Feeling our Sinfulness

The man whose soul is “growing” feels his own sinfulness and unworthiness more every year.

The nearer he draws to God and the more he sees of God’s holiness and perfection, the more thoroughly is he sensible of his own countless imperfections.

The brighter and clearer is his light, the more he sees of the shortcomings and infirmities of his own heart. When first converted, he would tell you he saw but little of them compared to what he sees now.

- J. C Ryle, Holiness, p. 88.

Hindrances to Santification

Hindrances to growth in grace:

1. A defect in our belief in the freeness of divine grace
2. A lack of obedience to Christ in every area of life
3. A lack of intentionality and specificity about spiritual growth. We make general resolutions but never carry them out.
4. A lack of specific application of Scripture in dealing with sin in our lives
5. A lack of growing in the practical knowledge of Scripture

- Archibald Alexander, Thoughts on Religious Experience, 165-167.