Charles H. Spurgeon

“The more prominent you are in Christ’s service, the more certain are you to be the butt of calumny [slander]. I have long ago said farewell to my character. I lost it in the earlier days of my ministry by being a little more zealous than suited a slumbering age. And I have never been able to regain it except in the sight of Him who judges all the earth, and in the hearts of those who love me for my work’s sake.”

— Charles H. Spurgeon

The quote is taken from this article: http://veracityvoice.com/?p=5973.

Spurgeon’s thoughts on the close relation between efficient Christian service and ad hominem attacks on the minister are a biblical and sober reminder that the spiritual battle never lets up.