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We Are To Do Good To Our Neighbors, January 26
Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of
thine hand to do it
Proverbs 3:27
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So ready, so eager is the Saviour’s heart to welcome us as members of the
family of God, that in the very first words we are to use in approaching God, He
places the assurance of our divine relationship,—“Our Father.” ... In calling God
our Father, we recognize all His children as our brethren. We are all a part of
the great web of humanity, all members of one family. In our petitions we are
to include our neighbors as well as ourselves. No one prays aright who seeks a
blessing for himself alone.
We are bound to the Lord by the strongest ties, and the manifestation of
our Father’s love should call forth the most filial affection and the most ardent
gratitude. The laws of God have their foundation in the most immutable rectitude,
and are so framed that they will promote the happiness of those who keep them.
In the lesson of faith that Christ taught on the mount, are revealed the principles
of true religion. Religion brings man into personal relation with God, but not
exclusively; for the principles of heaven are to be lived out, that they may help
and bless humanity. A true child of God will love Him with all his heart, and his
neighbor as himself. He will have an interest for his fellow-men. True religion is
the work of grace upon the heart, that causes the life to flow out in good works,
like a fountain fed from living streams. Religion does not consist merely in
meditation and prayer. The Christian’s light is displayed in good works, and is
thus recognized by others. Religion is not to be divorced from the business life.
It is to pervade and sanctify its engagements and enterprises. If a man is truly
connected with God and heaven, the spirit that dwells in heaven will influence all
his words and actions. He will glorify God in his works, and will lead others to
honor Him.
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