When some people talk of religion, they mean they have heard so many sermons and performed so many devotions, and thus mistake the means for the end. But true religion is a habitual recollection of God and intention to serve Him, and this turns everything into gold. We are apt to suppose that we need something splendid to show our devotion, but true devotion makes things equal: washing plates and cleaning shoes is a high office, if performed in a right spirit.
Many have puzzled themselves about the origin of evil. I observe that there is evil, and that there is a way to escape it; and with this I begin and end.
I would not give a straw for that assurance which sin will not damp. If David had come from his adultery and talked of his assurance at that time, I should have despised his speech.
1Taken from Newton’s Works, vol 1, with minor editing.