“We are not sufficient of ourselves to think anything as of ourselves”
(II. Cor. iii. 5).
Insufficient, “All sufficient.” These two words form the complement of
each other and together give the key to an efficient Christian life. The
discovery and full conviction of our utter helplessness is the constant
condition of spiritual supply. The aim of the Old Testament, therefore, is
ever to show man’s failure; that of the New, to reveal Christ’s
sufficiency. He has all things for us, but we cannot receive them till we
know that we have nothing.
The very essence, therefore, of Christian perfection is the constant
renunciation of our own perfection, and the continual acceptance of
Christ’s righteousness. And as we receive deeper views of our nothingness
and evil, it is but a call to claim more of His rich grace. But it is
possible fully to know our insufficiency and yet not take firmly hold of
His “all things.” This, too, must be done with a faith that will not
accept less than ALL. The prophet was angry because the king of Israel had
only smitten thrice upon the ground. He should have done it five or six
times. He might have had all. So let us meet His greatness and grace.