Savior.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Prayers of faith are filed in Heaven, and are not forgotten.

Mercies are doubly sweet that are given in answer to prayer.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

It is certain that true repentance is never too late; but it is as certain that late repentance is seldom true. Be sure that in general, men die as they live.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

A golden thread of gospel grace runs through the whole web of the Old Testament.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

However charming the allurements of sin may be, at the last it bites like a serpent!

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Christ is hated, because sin is loved.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

If we forsake Christ, we forsake our own mercies.

     ~ ~ ~ ~

Meditating upon the cross of Christ gives life to our repentance, love and gratitude.

     ~ ~ ~ ~


These last two gems are from Philip Henry:

It is easier to walk six miles to hear a sermon, than to spend one quarter of an hour in meditating upon it when I come home.

The best way to fight against sin, is on our knees.