And the constituents of this
great character are only to be built up by
Ceaseless practice.
What was Christ doing in the carpenter's shop? Practising. Though
perfect, we read that he LEARNED obedience, and grew in wisdom
and in favor with God. Do not quarrel, therefore, with your lot
in life. Do not complain of its never-ceasing cares, its petty
environment, the vexations you have to stand, the small and sordid
souls you have to live and work with. Above all, do not resent
temptation; do not be perplexed because it seems to thicken round
you more and more, and ceases neither for effort nor for agony nor
prayer. That is your practice. That is the practice which god
appoints you; and it is having its work in making you patient, and
humble, and generous, and unselfish, and kind, and courteous. Do
not grudge the hand that is moulding the still too shapeless image
within you. It is growing more beautiful, though you see it not;
and every touch of temptation may add to its perfection. Therefore
keep in the midst of life. Do not isolate yourself. Be among
men and among things, and among troubles, and difficulties, and
obstacles. You remember Goethe's words: "Talent develops itself
in solitude; character in the stream of life." Talent develops
itself in solitude--the talent of prayer, of faith, of meditation,
of seeing the unseen; character grows in the stream of the world's
life.
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