Chapter 25—Education and Character
“The stability of thy times...shall be wisdom and knowledge.”
True education does not ignore the value of scientific knowledge
or literary acquirements; but above information it values power; above
power, goodness; above intellectual acquirements, character. The
world does not so much need men of great intellect as of noble charac-
ter. It needs men in whom ability is controlled by steadfast principle.
“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom.” “The
tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright.”
Proverbs 4:7
;
15:2
. True
education imparts this wisdom. It teaches the best use not only of one
but of all our powers and acquirements. Thus it covers the whole circle
of obligation—to ourselves, to the world, and to God.
Character building is the most important work ever entrusted to
human beings; and never before was its diligent study so important
as now. Never was any previous generation called to meet issues
so momentous; never before were young men and young women
confronted by perils so great as confront them today.
At such a time as this, what is the trend of the education given?
To what motive is appeal most often made? To self-seeking. Much of
the education given is a perversion of the name. In true education the
selfish ambition, the greed for power, the disregard for the rights and
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needs of humanity, that are the curse of our world, find a counterinflu-
ence. God’s plan of life has a place for every human being. Each is to
improve his talents to the utmost; and faithfulness in doing this, be the
gifts few or many, entitles one to honor. In God’s plan there is no place
for selfish rivalry. Those who measure themselves by themselves, and
compare themselves among themselves, are not wise.
2 Corinthians
10:12
. Whatever we do is to be done “as of the ability which God
giveth.”
1 Peter 4:11
. It is to be done “heartily, as to the Lord, and
not unto men; knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward
of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.”
Colossians 3:23, 24
.
Precious the service done and the education gained in carrying out
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