And then, for he was deeply and solemnly in earnest, there was a new
birth in his soul--the birth of a new life of spiritual forces in
which God could be so present with him as to give him power to
conquer when evil assailed him. It was not a life of his own, but a
new life from God--not a self-acting life by which he was to be
taken over the sea of temptation like one in a boat rowed by a
strong oarsman, but a power he must use for himself, and one that
would grow by use, gaining more and more strength, until it subdued
and subordinated every natural desire to the rule of heavenly
principles, and yet it was a life that, if not cherished and made
active, would die.
There was a new expression in Mr. Ridley's face when he rose from
his knees. It was calmer and stronger.
"God being your helper," said the lady manager, impressively,
"victory is sure, and he will help you and overcome for you if you
will let him. Do not trust to any mere personal motives or
considerations. You have tried to stand by these over and over
again, and every time you have fallen their power to help you has
become less. Pride, ambition, even love, have failed. But the
strength that God will give you, if you make his divine laws the
rule of your life, cannot fail. Go to him in childlike trust. Tell
him as you would tell a loving father of your sin and sorrow and
helplessness, and ask of him the strength you need.
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