Duty to the Unfortunate
469
favor, and who yet envy the little prosperity enjoyed by a poor blind
man and would benefit themselves, increase their stock of means, at
the disadvantage of their afflicted brother. This is regarded of God as
the most criminal selfishness and robbery, and is an aggravating sin,
which He will surely punish. God never forgets. He does not look
[515]
upon these things with human eyes and with cold, unfeeling, human
judgment. He views things, not from the worldling’s standpoint, but
from the standpoint of mercy, pity, and infinite love.
Brother H tried to help Brother E, but not with unselfish motives.
At first his pity was excited. He saw that Brother E needed help. But
soon he lost his interest, and selfish feelings gathered strength, until
the course of his brethren resulted in Brother E’s being disadvantaged
rather than benefited. These things have greatly discouraged Brother
E and have had a tendency to shake his confidence in his brethren.
They have resulted in involving him in debts which he could not pay.
As he has realized the selfish feelings exercised toward him by some
of his brethren, it has grieved him and sometimes stirred him. His
feelings at times have been almost uncontrollable as he has realized
his helpless condition, without sight, without means, without health,
and with some of his brethren working against him. This has added
greatly to his affliction and told fearfully upon his health.
I was shown that Brother E has some good qualities of mind which
would be better appreciated if he had greater power of self-control
and would not become excited. Every exhibition of impatience and
fretfulness tells against him, and is made the most of by some who
are guilty of much more grievous sins in the sight of God, Brother
E’s principles are good. He has integrity. He is not a dishonest man.
He would not knowingly defraud any man. But he has faults and sins
which must be overcome. He, as well as other men, has to deal with
human nature. He is too often impatient and is sometimes overbearing.
He should cherish a more kindly, courteous spirit and should cultivate
gratitude of heart toward those who have felt an interest in his case.
Naturally he has an impetuous temper when suddenly aroused or
unreasonably provoked. But, notwithstanding this, he has a heart to
do right, and he feels sincere repentance toward God when he reflects
upon his wrongs.
If he sees his brethren inclined to do him justice he will be generous
[516]
to forgive and humble enough to desire peace, even if he has to make