"Brother, if any man thinks ill of you, do not be angry with him; for you are worse than he thinks you to be. If he charges you falsely on some point, yet be satisfied, for if he knew you better he might change the accusation, and you would be no gainer by the correction. If you have your moral portrait painted, and it is ugly, be satisfied; for it only needs a few blacker touches, and it would be still nearer the truth." --Charles Spurgeon Read the whole sermon here.
I love this quote because it deals with our own pride and gives an accurate portrayal of who we really are...a desperate sinner who found grace and has been told to show that grace to others-even those who reject and abuse us. When we truly admit the wickedness of our own selves and place that reality in comparison to the holiness of God, we all feel like Paul when he said "I am the worst of all sinners!"
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"Behold, what manner of love the Father has bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God." A little while ago we were heirs of wrath even as others. How could the Lord adopt such poor creatures? I cannot make it out. I, that once loved sin, am now made to hate it. I, that was a stranger to God and his service, am enriched with access to the Throne of God. I, that was without strength, have now Grace to do all things through Christ that strengthens me. Oh greatness, the unspeakable greatness of almighty love! Brothers and Sisters, if this does not humble you, then you are not really Believers. If you have really obtained the mercies of the Covenant, through the Lord's gracious choice of you, the knowledge of this fact will lay you low and keep you there." --Charles Spurgeon
