CHARITY by J. Dorcas

Publishing Committee · Battle Creek, Mich. · Jul 22, 1858

CHARITY.

By J. Dorcas

It is said by one, that, "charity is the perfection of human nature." This is a good idea. But human nature, unaided, especially by the grace of God, can never arrive at that state of perfection, in which this grace can be exercised so as to please God, and save our souls.

A great deal might be said about charity; but in this article I would beg the privilege, merely, to stimulate to the free exercise of it among the brethren. In the first place, I would say, that none are truly commandment-keepers, who do not live in the daily practice of this grace. See 1 Tim. i, 5. "Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, &c." And they who are not subject to the Law of God, have the carnal mind. Rom. viii. 7.

Fleshly minded persons may go to great lengths in doing kind acts; but let us see to it that we are "spiritually minded" in all our kind offices toward each other. To know when our charity is right, see Paul's rule, "It edifies," 1 Cor. viii, 1, also all of chap. 13. In short, charity is that preparation of heart that will enable us to do right, in a right manner, from a right motive. This should be applied in every day life. 1 Cor. xvi, 14, "Let all your things be done with charity." We need not be afraid of going too far in the practice of this heavenly grace, if we have attained to the prerequisite, "have fervent charity among yourselves." 1 Pet. iv, 8. In view of this grace abounding, Paul rejoiced greatly. See 2 Thess. i, 3. "We are bound to thank God always for you brethren, because the charity of every one of you all towards each other aboundeth." But be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity. 1 Tim. iv, 12. And if, in the discharge of every duty, we should obey the injunction of Peter, "Greet ye one another with a kiss of charity," peace may be with us all who are in Christ Jesus. Amen. 1 Pet. v, 14. Now abideth faith, hope, charity.

*"And ever thus in this lower world, Should the banner of love be wide unfurled, And when we meet in the world above, May we love to live and live to love."*

J. DORCAS.

Fremont, O.