Accusers of the Brethren.
By A. P. Lawton
Of this class there are not a few. If they could know the effect of their course upon themselves and others, there would be fewer who would volunteer in this work. We should be modest and slow to condemn others, lest we be found with spots on our own garments, and “physician, heal thyself” be written there. We should not dare to reprove our brother, until we are pretty sure we ourselves are in the clear light. But are we not our brother's keeper? If we feel as Jesus felt when he wept over Jerusalem, then, perhaps, we might trust ourselves to reprove others. We should pray for each other. It is not to be supposed that there will be no wrongs to be corrected; but oh! how carefully, skillfully, and tenderly, lest we hurt the oil and the wine. Being filled with the Spirit ourselves is the most effectual way of reproving others for their lack of it. If brethren at variance would dig deep, and obtain the priceless pearls found only in the vale of humility and self-renunciation, with countenances beaming with holy, heavenly joy, there would be no more use for church trials. We should be anxious to confess our own sins, thus saving our brother the painful necessity. God is ready to help us if we will let him. If we will open the door of our hearts, by confessing and forsaking our sins, he will come in to us, and will sup with us, and we with him. Who for the sake of such a guest would not part with everything that hinders? What if it is crossing to our carnal natures. Let nature die, and Jesus live in us. God has provided great blessings for the willing and the obedient, and has lovingly invited us to come. Will any stay away from so rich a feast, provided without money and without price? My poor heart cries out, I come, O Lord, I come.