Be Courteous by Geo. Wright

Publishing Committee · Battle Creek, Mich. · Dec 1, 1859

Be Courteous.

By Geo. Wright

In our intercourse with our fellow-men in this selfish and degenerate age, how pleasing it is to meet occasionally one who is affable and courteous, who has a kind word or happy smile for all. We are apt to feel at home in their society, especially if it emanates from a heart renewed by grace. Skillful business men understand this principle, and use it to win and retain custom. And shall the man of God be lacking in this principle? Should he not be courteous and kind? Peradventure he may win some to Christ. Of all persons in the world the Christian should be affable. If the fountain is pure the streams will be also. Eternity can only unfold what has and will be accomplished by kindness. But says one, I find it difficult to reduce this sentiment to practice. Such and such ones have injured me. A. passes me by in silence; B. treats me with contempt; C. has taken advantage of me, &c. The natural heart would say to all this, Resent it. But our blessed Lord saith, What is that to thee? follow thou me; I am meek and lowly in heart.

I entreat you, dear reader, to study the character and teaching of the Son of God. When he was reviled he reviled not again, but prayed for them that despitefully used him. I know by sad experience we cannot do this in our own strength. Perhaps few by nature are more sensitive, and disposed to resent an injury than myself; yet by the grace of God I have been enabled to obtain some victories over this besetment of late. I believe there is no course to be pursued that contributes more to that peace that passes all understanding than the consciousness that we are contributing to the happiness of others around us. There is nothing selfish or narrow about the glorious gospel of the Son of God. I would say to you then fellow-pilgrim, you that are truly trying to walk in that radiant path that shines more and more unto the perfect day, cultivate an even, cheerful, happy state of mind; live down that hackneyed saying of the ungodly, that religion is a gloomy thing. May the Lord enable us as a people to elevate the standard of piety still higher, and to adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things by a well ordered life and godly conversation. I would say again in the language of the apostle Peter, Be pitiful, be courteous. 1 Pet. iii, 8. The Lord help you and I, dear reader, to walk worthy of the vocation wherewith we are called, that we may truly be as the Lord requires of us, as a city set on a hill; to let our light so shine that others seeing our good works may be led to glorify our Father which is in heaven.

GEO. WRIGHT.

Lapeer, Mich.