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We are to Do Good to Our Neighbors, September 17
Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the
power of thine hand to do it
Proverbs 3:27
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So ready, so eager is the Saviour’s heart to welcome us as members of
the family of God, that in the very first words we are to use in approaching
God, He places the assurance of our divine relationship,—“Our Father.” ...
In calling God our Father, we recognize all His children as our brethren.
We are all a part of the great web of humanity, all members of one family.
In our petitions we are to include our neighbors as well as ourselves. No
one prays aright who seeks a blessing for himself alone
We are bound to the Lord by the strongest ties, and the manifestation
of our Father’s love should call forth the most filial affection and the
most ardent gratitude. The laws of God have their foundation in the
most immutable rectitude, and are so framed that they will promote the
happiness of those who keep them
In the lesson of faith that Christ taught on the mount, are revealed
the principles of true religion. Religion brings man into personal relation
with God, but not exclusively; for the principles of heaven are to be lived
out, that they may help and bless humanity. A true child of God will
love Him with all his heart, and his neighbor as himself. He will have
an interest for his fellow-men. True religion is the work of grace upon
the heart, that causes the life to flow out in good works, like a fountain
fed from living streams. Religion does not consist merely in meditation
and prayer. The Christian’s light is displayed in good works, and is thus
recognized by others. Religion is not to be divorced from the business life.
It is to pervade and sanctify its engagements and enterprises. If a man is
truly connected with God and heaven, the spirit that dwells in heaven will
influence all his words and actions. He will glorify God in his works, and
will lead others to honor Him
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Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 105, 106
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41
The Review and Herald, September 18, 1888
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42
The Review and Herald, September 18, 1888
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