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draw the contrast between themselves and such narrow-minded ones,
feeling that their own condition is much more favorable than that of
their mean-souled neighbors. But they are deceiving themselves. The
mere possession of unused qualities only increases their responsibility.
Those who possess large affections are under obligation to God to
bestow them, not merely on their friends, but on all who need their
help. Social advantages are talents, and are to be used for the benefit
of all within reach of our influence. The love that gives kindness to
only a few is not love, but selfishness. It will not in any way work
for the good of souls or the glory of God. Those who thus leave their
Master’s talents unimproved are even more guilty than are the ones for
whom they feel such contempt. To them it will be said, Ye knew your
Master’s will, but did it not.
Talents Multiplied by Use
Talents used are talents multiplied. Success is not the result of
chance or of destiny; it is the outworking of God’s own providence,
the reward of faith and discretion, of virtue and persevering effort. The
Lord desires us to use every gift we have; and if we do this, we shall
have greater gifts to use. He does not supernaturally endow us with
the qualifications we lack; but while we use that which we have, He
will work with us to increase and strengthen every faculty. By every
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wholehearted, earnest sacrifice for the Master’s service our powers
will increase. While we yield ourselves as instruments for the Holy
Spirit’s working, the grace of God works in us to deny old inclinations,
to overcome powerful propensities, and to form new habits. As we
cherish and obey the promptings of the Spirit, our hearts are enlarged
to receive more and more of His power, and to do more and better
work. Dormant energies are aroused, and palsied faculties receive new
life.
The humble worker who obediently responds to the call of God
may be sure of receiving divine assistance. To accept so great and holy
a responsibility is itself elevating to the character. It calls into action
the highest mental and spiritual powers, and strengthens and purifies
the mind and heart. Through faith in the power of God, it is wonderful
how strong a weak man may become, how decided his efforts, how
prolific of great results. He who begins with a little knowledge, in