Meaning:
The quote "The grace thou hast will soon be less, if thou addest not more to it" by William Gurnall is a thought-provoking statement that encourages individuals to continuously seek growth and improvement. William Gurnall was an English author and clergyman who is best known for his work "The Christian in Complete Armor," a series of sermons and meditations on Ephesians 6:10–20. This quote reflects Gurnall's emphasis on the importance of spiritual growth and the need for believers to actively pursue a deeper understanding of grace.
In the context of the quote, "grace" refers to the unmerited favor and divine assistance that is believed to be bestowed upon individuals by God. It is a central concept in Christian theology, representing the idea that God's grace is freely given and cannot be earned through human efforts. However, Gurnall's quote suggests that simply possessing grace is not enough; one must also actively seek to enhance and expand upon it.
The quote implies that if individuals do not strive to increase and build upon the grace they currently have, it will diminish over time. This idea aligns with the belief that spiritual growth requires intentional effort and continuous engagement with one's faith. It suggests that complacency or stagnation in one's spiritual journey can lead to a weakening of the grace that has been received.
Gurnall's message can be interpreted as a call to action for believers to pursue a deeper relationship with God and to actively cultivate their faith. It encourages individuals to seek opportunities for spiritual development, such as through prayer, study of scripture, acts of service, and participation in a faith community. By doing so, one can strengthen and enrich the grace that has been given, preventing it from dwindling or becoming stagnant.
The quote also carries a sense of urgency, implying that the process of spiritual growth should not be delayed or taken for granted. It serves as a reminder that the grace one has received is a precious gift that requires nurturing and attention. By continuously adding to one's grace through intentional spiritual practices and a commitment to personal growth, individuals can experience a deepening of their faith and a more profound connection with the divine.
Overall, Gurnall's quote serves as a powerful reminder of the dynamic nature of grace and the importance of active engagement in one's spiritual journey. It challenges believers to avoid complacency and instead embrace a mindset of continual growth and expansion of their faith. In essence, the quote encapsulates the idea that grace is not static, but rather a living, evolving force that thrives when nurtured and pursued with diligence.
In conclusion, William Gurnall's quote "The grace thou hast will soon be less, if thou addest not more to it" encapsulates the idea that spiritual grace is not static and requires continual nurturing and growth. It serves as a call to action for believers to actively seek opportunities for spiritual development and to avoid complacency in their faith journey. By heeding this message, individuals can deepen their connection with the divine and enrich the grace they have received.