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parched, desolate plain, and the traveler, ready to die, urges his
failing steps to the cool shade and life-giving water.
The tree of the desert is a symbol of what God means the life of
His children to be. They are to guide weary souls, ready to perish in
the desert of sin, to the living water. They are to point lost men and
women to Him who gives the invitation, “If anyone thirsts, let him
come to Me, and drink.”
John 7:37
.
A wide, deep river that serves as a highway for the traffic of
nations, is valued as a worldwide benefit. But what of the little
rills that help to form this giant stream? Without them, the river
would disappear. Upon them its very existence depends. So men and
women who are called to lead in some great work are honored as if its
success were due to them alone. But that success required the faithful
cooperation of humble workers almost without number—people of
whom the world knows nothing. Service without recognition is the
lot of most of the world’s workers. Many are filled with discontent
and feel that life is wasted. But the little rill that makes its noiseless
way through grove and meadow is as useful in its way as the broad
river. And in contributing to the river’s life, it helps achieve that
which it could never accomplish alone.
This lesson is needed by many. Talent is too much idolized,
and station too much coveted. Many people will do nothing unless
they are recognized as leaders. Too many must receive praise or
they have no interest in the work. We need to learn faithfulness in
making the utmost use of the powers and opportunities we have, and
contentment in the lot to which Heaven assigns us.
A Lesson of Trust
“Now ask the beasts, and they will teach you; and the birds of
the air, and they will tell you: ... and the fish of the sea will explain
to you.” “Go to the ant; ... consider her ways.”
Job 12:7, 8
;
Proverbs
6:6
.
We are not merely to tell our children about these creatures of
God, the animals themselves are to be their teachers. Ants teach
lessons of patient industry, of perseverance in surmounting obstacles,
of providence for the future. Birds teach the lesson of trust. Our
heavenly Father provides for them, but they must gather food, build