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Help In Daily Living
Study the history of Joseph and of Daniel. The Lord did not prevent
the plottings of men who sought to do them harm; but He caused all
these devices to work for good to His servants who amidst trial and
conflict preserved their faith and loyalty.
So long as we are in the world, we shall meet with adverse in-
fluences. There will be provocations to test the temper; and it is by
meeting these in a right spirit that the Christian graces are developed.
If Christ dwells in us, we shall be patient, kind, and forbearing, cheer-
ful amid frets and irritations. Day by day and year by year we shall
conquer self, and grow into a noble heroism. This is our allotted task;
but it cannot be accomplished without help from Jesus, resolute de-
cision, unwavering purpose, continual watchfulness, and unceasing
prayer. Each one has a personal battle to fight. Not even God can make
our characters noble or our lives useful, unless we become co-workers
with Him. Those who decline the struggle lose the strength and joy of
victory.
[29]
Count God’s Blessings, Not the Trials
We need not keep our own record of trials and difficulties, griefs,
and sorrows. All these things are written in the books, and heaven will
take care of them. While we are counting up the disagreeable things,
many things that are pleasant to reflect upon are passing from memory,
such as the merciful kindness of God surrounding us every moment
and the love over which angels marvel, that God gave His Son to die
for us. If as workers for Christ you feel that you have had greater cares
and trials than have fallen to the lot of others, remember that for you
there is a peace unknown to those who shun these burdens. There is
comfort and joy in the service of Christ. Let the world see that life
with Him is no failure.
If you do not feel lighthearted and joyous, do not talk of your
feelings. Cast no shadow upon the lives of others. A cold, sunless
religion never draws souls to Christ. It drives them away from Him
into the nets that Satan has spread for the feet of the straying. Instead
of thinking of your discouragements, think of the power you can claim
in Christ’s name. Let your imagination take hold upon things unseen.
Let your thoughts be directed to the evidences of the great love of
God for you. Faith can endure trial, resist temptation, bear up under