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I Will Love as Christ Loved, March 17
Exercising Self-control
By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love
one to another.
John 13:35
If we would be true lights in the world, we must manifest the loving,
compassionate spirit of Christ. To love as Christ loved means that we
must practice self-control. It means that we must show unselfishness
at all times and in all places. It means that we must scatter round us
kind words and pleasant looks. These cost the giver nothing, but they
leave behind a precious fragrance. Their influence for good cannot be
estimated. Not only to the receiver, but to the giver, they are a blessing;
for they react upon him. Genuine love is a precious attribute of heavenly
origin, which increases in fragrance in proportion as it is dispensed to
others....
God desires His children to remember that in order to glorify Him,
they must bestow their affection on those who need it most. None with
whom we come in contact are to be neglected. No selfishness in look,
word, or deed is to be manifested to our fellow beings, whatever their
position, whether they be high or low, rich or poor. The love that gives
kind words to only a few, while others are treated with coldness and
indifference, is not love, but selfishness. It will not in any way work for
the good of souls or the glory of God. We are not to confine our love to
one or two objects.
Those who gather the sunshine of Christ’s righteousness, and refuse
to let it shine into the lives of others, will soon lose the sweet, bright rays
of heavenly grace, selfishly reserved to be lavished upon a few.... Self
should not be allowed to gather to itself a select few, giving nothing to
those who need help the most. Our love is not to be sealed up for special
ones. Break the bottle, and the fragrance will fill the house.
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