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A Time for Heart Searching, August 4
Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own
selves.
2 Corinthians 13:5
.
One’s claim to manhood is determined by the use he makes of the
powers that God has given him. The members of the human family are
entitled to the name of men and women only as they employ their talents
for the good of others. It is when ministering to others that man is most
closely allied to God. He who is true to his God-given manhood will not
only promote the happiness of his fellow beings in this life but will aid
them to secure the reward of the life to come....
Man is required to love God supremely, with his might, mind, and
strength, and his neighbor as himself. This he cannot possibly do unless
he denies himself. To deny self means to rule the spirit when passion is
striving for the mastery; to resist the temptation to censure and to speak
words of faultfinding; to have patience with the child that is dull, and
whose conduct is grievous and trying; to stand at the post of duty even
though others may fail; to lift responsibilities wherever and whenever
duty requires, not to gain applause, not for policy, but for the sake of the
Master, who has given each of His followers a work that is to be done
with unwavering fidelity. To deny self means to do good when inclination
would lead us to serve and please ourselves. It means to work patiently
and cheerfully for the good of others, even though our efforts may not
seem to be appreciated....
Fellow Christians, search carefully to see whether the Word of God is
indeed the rule of your life. Do you take Christ with you when you leave
the place of prayer? Does your religion stand guard at the door of your
lips? Is your heart drawn out in interest and sympathy for those in need of
help? Are you seeking earnestly for a clearer understanding of God’s will,
that you may let the light shine forth to others? Is your speech seasoned
with grace? Does your demeanor show Christian nobility? ...
Remember that you need to be braced by constant watchfulness and
prayer. So long as you look to Christ you are safe, but the moment you
trust in yourself you are in great peril. He who is in harmony with God
will continually depend upon Him for help.
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