Workmen Found Wanting

"Upright and faithful Christians ever think they are not faithful, nor believe as they ought; and therefore they constantly strive, wrestle, and are diligent to keep and to increase faith, as good workmen always see that something is wanting in their workmanship. But the botchers think that nothing is wanting in what they do, but that everything is well and complete. Like as the Jews conceive they have the ten commandments at their fingers end, whereas, in truth, they neither learn nor regard them." Martin Luther, Table-Talk Ch.295

The Wounded Rise with Vengeance

“Thus saith the LORD; Deceive not yourselves, saying, The Chaldeans shall surely depart from us: for they shall not depart. For though ye had smitten the whole army of the Chaldeans that fight against you, and there remained but wounded men among them, yet should they rise up every man in his tent, and burn this city with fire.” Jer 37:9-10

“Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.” 1 Cor 10:12

Beloved of the Lord, our sins are manifold. They may lie dormant for a season. They may concede to momentary earnestness if only they could slay you while you sleep. Our enemies lie in wait to deceive us. They desire to have you, Christian. If you be a man given to a particular appetite, rest the knife to your throat. Crucify cravings for the ruler’s dainties. Let not your conscience slumber for even wounded corruptions may heal again and conquer.

“He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls.” Prv 25:28

“Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” Heb 4:16