Great Things From God

Have you ever heard of the spiritual disease which people in Medieval times called "aceidie"?  It is something that threatens all Christian workers after the first flush of enthusiasm has worn off.  It is apathy of the soul.  It shows a certain toughness of mind and weariness of spirit which often results from hurt and disillusionment... Once upon a time these leather-souled people were keen, hopeful, and expectant.  But nothing happened, or they got hurt, and now they protect themselves against further pain... They work mechanically, merely going through the motions because their light has really gone out and they are no longer expecting anything to happen... So, they merely plod on, expecting nothing and receiving nothing... We ought never settle for a non-expectant, defeatist attitude.  Rather, we should be asking and expecting great things from God.

In God's Presence by J.I. Packer, October 10