The sanctification of the Spirit

(James Smith, "The Great Comforter" 1858)

"God has chosen you to salvation, through sanctification of the Spirit." 2 Thessalonians 2:13

To sanctify, is to separate and set apart for holy purposes and holy uses. The Lord has separated His people, by choosing them in Christ to be holy; and He sanctifies them now for Himself — by the power, operation, and indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

In sanctification, a work is commenced which is to make us exactly like Christ. A sanctified person has . . .
  his heart changed,
  his will renewed,
  his understanding enlightened,
  his conscience purified, and
  his affections spiritualized.

Sanctification extends to the whole man, soul and body; and is carried on through . . .
  the Word,
  the ordinances, and
  the providence of God.

Sanctification has its seat in the heart; but it regulates the whole man, and appears in his conduct in every-day life. If a man experiences the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit, then . . .
  sin grieves him,
  Satan tries him,
  the world troubles him,
  and Heaven attracts him.

Spirit of Jesus, sanctify us deeply, thoroughly — that we may be just like Jesus! Sanctify us . . .
  by every trial,
  by every affliction,
  by every privilege,
  by every comfort!

~  ~  ~  ~