Forsake not the works of thy own hands. Psalms 138:8. Divine Answer. He which has begun a good work in you, will perform it unto the day of Jesus Christ. Philippians 1:6.
The right way to grow in grace is not to draw it from God, as it were, by force, from a wrong principle or design; but first, to give thyself entirely over to thy heavenly Father through Christ, who knows what thou wantest, and will never forsake thee. Secondly, to abide in Christ, and carefully cherish the new life, which, be it ever so weak and little now, in comparison to the old man, will increase and gradually outgrow him, as new skin does the old. May the Lord only give us grace to watch against the opposite extreme, so as never to be lulled into a false rest, or a lukewarm spirit; but to be ever diligently and seriously employed in crucifying the flesh, and using all the means of grace; then we need not be anxiously troubled for the growing of the work of God in our souls.
My soul lies cleaving to the dust;
Lord, give me life divine,
From vain desires and every lust,
Turn off these eyes of mine.
I need the influence of thy grace
To speed me in thy way,
Lest I should loiter in my race,
Or turn my feet astray.
Are not thy mercies sovereign still,
And thou a faithful God?
Wilt thou not grant me warmer zeal
To run the heavenly road?