One Step: Reformation in the Heart

Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, you which are spiritual, restore such as one, in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest you also be tempted. Gal 6:1

We are threads in the great web of humanity, and, as such, related with each other. Our life leaves upon the minds of others impressions which will be transferred even into eternity. Angels take note of our works, of our words, of the spirit which actuates us. Those who desire to reform others must begin the reformation in their own hearts, and show that they have acquired kindliness and humility of heart in the school of Christ. Those who have charge of others must learn first to master themselves, to refrain from blunt expressions and exaggerated censure. There are cutting words which are indulged in, which may offend, hurt, and leave upon a soul a scar which will remain. There are sharp words that fall as sparks upon an inflammable temper. There are biting words that bite like vipers.

Intimate connections between imperfect, defective characters may often, as a result, do great harm to both persons, for Satan has more influence upon their minds than the Spirit of Jesus. They do not consider each other under a true and impartial light, but under the most unfavorable light possible. By trying to correct evil in a hasty, cross spirit, two evils will be created instead of correcting one. Mutual support is essential. It is the fruit if the Spirit which grows upon the Christian tree.

A radical conversion must take place as regards the manner in which the various minds are to be dealt with. If every apparent injustice is considered as an affront; if amends for every slight injury are required with a spirit different from the spirit of Christ; if harsh language is used; if for difficulties, small or great, a spirit of impatience is manifested which stirs up and irrates, there will soon be a state of things worse than, if nothing had been done to correct the evil. If such dispositions are entertained by believers; if everyone feels free to utter hasty words, we shall have miserable hearts, miserable families, and in the church, discord and dissension.

But there is a Christlike way of settling all these things. The presence of Christ's love in the heart will lead to love the very ones who are astray and who are in the wrong...

"Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in humility that comes from wisdom. But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such "wisdom" does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, of the devil. For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness. (James 3:18)

Taking A Step. Looking Up.

Character is Tested - Learning the Art of Forgiveness

Clouds and darkness are round about Him: righteousness and judgement are the habitation of His throne. Ps 97:2

God will test the character on every point. He has a Father's heart, and He bears long with His children. In His dealings with the children of Israel He pleaded with them in mercy and love. Patiently He set their sins before them, and in forbearance waited for them to see and acknowledge their wrongs. When they repented and confessed their sins, He forgave them; and though the offense was often repeated, there were no taunting words spoken, no resentment expressed.

Christ plainly stated that though one sin again and again, he is to be forgiven if he repents, even should he sin till seventy time seven..

Words are a talent, given to us in trust, and God will multiply every investment that is made in His love and in His fear. He will lift up and sustain the very ones who need sustaining... Remember that silence is eloquence. To expatiate as has been the custom of some separates the soul from God, and brings condemnation...

Let there be much praying and less talking of the mistakes of others. By much prayer let self be wholly consecrated to God. Then work with all the facilities and powers God has given to help one another to reach a higher standard. Minister in concert with the ministering angels, and an experience will be gained that will be of the highest value.

The converting power of God needs to be seen upon the tongue, restraining the words that should not be spoken. Then the Holy Spirit will be revealed, binding together, not separating...

All who desire to be among the number who will stand before God without fault must begin without delay the practical work of overcoming. The Lord permits trials to come in order that we may be cleansed from earthliness, from selfishness, and from harsh unChristlikeness of character. He desires to create in every heart a deep and earnest longing to be cleansed from every stain of sin, that we may COME FORTH PURER, holier, and happier from every trial which He permits. Our souls become darkened by selfishness, but if we can only see Jesus, there will be a dying to self. Changes will be made in word and action. If we are patient under the crucial test, we shall come forth reflecting the image of the Master. "He shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, and thy judgement of the noonday."

- Looking Up -