p. 13 | Think on These Things by F. A. Zappe

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Tacoma Park Station, Washington, D.C. · Aug 8, 1907

“Think on These Things”

By F. A. Zappe

F. A. ZAPPE

Ever since sin entered the world, there have been disagreeable things to behold and think of, as sin is that offensive germ which has been and is developing undesirable traits of character in humanity. All the sons and daughters of Adam naturally have some things about them which are usually regarded as faults. These often vary in manifestation in different individuals, yet all are of the same unchristlike character. For example: One may be especially weak in the matter of controlling his temper, unable to remain calm and sweet under the various trying circumstances of life; while another may not have this particular weakness, yet is perhaps more inclined to covet that which is his neighbor’s.

Be the faults of greater or less magnitude, if not controlled and completely rooted out, they will surely do their work, as do the germs of a fatal disease. And the only remedy that will enable us to successfully overcome hereditary and habitual tendencies is the transforming power of God, and our constant co-operation with that power.

It is not the writer’s purpose to make prominent the disagreeable and unlovely, as this is uncalled for. It is not necessary to invite one’s attention to the faults or failings of another, and request him to meditate thereon, as all these things are very often too freely discussed by people of the world, and not only they, but sad to say, by many of those professing to have Christlikeness manifested in their lives. Certainly this has often proved to be very injurious. It has grieved the Holy Spirit, and caused protecting angels to withdraw. Our Heavenly Father looks with great displeasure upon it.

Could we as brethren and sisters actually realize how much we harm others and sap our own souls of the Christ-life by talking of and thinking about the unpleasant things in others, there would be many heartfelt confessions made ere the judgment hour closes, ere the door of mercy swings shut forever.

What a change for the better would be seen today in the home and in the church if its members would accustom themselves to think only on such things as would tend to help them love their fellow beings as Christ loves them.

How helpful it would prove in maintaining a strong Christian experience, if, when tempted to fret because of evil doers, or to talk about the faults and mistakes of some of our neighbors, we would quietly rehearse that notable text of Scripture recorded in Phil. 4:8: “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”

Philbrook, Minn.