Self-Help by Charles Kingsley (1857)

Name: Self-Help
Author: Charles Kingsley

The work explores the necessity of self-reliance and personal growth through the lens of spiritual development. It begins with a reflection on the significance of Christ's ascension, arguing that His departure was essential for the arrival of the Comforter, who empowers individuals to act with strength and courage. The text emphasizes that the apostles, initially dependent on Christ, needed to evolve into self-governing individuals capable of discerning good and evil. This transformation mirrors the journey of every person, who must eventually learn to think and act independently, even as they retain the influence of their mentors. The author posits that the absence of a guiding figure, while initially daunting, ultimately fosters resilience and maturity. The narrative suggests that true growth occurs when individuals confront challenges alone, leading to the development of virtues such as endurance and skill. The work reassures readers that, despite the absence of Christ in a physical form, His spirit remains present, guiding and encouraging believers to fulfill their potential. The overarching message is one of faith in divine wisdom, asserting that the process of self-help and self-determination is integral to spiritual education and personal fulfillment. The text concludes by inviting readers to engage with their faith actively, drawing strength from the Holy Spirit.

By Charles Kingsley · First published 1857 · Genre: Self-help, Non-fiction, Inspirational · 1,886 words

First lines

ST. JOHN XVI. 7. It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.

THIS is a deep and strange saying. How can it be expedient, useful, or profitable, for any human being that Christ should go away from them? To be in Christ's presence; to see his face; to hear his voice; -would not this be the most expedient and profitable, yea, the most blessed and blissful of things which could befall us? Is it not that which saints hope to attain for ever in heaven-the beatific vision of Christ?

What this Textopian page supports

Self-Help is listed on Textopian as a speech by Charles Kingsley, dated 1857 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Speech
Author: Charles Kingsley
Date: 1857 CE
Language: English
Genres: Self-help, Non-fiction, Inspirational, Motivational
Length: 1,886 words
Structure: 1 section, 22 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

Good citation fit

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Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Similar titles

Genres

Self-help — As suggested by the title, this is a self-help book written to facilitate personal development and betterment.
Non-fiction — The book is grounded in reality and does not revolve around a fictional storyline. Therefore, it can be classified as a non-fiction work.
Inspirational — The book intends to influence readers positively and encourages self-improvement. So, it can be considered as an inspirational genre.
Motivational — With the descriptions of achieving success through self-improvement, the book falls into the motivational genre.