Answers Quote by Richard Baxter
“Sit not down without assurance. Get alone, and bring thy heart to the bar of trial: force it to answer the interrogatories put to it to set the qualifications of the saints on one side, and the qualifications of thyself on the other side, and then judge what resemblance there is between them… Yet be sure thou judge by a true touchstone, and mistake not the Scripture description of a saint, that thou neither acquit nor condemn thyself by mistake.”
About This Quote
Source Sermon: The Saint's Touchstone, 1650
Self‑examination requires honest comparison with ideal virtues, avoiding false self‑judgment.
In simple terms: Judge yourself against true standards.
Key Takeaway
Assess honestly, avoid self‑deception.
Themes
self‑reflection
spirituality
morality
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- spiritual practice
- leadership decisions
- ethical dilemmas
Key Concepts
ethical standards
self‑assessment
Questions to Reflect On
- What standards truly guide you?
- How do you differentiate humility from self‑criticism?
A Different Perspective
Self‑judgment can be harsh, leading to discouragement.
