BELIEVERS are sometimes tempted to think more highly of themselves than they ought to think; they forget that they are indebted to the free, sovereign, and distinguishing grace of God, for all the difference there is between them and the vilest of the vile. They should consider they are still weak, and liable to overcome; foolish, and prone to wander; sinful, and easily wrought upon; that Satan is strong and determined; subtle and insinuating; malicious and designing; active and persevering; that the world is alluring and ensnaring, treacherous and vain, attracting and deceitful; and this would preserve them from being too secure. A high-minded Christian is sure to be unfruitful, and is generally left to fall. Therefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed. David fell, Peter fell, and thousands beside have fallen; and they exhort us with groans, sighs, and tears, "Be not high-minded, but fear." "Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling." Let us cultivate humility of mind, and habitual dependance upon God; so shall we be safe, holy, and happy.
Jesus, if Thou withdraw Thy hand, That moment sees me fall; Oh, may I ne'er on self depend, But look to Thee for all: Lead me in all Thy righteous ways, Make plain Thy path before Thy face.
Written by James Smith for his own flock around 1840, but such was the demand that by 1846 over thirty thousand copies where in circulation.
James Smith was a predecessor of Charles Spurgeon at New Park Street Chapel in London from 1841-1850. He also ministered with great blessing in Cheltenham. His devotional, The Believer's Daily Remembrancer, subtitled Pastor's Morning and Evening Visit, was very popular in its own day, and has received a new lease of life through recent republication.
BELIEVERS are sometimes tempted to think more highly of themselves than they ought to think; they forget that they are indebted to the free, sovereign, and distinguishing grace of God, for all the difference there is between them and the vilest of the vile. They should consider they are still weak, and liable to overcome; foolish, and prone to wander; sinful, and easily wrought upon; that Satan is strong and determined; subtle and insinuating; malicious and designing; active and persevering; that the world is alluring and ensnaring, treacherous and vain, attracting and deceitful; and this would preserve them from being too secure. A high-minded Christian is sure to be unfruitful, and is generally left to fall. Therefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed. David fell, Peter fell, and thousands beside have fallen; and they exhort us with groans, sighs, and tears, "Be not high-minded, but fear." "Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling." Let us cultivate humility of mind, and habitual dependance upon God; so shall we be safe, holy, and happy.
Jesus, if Thou withdraw Thy hand, That moment sees me fall; Oh, may I ne'er on self depend, But look to Thee for all: Lead me in all Thy righteous ways, Make plain Thy path before Thy face.