Basic HTML Version
Developing Self-Control, August 12
He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth
his spirit than he that taketh a city.
Proverbs 16:32
.
It is by faithfulness in little things that we become trustworthy sen-
tinels. Guard carefully against the little irritations, not allowing them to
harass your soul, and you will gain many victories. And when greater
troubles come you will be prepared to resist the enemy manfully and
nobly.... Each soul inherits certain un-Christlike traits of character. It
is the grand and noble work of a lifetime to keep under control these
tendencies to wrong. It is the little things that cross our path that are likely
to cause us to lose our power of self-control.
So long as we are in the world, we shall meet with adverse influences.
There will be provocations to test the temper; and it is by meeting these
in the right spirit that the Christian graces are developed. If Christ dwells
in us, we shall be patient, kind, and forbearing, cheerful 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 decision, 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.
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.
God will understand you as you open your heart to Him. He knows
what discipline each one needs. If you ask Him, He will surely give
you power to resist evil. Your faith will be increased, and you will give
evidence to others of the keeping power of God.
Your strength and growth in grace come only from one Source. If
when you are tempted and tried you stand bravely for the right, victory is
yours. You are one step nearer to perfection of Christian character. A holy
light from heaven fills the chambers of your soul, and you are surrounded
by a pure, fragrant atmosphere.
[232]
239