'Voices From The Past' Vol. 1 — January 20

The Spirit of holiness in us is God seal upon us signifying that we are his. He is the earnest of the glory to come. Great care must now be taken to make him the principle of all our operations and to obey him and follow his movements, as he leads you into communion with God. Be sure you do not mistake the movings of the Holy Spirit with those of Satan or your own passions, pride or fleshly wisdom. The Spirit of God is only for heavenly wisdom, and not for foolish or treacherous craftiness. He is the Spirit of love, unity, meekness, patience, and holiness. He moves us to be conformed to Christ. This is a sure test of his identity. He works in us to perfect our sanctification and obedience. Unprofitable trifles, despair, painful distractions and disturbances of mind make us unfit for duty, and drive us from God. These are not the influences of the Spirit of God. The Spirit of God draws our hearts to him, makes us spiritual and godly, and is ever for God's glory. When you are sure it is the Spirit of God indeed that is knocking at your door, do not behave as if you did not hear. (1.) Obey him speedily: delay is a temporary unthankful refusal and a kind of a denial. (2.) Obey him thoroughly: half-obedience is disobedience. Do not put him off as Ananias did in only giving half of what is required. (3.) Obey him constantly: not hearkening to him sometimes, and more frequently neglecting him. Do not neglect the means which the Spirit has appointed for your help. Pray, meditate, hear, read, do your best, and expect his blessing. Though your ploughing and sowing will not give a harvest without the sun, and rain, and the blessing of God, yet the sun and rain will not bring a crop unless you plough and plant.
own name.

Devotional Readings taken from Puritan Devotional Readings 'Voices From The Past Vol.1.'
Richard Baxter, A Christian Directory, I:71
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