Look for the Good

[Daily Devotional]

Look for the Good 

     Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are
honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever
things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any
virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Phil. 4:8.  

     We are a part of the great web of humanity. We become changed into the
image of that upon which we dwell. Then how important to open our hearts to
the things that are true and lovely and of good report. Let into the heart
the light of the Sun of Righteousness. Do not cherish one root of
bitterness.  

     Christ was infinite in wisdom and yet He thought best to accept Judas,
although He knew what were his imperfections of character. John was not
perfect; Peter denied his Lord; and yet it was of men like these that the
early Christian church was organized. Jesus accepted them that they might
learn of Him what constitutes a perfect Christian character. The business of
every Christian is to study the character of Christ. . . .  

     Judas alone did not respond to divine enlightenment. . . . He braced
his soul to resist the influence of the truth; and while he practiced
criticising and condemning others, he neglected his own soul, and cherished
and strengthened his natural evil traits of character until he became so
hardened that he could sell his Lord for thirty pieces of silver.  

     O let us encourage our souls to look to Jesus! . . .  

     It is not an uncommon thing to see imperfection in those who carry on
God's work. . . . Would it not be more pleasing to God to take an impartial
outlook, and see how many souls are serving God and glorifying and honoring
Him with their talents of means and intellect? Would it not be better to
consider the wonderful, miracle-working power of God in the transformation
of poor degraded sinners. . .? The most unfavorable matters . . . should not
cause us to feel perplexed and discouraged. Everything that causes us to see
the weakness of humanity is in the Lord's purpose to help us to look to Him,
and in no case put our trust in man, or make flesh our arm.  

>From That I May Know Him - Page 182