# “A holy minister is an awful weapon in the hand of God” by Robert Murray M’Cheyne

- Link: https://tollelege.net/2025/10/18/a-holy-minister-is-an-awful-weapon-in-the-hand-of-god-by-robert-murray-mcheyne/
- Published: 2025-10-18T06:00:00-05:00
- Author: tollelege

“DUNDEE, October 2, 1840.

MY DEAR FRIEND,

I trust you will have a pleasant and profitable time in Germany. I know you will
apply hard to German; but do not forget the culture of the inner man. I mean of 
the heart.

How diligently the cavalry officer keeps his sabre clean and sharp; every stain 
he rubs off with the greatest care.

Remember you are God’s sword– His instrument– I trust a chosen vessel unto Him to
bear His name. In great measure, according to the purity and perfections of the 
instrument, will be the success.

It is not great talents God blesses so much as great likeness to Jesus. A holy minister
is an awful weapon in the hand of God.

I am now almost well, but have not yet got my full strength. We had a sweet night
last night, though there was no external movement.

Some waited after; one from St Andrews, awakened deeply, she knows not how. God 
is still working here, and I look for far greater things.

I am very anxious to know how I could do more good to many people and to the whole
world; and not to know only, but to do it.

It is our truest happiness to live entirely for the glory of Christ— to separate
between “I” and “the glory of Christ.”

We are always saying, What have I done?— was it my preaching— my sermon— my influence?
whereas we should be asking, What hath God wrought? Strange mixed beings we are!

How sweet it will be to drop our old man, and be pure as Christ is pure! I hope 
you will come and see us again before your departure for your mission station.

The Lord direct all your steps, comfort your heart, and stablish you in every good
word and work to do His will.

Yours,

Robert Murray M’Cheyne”

–Robert Murray M’Cheyne, [_Memoir and Remains of the Rev. Robert Murray M’Cheyne_](https://www.amazon.com/dp/0851510841?tag=toletaupanre-20),
Ed. Andrew A. Bonar (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1844/1966), 282.

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