The Christian's Call To Courage

From Gurnall's January 1 devotional (it's a day late, but still worthy of great attention!):

Who among us has not learned from his own experience that it requires another spirit than the world can give to follow Christ fully.

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All may have a desire to be successful soldiers, but few have the courage and determination to grapple with the difficulties that accost them on the way to victory.

They preferred the bondage of Pharaoh to the promised blessings of the Lord.

How many part with Christ at the crossroads of suffering! When put to the test, they quickly grow sick of the journey and refuse to endure for Christ.

They will content themselves with their own stagnant cisterns and leave the Water of Life for others who will venture farther for it.

Who among us has not learned from his own experience that it requires another spirit than the world can give to follow Christ fully.

Let  this exhort you, then, Christian, to petition God for the holy determination and bravery you must have to follow Christ. Without it you cannot be what you profess.

Dare to be holy in spite of men and devils.
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From "The Christian in Complete Armour: Daily readings in spiritual warfare."  William Gurnall. Edited by James S. Bell Jr.
ISBN-10: 0-8024-1177-0