J.C. Ryle:
The man whose soul is “growing” takes more interest in spiritual things every year. He does not neglect his duty in the world. He discharges faithfully, diligently, and conscientiously every relation of life, whether at home or abroad. But the things he loves best are spiritual things. The ways, and fashions, and amusements, and recreations of the world have a continually decreasing place in his heart. He does not condemn them as downright sinful, nor say that those who have anything to do with them are going to hell. He only feels that they have a constantly diminishing hold on his own affections, and gradually seem smaller and more trifling in his eyes. Spiritual companions, spiritual occupations, spiritual conversation, appear of ever-increasing value to him. Would anyone know if he is growing in grace? Then let him look within for increasing spirituality of taste. (Holiness, 107)
So I ask myself: Do I love Jesus a little more this year and football a little bit less? Do I love the word more and the world less? Do I long for spiritual things more and entertainment, politics, and hobbies less? Are the things that truly taste best tasting better to me? I can take pleasure in God’s temporal gifts, but I hope and pray Christ occupies more of my heart, more of my thoughts, and more of my conversation.
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