p. 698 | Higher and Higher by George Whitefield

International Tract and Missionary Society · Oakland, California · Nov 20, 1884

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 10, No. 44.

Higher and Higher.

By George Whitefield

NEVER rest satisfied with present attainments. You cannot. If you do you will go back. Either forward or backward you are always going—never stationary. Spiritual blessings received and realized, will impart power to the soul, and that power will be shown in rising heavenward—in more abiding in Jesus, more entire surrender of ourselves and everything to him, more fruit to the Father’s glory, more of the mind of Jesus about us in all things. Yes, it will be a rising higher. As it is in nature, so it is in grace. As we rise, earth and earthly things look smaller and smaller, while Heaven and heavenly things grow to our view.

O Christian, live near to God! Remember that a worldly Christian does far more harm than any unconverted man. A worldly Christian is the most miserable of all men. The “salt has lost its savor,” and, in Christ’s own words, is “henceforth good for nothing!” The baneful influence of such men on the souls of others, is fearful to think of. As in nature, so in grace—the flower once cultivated and then neglected is the worst of all thorns!—Whitfield.