Practice Builds Christian Character by Henry Drummond

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · May 6, 1909

Practice Builds Christian Character

By Henry Drummond

If a man does not exercise his arm, he develops no muscle in his arm; and if a man does not exercise his soul, he acquires no strength of character, no vigor of moral fiber, no beauty of spiritual growth. Love is not a thing of enthusiastic emotion. It is a rich, strong, manly, vigorous expression of the whole Christian character—the Christlike nature in its fullest development. And the constituents of this great character are only to be built up by ceaseless practise.

What was Christ doing in the carpenter’s shop?—Practising. Though perfect, we read that he learned obedience, and “advanced in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.” Do not quarrel, therefore, with your lot in life. Do not complain of its never-ceasing cares, its petty environment, the vexations you have to stand, the small and sordid souls you have to live and work with. Above all, do not resent temptation; do not be perplexed because it seems to thicken round you more and more, and ceases neither for effort, nor for agony, nor for prayer. This is practise which God appoints you; and it is having its work in making you patient, and humble, and generous, and unselfish, and kind, and courteous. Do not grudge the hand that is molding the still too shapeless image within you. It is growing more beautiful, though you see it not, and every touch of temptation may add to its perfection. Therefore keep in the midst of life. Do not isolate yourself. Be among men and among things, among troubles and difficulties and obstacles.—Henry Drummond.