WE LIKE to see animals enjoy their food, especially when they have been working hard. The three horses in our picture are hungry; we hope they will be given more feed and be treated kindly. Each one seems to be eating quietly, and not trying to get the other’s portion. But this is not always true with animals: we often see them quarrel and fight to get what belongs to the other.
Do boys and girls ever act this way? How naughty it is for little brothers and sisters to fuss and quarrel over the same toys or over something good to eat. Each heart is naturally so very, very selfish, that it wants to please itself rather than the other child. Even tiny folks should be taught to give up to one another. The Bible tells us not only not to think on our own things and to want our own way, but to think also on the things of others. Christian boys and girls ought to be interested in the welfare of others, and be pleased when they succeed. We find many grown people though, who are jealous of their friends and neighbors who have better things than they. The Lord Jesus would have us who know Him, be happy and contented with just what He has given us. In 1 Tim. 6:66But godliness with contentment is great gain. (1 Timothy 6:6) we read, “Godliness with contentment is great gain.” So the important thing for Christians is, to live a life that is pleasing to God—a godly life and a contented heart? The happiest people are those whose thoughts are not centered upon themselves, but who are really anxious to do for others in Jesus’ name.
Are you interested in knowing that your associates are saved? Do you seek to comfort those in need, by words and deeds that are Christ-like? Think what the loving Saviour has done and is doing for you, dear children, and surely it will bring forth love from your heart to Him and others.
ML 12/22/1912