The LORD knoweth them that are His
" The liberal deviseth liberal things; and by liberal things he shall stand (or be established) ." — Isaiah 32:8 [KJV] We all naturally act from selfish principles, and with mercenary views, because we are under the legal covenant, "Do this and live." Hence saith one, 'If doing righteousness and performing good works will not justify and save me, as good sit still and do nothing, no matter how wicked I am.' Saith another, 'To be sure, we are justified by faith only, but then I must fulfil the terms and conditions of the gospel, for my holiness and obedience secures my salvation.' Such poor creatures reason carnally; their principles are only selfish, their views are mercenary. God is not served at all, but pride and self are at the bottom of all they do; to establish a righteousness of their own is their chief aim. The glory of God is not sought; His grace is overlooked; Jesus is depreciated in His work and office, as though all His to