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God works powerfully, but for the most part gently and gradually.
John Newton
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Divine influence often operates subtly and over time rather than in sudden bursts.

This quote by John Newton reflects the idea that while God's actions are indeed powerful, they usually manifest in a gentle and gradual manner. It suggests that significant changes or influences in life may happen slowly and may not be immediately recognizable, emphasizing the importance of patience and faith in the process of transformation.

Themes

GodPowerGentleGradualChangeFaithPatience

In practice

Example use cases

In a sermon about the nature of divine influence, you could use this quote to illustrate how we often experience God's work in subtle ways.

More from John Newton

If two angels were to receive at the same moment a commission from God, one to go down and rule earth’s grandest empire, the other to go and sweep the streets of its meanest village, it would be a matter of entire indifference to each which service fell to his lot, the post of ruler or the post of scavenger; for the joy of the angels lies only in obedience to God’s will, and with equal joy they would lift a Lazarus in his rags to Abraham’s bosom, or be a chariot of fire to carry an Elijah home.
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I am not what I ought to be, I am not what I want to be, I am not what I hope to be in another world; but still I am not what I once used to be, and by the grace of God I am what I am
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Although my memory's fading, I remember two things very clearly: I am a great sinner and Christ is a great Savior.
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The midsummer sun shines but dim, The fields strive in vain to look gay; But when I am happy in Him December's as pleasant as May.
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Thou art coming to a King, large petitions with thee bring, for His grace and power are such none can ever ask too much.
John NewtonRead

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