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Big Little Things, August 11
Take us the foxes, the little foxes, that spoil the vines: for our vines
have tender grapes.
Song of Solomon 2:15
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God requires us to be right in important matters, while He tells us that
faithfulness in little things will fit us for higher positions of trust....
The good qualities which many possess are hidden, and instead of
attracting souls to Christ they repulse them. If these persons could see
the influence of their uncourteous ways and unkind expressions upon
unbelievers, and how offensive is such conduct in the sight of God, they
would reform their habits, for a lack of courtesy is one of the greatest
stumbling blocks to sinners. Selfish, complaining, sour Christians bar the
way, so that sinners do not care to approach Christ.
Could we look beneath the surface of things, we should see that half
life’s misery is created by frowns and unkind speeches, which might be
prevented as well as not. Many make a hell upon earth for themselves and
for those whom they might comfort and bless. These are not worthy of
the Christian name....
Some persons speak in a harsh, uncourteous manner, that wounds
the feeling of others, and then they justify themselves by saying, “It is
my way; I always tell just what I think”; and they exalt this wicked trait
of character as a virtue. Their uncourteous deportment should be firmly
rebuked.
That unkind word should be left unspoken, that selfish disregard for
the happiness of others should give place to sympathy and thoughtfulness.
True courtesy, blended with truth and justice, will make the life not only
useful, but fragrant....
Integrity, justice, and Christian kindness, blended, make a beautiful
combination. Courtesy is one of the graces of the Spirit. It is an attribute
of heaven. The angels never fly into a passion, never are envious, selfish,
and jealous. No harsh or unkind words escape their lips. And if we are to
be the companions of angels, we too must be refined and courteous.
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