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(
Archibald Alexander, "Growth in Grace" 1844)
"But
grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus
Christ. To Him be glory both now and forever! Amen." 2 Peter 3:18
Growth in grace is evidenced by a
more
habitual vigilance against besetting sins and temptations, and by
greater
self-denial in regard to personal indulgence. A growing conscientiousness
in regard to what may be called
minor Christian duties is also a good
sign. (The
counterfeit of this is an over-scrupulous conscience, which
sometimes haggles at the most innocent gratifications, and has led some to
hesitate about taking their daily food.)
Increasing spiritual-mindedness is a sure evidence of progress in piety;
and this will always be accompanied by
increasing deadness to the world.
Continued aspirations for God, indicate the indwelling of the Holy
Spirit, by whose agency all progress in sanctification is made.
Increasing solicitude for the salvation of men, sorrow on account of
their sinful and miserable condition, and a disposition tenderly to warn
sinners of their danger--evince a growing state of piety.
It is also a strong evidence of growth in grace, when you can
bear injuries
and provocations with meekness, and when you can from the heart desire the
temporal and eternal welfare of your bitterest enemies.
An entire and
confident reliance on the promises and providence of God,
however dark may be your horizon, or however many difficulties environ you--is
a sign that you have learned to
live by faith.
Humble contentment with your condition, though it is one of poverty and
obscurity--shows that you have profited by sitting at the feet of Jesus.
Diligence in the duties of our secular calling, with a view to the glory
of God, is an evidence not to be despised.
Indeed, there is no surer standard of spiritual growth than a habit of
aiming
at the glory of God in everything.
Increasing love to the brethren is a sure sign of growth; for as
brotherly love is a proof of the existence of grace, so is the exercise of such
love a proof of vigor in the divine life.
A
victory over besetting sins by which the person was frequently led
away--shows an increased vigor in grace.
Sometimes the children of God grow faster when in the
fiery furnace than
elsewhere. As metals are
purified by being cast into the fire--so saints
have their
dross consumed and their graces brightened--by being cast
into the furnace of affliction.
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