Andrew Bonar writes to Rev. William Armstrong, expressing his gratitude for updates on Armstrong's progress and encouraging him during a time of reflection and prayer. Bonar shares thoughts on the importance of meditating on God's love and the potential spiritual growth that can come from periods of being laid aside. He draws parallels to Samuel Rutherford, emphasizing that even in silence, one can find profound insights and intercede for others. Bonar encourages Armstrong to embrace this time for deeper communion with God and to remember the needs of the Church and brethren in prayer.

A.W. Tozer emphasizes the significance of our choices, particularly when we have the freedom to choose our actions. He illustrates that a person's true character is revealed not in compulsory situations, but in voluntary ones, such as choosing leisure over worship. Tozer encourages self-reflection on where our thoughts and actions lead us when we are free to choose, suggesting that these choices reflect our spiritual condition. He urges believers to make choices that align with God's will, recognizing the limited time we have to live righteously. The sermon concludes with a prayer for guidance in making pleasing choices to God.

D.L. Moody's sermon 'Where Art Thou?' emphasizes God's relentless pursuit of humanity after the fall, illustrating His grace and mercy as He seeks out the lost. Moody challenges listeners to reflect on their spiritual state, urging professed Christians, backsliders, and the ungodly to consider their relationship with God. He highlights the importance of living a life that reflects one's faith and warns against the dangers of complacency and neglecting one's spiritual duties. The sermon calls for a personal examination of one's faith and a return to communion with God, emphasizing that true joy and peace are found only in Him. Ultimately, Moody encourages all to respond to God's call and return to Him, regardless of their past.

Octavius Winslow emphasizes that trials reveal the true state of our souls, exposing our weaknesses and hidden sins that we may not recognize during times of prosperity. He illustrates how adversity serves as a divine tool for self-discovery and spiritual growth, allowing us to confront our folly and draw closer to God. Winslow encourages believers to embrace these challenging seasons as opportunities for revival and deeper communion with Christ, reminding us that remembrance of past transgressions can lead to repentance and renewed faith.

A.W. Tozer addresses the issue of how Christians can sometimes face opposition not solely due to their faith but because of their personal traits. He emphasizes that while the world opposes the Spirit of God, some believers may inadvertently provoke negativity through their own unpleasant personalities rather than their spirituality. Tozer encourages self-reflection and acknowledges that hiding one's faults behind scripture does not lead to growth. He points out the irony that gross sins can be more accepted by society than the subtle, refined sins that Christians may overlook. Ultimately, he calls for a recognition of these traits to foster genuine spiritual growth.