Without the Spirit man is so infirm that he cannot, with all other means whatsoever, be enabled to think one right saving thought of God, of Christ, or of his blessed things.
John BunyanRead
Look how fears have presented themselves, so have supports and encouragements; yea, when I have started, even as it were at nothing else but my shadow, yet God, as being very tender of me, hath suffered me to be molested, but would with one Scripture or another, strengthen me against all; insomuch that I have often said, Were it awful, I could pray for greater trouble, for the greater comfort's sake.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote expresses the idea that facing fears can lead to support and encouragement, and that adversity can bring greater comfort and strength.
John Bunyan's quote reflects on the relationship between fear and support in one's life. He suggests that while fears can manifest strongly, so too can acts of encouragement and divine support. The notion that facing difficulties can result in profound comfort indicates a belief in resilience and the benefits of struggling through hardships. Bunyan highlights a transformative perspective on challenges, suggesting that they not only serve as obstacles but also as catalysts for spiritual and personal growth.
Themes
FearSupportEncouragementComfortAdversityStrength
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech to inspire resilience among students.
More from John Bunyan
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For to speak the truth, there are but few that care thus to spend their time, but choose rather to be speaking of things to no profit.
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I saw a man clothed with rags . . . a book in his hand, and a great burden upon his back.
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There can be but one will the master in our salvation, but that shall never be the will of man, but of God; therefore man must be saved by grace.
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I would say to my soul, O my soul, this is not the place of despair; this is not the time to despair in. As long as mine eyes can find a promise in the Bible, as long as there is a moment left me of breath or life in this world, so long will I wait or look for mercy, so long will I fight against unbelief and despair.
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