p. 155 | CHRISTIAN DUTIES by D. F. G.

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Nov 15, 1877

CHRISTIAN DUTIES.

By D. F. G.

To benefit the soul is a greater work than to benefit the body; in fact, the former includes the latter. Experience has shown that to bring individuals and communities under the controlling influence of religious principle, is the most efficient means of promoting their happiness and prosperity. The conquests of Christ’s kingdom over evil, are always conquests of love. It is our duty to love our enemies, while we may hate their practices. It is not required that we love them as we love the virtuous and lovely.

In order to do good to others, it is necessary that we deny ourselves. Nature prompts parents to practice self-denial for the sake of their children. Christ said, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” The self-denial practiced must be the self-denial required by duty. It is our duty to make others happy; it is our duty to cultivate a cheerful spirit; and no one can be cheerful while suffering from remorse. The gathering cloud of gloom may be dispelled by active efforts to do good. The imagination must not be allowed to form gloomy images. Things should be viewed as they are, and right views of God’s providential government entertained. No one need be gloomy who has a Heavenly Father pledged to supply all his wants, one who has declared that all things shall work together for good to those who love him. If we love him, we shall keep his commandments, and they are not grievous.

Brethren and sisters, let us strive to do our duty, and then we have the assurance that every one that trusts in Jesus shall be safe in Christ, when the day of Judgment and perdition comes. D. F. G.