Lost Opportunities by A. I. Chipman

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Mar 21, 1871

Lost Opportunities.

By A. I. Chipman

Does a day ever pass, upon which we can look back without feelings of regret that we have done so little to promote the happiness of those with whom we have associated? The world is full of sin and suffering. Many a heavy heart is made still heavier by the thought that no one cares for them. A kind word or pleasant smile would often encourage the desponding, or help to lift the cloud from some troubled brow. Perhaps some proof of friendly interest, some expression of love and good will, might reclaim a wanderer who, through temptation, had strayed from the path of rectitude and peace.

The world is one vast field of labor, and in it all can find something to do; something exactly suited to their abilities, and the circumstances in which they are placed. And yet how many of us go through the labor of the day, our thoughts absorbed in our own selfish interests, thinking only of our own trials, temptations, and discouragements, without even reflecting that others may have as great discouragements as we have, or even greater.

If the heart is filled with love to God, and to those around us, and glows with a strong desire to do something every day for Jesus, there will be no room left for gloom and despondency. In the great day of final reckoning, we shall not only be held accountable for the sins committed, but for the good left undone, for all the golden opportunities allowed to pass by unimproved.

May the Lord help us all to make a wise use of the time he has given us, that when Jesus comes, we may have our work done, and well done, and we be permitted to enter into the rest which remains for those who love his appearing. A. I. CHIPMAN. Battle Creek, Mich.