The Life of Faith 1.
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The life of faith is the noblest, richest, most contented, easiest, and truest life of all.
It is the noblest life; for it enables the Christian to put off the old man with his evil deeds, and to put on the new man. It makes the soul forget its former state, and espouses it to the King of Glory.
It is the most pleasant life, for it enjoys the most exalted pleasures, and often soars to the third heaven to contemplate the inexpressible glory; it walks in the paths of pleasantness; and under all the heats of troubles and afflictions, it shades itself in the harbour of Paradise.
It is the richest life, for if our desires are according to our needs, it is impossible we should lack what we desire. Every man has according to his faith. "Be it unto you according to your faith," says Christ.
It is the most contented life, for it induces the fading creature to rest upon Christ and to hold him fast under all the changes of life—and this brings contentment to the soul.
It is the easiest life. Faith does not look at the strictness or the difficulty of duty—but on the power and strength of Christ. Therefore, if it meets with a hard precept, it dissolves into a sweet promise. Each difficult duty leads a Christian to Christ, where, by the exercise of faith, he receives strength according to his day.
In short, it is the truest life, for he is dead in sin, who does not live by faith. To believe, is to truly live, and to live well indeed. Lord, live in me—that I may die in you.
Faith adds new charms to earthly bliss,
And saves me from its snares;
Its aid in every duty brings,
And softens all my cares!
The wounded conscience knows its power
The healing balm to give;
That balm the saddest heart can cheer,
And make the dying live.
Wide it unveils celestial worlds,
Where deathless pleasures reign;
And bids me seek my portion there,
Nor bids me seek in vain!
Shows me the precious promise, sealed
With the Redeemer's blood;
And helps my feeble hope to rest
Upon a faithful God.
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