HH, Sir Godfrey Gregg D.Div

“And such as do wickedly against the covenant shall he corrupt by flatteries: but the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits.” Daniel 11:32

I have a great need for more valour and vigour in my Christianity. “Every morning brings a noble opportunity,” but every opportunity does not bring out “a noble knight.”

I am tempted to keep back part of the truth. Its side of grace, of sweetness, of love unutterable; its precious promises and winning invitations — it is easy for me to dwell on these. But I do not insist on the wholesome severities of the Bible. I shrink from saying, “Our God is a consuming fire!”

I am tempted to be silent in certain companies. To those who share my faith, it is pleasant to speak of the things which concern the King — their King and mine. But among the men of the world, and the clever and witty people who laugh at religion, and the possessors of wealth and influence — I am in danger of lowering my flag and hiding my allegiance.

I am tempted to be lenient towards some sins. Society has a thousand excuses for what is false. In trade, in literature, in politics, a veil is thrown over things repugnant to my Lord. It is as if leprosy should be clothed in a marriage dress. And then it is hard for me to put the slug horn to my lips and to blow “a dolorous blast.”

I need more iron in my blood, more courage in my piety, more of the bracing north wind in my godliness as well as the soft south wind. “If I go forward I die,” is the song of the Ashanti warriors as they rush into battle — “if I go backwards I die; better go forward and die.” Yes, yes; better go forward and die!