Basic HTML Version
Builders of the Home
255
Be kind, patient, and forbearing, considerate, and courteous. By the
grace of God you can succeed in making each other happy, as in
your marriage vow you promised to do.
[362]
Happiness in Unselfish Service
But remember that happiness will not be found in shutting your-
selves up to yourselves, satisfied to pour out all your affection upon
each other. Seize upon every opportunity for contributing to the hap-
piness of those around you. Remember that true joy can be found
only in unselfish service.
Forbearance and unselfishness mark the words and acts of all
who live the new life in Christ. As you seek to live His life, striving
to conquer self and selfishness and to minister to the needs of others,
you will gain victory after victory. Thus your influence will bless
the world.
Men and women can reach God’s ideal for them if they will take
Christ as their helper. What human wisdom cannot do, His grace
will accomplish for those who give themselves to Him in loving
trust. His providence can unite hearts in bonds that are of heavenly
origin. Love will not be a mere exchange of soft and flattering words.
The loom of heaven weaves with warp and woof finer, yet more firm,
than can be woven by the looms of earth. The result is not a tissue
fabric, but a texture that will bear wear and test and trial. Heart will
be bound to heart in the golden bonds of a love that is enduring.
Better than gold is a peaceful home,
Where all the fireside charities come;
The shrine of love and the heaven of life,
Hallowed by mother, or sister, or wife.
However humble the home may be,
Or tried with sorrows by heaven’s decree,
The blessings that never were bought or sold,
And center there, are better than gold.
Anon.
[363]