Faith Proved by Fear
September 10, 2024•128 words
The true proof of faith consists in this, that when we feel the solicitations of natural fear, we can resist them, and prevent them from obtaining an undue ascendancy. Fear and hope may seem opposite and incompatible affections, yet it is proved by observation, that the latter never comes into full sway unless there exists some measure of the former. In a tranquil state of the mind, there is no scope for the exercise of hope. At such times it lies dormant, and its power is only displayed to advantage when we see it elevating the soul under dejection, calming its agitations, or soothing its distractions.
—John Calvin and James Anderson, Commentary on the Book of Psalms, vol. 2, "Psalm 56" (Bellingham, WA: Logos Bible Software, 2010), 349–350.