HomeIf you’re feeling discouraged by your ongoing struggle with sin, don't miss the marks of grace in your life. John Newton had a dear friend who was struggling with anxiety and fear, and his response to her expressed despondency over her unbelief and distrust will offer encouragement to your heart. Here is an excerpt from his letter:
"It is true that you feel contrary principles, that you are conscious of defects and defilements; but it is equally true that you could not be right if you did not feel these things. To be conscious of them, and humbled for them is one of the surest marks of grace; and to be more deeply sensible of them than formerly, is the best evidence of growth in grace. But when the enemy would tempt us to doubt and distrust because we are not perfect, then he fights not only against our peace, but against the honor and faithfulness of our dear Lord. Our righteousness is in Jesus; and our hope depends not upon the exercise of grace in us, but upon the fullness of grace and love in him, and upon his obedience unto death...The work of grace is to be estimated not merely from its imperfect appearance, but from the difficulties it has to struggle with and overcome." John Newton; October 28, 1777