p. 151 | Discontent

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Oct 24, 1871

Discontent.

The immediate causes of discontent are numberless. Some of those who seem to have all that earth can bestow—wealth, station, education, friends, and talent, are the least satisfied. Trifles disconcert them. A wet day, an ill-fitting garment, a broken engagement, a slight disappointment, are sufficient to destroy their peace of mind, and render them slaves to vexation and chagrin. The main cause of discontent, however, is always to be found within. It has its origin in selfishness. Directly we forget ourselves in our efforts for others, we strike at the very root of all discontent. The truly benevolent, loving man is seldom tormented by vain regrets at his own circumstances, and he who inwardly repines and chafes at his situation, and who is harrassed by the spirit of discontent, can in no surer way free himself from the chains that enslave him, than by turning his thoughts and energies to some good work for others. There are no blessings, however rich, that discontent will not convert into evils, and no trials, however severe, that serenity and virtue may not transform into blessings.