Understanding
71
and compassion that Christ would show were He in our world.—
The
Medical Missionary, August 1, 1893.
(
Medical Ministry, 251
.)
Sum of Life’s Happiness—A cultivated intellect is a great trea-
sure; but without the softening influence of sympathy and sanctified
love it is not of the highest value. We should have words and deeds
of tender consideration for others. We can manifest a thousand little
attentions in friendly words and pleasant looks, which will be reflected
upon us again. Thoughtless Christians manifest by their neglect of
others that they are not in union with Christ. It is impossible to be in
union with Christ and yet be unkind to others and forgetful of their
rights. Many long intensely for friendly sympathy.
God has given each of us an identity of our own, which cannot be
merged in that of another; but our individual characteristics will be
much less prominent if we are indeed Christ’s and His will is ours.
Our lives should be consecrated to the good and happiness of others,
as was our Saviour’s. We should be self-forgetful, ever looking out for
opportunities—even in little things—to show gratitude for the favors
we have received of others and watching for opportunities to cheer
[86]
others and lighten and relieve their sorrows and burdens by acts of
tender kindness and little deeds of love. These thoughtful courtesies
that, commencing in our families, extend outside the family circle,
help make up the sum of life’s happiness; and the neglect of these little
things makes up the sum of life’s bitterness and sorrow.—
Testimonies
for the Church 3:539, 540
(1875).
[87]
[88]
[89]