Chapter 138—Involves Character Building
Ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a
peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath
called you out of darkness into his marvellous light.
1 Peter 2:9
.
Obedience to the laws of God develops in man a beautiful character that
is in harmony with all that is pure and holy and undefiled. In the life of
such a man the message of the gospel of Christ is made clear. Accepting the
mercy of Christ and His healing from the power of sin, he is brought into
right relation with God. His life, cleansed from vanity and selfishness, is
filled with the love of God. His daily obedience to the law of God obtains
for him a character that assures him eternal life in the kingdom of God.
But Christ has given us no assurance that to attain perfection of character
is an easy matter. A noble, all-round character is not inherited. It does not
come to us by accident. A noble character is earned by individual effort
through the merits and grace of Christ. God gives the talents, the powers
of the mind; we form the character. It is formed by hard, stern battles with
self. Conflict after conflict must be waged against hereditary tendencies. We
shall have to criticize ourselves closely, and allow not one unfavorable trait
to remain uncorrected.
The truth is no truth to the one who does not reveal, by his elevated
spiritual character, a power beyond that which the world can give, and
influence corresponding in its sacred, peculiar character to the truth itself.
He who is sanctified by the truth will exert a saving, vital influence upon all
with whom he comes in contact. This is Bible religion.
We need constantly a fresh revelation of Christ, a daily experience that
harmonizes with His teachings. High and holy attainments are within our
reach. Continual progress in knowledge and virtue is God’s purpose for us.
His law is the echo of His own voice, giving to all the invitation, “Come up
higher. Be holy, holier still.” Every day we may advance in perfection of
Christian character.
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