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When Loss is Gain, July 6
And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for
a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he
possesseth.
Luke 12:15
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One marked feature in the teachings of Christ is the frequency and
earnestness with which He rebuked the sin of covetousness and pointed
out the danger of worldly acquisitions and the inordinate love of gain....
When the head and hands are constantly occupied with planning and
toiling for the accumulation of riches, the claims of God and humanity
are forgotten.
Means is valuable and to be desired. It is a blessing, a precious
treasure, if used prudently, wisely, and not abused.... Since mortals have
bodies and heads and hearts to be provided for, some provision for the
body must be made in order to hold a proper position in the world. Not to
meet the world’s standards—oh, no, no indeed; but to be of influence in
the world for good....
Want and poverty are evils to be dreaded; but hunger and nakedness,
lack of home, sympathy, or a name, and even starvation, are more desirable
than to sacrifice one principle of truth. Let the eternal truth be cherished,
for it is immortal. If we make it a part of us we shall surely gain immortal
glory and eternal riches....
If God has not given you the power to obtain means with perfect
uprightness and integrity, then He never meant that you should have it,
and it is best for you to submit to the will of God.... The infinite Creator
is the possessor of all things. Any loss you may sustain in your allegiance
to Him is infinite gain in the future immortal life, if not fully realized in
this life....
Behold the glories of the firmament. Look up to the gems of light
which like precious gold stud the heavens.... Cannot He who spread above
us this glorious canopy, who, if the sun, moon, and stars were swept away
could call them again into existence in a moment, requite His faithful,
loyal servants who would be obedient to Him though they lost wealth,
honor, or even a kingdom for His sake?
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