The Saints' Everlasting Rest - Richard Baxter

are in disorder. Most men accustom themselves to be strangers at home, and
too little observe the temper and motions of their own hearts. Many are
resolved what to judge before they try; like a bribed judge, who examines as
if he would judge uprightly, when he is previously resolved which way the
cause shall go. Men are partial in their own cause; ready to think their great
sins small, and their small sins none; their gifts of nature to be the work of
grace, and to say, "All these have I kept from my youth;" "I am rich, and
increased in goods, and have need of nothing." Most men search but by the
halves. If it will not easily and quickly be done, they are discouraged, and
leave off. They try themselves by false marks and rules, not knowing
wherein the truth of Christianity consists; some looking beyond, and some
short of the Scripture standard. And frequently they fail in this work by
attempting it in their own strength. As some expect the Spirit should do it
without them, so others attempt it themselves, without seeking or expecting
the help of the Spirit. Both these will certainly fail of assurance.
Some other hinderances keep even true Christians from comfortable
certainty. As, for instance, the weakness of grace. Small things are hardly
discerned. Most Christians content themselves with a small measure of
grace, and do not follow on to spiritual strength and manhood. The chief
remedy for such would be to follow on in duty till their graces be increased.
Wait upon God in the use of his prescribed means, and he will undoubtedly
bless you with increase. O that Christians would bestow most of that time in
getting more grace, which they bestow in anxious doubtings whether they
have any or none; and lay out those serious affections in praying for more
grace, which they bestow in fruitless complaints! I beseech thee, Christian,
take this advice as from God; and then, when thou believest strongly, and
lovest fervently, thou canst no more doubt of thy faith and love, than a man
that is very hot can doubt of his warmth, or a man that is strong and vigorous
can doubt of his being alive.
Christians hinder their own comfort by looking more at signs which tell
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