Chapter 57—Set a High Standard
God desires us to make use of every opportunity for securing a
preparation for His work. He expects us to put all our energies into
its performance, and to keep our hearts alive to its sacredness and its
fearful responsibilities.
Many who are qualified to do excellent work accomplish little
because they attempt little. Thousands pass through life as if they had
no great object for which to live, no high standard to reach. One reason
of this is the low estimate which they place upon themselves. Christ
paid an infinite price for us, and according to the price paid He desires
us to value ourselves.
Be not satisfied with reaching a low standard. We are not what we
might be, or what it is God’s will that we should be. God has given us
reasoning powers, not to remain inactive, or to be perverted to earthly
and sordid pursuits, but that they may be developed to the utmost,
refined, sanctified, ennobled, and used in advancing the interests of
His kingdom.
Maintain Personality
None should consent to be mere machines, run by another man’s
mind. God has given us ability to think and to act, and it is by acting
with carefulness, looking to Him for wisdom, that you will become
capable of bearing burdens. Stand in your God-given personality. Be
no other person’s shadow. Expect that the Lord will work in and by
and through you.
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Never think that you have learned enough, and that you may now
relax your efforts. The cultivated mind is the measure of the man.
Your education should continue during your lifetime; every day you
should be learning, and putting to practical use the knowledge gained.
Remember that in whatever position you may serve, you are re-
vealing motive, developing character. Whatever your work, do it with
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