True Good Is Only Reached by Abandonment.
True good is only reached by abandoning ourselves to God and letting go of attachment to self and the world.
The preacher delves into the meaning of 'pneumatikos,' which refers to the wind, spirit, and the inner life of a human being or the divine Spirit. This term is used in various contexts in the Bible, such as in relation to the Holy Spirit's work, spiritual blessings, gifts, and understanding given by the Spirit. Believers are described as a spiritual house offering spiritual sacrifices, and the concept of being spiritual is contrasted with being fleshly or carnal, highlighting the importance of being guided by the Spirit of God.
Text
LETTER VII.
True good is only reached by abandonment.
Evil is changed into good when it is received in patience through the love of God; while good is changed into evil when we become attached to it through the love of self. True good lies only in detachment, and abandonment to God. You are now in the trial; put yourself confidently and without reserve into his hand. What would I not sacrifice to see you once more restored in body, but heartily sick of the love of the world! Attachment to ourselves is a thousand times more infectious than a contagious poison, for it contains the venom of self. I pray for you with all my heart.
Sermon Outline
- True Good Is Only Reached by Abandonment
- True Good Lies in Detachment
- Putting Ourselves in God's Hand
- Confidence in God's hand is necessary
- Reserve and attachment to self must be abandoned
Key Quotes
“Evil is changed into good when it is received in patience through the love of God;” — Francois Fenelon
“Attachment to ourselves is a thousand times more infectious than a contagious poison, for it contains the venom of self.” — Francois Fenelon
Application Points
- I must let go of my attachment to self and the world to experience true good.
- I must put myself confidently in God's hand and trust in His love and patience.
- I must be willing to sacrifice my own desires and attachments for the sake of true good.