July 10

Read II Corinthians 4:6-8

We have this treasure in earthen vessels (II Corinthians 4:7).

Human Saints

For several weeks we have been exploring the glorious possibilities of the clean and empowered life which are opened to us through entire sanctification. We turn now to another phase of the truth. Holiness makes possible a life of victory but not a life without battles.

The clearest possible understanding is needed as to what the experience of holiness has not done for us as well as what it has accomplished. If our expectations are false, we face disappointment and we are tempted to doubt: either to doubt that we were sanctified, or, more serious still, to doubt that there is any genuine reality in this second work of grace. Wesley said, “If I set the standards too high I drive people into needless fears.” On the other hand, he continued, “If I set them too low I drive their souls into hell fire.” We must try to find God’s standard for ourselves somewhere between these two extremes.

It is always dangerous to ask, “How little of religion is enough?” We explore these minimum levels of sanctifying grace, not because we should be content to live here, but because we sometimes find ourselves in such circumstances. It is wise to move into the Canaan land of holiness as far and as fast as possible. But if one is unfortunately wandering near Jordan’s banks, it is well to know on which bank he stands.

Prayer For Today

Guide me, O Thou great Jehovah,

Pilgrim thro’ this barren land. I am weak, but Thou art mighty. Hold me with Thy pow’rful hand.

— W. Williams