Overcoming...

The world is full of suffering. It is also full of the overcoming of it. We could never learn to be brave and patient if there were only joy in the world... Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through the experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, vision cleared, ambition inspired, and success achieved. ~ Helen Keller

Shortness of Time

"Men of wealth and position we have in most churches. These, by virtue of their station have a work to do which those of lower worldly position cannot so well reach. But, alas! how few rich men are willing to be answerable to the responsibilities of their position, and in faithfulness remind their neighbors, rolling in luxury and ease, of the necessity of living in preparation for eternity, in view of the shortness of time and the reckonings of the last day!" ~ Phoebe Palmer (Four Years in the Old World, 1867.p. 157-8)

Count the Cost

‎"It costs something to be a true Christian. Let that NEVER be forgotten. To be a mere nominal Christian, and go to church, is cheap and easy work. But to HEAR Christ’s voice, FOLLOW Christ, BELIEVE in Christ, and CONFESS Christ, requires MUCH self-denial. It will cost us our sins, our self-righteousness, our ease, and our worldliness." ~ J.C. Ryle