Individual Work by Methodist Recorder

International Tract and Missionary Society · Oakland, California · Aug 20, 1885

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 11, No. 32.

Individual Work.

By Methodist Recorder

EVERY one has his own work to do and his own cross to bear. God knows best what we are competent to perform and able to endure, and he assigns us our proper place in his vineyard. But we are not always contented with our lot. We would often prefer the place of others, regarding their work as easier and their burdens as lighter than our own. In this we commit two errors, first, in taking for granted what we do not know to be true, that the labor and suffering of others are less than our own. If we knew all about their work and their trials, we might come to a very different conclusion. Appearances are often deceptive, and are not always a true index to the reality. Were we able to change places with those whose condition we envy, we might soon be convinced of our folly and greatly regret our choice. In the second place, it is wrong for us to repine at our lot. Whatever God calls us to do or to suffer, we should cheerfully accept as the allotment of his hand. It may seem hard to us, but he knows what is best, and if we could see the end from the beginning, as he does, we would choose our present position. Instead, then, of envying others, and murmuring and complaining at our lot, let us learn, with the apostle, in whatsoever state we are therewith to be content, and faithfully perform its duties, and patiently endure its trials. This is true wisdom. To do otherwise would be great folly.

—Methodist Recorder.