Religion Not a Sentiment
Pure and undefiled religion is not a sentiment, but the doing of
works of mercy and love. This religion is necessary to health and
happiness. It enters the polluted soul-temple, and with a scourge
drives out the sinful intruders. Taking the throne, it consecrates all
by its presence, illuminating the heart with the bright beams of the
Sun of Righteousness. It opens the windows of the soul heavenward,
letting in the sunshine of God’s love. With it comes serenity and
composure. Physical, mental, and moral strength increase, because
the atmosphere of heaven, as a living, active agency, fills the soul.
130 Messages to Young People
Christ is formed within, the hope of glory.—The Review and Herald,
[143] October 15, 1901.
Chapter 37—Faithful in that which is Least
“He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much.”
It is conscientious attention to what the world terms “little things”
that makes life a success. Little deeds of charity, little acts of selfdenial,
speaking simple words of helpfulness, watching against little
sins,—this is Christianity. A grateful acknowledgment of daily
blessings, a wise improvement of daily opportunities, a diligent
cultivation of intrusted talents,—this is what the Master calls for.
He who faithfully performs small duties will be prepared to
answer the demands of larger responsibilities. The man who is kind
and courteous in the daily life, who is generous and forbearing in
his family, whose constant aim it is to make home happy, will be the
first to deny self and make sacrifices when the Master calls.
A Well-Balanced Character
We may be willing to give our property to the cause of God,
but this will not count unless we give Him also a heart of love and
gratitude. Those who would be true missionaries in foreign fields
must first be true missionaries in the home. Those who desire to
work in the Master’s vineyard must prepare themselves for this by a
careful cultivation of the little piece of vineyard He has intrusted to
their care. [144]
As a man “thinketh in his heart, so is he.” Many thoughts make
up the unwritten history of a single day; and these thoughts have
much to do with the formation of character. Our thoughts are to be
strictly guarded; for one impure thought makes a deep impression on
the soul. An evil thought leaves an evil impress on the mind. If the
thoughts are pure and holy, the man is better for having cherished
them. By them the spiritual pulse is quickened, and the power for
doing good is increased. And as one drop of rain prepares the way
for another in moistening the earth, so one good thought prepares
the way for another.
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132 Messages to Young People
The longest journey is performed by taking one step at a time.
A succession of steps brings us to the end of the road. The longest
chain is composed of separate links. If one of these links is faulty,
the chain is worthless. Thus it is with character. A well-balanced
character is formed by single acts well performed. One defect,
cultivated instead of being overcome, makes the man imperfect, and
closes against him the gate of the Holy City. He who enters heaven
must have a character that is without spot or wrinkle or any such
thing. Naught that defileth can ever enter there. In all the redeemed
host not one defect will be seen.
Faithfulness in Everyday Life
God’s work is perfect as a whole because it is perfect in every
part, however minute. He fashions the tiny spear of grass with as
much care as He would exercise in making a world. If we desire
[145] to be perfect, even as our Father in heaven is perfect, we must be
faithful in doing little things. That which is worth doing at all is
worth doing well. Whatever your work may be, do it faithfully.
Speak the truth in regard to the smallest matters. Each day do loving
deeds and speak cheerful words. Scatter smiles along the pathway
of life. As you work in this way, God will place His approval on
you, and Christ will one day say to you, “Well done, thou good and
faithful servant.”
At the day of judgment, those who have been faithful in their
everyday life, who have been quick to see their work and do it,
not thinking of praise or profit, will hear the words, “Come, ye
blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from
the foundation of the world.” Christ does not commend them for the
eloquent orations they have made, the intellectual power they have
displayed, or the liberal donations they have given. It is for doing
little things which are generally overlooked that they are rewarded.
“I was an hungered, and ye gave Me meat,” He says. “Inasmuch as
ye have done it unto one of the least of these My brethren, ye have
[146] done it unto Me.”—The Youth’s Instructor, January 17, 1901.
