[39] Let not the meaning of my little parable be misunderstood. Even the true believer must expect many assaults of Temptation, many a struggle with besetting sin. The pearl, Purity, is perfected only in a brighter world. Nevertheless, not only Christ’s imputed righteousness, but a _growing likeness_ to Him who said, “Learn of Me,” is one of God’s free gifts to His children through the indwelling of His Spirit. It is particularly necessary to enforce this truth in a land like India, where even sincere converts find it very hard to lead _consistent_ lives, after having been brought up in the paths of sin.