14 January 2013

13.7. Simply Speaking

"I recently observed a man from whom I believe God wanted to rid the strength of the self nature.  It is my perception that although what he says is true and comes from the inward work of the spirit upon his heart, his intellect is so powerful that it overpowers the gentle work of grace without his even knowing it.  Therefore, some of the truth of what he says is lost.  People are won more by the annointing that flows from a heart full of grace--by the weapon of love--than by powerful argument. 

Aren't the truths that you speak analyzed too much by the intellect and further polished by the imagination?  Their effect seems to be lost because they lack simplicity and directness.  Like a song, they sound wonderful; but they do not substantially reach and touch the heart.  There is no annointing. 
Aren't you always looking for something clever or novel to say?  Aren't you really showing off the power of your intellect rather than standing back and letting the simple truth speak for itself? Consider what I have said, and the light will reveal much to you.  Am I speaking to simply? I only want to speak the truth and the truth alone."
 
-Jeanne Guyon, Intimacy with Christ 

 

 
 

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