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In Contact With Others
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in God. He knows the sorrows that we feel to the depths of our
being but that we cannot express. When all things seem dark and
unexplainable, remember the words of Christ, “‘What I am doing
you do not understand now, but you will know after this.’”
John
13:7
.
Study the history of Joseph and of Daniel. The Lord did not
prevent the plottings of men who sought to do them harm, but He
caused all these devices to work for good to His servants who in the
midst of trial and conflict preserved their faith and loyalty.
As long as we are in this world, we shall meet with adverse influ-
ences. There will be provocations to test the temper, and by meeting
these in a right spirit the Christian graces will develop. If Christ
lives in us, we shall be patient, kind, and forbearing, cheerful amid
frets and irritations. Day by day and year by year we shall conquer
self and grow into a noble heroism. This is our allotted task, but it
cannot be accomplished without help from Jesus, resolute decision,
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unwavering purpose, continual watchfulness, and unceasing prayer.
Each one has a personal battle to fight. Not even God can make our
characters noble or our lives useful unless we become co-workers
with Him. Those who decline the struggle lose the strength and joy
of victory.
We do not need to keep our own record of trials, difficulties,
griefs, and sorrows. All these things are written in heaven’s books,
and God will take care of them. While we are counting up the
disagreeable things, many things that are pleasant to reflect upon
pass from memory, such as the merciful kindness of God surrounding
us every moment, and the love over which angels marvel, that God
gave His Son to die for us. If as a worker for Christ you feel you
have had greater cares and trials than others have had, remember that
for you there is a peace unknown to those who shun these burdens.
There is comfort and joy in the service of Christ. Let the world see
that life with Him is no failure.
Think Positive Thoughts
If you do not feel lighthearted and joyous, do not talk of your
feelings. Cast no shadow upon the lives of others. A cold, sunless
religion never draws souls to Christ. It drives them away from Him