DiligenceIllustration.Reading God's Word. "Give diligence to make your calling and election sure." 2 Peter 1:10.1. What general command has God given concerning labor?“Six days shalt thou labor, and do all thy work.”Ex. 20:9.2. Instead of living upon the earnings of others, what instruction is given?“Let him that stole steal no more: but ratherlet him labor, working with his handsthe thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.”Eph. 4:28.3. What general rule does Paul lay down upon this subject?“For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, thatif any would not work, neither should he eat.”2 Thess. 3:10.4. In what language does he condemn idleness?“For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly,working not at all, but are busybodies. Now them that are suchwe command and exhortby our Lord Jesus Christ,that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread.”Verses 11, 12.5. What example did the apostle himself set in this matter?“Neither did we eat any man's bread for naught; butwrought with labor and travail night and day, that we might not be chargeable to any of you.”Verse 8.[pg 595]6. What labor was appointed man in consequence of the fall?“In the sweat of thy face shall thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground.”Gen. 3:19.Note.—A life of laborious and perpetual toil, in a world cursed with weeds, thorns, and thistles, was appointed to man in consequence of the entrance of sin. This was a part of the curse. And yet even this was appointed in love, and, under existing circumstances, is a blessing in disguise. It was a discipline rendered necessary because of sin, to place a check upon the indulgence of appetite and passion, to develop habits of industry and self-control, and to teach lessons on overcoming evil. Were not man called to labor thus, his sins and miseries would be multiplied manyfold.7. What are some of the results of industry?“He that tilleth his landshall have plenty of bread.”Prov. 28:19.“The hand of the diligentmaketh rich.”Prov. 10:4.“The soul of the diligent shall bemade fat.”Prov. 13:4.8. What results from slackness and indolence in business?“Hebecometh poorthat dealeth with a slack hand.”Prov. 10:4.“The soul of the sluggard desireth, andhath nothing.”Prov. 13:4.9. What does Solomon say concerning diligence in business?“Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might.”Eccl. 9:10.“Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks, and look well to thy herds.”Prov. 27:23.“He that gathereth in summer is a wise son: but he that sleepeth in harvest is a son that causeth shame.”Prov. 10:5.Note.—“The way to wealth, if you desire it, is as plain as the way to market. It depends chiefly on two words—industryandfrugality; that is, waste neithertimenormoney, but make the best of both. Without industry and frugality nothing will do, and with them everything.”—Benjamin Franklin.10. What does Solomon say of the industrious woman?“She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.”Prov. 31:27, 28.11. What has Paul said of the professed Christian who does not provide for his own family?“But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house,he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.”1 Tim. 5:8.12. What picture has Solomon given of the slothful man?“I went by the field of the slothful, and by the vineyard of the man void of understanding; and, lo, it was all grown over[pg 596]with thorns, and nettles had covered the face thereof, and the stone wall thereof was broken down.”Prov. 24:30, 31.Notes.—“An indolent man draweth his breath, but does not live.”—Cicero.“The parent who does not teach his child a trade, teaches him to be a thief.”—Brahmanic Proverb.“When tillage begins, other arts follow. The farmers therefore are the founders of human civilization.”—Daniel Webster.“If a man be indolent, the best discipline to which he can be subjected is to suffer the evils of penury.”—Wayland.“Nothing can be done with a man who will not work. We have in our scheme of government no room for the man who does not wish to pay his way through life by what he does.... Capacity for work is absolutely necessary, and no man can be said to live in the true sense of the word if he does not work.”—Theodore Roosevelt.“Luck is waiting for something to turn up. Labor, with keen eyes and strong will, will turn up something. Luck whines. Labor whistles. Luck relies on chances. Labor, on character. Luck slips down to indigence. Labor strides upward to independence. Luck lies in bed, and wishes the postman would bring him news of a legacy. Labor turns out at six o' clock, and with busy pen or ringing hammer lays the foundation of a competence.”—Cobden.13. In spiritual matters, what is also necessary?“And beside this,giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge.... Givediligenceto make your calling and election sure.”2 Peter 1:5-10.Note.—In temporal matters the difference between a prosperous man and a sluggard lies principally in the improvement of opportunities. One grasps these, while the other is too indolent to do so. In the gaining of eternal life this same principle applies. God has placed salvation within the reach of all. None need be lost. Christ died for all, but all will not be saved, for some do not care enough for eternal life diligently to lay hold of it.Neat be your farm; 'tis long confessedThe neatest farmer is the best;Each bog and marsh industrious drain,Nor let vile balks deform the plain,Nor bushes on your headland grow,Nor briers a sloven culture show.Neat be your barns, your houses sweet;Your paths be clean, your dooryards neat;No moss the sheltering roof enshroud,No wooden panes the windows cloud;No sink drains should above ground flow,Nor weeds with rankling poison grow;But flowers expand, and fruit-trees bloom,And fragrant shrubs exhale perfume.Neatly enclose your garden round;Smooth, enrich, and clear the ground;For if to taste and profit you incline,Beauty and use you always should combine.[pg 597]Perfection Of CharacterIllustration.Paul Shipwrecked. "In all these things we are more than conqueror through Him that loved us." Rom. 8:37.1. Why are we exhorted to patience?“But let patience have her perfect work,that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting[lacking]nothing.”James 1:4.2. How perfect does Christ tell us to be?“Be ye therefore perfect,even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.”Matt. 5:48.3. In whom are we complete?“And ye are completein Him.”Col. 2:10.4. After accepting Christ, what are we to do?“Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ,let us go on unto perfection.”Heb. 6:1.5. In what is the Christian to grow?“But grow ingrace, and inthe knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.”2 Peter 3:18.6. How may one grow in grace?“Giving all diligence,add to your faith virtue; ...knowledge;[pg 598]...temperance; ...patience; ...godliness; ...brotherly kindness; ...charity.”2 Peter 1:5-8.7. Why does Christ desire this growth in His followers?“That He might present it to Himselfa glorious church, not havingspot, orwrinkle, orany such thing; but that it should beholyandwithout blemish.”Eph. 5:27.8. What will cause the Christian to grow?“As new-born babes, desirethe sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby.”1 Peter 2:2.9. In order to grow by the word of God, what must one do?“Thy words were found, and I did eat them.”Jer. 15:16.“Thy word have Ihid in mine heart.”Ps. 119:11. See Col. 3:16.10. What does God's word then become to the believer?“Thy word was unto methe joy and rejoicing of mine heart.”Jer. 15:16, last part.11. Why are the Scriptures given?“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.”2 Tim. 3:16, 17.12. How may the lack of wisdom be supplied?“If any of you lack wisdom,let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not;and it shall be given him.”James 1:5.13. In how many things may we ask help from God?“Be careful for nothing; butin everythingby prayer and supplication with thanksgivinglet your requests be made known unto God.”Phil. 4:6.14. What is an evidence of perfection?“If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.”James 3:2.15. What is the bond of perfection?“And above all these things put oncharity, which is the bond of perfectness.”Col. 3:14. See Phil. 3:13, 14; Heb. 12:14.16. How perfect would God have us become?“And the very God of peacesanctify you wholly; and I pray Godyour whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blamelessunto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.”1 Thess. 5:23.[pg 599]Sowing And ReapingIllustration.Jacob's Dream. "Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap." Gal. 6:7.1. What does Paul say regarding sowing and reaping?“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: forwhatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.”Gal. 6:7.2. How is the same truth expressed by Christ?“Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven: give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom.For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.”Luke 6:37, 38.Notes.—A man's deeds, good or evil, usually return to bless or curse him. A farmer who sold butter to a village storekeeper and took sugar in exchange, complained that he was getting short weight.“Look here,”said he to the merchant,“it seems to me you're giving me short weight sugar.”“No,”replied the storekeeper,“that cannot be, for in measuring out that sugar of yours I always use a pound of your butter as a weight.”“Good and evil come back.... God made the universe on the plan of the circle. Isa. 40:22.... We ourselves start the circle of good or bad actions, and it will surely come around again to us unless by divine intervention it be hindered. Those bad or good actions may make the circuit of many years; but come back to us they will as certainly as that God sits on the circle of the earth.... What a stupendous thought that the good and the evil we start come back to us! Do you know that the judgment-day will be only the point at which the circle joins, the good[pg 600]and the bad we have done coming back to us, unless divine intervention hinders,—coming back to us, welcome of delight or curse of condemnation?”—T. DeWitt Talmage.3. On what condition does Christ say God will forgive us?“Forif ye forgive men their trespasses, your Heavenly Father will also forgive you: but if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”Matt. 6: 14, 15. See also Matt. 18:23-35.4. According to what principle does God deal with men?“With themercifulThou wilt show Thyselfmerciful; with anuprightman Thou wilt show Thyselfupright; with thepureThou wilt show Thyselfpure; and with thefrowardThou wilt show Thyselffroward.”Ps. 18:25, 26.5. How is the same truth again taught touching the wicked?“As he lovedcursing, so let it come unto him: as he delighted not inblessing, so let it be far from him.”Ps. 109:17.6. According to what was judgment called upon Babylon?“Recompense her according to her works; according to all that she hath done, do unto her.”Jer. 50:29.7. Why did Christ tell Peter to put up his sword?“Put up again thy sword into his place:for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword.”Matt. 26:52.8. Why was the Papacy to go into captivity?“He that leadeth into captivity shall go into captivity: he that killeth with the sword must be killed with the sword.”Rev. 13:10. See Lev. 25:10; Jer. 34:17.9. What is to be the punishment of spiritual Babylon?“Reward her even as she rewarded you, and double unto her double according to her works.”Rev. 18:6.10. What does the psalmist say will come to the persecutor?“His mischief shall return upon his own head, and his violent dealing shall come down upon his own pate.”Ps. 7:16.Note.—In his letter addressed to the Jews, dated Nov. 16, 1905, President Roosevelt said:“I feel very strongly that if any people are oppressed anywhere, the wrong inevitably reacts in the end on those who oppress them; for it is an immutable law in the spiritual world that no one can wrong others and yet in the end himself escape unhurt.”11. What befell Haman, who sought to slay all the Jews?“So they hanged Haman on the gallows that he had prepared for Mordecai.”Esther 7:10. See Ps. 9:15.12. If one would have friends, what must he do?“A man that hath friendsmust show himself friendly.”Prov. 18:24.
DiligenceIllustration.Reading God's Word. "Give diligence to make your calling and election sure." 2 Peter 1:10.1. What general command has God given concerning labor?“Six days shalt thou labor, and do all thy work.”Ex. 20:9.2. Instead of living upon the earnings of others, what instruction is given?“Let him that stole steal no more: but ratherlet him labor, working with his handsthe thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.”Eph. 4:28.3. What general rule does Paul lay down upon this subject?“For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, thatif any would not work, neither should he eat.”2 Thess. 3:10.4. In what language does he condemn idleness?“For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly,working not at all, but are busybodies. Now them that are suchwe command and exhortby our Lord Jesus Christ,that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread.”Verses 11, 12.5. What example did the apostle himself set in this matter?“Neither did we eat any man's bread for naught; butwrought with labor and travail night and day, that we might not be chargeable to any of you.”Verse 8.[pg 595]6. What labor was appointed man in consequence of the fall?“In the sweat of thy face shall thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground.”Gen. 3:19.Note.—A life of laborious and perpetual toil, in a world cursed with weeds, thorns, and thistles, was appointed to man in consequence of the entrance of sin. This was a part of the curse. And yet even this was appointed in love, and, under existing circumstances, is a blessing in disguise. It was a discipline rendered necessary because of sin, to place a check upon the indulgence of appetite and passion, to develop habits of industry and self-control, and to teach lessons on overcoming evil. Were not man called to labor thus, his sins and miseries would be multiplied manyfold.7. What are some of the results of industry?“He that tilleth his landshall have plenty of bread.”Prov. 28:19.“The hand of the diligentmaketh rich.”Prov. 10:4.“The soul of the diligent shall bemade fat.”Prov. 13:4.8. What results from slackness and indolence in business?“Hebecometh poorthat dealeth with a slack hand.”Prov. 10:4.“The soul of the sluggard desireth, andhath nothing.”Prov. 13:4.9. What does Solomon say concerning diligence in business?“Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might.”Eccl. 9:10.“Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks, and look well to thy herds.”Prov. 27:23.“He that gathereth in summer is a wise son: but he that sleepeth in harvest is a son that causeth shame.”Prov. 10:5.Note.—“The way to wealth, if you desire it, is as plain as the way to market. It depends chiefly on two words—industryandfrugality; that is, waste neithertimenormoney, but make the best of both. Without industry and frugality nothing will do, and with them everything.”—Benjamin Franklin.10. What does Solomon say of the industrious woman?“She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.”Prov. 31:27, 28.11. What has Paul said of the professed Christian who does not provide for his own family?“But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house,he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.”1 Tim. 5:8.12. What picture has Solomon given of the slothful man?“I went by the field of the slothful, and by the vineyard of the man void of understanding; and, lo, it was all grown over[pg 596]with thorns, and nettles had covered the face thereof, and the stone wall thereof was broken down.”Prov. 24:30, 31.Notes.—“An indolent man draweth his breath, but does not live.”—Cicero.“The parent who does not teach his child a trade, teaches him to be a thief.”—Brahmanic Proverb.“When tillage begins, other arts follow. The farmers therefore are the founders of human civilization.”—Daniel Webster.“If a man be indolent, the best discipline to which he can be subjected is to suffer the evils of penury.”—Wayland.“Nothing can be done with a man who will not work. We have in our scheme of government no room for the man who does not wish to pay his way through life by what he does.... Capacity for work is absolutely necessary, and no man can be said to live in the true sense of the word if he does not work.”—Theodore Roosevelt.“Luck is waiting for something to turn up. Labor, with keen eyes and strong will, will turn up something. Luck whines. Labor whistles. Luck relies on chances. Labor, on character. Luck slips down to indigence. Labor strides upward to independence. Luck lies in bed, and wishes the postman would bring him news of a legacy. Labor turns out at six o' clock, and with busy pen or ringing hammer lays the foundation of a competence.”—Cobden.13. In spiritual matters, what is also necessary?“And beside this,giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge.... Givediligenceto make your calling and election sure.”2 Peter 1:5-10.Note.—In temporal matters the difference between a prosperous man and a sluggard lies principally in the improvement of opportunities. One grasps these, while the other is too indolent to do so. In the gaining of eternal life this same principle applies. God has placed salvation within the reach of all. None need be lost. Christ died for all, but all will not be saved, for some do not care enough for eternal life diligently to lay hold of it.Neat be your farm; 'tis long confessedThe neatest farmer is the best;Each bog and marsh industrious drain,Nor let vile balks deform the plain,Nor bushes on your headland grow,Nor briers a sloven culture show.Neat be your barns, your houses sweet;Your paths be clean, your dooryards neat;No moss the sheltering roof enshroud,No wooden panes the windows cloud;No sink drains should above ground flow,Nor weeds with rankling poison grow;But flowers expand, and fruit-trees bloom,And fragrant shrubs exhale perfume.Neatly enclose your garden round;Smooth, enrich, and clear the ground;For if to taste and profit you incline,Beauty and use you always should combine.[pg 597]Perfection Of CharacterIllustration.Paul Shipwrecked. "In all these things we are more than conqueror through Him that loved us." Rom. 8:37.1. Why are we exhorted to patience?“But let patience have her perfect work,that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting[lacking]nothing.”James 1:4.2. How perfect does Christ tell us to be?“Be ye therefore perfect,even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.”Matt. 5:48.3. In whom are we complete?“And ye are completein Him.”Col. 2:10.4. After accepting Christ, what are we to do?“Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ,let us go on unto perfection.”Heb. 6:1.5. In what is the Christian to grow?“But grow ingrace, and inthe knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.”2 Peter 3:18.6. How may one grow in grace?“Giving all diligence,add to your faith virtue; ...knowledge;[pg 598]...temperance; ...patience; ...godliness; ...brotherly kindness; ...charity.”2 Peter 1:5-8.7. Why does Christ desire this growth in His followers?“That He might present it to Himselfa glorious church, not havingspot, orwrinkle, orany such thing; but that it should beholyandwithout blemish.”Eph. 5:27.8. What will cause the Christian to grow?“As new-born babes, desirethe sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby.”1 Peter 2:2.9. In order to grow by the word of God, what must one do?“Thy words were found, and I did eat them.”Jer. 15:16.“Thy word have Ihid in mine heart.”Ps. 119:11. See Col. 3:16.10. What does God's word then become to the believer?“Thy word was unto methe joy and rejoicing of mine heart.”Jer. 15:16, last part.11. Why are the Scriptures given?“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.”2 Tim. 3:16, 17.12. How may the lack of wisdom be supplied?“If any of you lack wisdom,let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not;and it shall be given him.”James 1:5.13. In how many things may we ask help from God?“Be careful for nothing; butin everythingby prayer and supplication with thanksgivinglet your requests be made known unto God.”Phil. 4:6.14. What is an evidence of perfection?“If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.”James 3:2.15. What is the bond of perfection?“And above all these things put oncharity, which is the bond of perfectness.”Col. 3:14. See Phil. 3:13, 14; Heb. 12:14.16. How perfect would God have us become?“And the very God of peacesanctify you wholly; and I pray Godyour whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blamelessunto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.”1 Thess. 5:23.[pg 599]Sowing And ReapingIllustration.Jacob's Dream. "Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap." Gal. 6:7.1. What does Paul say regarding sowing and reaping?“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: forwhatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.”Gal. 6:7.2. How is the same truth expressed by Christ?“Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven: give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom.For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.”Luke 6:37, 38.Notes.—A man's deeds, good or evil, usually return to bless or curse him. A farmer who sold butter to a village storekeeper and took sugar in exchange, complained that he was getting short weight.“Look here,”said he to the merchant,“it seems to me you're giving me short weight sugar.”“No,”replied the storekeeper,“that cannot be, for in measuring out that sugar of yours I always use a pound of your butter as a weight.”“Good and evil come back.... God made the universe on the plan of the circle. Isa. 40:22.... We ourselves start the circle of good or bad actions, and it will surely come around again to us unless by divine intervention it be hindered. Those bad or good actions may make the circuit of many years; but come back to us they will as certainly as that God sits on the circle of the earth.... What a stupendous thought that the good and the evil we start come back to us! Do you know that the judgment-day will be only the point at which the circle joins, the good[pg 600]and the bad we have done coming back to us, unless divine intervention hinders,—coming back to us, welcome of delight or curse of condemnation?”—T. DeWitt Talmage.3. On what condition does Christ say God will forgive us?“Forif ye forgive men their trespasses, your Heavenly Father will also forgive you: but if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”Matt. 6: 14, 15. See also Matt. 18:23-35.4. According to what principle does God deal with men?“With themercifulThou wilt show Thyselfmerciful; with anuprightman Thou wilt show Thyselfupright; with thepureThou wilt show Thyselfpure; and with thefrowardThou wilt show Thyselffroward.”Ps. 18:25, 26.5. How is the same truth again taught touching the wicked?“As he lovedcursing, so let it come unto him: as he delighted not inblessing, so let it be far from him.”Ps. 109:17.6. According to what was judgment called upon Babylon?“Recompense her according to her works; according to all that she hath done, do unto her.”Jer. 50:29.7. Why did Christ tell Peter to put up his sword?“Put up again thy sword into his place:for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword.”Matt. 26:52.8. Why was the Papacy to go into captivity?“He that leadeth into captivity shall go into captivity: he that killeth with the sword must be killed with the sword.”Rev. 13:10. See Lev. 25:10; Jer. 34:17.9. What is to be the punishment of spiritual Babylon?“Reward her even as she rewarded you, and double unto her double according to her works.”Rev. 18:6.10. What does the psalmist say will come to the persecutor?“His mischief shall return upon his own head, and his violent dealing shall come down upon his own pate.”Ps. 7:16.Note.—In his letter addressed to the Jews, dated Nov. 16, 1905, President Roosevelt said:“I feel very strongly that if any people are oppressed anywhere, the wrong inevitably reacts in the end on those who oppress them; for it is an immutable law in the spiritual world that no one can wrong others and yet in the end himself escape unhurt.”11. What befell Haman, who sought to slay all the Jews?“So they hanged Haman on the gallows that he had prepared for Mordecai.”Esther 7:10. See Ps. 9:15.12. If one would have friends, what must he do?“A man that hath friendsmust show himself friendly.”Prov. 18:24.
DiligenceIllustration.Reading God's Word. "Give diligence to make your calling and election sure." 2 Peter 1:10.1. What general command has God given concerning labor?“Six days shalt thou labor, and do all thy work.”Ex. 20:9.2. Instead of living upon the earnings of others, what instruction is given?“Let him that stole steal no more: but ratherlet him labor, working with his handsthe thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.”Eph. 4:28.3. What general rule does Paul lay down upon this subject?“For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, thatif any would not work, neither should he eat.”2 Thess. 3:10.4. In what language does he condemn idleness?“For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly,working not at all, but are busybodies. Now them that are suchwe command and exhortby our Lord Jesus Christ,that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread.”Verses 11, 12.5. What example did the apostle himself set in this matter?“Neither did we eat any man's bread for naught; butwrought with labor and travail night and day, that we might not be chargeable to any of you.”Verse 8.[pg 595]6. What labor was appointed man in consequence of the fall?“In the sweat of thy face shall thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground.”Gen. 3:19.Note.—A life of laborious and perpetual toil, in a world cursed with weeds, thorns, and thistles, was appointed to man in consequence of the entrance of sin. This was a part of the curse. And yet even this was appointed in love, and, under existing circumstances, is a blessing in disguise. It was a discipline rendered necessary because of sin, to place a check upon the indulgence of appetite and passion, to develop habits of industry and self-control, and to teach lessons on overcoming evil. Were not man called to labor thus, his sins and miseries would be multiplied manyfold.7. What are some of the results of industry?“He that tilleth his landshall have plenty of bread.”Prov. 28:19.“The hand of the diligentmaketh rich.”Prov. 10:4.“The soul of the diligent shall bemade fat.”Prov. 13:4.8. What results from slackness and indolence in business?“Hebecometh poorthat dealeth with a slack hand.”Prov. 10:4.“The soul of the sluggard desireth, andhath nothing.”Prov. 13:4.9. What does Solomon say concerning diligence in business?“Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might.”Eccl. 9:10.“Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks, and look well to thy herds.”Prov. 27:23.“He that gathereth in summer is a wise son: but he that sleepeth in harvest is a son that causeth shame.”Prov. 10:5.Note.—“The way to wealth, if you desire it, is as plain as the way to market. It depends chiefly on two words—industryandfrugality; that is, waste neithertimenormoney, but make the best of both. Without industry and frugality nothing will do, and with them everything.”—Benjamin Franklin.10. What does Solomon say of the industrious woman?“She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.”Prov. 31:27, 28.11. What has Paul said of the professed Christian who does not provide for his own family?“But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house,he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.”1 Tim. 5:8.12. What picture has Solomon given of the slothful man?“I went by the field of the slothful, and by the vineyard of the man void of understanding; and, lo, it was all grown over[pg 596]with thorns, and nettles had covered the face thereof, and the stone wall thereof was broken down.”Prov. 24:30, 31.Notes.—“An indolent man draweth his breath, but does not live.”—Cicero.“The parent who does not teach his child a trade, teaches him to be a thief.”—Brahmanic Proverb.“When tillage begins, other arts follow. The farmers therefore are the founders of human civilization.”—Daniel Webster.“If a man be indolent, the best discipline to which he can be subjected is to suffer the evils of penury.”—Wayland.“Nothing can be done with a man who will not work. We have in our scheme of government no room for the man who does not wish to pay his way through life by what he does.... Capacity for work is absolutely necessary, and no man can be said to live in the true sense of the word if he does not work.”—Theodore Roosevelt.“Luck is waiting for something to turn up. Labor, with keen eyes and strong will, will turn up something. Luck whines. Labor whistles. Luck relies on chances. Labor, on character. Luck slips down to indigence. Labor strides upward to independence. Luck lies in bed, and wishes the postman would bring him news of a legacy. Labor turns out at six o' clock, and with busy pen or ringing hammer lays the foundation of a competence.”—Cobden.13. In spiritual matters, what is also necessary?“And beside this,giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge.... Givediligenceto make your calling and election sure.”2 Peter 1:5-10.Note.—In temporal matters the difference between a prosperous man and a sluggard lies principally in the improvement of opportunities. One grasps these, while the other is too indolent to do so. In the gaining of eternal life this same principle applies. God has placed salvation within the reach of all. None need be lost. Christ died for all, but all will not be saved, for some do not care enough for eternal life diligently to lay hold of it.Neat be your farm; 'tis long confessedThe neatest farmer is the best;Each bog and marsh industrious drain,Nor let vile balks deform the plain,Nor bushes on your headland grow,Nor briers a sloven culture show.Neat be your barns, your houses sweet;Your paths be clean, your dooryards neat;No moss the sheltering roof enshroud,No wooden panes the windows cloud;No sink drains should above ground flow,Nor weeds with rankling poison grow;But flowers expand, and fruit-trees bloom,And fragrant shrubs exhale perfume.Neatly enclose your garden round;Smooth, enrich, and clear the ground;For if to taste and profit you incline,Beauty and use you always should combine.[pg 597]Perfection Of CharacterIllustration.Paul Shipwrecked. "In all these things we are more than conqueror through Him that loved us." Rom. 8:37.1. Why are we exhorted to patience?“But let patience have her perfect work,that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting[lacking]nothing.”James 1:4.2. How perfect does Christ tell us to be?“Be ye therefore perfect,even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.”Matt. 5:48.3. In whom are we complete?“And ye are completein Him.”Col. 2:10.4. After accepting Christ, what are we to do?“Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ,let us go on unto perfection.”Heb. 6:1.5. In what is the Christian to grow?“But grow ingrace, and inthe knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.”2 Peter 3:18.6. How may one grow in grace?“Giving all diligence,add to your faith virtue; ...knowledge;[pg 598]...temperance; ...patience; ...godliness; ...brotherly kindness; ...charity.”2 Peter 1:5-8.7. Why does Christ desire this growth in His followers?“That He might present it to Himselfa glorious church, not havingspot, orwrinkle, orany such thing; but that it should beholyandwithout blemish.”Eph. 5:27.8. What will cause the Christian to grow?“As new-born babes, desirethe sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby.”1 Peter 2:2.9. In order to grow by the word of God, what must one do?“Thy words were found, and I did eat them.”Jer. 15:16.“Thy word have Ihid in mine heart.”Ps. 119:11. See Col. 3:16.10. What does God's word then become to the believer?“Thy word was unto methe joy and rejoicing of mine heart.”Jer. 15:16, last part.11. Why are the Scriptures given?“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.”2 Tim. 3:16, 17.12. How may the lack of wisdom be supplied?“If any of you lack wisdom,let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not;and it shall be given him.”James 1:5.13. In how many things may we ask help from God?“Be careful for nothing; butin everythingby prayer and supplication with thanksgivinglet your requests be made known unto God.”Phil. 4:6.14. What is an evidence of perfection?“If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.”James 3:2.15. What is the bond of perfection?“And above all these things put oncharity, which is the bond of perfectness.”Col. 3:14. See Phil. 3:13, 14; Heb. 12:14.16. How perfect would God have us become?“And the very God of peacesanctify you wholly; and I pray Godyour whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blamelessunto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.”1 Thess. 5:23.[pg 599]Sowing And ReapingIllustration.Jacob's Dream. "Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap." Gal. 6:7.1. What does Paul say regarding sowing and reaping?“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: forwhatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.”Gal. 6:7.2. How is the same truth expressed by Christ?“Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven: give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom.For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.”Luke 6:37, 38.Notes.—A man's deeds, good or evil, usually return to bless or curse him. A farmer who sold butter to a village storekeeper and took sugar in exchange, complained that he was getting short weight.“Look here,”said he to the merchant,“it seems to me you're giving me short weight sugar.”“No,”replied the storekeeper,“that cannot be, for in measuring out that sugar of yours I always use a pound of your butter as a weight.”“Good and evil come back.... God made the universe on the plan of the circle. Isa. 40:22.... We ourselves start the circle of good or bad actions, and it will surely come around again to us unless by divine intervention it be hindered. Those bad or good actions may make the circuit of many years; but come back to us they will as certainly as that God sits on the circle of the earth.... What a stupendous thought that the good and the evil we start come back to us! Do you know that the judgment-day will be only the point at which the circle joins, the good[pg 600]and the bad we have done coming back to us, unless divine intervention hinders,—coming back to us, welcome of delight or curse of condemnation?”—T. DeWitt Talmage.3. On what condition does Christ say God will forgive us?“Forif ye forgive men their trespasses, your Heavenly Father will also forgive you: but if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”Matt. 6: 14, 15. See also Matt. 18:23-35.4. According to what principle does God deal with men?“With themercifulThou wilt show Thyselfmerciful; with anuprightman Thou wilt show Thyselfupright; with thepureThou wilt show Thyselfpure; and with thefrowardThou wilt show Thyselffroward.”Ps. 18:25, 26.5. How is the same truth again taught touching the wicked?“As he lovedcursing, so let it come unto him: as he delighted not inblessing, so let it be far from him.”Ps. 109:17.6. According to what was judgment called upon Babylon?“Recompense her according to her works; according to all that she hath done, do unto her.”Jer. 50:29.7. Why did Christ tell Peter to put up his sword?“Put up again thy sword into his place:for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword.”Matt. 26:52.8. Why was the Papacy to go into captivity?“He that leadeth into captivity shall go into captivity: he that killeth with the sword must be killed with the sword.”Rev. 13:10. See Lev. 25:10; Jer. 34:17.9. What is to be the punishment of spiritual Babylon?“Reward her even as she rewarded you, and double unto her double according to her works.”Rev. 18:6.10. What does the psalmist say will come to the persecutor?“His mischief shall return upon his own head, and his violent dealing shall come down upon his own pate.”Ps. 7:16.Note.—In his letter addressed to the Jews, dated Nov. 16, 1905, President Roosevelt said:“I feel very strongly that if any people are oppressed anywhere, the wrong inevitably reacts in the end on those who oppress them; for it is an immutable law in the spiritual world that no one can wrong others and yet in the end himself escape unhurt.”11. What befell Haman, who sought to slay all the Jews?“So they hanged Haman on the gallows that he had prepared for Mordecai.”Esther 7:10. See Ps. 9:15.12. If one would have friends, what must he do?“A man that hath friendsmust show himself friendly.”Prov. 18:24.
DiligenceIllustration.Reading God's Word. "Give diligence to make your calling and election sure." 2 Peter 1:10.1. What general command has God given concerning labor?“Six days shalt thou labor, and do all thy work.”Ex. 20:9.2. Instead of living upon the earnings of others, what instruction is given?“Let him that stole steal no more: but ratherlet him labor, working with his handsthe thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.”Eph. 4:28.3. What general rule does Paul lay down upon this subject?“For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, thatif any would not work, neither should he eat.”2 Thess. 3:10.4. In what language does he condemn idleness?“For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly,working not at all, but are busybodies. Now them that are suchwe command and exhortby our Lord Jesus Christ,that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread.”Verses 11, 12.5. What example did the apostle himself set in this matter?“Neither did we eat any man's bread for naught; butwrought with labor and travail night and day, that we might not be chargeable to any of you.”Verse 8.[pg 595]6. What labor was appointed man in consequence of the fall?“In the sweat of thy face shall thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground.”Gen. 3:19.Note.—A life of laborious and perpetual toil, in a world cursed with weeds, thorns, and thistles, was appointed to man in consequence of the entrance of sin. This was a part of the curse. And yet even this was appointed in love, and, under existing circumstances, is a blessing in disguise. It was a discipline rendered necessary because of sin, to place a check upon the indulgence of appetite and passion, to develop habits of industry and self-control, and to teach lessons on overcoming evil. Were not man called to labor thus, his sins and miseries would be multiplied manyfold.7. What are some of the results of industry?“He that tilleth his landshall have plenty of bread.”Prov. 28:19.“The hand of the diligentmaketh rich.”Prov. 10:4.“The soul of the diligent shall bemade fat.”Prov. 13:4.8. What results from slackness and indolence in business?“Hebecometh poorthat dealeth with a slack hand.”Prov. 10:4.“The soul of the sluggard desireth, andhath nothing.”Prov. 13:4.9. What does Solomon say concerning diligence in business?“Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might.”Eccl. 9:10.“Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks, and look well to thy herds.”Prov. 27:23.“He that gathereth in summer is a wise son: but he that sleepeth in harvest is a son that causeth shame.”Prov. 10:5.Note.—“The way to wealth, if you desire it, is as plain as the way to market. It depends chiefly on two words—industryandfrugality; that is, waste neithertimenormoney, but make the best of both. Without industry and frugality nothing will do, and with them everything.”—Benjamin Franklin.10. What does Solomon say of the industrious woman?“She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.”Prov. 31:27, 28.11. What has Paul said of the professed Christian who does not provide for his own family?“But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house,he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.”1 Tim. 5:8.12. What picture has Solomon given of the slothful man?“I went by the field of the slothful, and by the vineyard of the man void of understanding; and, lo, it was all grown over[pg 596]with thorns, and nettles had covered the face thereof, and the stone wall thereof was broken down.”Prov. 24:30, 31.Notes.—“An indolent man draweth his breath, but does not live.”—Cicero.“The parent who does not teach his child a trade, teaches him to be a thief.”—Brahmanic Proverb.“When tillage begins, other arts follow. The farmers therefore are the founders of human civilization.”—Daniel Webster.“If a man be indolent, the best discipline to which he can be subjected is to suffer the evils of penury.”—Wayland.“Nothing can be done with a man who will not work. We have in our scheme of government no room for the man who does not wish to pay his way through life by what he does.... Capacity for work is absolutely necessary, and no man can be said to live in the true sense of the word if he does not work.”—Theodore Roosevelt.“Luck is waiting for something to turn up. Labor, with keen eyes and strong will, will turn up something. Luck whines. Labor whistles. Luck relies on chances. Labor, on character. Luck slips down to indigence. Labor strides upward to independence. Luck lies in bed, and wishes the postman would bring him news of a legacy. Labor turns out at six o' clock, and with busy pen or ringing hammer lays the foundation of a competence.”—Cobden.13. In spiritual matters, what is also necessary?“And beside this,giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge.... Givediligenceto make your calling and election sure.”2 Peter 1:5-10.Note.—In temporal matters the difference between a prosperous man and a sluggard lies principally in the improvement of opportunities. One grasps these, while the other is too indolent to do so. In the gaining of eternal life this same principle applies. God has placed salvation within the reach of all. None need be lost. Christ died for all, but all will not be saved, for some do not care enough for eternal life diligently to lay hold of it.Neat be your farm; 'tis long confessedThe neatest farmer is the best;Each bog and marsh industrious drain,Nor let vile balks deform the plain,Nor bushes on your headland grow,Nor briers a sloven culture show.Neat be your barns, your houses sweet;Your paths be clean, your dooryards neat;No moss the sheltering roof enshroud,No wooden panes the windows cloud;No sink drains should above ground flow,Nor weeds with rankling poison grow;But flowers expand, and fruit-trees bloom,And fragrant shrubs exhale perfume.Neatly enclose your garden round;Smooth, enrich, and clear the ground;For if to taste and profit you incline,Beauty and use you always should combine.
Illustration.Reading God's Word. "Give diligence to make your calling and election sure." 2 Peter 1:10.
Reading God's Word. "Give diligence to make your calling and election sure." 2 Peter 1:10.
1. What general command has God given concerning labor?
“Six days shalt thou labor, and do all thy work.”Ex. 20:9.
2. Instead of living upon the earnings of others, what instruction is given?
“Let him that stole steal no more: but ratherlet him labor, working with his handsthe thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.”Eph. 4:28.
3. What general rule does Paul lay down upon this subject?
“For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, thatif any would not work, neither should he eat.”2 Thess. 3:10.
4. In what language does he condemn idleness?
“For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly,working not at all, but are busybodies. Now them that are suchwe command and exhortby our Lord Jesus Christ,that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread.”Verses 11, 12.
5. What example did the apostle himself set in this matter?
“Neither did we eat any man's bread for naught; butwrought with labor and travail night and day, that we might not be chargeable to any of you.”Verse 8.
6. What labor was appointed man in consequence of the fall?
“In the sweat of thy face shall thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground.”Gen. 3:19.
Note.—A life of laborious and perpetual toil, in a world cursed with weeds, thorns, and thistles, was appointed to man in consequence of the entrance of sin. This was a part of the curse. And yet even this was appointed in love, and, under existing circumstances, is a blessing in disguise. It was a discipline rendered necessary because of sin, to place a check upon the indulgence of appetite and passion, to develop habits of industry and self-control, and to teach lessons on overcoming evil. Were not man called to labor thus, his sins and miseries would be multiplied manyfold.
7. What are some of the results of industry?
“He that tilleth his landshall have plenty of bread.”Prov. 28:19.“The hand of the diligentmaketh rich.”Prov. 10:4.“The soul of the diligent shall bemade fat.”Prov. 13:4.
8. What results from slackness and indolence in business?
“Hebecometh poorthat dealeth with a slack hand.”Prov. 10:4.“The soul of the sluggard desireth, andhath nothing.”Prov. 13:4.
9. What does Solomon say concerning diligence in business?
“Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might.”Eccl. 9:10.“Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks, and look well to thy herds.”Prov. 27:23.“He that gathereth in summer is a wise son: but he that sleepeth in harvest is a son that causeth shame.”Prov. 10:5.
Note.—“The way to wealth, if you desire it, is as plain as the way to market. It depends chiefly on two words—industryandfrugality; that is, waste neithertimenormoney, but make the best of both. Without industry and frugality nothing will do, and with them everything.”—Benjamin Franklin.
10. What does Solomon say of the industrious woman?
“She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.”Prov. 31:27, 28.
11. What has Paul said of the professed Christian who does not provide for his own family?
“But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house,he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.”1 Tim. 5:8.
12. What picture has Solomon given of the slothful man?
“I went by the field of the slothful, and by the vineyard of the man void of understanding; and, lo, it was all grown over[pg 596]with thorns, and nettles had covered the face thereof, and the stone wall thereof was broken down.”Prov. 24:30, 31.
Notes.—“An indolent man draweth his breath, but does not live.”—Cicero.“The parent who does not teach his child a trade, teaches him to be a thief.”—Brahmanic Proverb.“When tillage begins, other arts follow. The farmers therefore are the founders of human civilization.”—Daniel Webster.“If a man be indolent, the best discipline to which he can be subjected is to suffer the evils of penury.”—Wayland.“Nothing can be done with a man who will not work. We have in our scheme of government no room for the man who does not wish to pay his way through life by what he does.... Capacity for work is absolutely necessary, and no man can be said to live in the true sense of the word if he does not work.”—Theodore Roosevelt.“Luck is waiting for something to turn up. Labor, with keen eyes and strong will, will turn up something. Luck whines. Labor whistles. Luck relies on chances. Labor, on character. Luck slips down to indigence. Labor strides upward to independence. Luck lies in bed, and wishes the postman would bring him news of a legacy. Labor turns out at six o' clock, and with busy pen or ringing hammer lays the foundation of a competence.”—Cobden.
Notes.—“An indolent man draweth his breath, but does not live.”—Cicero.
“The parent who does not teach his child a trade, teaches him to be a thief.”—Brahmanic Proverb.
“When tillage begins, other arts follow. The farmers therefore are the founders of human civilization.”—Daniel Webster.
“If a man be indolent, the best discipline to which he can be subjected is to suffer the evils of penury.”—Wayland.
“Nothing can be done with a man who will not work. We have in our scheme of government no room for the man who does not wish to pay his way through life by what he does.... Capacity for work is absolutely necessary, and no man can be said to live in the true sense of the word if he does not work.”—Theodore Roosevelt.
“Luck is waiting for something to turn up. Labor, with keen eyes and strong will, will turn up something. Luck whines. Labor whistles. Luck relies on chances. Labor, on character. Luck slips down to indigence. Labor strides upward to independence. Luck lies in bed, and wishes the postman would bring him news of a legacy. Labor turns out at six o' clock, and with busy pen or ringing hammer lays the foundation of a competence.”—Cobden.
13. In spiritual matters, what is also necessary?
“And beside this,giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge.... Givediligenceto make your calling and election sure.”2 Peter 1:5-10.
Note.—In temporal matters the difference between a prosperous man and a sluggard lies principally in the improvement of opportunities. One grasps these, while the other is too indolent to do so. In the gaining of eternal life this same principle applies. God has placed salvation within the reach of all. None need be lost. Christ died for all, but all will not be saved, for some do not care enough for eternal life diligently to lay hold of it.
Neat be your farm; 'tis long confessedThe neatest farmer is the best;Each bog and marsh industrious drain,Nor let vile balks deform the plain,Nor bushes on your headland grow,Nor briers a sloven culture show.Neat be your barns, your houses sweet;Your paths be clean, your dooryards neat;No moss the sheltering roof enshroud,No wooden panes the windows cloud;No sink drains should above ground flow,Nor weeds with rankling poison grow;But flowers expand, and fruit-trees bloom,And fragrant shrubs exhale perfume.Neatly enclose your garden round;Smooth, enrich, and clear the ground;For if to taste and profit you incline,Beauty and use you always should combine.
Neat be your farm; 'tis long confessedThe neatest farmer is the best;Each bog and marsh industrious drain,Nor let vile balks deform the plain,Nor bushes on your headland grow,Nor briers a sloven culture show.Neat be your barns, your houses sweet;Your paths be clean, your dooryards neat;No moss the sheltering roof enshroud,No wooden panes the windows cloud;No sink drains should above ground flow,Nor weeds with rankling poison grow;But flowers expand, and fruit-trees bloom,And fragrant shrubs exhale perfume.Neatly enclose your garden round;Smooth, enrich, and clear the ground;For if to taste and profit you incline,Beauty and use you always should combine.
Neat be your farm; 'tis long confessed
The neatest farmer is the best;
Each bog and marsh industrious drain,
Nor let vile balks deform the plain,
Nor bushes on your headland grow,
Nor briers a sloven culture show.
Neat be your barns, your houses sweet;
Your paths be clean, your dooryards neat;
No moss the sheltering roof enshroud,
No wooden panes the windows cloud;
No sink drains should above ground flow,
Nor weeds with rankling poison grow;
But flowers expand, and fruit-trees bloom,
And fragrant shrubs exhale perfume.
Neatly enclose your garden round;
Smooth, enrich, and clear the ground;
For if to taste and profit you incline,
Beauty and use you always should combine.
Perfection Of CharacterIllustration.Paul Shipwrecked. "In all these things we are more than conqueror through Him that loved us." Rom. 8:37.1. Why are we exhorted to patience?“But let patience have her perfect work,that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting[lacking]nothing.”James 1:4.2. How perfect does Christ tell us to be?“Be ye therefore perfect,even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.”Matt. 5:48.3. In whom are we complete?“And ye are completein Him.”Col. 2:10.4. After accepting Christ, what are we to do?“Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ,let us go on unto perfection.”Heb. 6:1.5. In what is the Christian to grow?“But grow ingrace, and inthe knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.”2 Peter 3:18.6. How may one grow in grace?“Giving all diligence,add to your faith virtue; ...knowledge;[pg 598]...temperance; ...patience; ...godliness; ...brotherly kindness; ...charity.”2 Peter 1:5-8.7. Why does Christ desire this growth in His followers?“That He might present it to Himselfa glorious church, not havingspot, orwrinkle, orany such thing; but that it should beholyandwithout blemish.”Eph. 5:27.8. What will cause the Christian to grow?“As new-born babes, desirethe sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby.”1 Peter 2:2.9. In order to grow by the word of God, what must one do?“Thy words were found, and I did eat them.”Jer. 15:16.“Thy word have Ihid in mine heart.”Ps. 119:11. See Col. 3:16.10. What does God's word then become to the believer?“Thy word was unto methe joy and rejoicing of mine heart.”Jer. 15:16, last part.11. Why are the Scriptures given?“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.”2 Tim. 3:16, 17.12. How may the lack of wisdom be supplied?“If any of you lack wisdom,let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not;and it shall be given him.”James 1:5.13. In how many things may we ask help from God?“Be careful for nothing; butin everythingby prayer and supplication with thanksgivinglet your requests be made known unto God.”Phil. 4:6.14. What is an evidence of perfection?“If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.”James 3:2.15. What is the bond of perfection?“And above all these things put oncharity, which is the bond of perfectness.”Col. 3:14. See Phil. 3:13, 14; Heb. 12:14.16. How perfect would God have us become?“And the very God of peacesanctify you wholly; and I pray Godyour whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blamelessunto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.”1 Thess. 5:23.
Illustration.Paul Shipwrecked. "In all these things we are more than conqueror through Him that loved us." Rom. 8:37.
Paul Shipwrecked. "In all these things we are more than conqueror through Him that loved us." Rom. 8:37.
1. Why are we exhorted to patience?
“But let patience have her perfect work,that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting[lacking]nothing.”James 1:4.
2. How perfect does Christ tell us to be?
“Be ye therefore perfect,even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.”Matt. 5:48.
3. In whom are we complete?
“And ye are completein Him.”Col. 2:10.
4. After accepting Christ, what are we to do?
“Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ,let us go on unto perfection.”Heb. 6:1.
5. In what is the Christian to grow?
“But grow ingrace, and inthe knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.”2 Peter 3:18.
6. How may one grow in grace?
“Giving all diligence,add to your faith virtue; ...knowledge;[pg 598]...temperance; ...patience; ...godliness; ...brotherly kindness; ...charity.”2 Peter 1:5-8.
7. Why does Christ desire this growth in His followers?
“That He might present it to Himselfa glorious church, not havingspot, orwrinkle, orany such thing; but that it should beholyandwithout blemish.”Eph. 5:27.
8. What will cause the Christian to grow?
“As new-born babes, desirethe sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby.”1 Peter 2:2.
9. In order to grow by the word of God, what must one do?
“Thy words were found, and I did eat them.”Jer. 15:16.“Thy word have Ihid in mine heart.”Ps. 119:11. See Col. 3:16.
10. What does God's word then become to the believer?
“Thy word was unto methe joy and rejoicing of mine heart.”Jer. 15:16, last part.
11. Why are the Scriptures given?
“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.”2 Tim. 3:16, 17.
12. How may the lack of wisdom be supplied?
“If any of you lack wisdom,let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not;and it shall be given him.”James 1:5.
13. In how many things may we ask help from God?
“Be careful for nothing; butin everythingby prayer and supplication with thanksgivinglet your requests be made known unto God.”Phil. 4:6.
14. What is an evidence of perfection?
“If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.”James 3:2.
15. What is the bond of perfection?
“And above all these things put oncharity, which is the bond of perfectness.”Col. 3:14. See Phil. 3:13, 14; Heb. 12:14.
16. How perfect would God have us become?
“And the very God of peacesanctify you wholly; and I pray Godyour whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blamelessunto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.”1 Thess. 5:23.
Sowing And ReapingIllustration.Jacob's Dream. "Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap." Gal. 6:7.1. What does Paul say regarding sowing and reaping?“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: forwhatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.”Gal. 6:7.2. How is the same truth expressed by Christ?“Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven: give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom.For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.”Luke 6:37, 38.Notes.—A man's deeds, good or evil, usually return to bless or curse him. A farmer who sold butter to a village storekeeper and took sugar in exchange, complained that he was getting short weight.“Look here,”said he to the merchant,“it seems to me you're giving me short weight sugar.”“No,”replied the storekeeper,“that cannot be, for in measuring out that sugar of yours I always use a pound of your butter as a weight.”“Good and evil come back.... God made the universe on the plan of the circle. Isa. 40:22.... We ourselves start the circle of good or bad actions, and it will surely come around again to us unless by divine intervention it be hindered. Those bad or good actions may make the circuit of many years; but come back to us they will as certainly as that God sits on the circle of the earth.... What a stupendous thought that the good and the evil we start come back to us! Do you know that the judgment-day will be only the point at which the circle joins, the good[pg 600]and the bad we have done coming back to us, unless divine intervention hinders,—coming back to us, welcome of delight or curse of condemnation?”—T. DeWitt Talmage.3. On what condition does Christ say God will forgive us?“Forif ye forgive men their trespasses, your Heavenly Father will also forgive you: but if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”Matt. 6: 14, 15. See also Matt. 18:23-35.4. According to what principle does God deal with men?“With themercifulThou wilt show Thyselfmerciful; with anuprightman Thou wilt show Thyselfupright; with thepureThou wilt show Thyselfpure; and with thefrowardThou wilt show Thyselffroward.”Ps. 18:25, 26.5. How is the same truth again taught touching the wicked?“As he lovedcursing, so let it come unto him: as he delighted not inblessing, so let it be far from him.”Ps. 109:17.6. According to what was judgment called upon Babylon?“Recompense her according to her works; according to all that she hath done, do unto her.”Jer. 50:29.7. Why did Christ tell Peter to put up his sword?“Put up again thy sword into his place:for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword.”Matt. 26:52.8. Why was the Papacy to go into captivity?“He that leadeth into captivity shall go into captivity: he that killeth with the sword must be killed with the sword.”Rev. 13:10. See Lev. 25:10; Jer. 34:17.9. What is to be the punishment of spiritual Babylon?“Reward her even as she rewarded you, and double unto her double according to her works.”Rev. 18:6.10. What does the psalmist say will come to the persecutor?“His mischief shall return upon his own head, and his violent dealing shall come down upon his own pate.”Ps. 7:16.Note.—In his letter addressed to the Jews, dated Nov. 16, 1905, President Roosevelt said:“I feel very strongly that if any people are oppressed anywhere, the wrong inevitably reacts in the end on those who oppress them; for it is an immutable law in the spiritual world that no one can wrong others and yet in the end himself escape unhurt.”11. What befell Haman, who sought to slay all the Jews?“So they hanged Haman on the gallows that he had prepared for Mordecai.”Esther 7:10. See Ps. 9:15.12. If one would have friends, what must he do?“A man that hath friendsmust show himself friendly.”Prov. 18:24.
Illustration.Jacob's Dream. "Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap." Gal. 6:7.
Jacob's Dream. "Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap." Gal. 6:7.
1. What does Paul say regarding sowing and reaping?
“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: forwhatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.”Gal. 6:7.
2. How is the same truth expressed by Christ?
“Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven: give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom.For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.”Luke 6:37, 38.
Notes.—A man's deeds, good or evil, usually return to bless or curse him. A farmer who sold butter to a village storekeeper and took sugar in exchange, complained that he was getting short weight.“Look here,”said he to the merchant,“it seems to me you're giving me short weight sugar.”“No,”replied the storekeeper,“that cannot be, for in measuring out that sugar of yours I always use a pound of your butter as a weight.”“Good and evil come back.... God made the universe on the plan of the circle. Isa. 40:22.... We ourselves start the circle of good or bad actions, and it will surely come around again to us unless by divine intervention it be hindered. Those bad or good actions may make the circuit of many years; but come back to us they will as certainly as that God sits on the circle of the earth.... What a stupendous thought that the good and the evil we start come back to us! Do you know that the judgment-day will be only the point at which the circle joins, the good[pg 600]and the bad we have done coming back to us, unless divine intervention hinders,—coming back to us, welcome of delight or curse of condemnation?”—T. DeWitt Talmage.
Notes.—A man's deeds, good or evil, usually return to bless or curse him. A farmer who sold butter to a village storekeeper and took sugar in exchange, complained that he was getting short weight.“Look here,”said he to the merchant,“it seems to me you're giving me short weight sugar.”“No,”replied the storekeeper,“that cannot be, for in measuring out that sugar of yours I always use a pound of your butter as a weight.”
“Good and evil come back.... God made the universe on the plan of the circle. Isa. 40:22.... We ourselves start the circle of good or bad actions, and it will surely come around again to us unless by divine intervention it be hindered. Those bad or good actions may make the circuit of many years; but come back to us they will as certainly as that God sits on the circle of the earth.... What a stupendous thought that the good and the evil we start come back to us! Do you know that the judgment-day will be only the point at which the circle joins, the good[pg 600]and the bad we have done coming back to us, unless divine intervention hinders,—coming back to us, welcome of delight or curse of condemnation?”—T. DeWitt Talmage.
3. On what condition does Christ say God will forgive us?
“Forif ye forgive men their trespasses, your Heavenly Father will also forgive you: but if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”Matt. 6: 14, 15. See also Matt. 18:23-35.
4. According to what principle does God deal with men?
“With themercifulThou wilt show Thyselfmerciful; with anuprightman Thou wilt show Thyselfupright; with thepureThou wilt show Thyselfpure; and with thefrowardThou wilt show Thyselffroward.”Ps. 18:25, 26.
5. How is the same truth again taught touching the wicked?
“As he lovedcursing, so let it come unto him: as he delighted not inblessing, so let it be far from him.”Ps. 109:17.
6. According to what was judgment called upon Babylon?
“Recompense her according to her works; according to all that she hath done, do unto her.”Jer. 50:29.
7. Why did Christ tell Peter to put up his sword?
“Put up again thy sword into his place:for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword.”Matt. 26:52.
8. Why was the Papacy to go into captivity?
“He that leadeth into captivity shall go into captivity: he that killeth with the sword must be killed with the sword.”Rev. 13:10. See Lev. 25:10; Jer. 34:17.
9. What is to be the punishment of spiritual Babylon?
“Reward her even as she rewarded you, and double unto her double according to her works.”Rev. 18:6.
10. What does the psalmist say will come to the persecutor?
“His mischief shall return upon his own head, and his violent dealing shall come down upon his own pate.”Ps. 7:16.
Note.—In his letter addressed to the Jews, dated Nov. 16, 1905, President Roosevelt said:“I feel very strongly that if any people are oppressed anywhere, the wrong inevitably reacts in the end on those who oppress them; for it is an immutable law in the spiritual world that no one can wrong others and yet in the end himself escape unhurt.”
11. What befell Haman, who sought to slay all the Jews?
“So they hanged Haman on the gallows that he had prepared for Mordecai.”Esther 7:10. See Ps. 9:15.
12. If one would have friends, what must he do?
“A man that hath friendsmust show himself friendly.”Prov. 18:24.