DO you not think it would be difficult to find a happier and more contented face than that of little puss, which we have before us in the picture? No prince on his throne could look better satisfied than does this demure little creature, so comfortable in this great, rough shoe, her little paws inclined towards each other, and resting daintily on . the tongue which is hanging out, and which could not please her better, if it were made of softest velvet. Yes, kitty is contented, and gives herself no thought of care. The rough shoe, with its plain surroundings, is quite as good for her as a pillow of down in a palace would be. Can we draw a lesson from puss's happy face in her strange hiding place? God tells us in His word, "Be content with such things as ye have." A great many people want more than they have; they want riches and fine surroundings, and they make a great. effort to get these things; and in making the effort fall into temptations and snares and into many foolish and hurtful things, and this takes away their enjoyment and their happiness. They labor and toil for money, and if they get it, it does not bring them happiness or joy. There is a. gain that is very great, and that brings with it true joy. But this gain is not found in money. Let me tell you what it is, dear boys and girls, and I hope that every one of you will strive to get it, for it profits here, and will profit for eternity; while this world's riches, even should you get them, will bring no true joy, and they may any time make to themselves wings and flee away; and if not, it will be impossible for you to carry them into eternity. Now give attention while I give you a verse from God's word which tells us what this true and great gain is. "Godliness with contentment is great gain."
If you are walking with the Lord and are content with what you have, knowing that He is doing what is the very best thing for you, and that He has ordered all your circumstances in love, your gain will be more than you can compute. " But if you murmer at your lot, and complain against it, this will be to your sore loss. "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee; because he trusteth in Thee." — Isa. 36:33Then came forth unto him Eliakim, Hilkiah's son, which was over the house, and Shebna the scribe, and Joah, Asaph's son, the recorder. (Isaiah 36:3).
Messages of God’s Love 2/17/1901