“God, in his infinite wisdom, has so constituted the human mind that it is impossible for us to appreciate fully a blessing while we have it in possession. A poet [Edward Young] has said, ‘Blessings brighten as they take their flight.’ This is not only a poetic expression, but it is good philosophy and sound theology. Nor is this the result of sin. Adam, while innocent in Eden, could not appreciate the blessing of companionship with God. When he lost it, then he appreciated it. So we cannot appreciate a blessing while we are in possesion of it. It must depart in order to be appreciated. A clear comprehension of this mental law will not only exalt our ideas of God’s wisdom in making it, but will throw much light upon His purposes, in the precise methods of grace revealed in his word, which otherwise would continue wrapt in a veil of mystery.” — Jesse DeWitt Burkhead, “Theology For the Masses”: Bible Truths For All Men (1888), p. 70