Patience

PatienceIllustration.Job And His Friends. "Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord." James 5:11.1. What has the Bible to say concerning patience?“Thepatient in spiritis better than theproud in spirit.”Eccl. 7:8.“Be patienttoward all men.”1 Thess. 5:14.“In your patiencepossess ye your souls.”Luke 21:19.2. What contrast is drawn between the patient and the hasty in spirit?“He that is slow to wrath is ofgreat understanding: but he that is hasty of spiritexalteth folly.”Prov. 14:29.3. Who are cited as examples of patience?“Take, my brethren,the prophets... for an example of suffering affliction, and ofpatience.... Ye have heard of the patience ofJob.”James 5:10, 11.4. What is said of those who endure?“Behold,we count them happy which endure.”Verse 11.“Blessedis the man that endureth temptation.”James 1:12.“He that endureth to the endshall be saved.”Matt. 10:22.5. What does the trying of faith work?“Knowing this, that the trying of your faithworketh patience.”James 1:3.“Not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulationworketh patience.”Rom. 5:3.6. What grace is to be added to temperance, or self-control?[pg 570]“And to temperancepatience.”2 Peter 1:6.Note.—Patience naturally follows temperance. Hence the importance of right living,—of gaining control over the appetites and passions.7. Why are we exhorted to patience?“But let patience have her perfect work,that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.”James 1:4.8. What important test of perfection of character is given?“If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.”James 3:2.9. How are we exhorted to run the Christian race?“Let usrun with patiencethe race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith.”Heb. 12:1, 2.10. For what glorious event are we bidden patiently to wait?“And the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God, and intothe patient waiting for Christ.”2 Thess. 3:5.“Bepatienttherefore, brethren,unto the coming of the Lord.... Be ye alsopatient; stablish your hearts: forthe coming of the Lord draweth nigh.”James 5:7, 8.11. What will be one characteristic of the remnant church?“Here is thepatienceof the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.”Rev. 14:12.12. What should be the language of every heart?“I wait for the Lord, my soul doth wait, and in His word do I hope.”Ps. 130:5.13. When Christ comes, what will His people say?“And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God;we have waited for Him, and He will save us: this is the Lord;we have waited for Him, we will be glad and rejoice in His salvation.”Isa. 25:9.The home where changes never come,Nor pain nor sorrow, toil nor care;Yes! 'tis a bright and blessed home;Who would not fain be resting there?Yet when bowed down beneath the loadBy heaven allowed, thine earthly lot,Thou yearn'st to reach that blest abode,Wait, meekly wait, and murmur not.W. H. Bellamy.[pg 571]ContentmentIllustration.Sea Of Tiberias. "I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content." Phil. 4:11.1. What does the apostle say is great gain?“Butgodliness with contentmentis great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.”1 Tim. 6:6, 7.2. With what are we exhorted to be content?“Let your conversation be without covetousness; andbe content with such things as ye have: for He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.”Heb. 13:5.“Andhaving food and raimentlet us be therewith content.”1 Tim. 6:8.3. Concerning what does Christ tell us not to be anxious?“Be not therefore anxious, saying,What shall we eat?or,What shall we drink?or,Wherewithal shall we be clothed?For after all these things do the Gentiles seek; for your Heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.”Matt. 6:31, 32, R. V.Note.—“Live not incareful suspense.”Luke 12:29, margin.4. What evils befall those who are determined to be rich?“But they that will be richfall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they haveerred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.”1 Tim. 6:9, 10.5. By what illustrations did Christ teach contentment?[pg 572]“Consider the ravens: for they neither sow nor reap; which neither have storehouse nor barn; and God feedeth them: how much more are ye better than the fowls?...Consider the lilieshow they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. If then God so clothe the grass, which is today in the field, and tomorrow is cast into the oven; how much more will He clothe you, O ye of little faith?”Luke 12:24-28.6. What lesson in contentment did Paul say he had learned?“I have learned,in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.”Phil. 4:11.7. What ancient promise should lead to contentment?“While the earth remaineth, seed-time and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease.”Gen. 8:22.8. Upon whom should we cast all our care?“Casting all your care uponHim[God]; for He careth for you.”1 Peter 5:7.Notes.—“Contentment produces, in some measure, all those effects which the alchemist usually ascribes to what he calls the philosopher's stone. If it does not bring riches, it does the same thing by banishing the desire for them. If it cannot remove the disquietudes arising from a man's mind, body, or fortune, it makes him easy under them.”—Addison.A contented mind sees something good in everything,—fair weather in every wind, blessings in every storm.“If we cannot get what we like, we should try to like what we get.”“There is no malady more severe than habitual discontent.”—Fleming.“If you cannot frame your circumstances in accordance with your wishes, frame your will in harmony with your circumstances.”—Epictetus.“A contented mind is a continual feast.”God holds the future in His hand.O heart of mine, be still!His love will plan the best for thee.The best, or light or dark it be:Then rest ye in His will.God holds the future in His hand,Why should I shrink or fear?Through every dark and cloudy day—Yea, all along my pilgrim way—His love will bless and cheer.God holds the future in His hand.And I can trust His love.The past declares His faithfulness;His eye will guide, His heart will blessTill I am safe above.[pg 573]CheerfulnessIllustration.The Daughters Of Israel. "A merry heart doeth good like a medicine." Prov. 17:22.1. Before leaving His disciples, what did Jesus say to them?“These things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: butbe of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”John 16:33.2. What were some of the cheering words He said to them?“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you.I go to prepare a place for you.And if I go and prepare a place for you,I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.”John 14:1-3.3. In what spirit should we serve the Lord?“Serve the Lord withgladness: come before His presence withsinging.”Ps. 100:2.4. What is sown for the upright in heart?“Light is sown for the righteous, andgladnessfor the upright in heart.”Ps. 97:11.5. What effect has a merry heart?“A merry heartdoeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.”Prov. 17:22.Note.—From this we may learn the influence which the mind has over the body. Cheerfulness is conducive to life and health; sorrow, care, anxiety, and worry tend to disease and death.[pg 574]6. What effect do helpful, cheerful words have upon the heart?“Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop: buta good word maketh it glad.”Prov. 12:25.7. By what temporal blessings does God fill men's hearts with gladness?“Nevertheless He left not Himself without witness, in that He did good, andgave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts withfoodandgladness.”Acts 14:17.8. Why and for what may every child of God rejoice?“I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my soul shall be joyful in my God; forHe hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, He hath covered me with the robe of righteousness.”Isa. 61:10.9. Against what are Christians warned?“Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer.”1 Cor. 10:10.Notes.—“There are those who take to gloom as a bat to darkness or as a vulture to carrion. They would rather nurse a misery than cherish a joy. They always find the dark side of everything, if there is a dark side to be found. They appear to be conscientious grumblers, as if it were their duty to extract some essence of misery from every circumstance.... On the other hand, there are rare spirits who always take cheerful views of life. They look at the bright side. They find some joy and beauty everywhere.... In the most faulty picture they see some bit of beauty which charms them. In the most disagreeable person they discover some kindly trait or some bud of promise. In the most disheartening circumstances they find something for which to be thankful, some gleam of cheer breaking through the thick gloom.... When a ray of sunlight streamed through a crack in the shutter and made a bright patch on the floor in the darkened room, the little dog rose from his dark corner and went and lay down in the one sunny spot; and these people live in the same philosophical way. If there is one beam of cheer or hope anywhere in their lot, they will find it.... We have no right to project the gloom of our discontent over any other life. Our ministry is to be ever toward joy. There is nothing so depressing in its effects upon others as morbidness.... Discontent helps nothing.... One never feels better for complaining.”—“Week-Day Religion,”by J. R. Miller, D. D., pages 236-241.“How many people,”says Jeremy Taylor,“are busy in the world gathering together a handful of thorns to sit upon.”“As a little girl was eating, the sun dashed upon her spoon, and she cried,‘O mama, I have swallowed a spoonful of sunshine!’Would God that we all might indulge in the same beverage!”—Talmage's“One Thousand Gems,”page 56.10. Even when persecuted, what are we told to do, and why?“Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they[pg 575]shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man's sake.Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy: for, behold, your reward is great in heaven.”Luke 6:22, 23.11. When beaten by the Jewish rulers for preaching Christ, what did the apostles do?“And they departed from the presence of the council,rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name.”Acts 5:41.12. After receiving“many stripes,”with their feet made fast in the stocks, what did Paul and Silas do while in prison?“And at midnight Paul and Silasprayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.”Acts 16:25.13. What assurance is given that the child of God may bravely endure every trial and hardship of life?“And we know thatall things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose.”Rom. 8:28.14. How constant should our rejoicing be?“Rejoice in the Lordalway: and again I say,Rejoice.”Phil. 4:4.Note.—“Good cheer is the hall-mark of a brave and healthy soul. To give way to gloomy thoughts, otherwise the‘blues,’is a sign of weakness. This isn't asserting that no one but weaklings is attacked by the blues; but it is one thing to be attacked and another to rout the disturber. And that is what the brave soul does. There may be a very real and tangible reason why the heart faints and halts, for life is serious, and the world full of unexpected trials; but to sit and brood over a trouble only makes it look larger and larger until it finally obscures the horizon line, and darkness descends upon the soul. Wherefore, the thing to do is to cast aside all thoughts of worry for a moment,—just say to yourself, It is only for a moment,—and when you return to it again you will be surprised to find it has lessened in size and importance.”—The New World.When things don't go to suit you,And the world seems upside down,Don't waste your time in fretting,But drive away that frown;Since life is oft perplexing,'Tis much the wisest planTo bear all trials bravely,And smile whene'er you can.[pg 576]Christian CourtesyIllustration.Moses Defending The Maidens. "But Moses stood up and helped them, and watered their flock." Ex. 2:17.1. What should be our conduct one toward another?“Love as brethren, be pitiful,be courteous.”1 Peter 3:8.2. How many should we honor?“Honorall men. Love the brotherhood.”1 Peter 2:17.3. Whom should we salute?“If ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so?”Matt. 5:47.4. What respect should be shown the aged?“Thou shaltrise upbefore the hoary head, andhonorthe face of the old man.”Lev. 19:32. See 2 Kings 2:23, 24.5. Whom especially should children honor?“Honor thyfatherand thymother.”Ex. 20:12.6. How should faithful gospel ministers be regarded?“Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy ofdouble honor.”1 Tim. 5:17.7. What is the basis of true Christian courtesy?“Charity [love] ... is kind; . . . charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own.”1 Cor. 13:4, 5.Note.—Genuine Christian courtesy is the outgrowth of love, and manifests itself in thoughtful consideration for others.[pg 577]Confessing Faults And Forgiving One AnotherIllustration.Joseph Forgiving His Brethren. "Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors." Matt. 6:12.1. What has God promised to do when we confess our sins?“If we confess our sins,He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”1 John 1:9.2. How has it been made possible for sins to be forgiven?“If any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: andHe is the propitiation for our sins.”1 John 2:1, 2.3. To whom should sins be confessed, and why?“Against Thee, Thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in Thy sight.”Ps. 51:4. See Gen. 39:9.4. What instruction is given concerning confession of faults?“Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed.”James 5:16.Notes.—The Bible makes a distinction between a sin and a fault. We sin against God; for sin is the transgression of His law. 1 John 3:4.[pg 578]We trespass one against another. These offenses, while involving sin, are called faults, and should be corrected by confession and forgiveness. The only remedy for either pointed out in the Word of God is heartfelt confession. One writer aptly says:“Confess your sins to God, who only can forgive them, and your faults to one another. If you have given offense to your friend or neighbor, you are to acknowledge your wrong, and it is his duty freely to forgive you. Then you are to seek the forgiveness of God, because the brother you have wounded is the property of God, and in injuring him you sinned against his Creator and Redeemer.”To confess one's faults is not an easy thing to do; in fact, it is one of the hardest lessons to learn, for it requires the grace of humility as well as that of sorrow and true repentance. It has been said that the four hardest words to pronounce in the English language are,“I made a mistake.”Frederick the Great wrote to the Prussian senate,“I have just lost a battle, and it is my own fault.”Concerning this Goldsmith says,“His confession shows more greatness than his victories.”The confession should not only be complete, but it should be as broad and as public as was the offense. Private offenses should be confessed in private.5. When we do wrong, what is the natural thing for us to do?Excuse it, seek to hide it, or blame some one else for it. See Gen. 3:12, 13; 4:9.6. After David's great sin had been pointed out to him, what did he say?“I have sinned.”2 Sam. 12:13.“I acknowledge my transgressions.”Ps. 51:3.7. When David in contrition of heart confessed his sin, what was God's word to him by Nathan, the prophet?“And David said unto Nathan, I have sinned against the Lord. And Nathan said unto David,The Lord also hath put away thy sin; thou shalt not die.”2 Sam. 12:13.Note.—This scripture is especially encouraging. God hates sin. He wants us likewise to hate it and shun it, because it invariably gets us into trouble, causes sorrow of heart, and in the end brings death. But when involved in it, as was David, as soon as it is acknowledged and sincerely confessed,that very moment it is forgiven. David said,“I havesinned.”The immediate answer was returned,“The Lord alsohath put away thy sin.”8. Is it ever right to tell a brother of his faults?“If thy brother shall trespass against thee,go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.”Matt. 18:15.“Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart:thou shalt in any wise rebuke thy neighbor, and not suffer sin upon him.”Lev. 19:17.9. In what spirit should this kind of work be done?[pg 579]“Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an onein the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.”Gal. 6:1.Note.—It is much easier to tellsome one elseof a brother's faults than it is to tellhimof themhimself; but this is not the Christian way to proceed. The first efforts should be made with the offenderin person, andalone. But it is easier even to tella brotherofhisfaults than it is to confess to himour own. This, again, let it be noted, is the one very difficult lesson to learn, the one Christian duty difficult to perform. Only humility and the grace of God will enable one to do it.10. When we pray, what does Christ tell us to do, and why?“And when ye stand praying,forgive, if ye have aught against any:that your Fatheralso which is in heavenmay forgive you your trespasses.”Mark 11:25.11. If we do not forgive others, what will God not do?“But if ye do not forgive,neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.”Verse 26. See, for illustration, Christ's parable recorded in Matt. 18:23-35.12. What words of Joseph to his brethren show that he forgave them for selling him into Egypt?“Now thereforebe not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life....So now it was not you that sent me hither, but God.”Gen. 45:5-8.13. What was Christ's reply to Peter's question as to the number of times we should forgive one another?“Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him,I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.”Matt. 18:21, 22.Note.—That is, an unlimited number. We must pardon offenses against us though ever so often done; we must forgive to the end.14. What spirit did Jesus manifest toward those who nailed Him to the cross?“Then said Jesus,Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.”Luke 23:34.15. How did Stephen manifest the same spirit toward those who stoned him?“And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, ... and he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice,Lord, lay not this sin to their charge.”Acts 7:59, 60. See 1 Peter 4:8.[pg 580]

Illustration.Job And His Friends. "Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord." James 5:11.

Job And His Friends. "Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord." James 5:11.

1. What has the Bible to say concerning patience?

“Thepatient in spiritis better than theproud in spirit.”Eccl. 7:8.“Be patienttoward all men.”1 Thess. 5:14.“In your patiencepossess ye your souls.”Luke 21:19.

2. What contrast is drawn between the patient and the hasty in spirit?

“He that is slow to wrath is ofgreat understanding: but he that is hasty of spiritexalteth folly.”Prov. 14:29.

3. Who are cited as examples of patience?

“Take, my brethren,the prophets... for an example of suffering affliction, and ofpatience.... Ye have heard of the patience ofJob.”James 5:10, 11.

4. What is said of those who endure?

“Behold,we count them happy which endure.”Verse 11.“Blessedis the man that endureth temptation.”James 1:12.“He that endureth to the endshall be saved.”Matt. 10:22.

5. What does the trying of faith work?

“Knowing this, that the trying of your faithworketh patience.”James 1:3.“Not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulationworketh patience.”Rom. 5:3.

6. What grace is to be added to temperance, or self-control?

“And to temperancepatience.”2 Peter 1:6.

Note.—Patience naturally follows temperance. Hence the importance of right living,—of gaining control over the appetites and passions.

7. Why are we exhorted to patience?

“But let patience have her perfect work,that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.”James 1:4.

8. What important test of perfection of character is given?

“If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.”James 3:2.

9. How are we exhorted to run the Christian race?

“Let usrun with patiencethe race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith.”Heb. 12:1, 2.

10. For what glorious event are we bidden patiently to wait?

“And the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God, and intothe patient waiting for Christ.”2 Thess. 3:5.“Bepatienttherefore, brethren,unto the coming of the Lord.... Be ye alsopatient; stablish your hearts: forthe coming of the Lord draweth nigh.”James 5:7, 8.

11. What will be one characteristic of the remnant church?

“Here is thepatienceof the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.”Rev. 14:12.

12. What should be the language of every heart?

“I wait for the Lord, my soul doth wait, and in His word do I hope.”Ps. 130:5.

13. When Christ comes, what will His people say?

“And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God;we have waited for Him, and He will save us: this is the Lord;we have waited for Him, we will be glad and rejoice in His salvation.”Isa. 25:9.

The home where changes never come,Nor pain nor sorrow, toil nor care;Yes! 'tis a bright and blessed home;Who would not fain be resting there?Yet when bowed down beneath the loadBy heaven allowed, thine earthly lot,Thou yearn'st to reach that blest abode,Wait, meekly wait, and murmur not.W. H. Bellamy.

The home where changes never come,Nor pain nor sorrow, toil nor care;Yes! 'tis a bright and blessed home;Who would not fain be resting there?

The home where changes never come,

Nor pain nor sorrow, toil nor care;

Yes! 'tis a bright and blessed home;

Who would not fain be resting there?

Yet when bowed down beneath the loadBy heaven allowed, thine earthly lot,Thou yearn'st to reach that blest abode,Wait, meekly wait, and murmur not.

Yet when bowed down beneath the load

By heaven allowed, thine earthly lot,

Thou yearn'st to reach that blest abode,

Wait, meekly wait, and murmur not.

W. H. Bellamy.

ContentmentIllustration.Sea Of Tiberias. "I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content." Phil. 4:11.1. What does the apostle say is great gain?“Butgodliness with contentmentis great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.”1 Tim. 6:6, 7.2. With what are we exhorted to be content?“Let your conversation be without covetousness; andbe content with such things as ye have: for He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.”Heb. 13:5.“Andhaving food and raimentlet us be therewith content.”1 Tim. 6:8.3. Concerning what does Christ tell us not to be anxious?“Be not therefore anxious, saying,What shall we eat?or,What shall we drink?or,Wherewithal shall we be clothed?For after all these things do the Gentiles seek; for your Heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.”Matt. 6:31, 32, R. V.Note.—“Live not incareful suspense.”Luke 12:29, margin.4. What evils befall those who are determined to be rich?“But they that will be richfall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they haveerred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.”1 Tim. 6:9, 10.5. By what illustrations did Christ teach contentment?[pg 572]“Consider the ravens: for they neither sow nor reap; which neither have storehouse nor barn; and God feedeth them: how much more are ye better than the fowls?...Consider the lilieshow they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. If then God so clothe the grass, which is today in the field, and tomorrow is cast into the oven; how much more will He clothe you, O ye of little faith?”Luke 12:24-28.6. What lesson in contentment did Paul say he had learned?“I have learned,in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.”Phil. 4:11.7. What ancient promise should lead to contentment?“While the earth remaineth, seed-time and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease.”Gen. 8:22.8. Upon whom should we cast all our care?“Casting all your care uponHim[God]; for He careth for you.”1 Peter 5:7.Notes.—“Contentment produces, in some measure, all those effects which the alchemist usually ascribes to what he calls the philosopher's stone. If it does not bring riches, it does the same thing by banishing the desire for them. If it cannot remove the disquietudes arising from a man's mind, body, or fortune, it makes him easy under them.”—Addison.A contented mind sees something good in everything,—fair weather in every wind, blessings in every storm.“If we cannot get what we like, we should try to like what we get.”“There is no malady more severe than habitual discontent.”—Fleming.“If you cannot frame your circumstances in accordance with your wishes, frame your will in harmony with your circumstances.”—Epictetus.“A contented mind is a continual feast.”God holds the future in His hand.O heart of mine, be still!His love will plan the best for thee.The best, or light or dark it be:Then rest ye in His will.God holds the future in His hand,Why should I shrink or fear?Through every dark and cloudy day—Yea, all along my pilgrim way—His love will bless and cheer.God holds the future in His hand.And I can trust His love.The past declares His faithfulness;His eye will guide, His heart will blessTill I am safe above.

Illustration.Sea Of Tiberias. "I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content." Phil. 4:11.

Sea Of Tiberias. "I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content." Phil. 4:11.

1. What does the apostle say is great gain?

“Butgodliness with contentmentis great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.”1 Tim. 6:6, 7.

2. With what are we exhorted to be content?

“Let your conversation be without covetousness; andbe content with such things as ye have: for He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.”Heb. 13:5.“Andhaving food and raimentlet us be therewith content.”1 Tim. 6:8.

3. Concerning what does Christ tell us not to be anxious?

“Be not therefore anxious, saying,What shall we eat?or,What shall we drink?or,Wherewithal shall we be clothed?For after all these things do the Gentiles seek; for your Heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.”Matt. 6:31, 32, R. V.

Note.—“Live not incareful suspense.”Luke 12:29, margin.

4. What evils befall those who are determined to be rich?

“But they that will be richfall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they haveerred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.”1 Tim. 6:9, 10.

5. By what illustrations did Christ teach contentment?

“Consider the ravens: for they neither sow nor reap; which neither have storehouse nor barn; and God feedeth them: how much more are ye better than the fowls?...Consider the lilieshow they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. If then God so clothe the grass, which is today in the field, and tomorrow is cast into the oven; how much more will He clothe you, O ye of little faith?”Luke 12:24-28.

6. What lesson in contentment did Paul say he had learned?

“I have learned,in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.”Phil. 4:11.

7. What ancient promise should lead to contentment?

“While the earth remaineth, seed-time and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease.”Gen. 8:22.

8. Upon whom should we cast all our care?

“Casting all your care uponHim[God]; for He careth for you.”1 Peter 5:7.

Notes.—“Contentment produces, in some measure, all those effects which the alchemist usually ascribes to what he calls the philosopher's stone. If it does not bring riches, it does the same thing by banishing the desire for them. If it cannot remove the disquietudes arising from a man's mind, body, or fortune, it makes him easy under them.”—Addison.A contented mind sees something good in everything,—fair weather in every wind, blessings in every storm.“If we cannot get what we like, we should try to like what we get.”“There is no malady more severe than habitual discontent.”—Fleming.“If you cannot frame your circumstances in accordance with your wishes, frame your will in harmony with your circumstances.”—Epictetus.“A contented mind is a continual feast.”

A contented mind sees something good in everything,—fair weather in every wind, blessings in every storm.

“If we cannot get what we like, we should try to like what we get.”

“There is no malady more severe than habitual discontent.”—Fleming.

“If you cannot frame your circumstances in accordance with your wishes, frame your will in harmony with your circumstances.”—Epictetus.

“A contented mind is a continual feast.”

God holds the future in His hand.O heart of mine, be still!His love will plan the best for thee.The best, or light or dark it be:Then rest ye in His will.God holds the future in His hand,Why should I shrink or fear?Through every dark and cloudy day—Yea, all along my pilgrim way—His love will bless and cheer.God holds the future in His hand.And I can trust His love.The past declares His faithfulness;His eye will guide, His heart will blessTill I am safe above.

God holds the future in His hand.O heart of mine, be still!His love will plan the best for thee.The best, or light or dark it be:Then rest ye in His will.

God holds the future in His hand.

O heart of mine, be still!

His love will plan the best for thee.

The best, or light or dark it be:

Then rest ye in His will.

God holds the future in His hand,Why should I shrink or fear?Through every dark and cloudy day—Yea, all along my pilgrim way—His love will bless and cheer.

God holds the future in His hand,

Why should I shrink or fear?

Through every dark and cloudy day—

Yea, all along my pilgrim way—

His love will bless and cheer.

God holds the future in His hand.And I can trust His love.The past declares His faithfulness;His eye will guide, His heart will blessTill I am safe above.

God holds the future in His hand.

And I can trust His love.

The past declares His faithfulness;

His eye will guide, His heart will bless

Till I am safe above.

CheerfulnessIllustration.The Daughters Of Israel. "A merry heart doeth good like a medicine." Prov. 17:22.1. Before leaving His disciples, what did Jesus say to them?“These things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: butbe of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”John 16:33.2. What were some of the cheering words He said to them?“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you.I go to prepare a place for you.And if I go and prepare a place for you,I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.”John 14:1-3.3. In what spirit should we serve the Lord?“Serve the Lord withgladness: come before His presence withsinging.”Ps. 100:2.4. What is sown for the upright in heart?“Light is sown for the righteous, andgladnessfor the upright in heart.”Ps. 97:11.5. What effect has a merry heart?“A merry heartdoeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.”Prov. 17:22.Note.—From this we may learn the influence which the mind has over the body. Cheerfulness is conducive to life and health; sorrow, care, anxiety, and worry tend to disease and death.[pg 574]6. What effect do helpful, cheerful words have upon the heart?“Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop: buta good word maketh it glad.”Prov. 12:25.7. By what temporal blessings does God fill men's hearts with gladness?“Nevertheless He left not Himself without witness, in that He did good, andgave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts withfoodandgladness.”Acts 14:17.8. Why and for what may every child of God rejoice?“I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my soul shall be joyful in my God; forHe hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, He hath covered me with the robe of righteousness.”Isa. 61:10.9. Against what are Christians warned?“Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer.”1 Cor. 10:10.Notes.—“There are those who take to gloom as a bat to darkness or as a vulture to carrion. They would rather nurse a misery than cherish a joy. They always find the dark side of everything, if there is a dark side to be found. They appear to be conscientious grumblers, as if it were their duty to extract some essence of misery from every circumstance.... On the other hand, there are rare spirits who always take cheerful views of life. They look at the bright side. They find some joy and beauty everywhere.... In the most faulty picture they see some bit of beauty which charms them. In the most disagreeable person they discover some kindly trait or some bud of promise. In the most disheartening circumstances they find something for which to be thankful, some gleam of cheer breaking through the thick gloom.... When a ray of sunlight streamed through a crack in the shutter and made a bright patch on the floor in the darkened room, the little dog rose from his dark corner and went and lay down in the one sunny spot; and these people live in the same philosophical way. If there is one beam of cheer or hope anywhere in their lot, they will find it.... We have no right to project the gloom of our discontent over any other life. Our ministry is to be ever toward joy. There is nothing so depressing in its effects upon others as morbidness.... Discontent helps nothing.... One never feels better for complaining.”—“Week-Day Religion,”by J. R. Miller, D. D., pages 236-241.“How many people,”says Jeremy Taylor,“are busy in the world gathering together a handful of thorns to sit upon.”“As a little girl was eating, the sun dashed upon her spoon, and she cried,‘O mama, I have swallowed a spoonful of sunshine!’Would God that we all might indulge in the same beverage!”—Talmage's“One Thousand Gems,”page 56.10. Even when persecuted, what are we told to do, and why?“Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they[pg 575]shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man's sake.Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy: for, behold, your reward is great in heaven.”Luke 6:22, 23.11. When beaten by the Jewish rulers for preaching Christ, what did the apostles do?“And they departed from the presence of the council,rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name.”Acts 5:41.12. After receiving“many stripes,”with their feet made fast in the stocks, what did Paul and Silas do while in prison?“And at midnight Paul and Silasprayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.”Acts 16:25.13. What assurance is given that the child of God may bravely endure every trial and hardship of life?“And we know thatall things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose.”Rom. 8:28.14. How constant should our rejoicing be?“Rejoice in the Lordalway: and again I say,Rejoice.”Phil. 4:4.Note.—“Good cheer is the hall-mark of a brave and healthy soul. To give way to gloomy thoughts, otherwise the‘blues,’is a sign of weakness. This isn't asserting that no one but weaklings is attacked by the blues; but it is one thing to be attacked and another to rout the disturber. And that is what the brave soul does. There may be a very real and tangible reason why the heart faints and halts, for life is serious, and the world full of unexpected trials; but to sit and brood over a trouble only makes it look larger and larger until it finally obscures the horizon line, and darkness descends upon the soul. Wherefore, the thing to do is to cast aside all thoughts of worry for a moment,—just say to yourself, It is only for a moment,—and when you return to it again you will be surprised to find it has lessened in size and importance.”—The New World.When things don't go to suit you,And the world seems upside down,Don't waste your time in fretting,But drive away that frown;Since life is oft perplexing,'Tis much the wisest planTo bear all trials bravely,And smile whene'er you can.

Illustration.The Daughters Of Israel. "A merry heart doeth good like a medicine." Prov. 17:22.

The Daughters Of Israel. "A merry heart doeth good like a medicine." Prov. 17:22.

1. Before leaving His disciples, what did Jesus say to them?

“These things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: butbe of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”John 16:33.

2. What were some of the cheering words He said to them?

“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you.I go to prepare a place for you.And if I go and prepare a place for you,I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.”John 14:1-3.

3. In what spirit should we serve the Lord?

“Serve the Lord withgladness: come before His presence withsinging.”Ps. 100:2.

4. What is sown for the upright in heart?

“Light is sown for the righteous, andgladnessfor the upright in heart.”Ps. 97:11.

5. What effect has a merry heart?

“A merry heartdoeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.”Prov. 17:22.

Note.—From this we may learn the influence which the mind has over the body. Cheerfulness is conducive to life and health; sorrow, care, anxiety, and worry tend to disease and death.

6. What effect do helpful, cheerful words have upon the heart?

“Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop: buta good word maketh it glad.”Prov. 12:25.

7. By what temporal blessings does God fill men's hearts with gladness?

“Nevertheless He left not Himself without witness, in that He did good, andgave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts withfoodandgladness.”Acts 14:17.

8. Why and for what may every child of God rejoice?

“I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my soul shall be joyful in my God; forHe hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, He hath covered me with the robe of righteousness.”Isa. 61:10.

9. Against what are Christians warned?

“Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer.”1 Cor. 10:10.

Notes.—“There are those who take to gloom as a bat to darkness or as a vulture to carrion. They would rather nurse a misery than cherish a joy. They always find the dark side of everything, if there is a dark side to be found. They appear to be conscientious grumblers, as if it were their duty to extract some essence of misery from every circumstance.... On the other hand, there are rare spirits who always take cheerful views of life. They look at the bright side. They find some joy and beauty everywhere.... In the most faulty picture they see some bit of beauty which charms them. In the most disagreeable person they discover some kindly trait or some bud of promise. In the most disheartening circumstances they find something for which to be thankful, some gleam of cheer breaking through the thick gloom.... When a ray of sunlight streamed through a crack in the shutter and made a bright patch on the floor in the darkened room, the little dog rose from his dark corner and went and lay down in the one sunny spot; and these people live in the same philosophical way. If there is one beam of cheer or hope anywhere in their lot, they will find it.... We have no right to project the gloom of our discontent over any other life. Our ministry is to be ever toward joy. There is nothing so depressing in its effects upon others as morbidness.... Discontent helps nothing.... One never feels better for complaining.”—“Week-Day Religion,”by J. R. Miller, D. D., pages 236-241.“How many people,”says Jeremy Taylor,“are busy in the world gathering together a handful of thorns to sit upon.”“As a little girl was eating, the sun dashed upon her spoon, and she cried,‘O mama, I have swallowed a spoonful of sunshine!’Would God that we all might indulge in the same beverage!”—Talmage's“One Thousand Gems,”page 56.

“How many people,”says Jeremy Taylor,“are busy in the world gathering together a handful of thorns to sit upon.”

“As a little girl was eating, the sun dashed upon her spoon, and she cried,‘O mama, I have swallowed a spoonful of sunshine!’Would God that we all might indulge in the same beverage!”—Talmage's“One Thousand Gems,”page 56.

10. Even when persecuted, what are we told to do, and why?

“Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they[pg 575]shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man's sake.Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy: for, behold, your reward is great in heaven.”Luke 6:22, 23.

11. When beaten by the Jewish rulers for preaching Christ, what did the apostles do?

“And they departed from the presence of the council,rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name.”Acts 5:41.

12. After receiving“many stripes,”with their feet made fast in the stocks, what did Paul and Silas do while in prison?

“And at midnight Paul and Silasprayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.”Acts 16:25.

13. What assurance is given that the child of God may bravely endure every trial and hardship of life?

“And we know thatall things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose.”Rom. 8:28.

14. How constant should our rejoicing be?

“Rejoice in the Lordalway: and again I say,Rejoice.”Phil. 4:4.

Note.—“Good cheer is the hall-mark of a brave and healthy soul. To give way to gloomy thoughts, otherwise the‘blues,’is a sign of weakness. This isn't asserting that no one but weaklings is attacked by the blues; but it is one thing to be attacked and another to rout the disturber. And that is what the brave soul does. There may be a very real and tangible reason why the heart faints and halts, for life is serious, and the world full of unexpected trials; but to sit and brood over a trouble only makes it look larger and larger until it finally obscures the horizon line, and darkness descends upon the soul. Wherefore, the thing to do is to cast aside all thoughts of worry for a moment,—just say to yourself, It is only for a moment,—and when you return to it again you will be surprised to find it has lessened in size and importance.”—The New World.

When things don't go to suit you,And the world seems upside down,Don't waste your time in fretting,But drive away that frown;Since life is oft perplexing,'Tis much the wisest planTo bear all trials bravely,And smile whene'er you can.

When things don't go to suit you,

And the world seems upside down,

Don't waste your time in fretting,

But drive away that frown;

Since life is oft perplexing,

'Tis much the wisest plan

To bear all trials bravely,

And smile whene'er you can.

Christian CourtesyIllustration.Moses Defending The Maidens. "But Moses stood up and helped them, and watered their flock." Ex. 2:17.1. What should be our conduct one toward another?“Love as brethren, be pitiful,be courteous.”1 Peter 3:8.2. How many should we honor?“Honorall men. Love the brotherhood.”1 Peter 2:17.3. Whom should we salute?“If ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so?”Matt. 5:47.4. What respect should be shown the aged?“Thou shaltrise upbefore the hoary head, andhonorthe face of the old man.”Lev. 19:32. See 2 Kings 2:23, 24.5. Whom especially should children honor?“Honor thyfatherand thymother.”Ex. 20:12.6. How should faithful gospel ministers be regarded?“Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy ofdouble honor.”1 Tim. 5:17.7. What is the basis of true Christian courtesy?“Charity [love] ... is kind; . . . charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own.”1 Cor. 13:4, 5.Note.—Genuine Christian courtesy is the outgrowth of love, and manifests itself in thoughtful consideration for others.

Illustration.Moses Defending The Maidens. "But Moses stood up and helped them, and watered their flock." Ex. 2:17.

Moses Defending The Maidens. "But Moses stood up and helped them, and watered their flock." Ex. 2:17.

1. What should be our conduct one toward another?

“Love as brethren, be pitiful,be courteous.”1 Peter 3:8.

2. How many should we honor?

“Honorall men. Love the brotherhood.”1 Peter 2:17.

3. Whom should we salute?

“If ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so?”Matt. 5:47.

4. What respect should be shown the aged?

“Thou shaltrise upbefore the hoary head, andhonorthe face of the old man.”Lev. 19:32. See 2 Kings 2:23, 24.

5. Whom especially should children honor?

“Honor thyfatherand thymother.”Ex. 20:12.

6. How should faithful gospel ministers be regarded?

“Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy ofdouble honor.”1 Tim. 5:17.

7. What is the basis of true Christian courtesy?

“Charity [love] ... is kind; . . . charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own.”1 Cor. 13:4, 5.

Note.—Genuine Christian courtesy is the outgrowth of love, and manifests itself in thoughtful consideration for others.

Confessing Faults And Forgiving One AnotherIllustration.Joseph Forgiving His Brethren. "Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors." Matt. 6:12.1. What has God promised to do when we confess our sins?“If we confess our sins,He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”1 John 1:9.2. How has it been made possible for sins to be forgiven?“If any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: andHe is the propitiation for our sins.”1 John 2:1, 2.3. To whom should sins be confessed, and why?“Against Thee, Thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in Thy sight.”Ps. 51:4. See Gen. 39:9.4. What instruction is given concerning confession of faults?“Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed.”James 5:16.Notes.—The Bible makes a distinction between a sin and a fault. We sin against God; for sin is the transgression of His law. 1 John 3:4.[pg 578]We trespass one against another. These offenses, while involving sin, are called faults, and should be corrected by confession and forgiveness. The only remedy for either pointed out in the Word of God is heartfelt confession. One writer aptly says:“Confess your sins to God, who only can forgive them, and your faults to one another. If you have given offense to your friend or neighbor, you are to acknowledge your wrong, and it is his duty freely to forgive you. Then you are to seek the forgiveness of God, because the brother you have wounded is the property of God, and in injuring him you sinned against his Creator and Redeemer.”To confess one's faults is not an easy thing to do; in fact, it is one of the hardest lessons to learn, for it requires the grace of humility as well as that of sorrow and true repentance. It has been said that the four hardest words to pronounce in the English language are,“I made a mistake.”Frederick the Great wrote to the Prussian senate,“I have just lost a battle, and it is my own fault.”Concerning this Goldsmith says,“His confession shows more greatness than his victories.”The confession should not only be complete, but it should be as broad and as public as was the offense. Private offenses should be confessed in private.5. When we do wrong, what is the natural thing for us to do?Excuse it, seek to hide it, or blame some one else for it. See Gen. 3:12, 13; 4:9.6. After David's great sin had been pointed out to him, what did he say?“I have sinned.”2 Sam. 12:13.“I acknowledge my transgressions.”Ps. 51:3.7. When David in contrition of heart confessed his sin, what was God's word to him by Nathan, the prophet?“And David said unto Nathan, I have sinned against the Lord. And Nathan said unto David,The Lord also hath put away thy sin; thou shalt not die.”2 Sam. 12:13.Note.—This scripture is especially encouraging. God hates sin. He wants us likewise to hate it and shun it, because it invariably gets us into trouble, causes sorrow of heart, and in the end brings death. But when involved in it, as was David, as soon as it is acknowledged and sincerely confessed,that very moment it is forgiven. David said,“I havesinned.”The immediate answer was returned,“The Lord alsohath put away thy sin.”8. Is it ever right to tell a brother of his faults?“If thy brother shall trespass against thee,go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.”Matt. 18:15.“Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart:thou shalt in any wise rebuke thy neighbor, and not suffer sin upon him.”Lev. 19:17.9. In what spirit should this kind of work be done?[pg 579]“Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an onein the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.”Gal. 6:1.Note.—It is much easier to tellsome one elseof a brother's faults than it is to tellhimof themhimself; but this is not the Christian way to proceed. The first efforts should be made with the offenderin person, andalone. But it is easier even to tella brotherofhisfaults than it is to confess to himour own. This, again, let it be noted, is the one very difficult lesson to learn, the one Christian duty difficult to perform. Only humility and the grace of God will enable one to do it.10. When we pray, what does Christ tell us to do, and why?“And when ye stand praying,forgive, if ye have aught against any:that your Fatheralso which is in heavenmay forgive you your trespasses.”Mark 11:25.11. If we do not forgive others, what will God not do?“But if ye do not forgive,neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.”Verse 26. See, for illustration, Christ's parable recorded in Matt. 18:23-35.12. What words of Joseph to his brethren show that he forgave them for selling him into Egypt?“Now thereforebe not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life....So now it was not you that sent me hither, but God.”Gen. 45:5-8.13. What was Christ's reply to Peter's question as to the number of times we should forgive one another?“Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him,I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.”Matt. 18:21, 22.Note.—That is, an unlimited number. We must pardon offenses against us though ever so often done; we must forgive to the end.14. What spirit did Jesus manifest toward those who nailed Him to the cross?“Then said Jesus,Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.”Luke 23:34.15. How did Stephen manifest the same spirit toward those who stoned him?“And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, ... and he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice,Lord, lay not this sin to their charge.”Acts 7:59, 60. See 1 Peter 4:8.

Illustration.Joseph Forgiving His Brethren. "Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors." Matt. 6:12.

Joseph Forgiving His Brethren. "Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors." Matt. 6:12.

1. What has God promised to do when we confess our sins?

“If we confess our sins,He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”1 John 1:9.

2. How has it been made possible for sins to be forgiven?

“If any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: andHe is the propitiation for our sins.”1 John 2:1, 2.

3. To whom should sins be confessed, and why?

“Against Thee, Thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in Thy sight.”Ps. 51:4. See Gen. 39:9.

4. What instruction is given concerning confession of faults?

“Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed.”James 5:16.

Notes.—The Bible makes a distinction between a sin and a fault. We sin against God; for sin is the transgression of His law. 1 John 3:4.[pg 578]We trespass one against another. These offenses, while involving sin, are called faults, and should be corrected by confession and forgiveness. The only remedy for either pointed out in the Word of God is heartfelt confession. One writer aptly says:“Confess your sins to God, who only can forgive them, and your faults to one another. If you have given offense to your friend or neighbor, you are to acknowledge your wrong, and it is his duty freely to forgive you. Then you are to seek the forgiveness of God, because the brother you have wounded is the property of God, and in injuring him you sinned against his Creator and Redeemer.”To confess one's faults is not an easy thing to do; in fact, it is one of the hardest lessons to learn, for it requires the grace of humility as well as that of sorrow and true repentance. It has been said that the four hardest words to pronounce in the English language are,“I made a mistake.”Frederick the Great wrote to the Prussian senate,“I have just lost a battle, and it is my own fault.”Concerning this Goldsmith says,“His confession shows more greatness than his victories.”The confession should not only be complete, but it should be as broad and as public as was the offense. Private offenses should be confessed in private.

Notes.—The Bible makes a distinction between a sin and a fault. We sin against God; for sin is the transgression of His law. 1 John 3:4.

We trespass one against another. These offenses, while involving sin, are called faults, and should be corrected by confession and forgiveness. The only remedy for either pointed out in the Word of God is heartfelt confession. One writer aptly says:“Confess your sins to God, who only can forgive them, and your faults to one another. If you have given offense to your friend or neighbor, you are to acknowledge your wrong, and it is his duty freely to forgive you. Then you are to seek the forgiveness of God, because the brother you have wounded is the property of God, and in injuring him you sinned against his Creator and Redeemer.”

To confess one's faults is not an easy thing to do; in fact, it is one of the hardest lessons to learn, for it requires the grace of humility as well as that of sorrow and true repentance. It has been said that the four hardest words to pronounce in the English language are,“I made a mistake.”Frederick the Great wrote to the Prussian senate,“I have just lost a battle, and it is my own fault.”Concerning this Goldsmith says,“His confession shows more greatness than his victories.”

The confession should not only be complete, but it should be as broad and as public as was the offense. Private offenses should be confessed in private.

5. When we do wrong, what is the natural thing for us to do?

Excuse it, seek to hide it, or blame some one else for it. See Gen. 3:12, 13; 4:9.

6. After David's great sin had been pointed out to him, what did he say?

“I have sinned.”2 Sam. 12:13.“I acknowledge my transgressions.”Ps. 51:3.

7. When David in contrition of heart confessed his sin, what was God's word to him by Nathan, the prophet?

“And David said unto Nathan, I have sinned against the Lord. And Nathan said unto David,The Lord also hath put away thy sin; thou shalt not die.”2 Sam. 12:13.

Note.—This scripture is especially encouraging. God hates sin. He wants us likewise to hate it and shun it, because it invariably gets us into trouble, causes sorrow of heart, and in the end brings death. But when involved in it, as was David, as soon as it is acknowledged and sincerely confessed,that very moment it is forgiven. David said,“I havesinned.”The immediate answer was returned,“The Lord alsohath put away thy sin.”

8. Is it ever right to tell a brother of his faults?

“If thy brother shall trespass against thee,go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.”Matt. 18:15.“Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart:thou shalt in any wise rebuke thy neighbor, and not suffer sin upon him.”Lev. 19:17.

9. In what spirit should this kind of work be done?

“Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an onein the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.”Gal. 6:1.

Note.—It is much easier to tellsome one elseof a brother's faults than it is to tellhimof themhimself; but this is not the Christian way to proceed. The first efforts should be made with the offenderin person, andalone. But it is easier even to tella brotherofhisfaults than it is to confess to himour own. This, again, let it be noted, is the one very difficult lesson to learn, the one Christian duty difficult to perform. Only humility and the grace of God will enable one to do it.

10. When we pray, what does Christ tell us to do, and why?

“And when ye stand praying,forgive, if ye have aught against any:that your Fatheralso which is in heavenmay forgive you your trespasses.”Mark 11:25.

11. If we do not forgive others, what will God not do?

“But if ye do not forgive,neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.”Verse 26. See, for illustration, Christ's parable recorded in Matt. 18:23-35.

12. What words of Joseph to his brethren show that he forgave them for selling him into Egypt?

“Now thereforebe not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life....So now it was not you that sent me hither, but God.”Gen. 45:5-8.

13. What was Christ's reply to Peter's question as to the number of times we should forgive one another?

“Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him,I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.”Matt. 18:21, 22.

Note.—That is, an unlimited number. We must pardon offenses against us though ever so often done; we must forgive to the end.

14. What spirit did Jesus manifest toward those who nailed Him to the cross?

“Then said Jesus,Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.”Luke 23:34.

15. How did Stephen manifest the same spirit toward those who stoned him?

“And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, ... and he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice,Lord, lay not this sin to their charge.”Acts 7:59, 60. See 1 Peter 4:8.

Back to Index Next