Tempered Zeal

I was blessed this morning as I read Dallimore's biography of George Whitefield. In the midst of controversy between Predestination and Free Grace, GW expressed himself thus:

"I hope as I make advances in the spiritual life, I show my zeal more and more tempered with true Christian knowledge and prudence. I would willingly have none of my wild fire mingled with the sacred fire that comes down from God's altar. I desire not only to do things for God, but to do them in the best manner."

"...exhort all to pray for me, that I may be faithful to my Lord, and yet kept gentle in my temper."

"O let us be meek and quiet! O let us wait and we shall see the salvation of God."

"While others are disputing, let us be growing. This will be the best way to convince those, who you find will not be convinced any other way."

"I lose nothing by being quiet and leaving all to Him." [1]

While not advocating couch sitting, I am encouraged to temper the zeal that would rise up and entice me to correct every error with a vengence. GW was 26 when he thought this way. At 41, I've got a long way to go before these are more than wished after thoughts.

[1] George Whitefield - Vol 2., Arnold Dallimore, Banner of Truth Trust, 1995, p. 75.