Chapter 37—Faithful in that which is Least
“He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much.”
It is conscientious attention to what the world terms “little things”
that makes life a success. Little deeds of charity, little acts of self-
denial, speaking simple words of helpfulness, watching against little
sins,—this is Christianity. A grateful acknowledgment of daily bless-
ings, a wise improvement of daily opportunities, a diligent cultivation
of intrusted talents,—this is what the Master calls for.
He who faithfully performs small duties will be prepared to answer
the demands of larger responsibilities. The man who is kind and
courteous in the daily life, who is generous and forbearing in his
family, whose constant aim it is to make home happy, will be the first
to deny self and make sacrifices when the Master calls.
A Well-Balanced Character
We may be willing to give our property to the cause of God, but
this will not count unless we give Him also a heart of love and grat-
itude. Those who would be true missionaries in foreign fields must
first be true missionaries in the home. Those who desire to work in
the Master’s vineyard must prepare themselves for this by a careful
cultivation of the little piece of vineyard He has intrusted to their care.
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As a man “thinketh in his heart, so is he.” Many thoughts make up
the unwritten history of a single day; and these thoughts have much
to do with the formation of character. Our thoughts are to be strictly
guarded; for one impure thought makes a deep impression on the soul.
An evil thought leaves an evil impress on the mind. If the thoughts
are pure and holy, the man is better for having cherished them. By
them the spiritual pulse is quickened, and the power for doing good
is increased. And as one drop of rain prepares the way for another
in moistening the earth, so one good thought prepares the way for
another.
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