my previous explanation of this subject ask, "What do I mean by a holy life?" I
Chapter 4 PURITY DESCRIBED
Hebrews 13:20-21 -- Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus ... through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you perfect in every good work to do His will working in you that which is well-pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
My Dear Comrades,
Has anything I have said set anyone among you longing after the possession of the precious, the inestimable, Blessing of a Pure Heart? Has anyone in your Corps been heard singing:
"Oh, when shall my soul find her rest, My strugglings and wrestlings be o'er;
My heart, by my Saviour possessed,
Be fearing and sinning no more?"
It is those who "hunger and thirst after righteousness" that are to be "filled." If this desire has been created, in any degree, I am delighted. Let me try and increase that longing, by holding up before your eyes some of the advantages that flow out of the possession of the Blessing. And the first thing I mention that seems calculated to create this desire is the fact that --
1. A Pure Heart will ensure a Holy Life. But here does anyone who has not heard my previous explanation of this subject ask, "What do I mean by a holy life?" I answer, that it is a life that meets the requirements, and ensures the fulfillment of the promises of this Holy Book; a life fashioned after the life of the Lord Jesus Christ. It will, at the best, be very imperfect, have many weaknesses about it, and be subjected to many mistakes; but still, according to the light possessed, it will be a holy life.
Is not such a life desirable, my Comrades? Is not a man who is able to live out his religion before his family, before his workmates, and before the world, highly privileged? Will he not be a means of blessing to those around him, whichever way he turns? Look at him.
He is honest and faithful in all his worldly dealings, in his shop, factory, home, or wherever he may come. He has an honest heart.
He is true to his promises and engagements. His word is his bond. You can trust him either in or out of sight. He has a true heart.