Guidance & Wisdom
It gratifies our pride, to relate those faults of others whereof we think ourselves not to be guilty.
Evil-speaking is the more difficult to be avoided, because it frequently attacks us in disguise.
Christian perfection, therefore, does not imply an exemption either from ignorance or mistake, or infirmities or temptations. Indeed, it is only another term for holiness.
He who knows himself, neither desires nor values the applause which he knows he deserves not.
If there were no hearers, there would be no speakers, of evil.
Sincerity, therefore, is necessarily implied in the being almost a Christian; a real design to serve God, a hearty desire to do his will.
The success of a reproof greatly depends on the spirit wherein it is given.
Evil-speaking is neither more nor less than speaking evil of an absent person; relating something evil, which was really done or said by one that is not present when it is related.
Without busying ourselves in curious, needless inquiries, touching those extraordinary gifts of the Spirit, let us take a nearer view of these his ordinary fruits, which we are assured will remain throughout all ages.
It was therefore an instance of wisdom worthy of God, to appoint such a condition of reconciliation for him and all his posterity as might effectually humble, might abase them to the dust. And such is faith.
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