Pithy gems from Charles Simeon

(1759 – 1836)

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There are three lessons which every Christian has to learn:
   1. Humility.
   2. Humility.
   3. Humility.

How long are we learning the true nature of Christianity!

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The tender heart, the broken and contrite spirit, are to me—far above all the joys that I could ever hope for in this valley of tears.

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Our prayers, perhaps, are never more acceptable, than when they are offered in broken accents, in sighs, and groans. The sigh, the groan of a broken heart, will soon go through the ceiling up to Heaven—yes, into the very bosom of God.

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We shall do well ever to remember, that Christianity is not a mere speculative theory which is to inform the mind; but a great practical lesson, to renew the heart, and to bring us back to the state from whence we are fallen.

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My dear brother, we must not mind a little suffering for Christ's sake. When I am getting through a hedge, if my head and shoulders are safely through, I can bear the pricking of my legs. Let us rejoice in the remembrance that our holy Head has surmounted all His suffering and triumphed over death. Let us follow Him patiently—we shall soon be partakers of His victory!

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You often feel that your prayers scarcely reach the ceiling. Oh, get into this humble spirit by considering how good the Lord is, and how evil you all are—and then prayer will mount on wings of faith to Heaven.

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However advanced a man may be in piety or age—he is still in danger of falling into the worst of sins.

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With this sweet hope of ultimate acceptance with God—I have always enjoyed much cheerfulness before men; yet I have at the same time labored incessantly to cultivate the deepest humiliation before God.

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Justification by faith alone, is the hinge upon which the whole of Christianity turns.

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Our holiness is an effect of being saved—and not a cause of it.