John Calvin — Works of John Calvin

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1. I could not locate this sentence in any primary edition of Calvin's works, although a closely related passage appears in his commentary on Psalm 25. The wording circulating today appears to be a modern paraphrase or smoothing of Calvin's original language rather than a direct quotation. The underlying idea, however, is fully consistent with Calvin's theology. He often describes hope as something God must nurture, revive, and sustain in the believer through all stages of weakness, doubt, or spiritual decline. In essence, the quote expresses what Calvin repeatedly teaches: that hope is not self-generated. It is a gift God strengthens when it is small, rekindles when it fades, steadies when it wavers, and restores when it collapses. Even if the precise sentence cannot be verified, the sentiment reflects Calvin's basic intent and emphasis on God's sustaining grace.