Humility

"Does it become us to be proud, when our Master was so humble? Read the lives of the eminent saints who are gone; and see how far you come short of their gifts, and graces, and performances, and usefulness; and you will rather blush than be proud."


- Matthew Henry (1662-1714), while not being anxious to preserve his own reputation, was always careful to guard the reputation of others. He would tell his children of a man who, when he came into company with those likely to speak against the Puritans, would tell them before-hand, "Sirs, I desire you to take notice, that I am one of those you call Puritans; and therefore, if you like my company, and mean that I should stay with you, pray forbear talking evil of them, for I cannot away with it."

Humility in Affliction

"When the flail of affliction, O Lord, is upon me, let me not be as the chaff that flies in your face, but as the corn that lies at your feet."


- a prayer of Philip Henry (1631-1696). He would also say, "The worst sin, pride, comes out of our graces, and the best grace, which is humility, comes out of our sins."

True Religion

"It seems that much more of true religion consists in deep humility, brokenness of heart, and an abasing sense of barrenness and want of grace and holiness, than most who are called Christians imagine... many of whom seem to know of no other religion but elevated joys and affections."


- David Brainerd (1718-1747), was orphaned at age 14 and converted upon his 21st year. A friend of Jonathan Edwards, he became one of the first missionaries to the American Indians in the New England area. He was constantly sick due to his labors, and died of tuberculosis at the age of 29. He wrote in his diary, "I hardly ever so longed to live to God and to be altogether devoted to Him; I wanted to wear out my life in His service and for His glory."

Humility

"A sight of God's glory humbles. The stars vanish when the sun appears"


- Thomas Watson (1620-1686), C.H. Spurgeon said of him, "Watson was one of the most concise, racy, illustrative, and suggestive of those eminent divines... there is a happy union of sound doctrine, heart-searching experience and practical wisdom throughout all his works." Watson died suddenly when at prayer in his closet.