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be productive of misery; and yet the minds of the youth run in this
channel because Satan leads them there, making them believe that they
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must be married in order to be happy, when they have not the ability to
control themselves or support a family. Those who are not willing to
adapt themselves to each other’s disposition, so as to avoid unpleasant
differences and contentions, should not take the step. But this is one of
the alluring snares of the last days, in which thousands are ruined for
this life and the next. Imagination, lovesick sentimentalism, should be
guarded against as would be the leprosy. Very many of the young men
and women in this age of the world are lacking in virtue; therefore
great caution is needed. A virtuous character is the foundation upon
which to build; but if the foundation is gone, the building is worthless.
Those who have preserved a virtuous character, although they may
lack in other desirable qualities, may be of real moral worth.
In order for the church to prosper there must be a studious effort
on the part of its members to cherish the precious plant of love. Let
it have every advantage that it may flourish in the heart. Every true
Christian will develop in his life the characteristics of this divine love;
he will reveal a spirit of forbearance, of beneficence, and a freedom
from envy and jealousy. This character developed in word and act will
not repulse, and will not be unapproachable, cold, and indifferent to
the interests of others. The person who cultivates the precious plant
of love will be self-denying in spirit, and will not yield self-control
even under provocation. He will not impute wrong motives and evil
intentions to others, but will feel deeply over sin when discovered in
any of the disciples of Christ.
Love vaunteth not itself. It is a humble element; it never prompts a
man to boast, to exalt himself. Love for God and for our fellow men
will not be revealed in acts of rashness nor lead us to be overbearing,
faultfinding, or dictatorial. Love is not puffed up. The heart where love
reigns will be guided to a gentle, courteous, compassionate course of
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conduct toward others, whether they suit our fancy or not, whether they
respect us or treat us ill. Love is an active principle; it keeps the good
of others continually before us, thus restraining us from inconsiderate
actions lest we fail of our object in winning souls to Christ. Love
seeks not its own. It will not prompt men to seek their own ease and
indulgence of self. It is the respect we render to I that so often hinders
the growth of love.