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  BITTER AND SWEET
  by John Newton
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Summary: The sermon 'Bitter and Sweet' explores the nature of the
Christian life, highlighting the struggles and victories that come with
following Christ.

Topics: "Faith And Doubt", "Spiritual Warfare"
Scripture References: Psalm 51:10, 2 Corinthians 12:9, Philippians 4:6, James 1:6

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DESCRIPTION
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John Newton preaches about the struggle of maintaining a sincere and
devoted heart for God amidst life's challenges and distractions. He
reflects on the alternating experiences of light and darkness, peace and
strife, in the Christian journey, emphasizing the need for consistent
faith and reliance on God's grace. Newton acknowledges the internal
battles faced at the mercy seat, where doubts and distractions can
hinder prayer, but finds solace in the transformative power of Christ's
presence, bringing an end to troubles and ushering in moments of joy and
assurance of future blessings.

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CONTENT
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1 Kindle, Saviour, in my heart,

A flame of love divine;

Hear, for mine I trust thou art,

And sure I would be thine;

If my soul has felt thy grace,

If to me thy name is known;

Why should trifles fill the place

Due to thyself alone?

2 'Tis a strange mysterious life

I live from day to day;

Light and darkness, peace and strife,

Bear an alternate sway:

When I think the battle won,

I have to fight it o'er again;

When I say I'm overthrown,

Relief I soon obtain.

3 Often at the mercy-seat,

While calling on thy name,

Swarms of evil thoughts I meet,

Which fill my soul with shame.

Agitated in my mind,

Like a feather in the air,

Can I thus a blessing find?

My soul, can this be pray'r?

4 But when Christ, my Lord and Friend,

Is pleas'd to show his pow'r

All at once my troubles end,

And I've a golden hour;

Then I see his smiling face,

Feel the pledge of joys to come:

Often, Lord, repeat this grace

Till thou shalt call me home.

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/john-newton/bitter-and-sweet/
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