The Highest Attainment.
By Roswell F. Cottrell
THE great point in conversion is a full submission of the heart to God, and the highest attainment in Christian experience is an entire consecration of the whole being to God's will, and to hold that consecration continually. None can do more, and none are the subjects of the promises who do less. It is no small work, considering the condition69of man as a sinner, having a mind that is enmity against God, that is not subject to his law, neither indeed can be. It is with this carnal mind that the Christian has to wage war. He may be victorious, and again, without divine help, he may be vanquished. The highest attainment is to hold the victory. This can only be done by constant help from God, and this can only be secured by feeling a continual dependence upon God, which leads to constant prayer. If prayer is neglected, a man walks in his own strength, and this will never be sufficient to hold the victory over the great foe, the carnal mind. We may think that we have crucified the old man with his deeds; but it will soon be found that he has had a resurrection. Hence a constant feeling of dependence, and constant watchfulness, and prayer, are indispensable. The Christian may triumph in God; but he may never lay down his watch. He may say truly, Thanks be to God that giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ; but he must never lay off his armor till the final victory is won. While life remains, he must never say, I have attained and the work is done.