“The Sower Went Forth to Sow”
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God, lead to the exaltation of self. They lose the sense of their de-
pendence upon God and their obligation to their fellow men. Instead
of regarding wealth as a talent to be employed for the glory of God
and the uplifting of humanity, they look upon it as a means of serving
themselves. Instead of developing in man the attributes of God, riches
thus used are developing in him the attributes of Satan. The seed of
the word is choked with thorns.
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“And pleasures of this life.” There is danger in amusement that
is sought merely for self-gratification. All habits of indulgence that
weaken the physical powers, that becloud the mind, or that benumb the
spiritual perceptions, are “fleshly lusts, which war against the soul.”
1
Peter 2:11
.
“And the lusts of other things.” These are not necessarily things
sinful in themselves, but something that is made first instead of the
kingdom of God. Whatever attracts the mind from God, whatever
draws the affections away from Christ, is an enemy to the soul.
* * * * *
When the mind is youthful and vigorous and susceptible of rapid
development, there is great temptation to be ambitious for self, to
serve self. If worldly schemes are successful, there is an inclination
to continue in a line that deadens conscience, and prevents a correct
estimate as to what constitutes real excellence of character. When cir-
cumstances favor this development, growth will be seen in a direction
prohibited by the word of God.
In this formative period of their children’s life, the responsibility
of parents is very great. It should be their study to surround the
youth with right influences, influences that will give them correct
views of life and its true success. Instead of this, how many parents
make it their first object to secure for their children worldly prosperity.
All their associations are chosen with reference to this object. Many
parents make their home in some large city, and introduce their children
into fashionable society. They surround them with influences that
encourage worldliness and pride. In this atmosphere the mind and soul
are dwarfed. The high and noble aims of life are lost sight of. The
privilege of being sons of God, heirs of eternity, is bartered for worldly
gain.
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