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the laws of God, and determination to abide by them! You have made
little effort to become a loyal and intelligent Christian. How, then, will
you be prepared to pass the grand review, where all your deeds and
words, and the inmost thoughts of your heart, will be laid open before
the great Judge and the assembled saints and angels? You have had
little ambition to obtain a spiritual fitness to bear this close examination
in the presence of that exalted throng. What, then, will be the final
decision as to your moral and religious attainments, that decision
from which there is no appeal? What will be the honors accredited to
you because of your faithfulness in preserving the required harmony
between religion and the pursuit of the sciences? Will you stand as one
possessing unfaltering moral courage, in whom is shown excellence of
human knowledge united with a holy zeal for God and the obedience
of His law?
My brother, you should consider the wisdom of God as all in all.
Religion must go hand in hand with science, in order to make your
education a sanctified means of doing good and turning others to the
truth. The more we learn in the school of Christ, the more eager we
are to advance in that knowledge. All our acquirements are of little
value unless the character is ennobled by religion. God has special
duties for every individual to perform, and a decision will be passed
upon every case as to the faithfulness with which these duties have
been accomplished.
The Lord frequently places us in difficult positions to stimulate us
to greater exertion. In His providence special annoyances sometimes
occur to test our patience and faith. God gives us lessons of trust. He
would teach us where to look for help and strength in time of need.
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Thus we obtain practical knowledge of His divine will, which we
so much need in our life experience. Faith grows strong in earnest
conflict with doubt and fear. Brother, you may be a conqueror if you
take careful heed to your ways. You should devote your young life to
the cause of God and pray for success. You should not close your eyes
to your danger, but should resolutely prepare for every difficulty in
your Christian advancement. Take time for reflection and for humble,
earnest prayer. Your talents are marked, and you are hopeful in regard
to your future success; but unless you comprehend the weakness of
your natural heart you will be disappointed.