Inward crucifixion, when considered
in particular instances, is the same thing as taking up the Cross; and
if the Scriptures require us to take up the Cross daily,
as every reader of the Bible knows that they do, then inward
crucifixion becomes our DAILY BREAD. I think it may be said with entire
truth, (indeed the scripture command implies it,) that not a day passes,
which does not furnish occasion for the fulfillment of the scripture
requisition. Crosses, planted by the hand of a wise providence, meet us
at every step. And we are not at liberty to avoid them. We cannot avoid
them without turning aside from God himself. And accordingly, in the
spirit of a heart crucified, we must always stoop to the burden, which
they impose upon us and must take them on our shoulders, and must bear
them as humbly, as willingly, and as rejoicingly as Christ bore his. And
happy is the soul, that knows from his own inward experience, that a
sanctified Cross is a storehouse of spiritual blessings.
Inward
crucifixion, when carried, as it always ought to be, to its full
extent, is the result of strong faith. It is hardly necessary to make
remarks in support of this proposition. Who would relinquish the world,
with the attractions the world holds out, be they more or less, if he
had not faith in something better than the world? Who, that is destitute
of faith, can find in himself or elsewhere the power which is requisite
to keep the various propensities and passions in their place, and in
their right action moment by moment? Where will the man, that is without
faith, find resources to sustain himself, against the trial of heavy
temptations, without a fear or a murmur arising from the workings of a
selfish nature? Who can walk in God’s way and will, deprived by his
special providence of all inward consolations, without faith? How can a
man have his soul so fixed upon God as not to look with a
self-interested complacency even on his spiritual gifts and graces,
without the supports of a strong faith? We need not delay upon this
matter. It is exceedingly obvious, we think, and the concession is
confirmed by the experience and testimony of all devout Christians, that
without faith the results, which are involved in inward crucifixion,
cannot be realized.
— from The Life of Faith, Part 2, Chapter 12.