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Look for the Good, June 25
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are
honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure,
whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if
there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
Philippians 4:8
.
We are a part of the great web of humanity. We become changed into
the image of that upon which we dwell. Then how important to open our
hearts to the things that are true and lovely and of good report. Let into
the heart the light of the Sun of Righteousness. Do not cherish one root of
bitterness
Christ was infinite in wisdom and yet He thought best to accept Judas,
although He knew what were his imperfections of character. John was not
perfect; Peter denied his Lord; and yet it was of men like these that the
early Christian church was organized. Jesus accepted them that they might
learn of Him what constitutes a perfect Christian character. The business
of every Christian is to study the character of Christ....
Judas alone did not respond to divine enlightenment.... He braced his
soul to resist the influence of the truth; and while he practiced criticising
and condemning others, he neglected his own soul, and cherished and
strengthened his natural evil traits of character until he became so hardened
that he could sell his Lord for thirty pieces of silver.
O let us encourage our souls to look to Jesus! ...
It is not an uncommon thing to see imperfection in those who carry on
God’s work.... Would it not be more pleasing to God to take an impartial
outlook, and see how many souls are serving God and glorifying and
honoring Him with their talents of means and intellect? Would it not be
better to consider the wonderful, miracle-working power of God in the
transformation of poor degraded sinners...? The most unfavorable matters
... should not cause us to feel perplexed and discouraged. Everything that
causes us to see the weakness of humanity is in the Lord’s purpose to help
us to look to Him, and in no case put our trust in man, or make flesh our
arm
[183]
33
The Review and Herald, August 15, 1893
.
34
Ibid
.
186