p. 17 | The Duty That Is Nearest

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Dec 28, 1911

The Duty That Is Nearest

“Do the duty that lies nearest thee, which thou knowest to be a duty. Thy second duty will already have become clearer.” So wrote Thomas Carlyle to those who were perplexed about what they ought to do.

His advice is fundamental and the very heart of wisdom. It is also a key to unlock the doors of uncertainty in every direction. Young men often never discover what their life-work is to be until they begin at humble tasks near at hand. One of our most successful business men began work at a dollar and a quarter a day as a common laborer, after having graduated from a technical school. He found himself and his career while at this work.

The shortest way to the peace of God and to spiritual power is often by self-forgetful service in the name of God, with insignificant work near at hand. The work may seem to have no relation to the soul’s larger interests, and none whatever to the tasks of a lifetime; and yet in the doing of it with faith and love the disciple finds himself in the presence of God, walking on his life’s great highway.

“Do the duty that lies nearest thee.” Do it with a loving heart. Do it in confidence that God will assign the highest and most useful tasks that are possible to those whom he can trust.—Selected.