LIFE CHANGING PRAYER compiled by Debra Maffett

— whatever diverts his attention from the weightier matters of
religion to those which are comparatively unimportant, does this.
Hence it is, that such as have their thoughts more occupied with the
non-essentials of religion than with the power of godliness in the
soul — seldom make much progress in humility or heavenlymindedness,
and are often lamentably deficient in the duties of the
closet.
The temptations of the enemy which have the semblance of religion
are the most artful. What is called a religious controversy — a
dispute about the government and discipline of Christian Churches
— the modes of public worship and administering the ordinances of
baptism and the Lord's supper — or on some abstruse theological
subject — often follows. Perplexed with the discordant opinions of
the controversionists, the pious Christian laudably resolves to
examine and weigh for himself the arguments on both sides; on the
outcome of his inquiry, much depends.
If, happily, he discovers that the disputation does not relate to
matters affecting religion itself, but to non-essentials, concerning
which good men may decidedly differ, without the smallest
diminution of liberality, or Christian forbearance, towards those of
a contrary opinion — then it is well. His perplexity ceases, and his
heart is enlarged in Christian love towards all who love the Lord
Jesus Christ in sincerity; and he finds additional pleasure in his
secret prayers, when, in giving vent to the pious feelings of his soul,
he copiously intercedes for the universal Church of Christ.
But if, unhappily, he conceives the disputable articles to be very
important, and imbibes a controversial spirit, he receives a wound
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