TO put the case briefly, what distinguishes true believers from mere professors is that the former have in their hearts the grace of God’s Holy Spirit; they have the spirit of life in Christ Jesus; and the Holy Ghost dwelling in them as the seal, the earnest, the unction, and the witness. This grand and glorious fact now characterizes all true believers in the Lord Jesus Christ; should ever bow their souls in holy adoration before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, whose accomplished redemption has procured for them this great blessing.
A man may teach us religion, or theology, or the letter of Scripture; but he cannot give us faith; he cannot give us life. “It is the gift of God.” Precious little word, “gift.” It is like God. It is free as God’s air; free as His sunlight; free as His refreshing dew-drops. But, we repeat, and with solemn emphasis, each one must get it for himself, and have it in himself. “None can by any means redeem his brother, nor give to God a ransom for him; that he should still live forever and not see corruption. For the redemption of their soul is precious, and it ceaseth forever.” (Psa. 49:7-97None of them can by any means redeem his brother, nor give to God a ransom for him: 8(For the redemption of their soul is precious, and it ceaseth for ever:) 9That he should still live for ever, and not see corruption. (Psalm 49:7‑9).)
Beloved friend, do give these weighty matters a place in thy heart now, while yet the door is open, and while yet the day of grace is lengthened out in God’s marvelous long-suffering. The moment is rapidly approaching in the which the door of mercy will be closed against thee forever, when all hope will be gone, and thy precious soul be plunged in black and eternal despair.