The wish of Many - The Possession of Few
The wish of many, the possession of few. Some seek it in money; some in a gratification of their passions; some in luxury and idleness, but find in the end their mistake. Contentment is the magic key which unlocks this seeming mystery. But how shall we obtain this magic key which unlocks this seeming mystery? Religion holds it out to us, and if we will, we have but to come forward and grasp it.
Writers tell us to “keep a clear conscience;” to “try and make others happy;” – to “live soberly,” &c. But these are only some of the fruits of religion, and are not able to ensure us that great and desirable boon of themselves; but if we are Christians all these will follow, as sure as the daylight succeeds the night. It is equally as impossible to be happy with morality, without Christianity, as it is for the flowers to bloom without the genial warmth of the sun. Morality does not secure us a refuge in adversity. The troubles and trials of life may press hard upon the Christian, but they do not cast him down; they but drive him to that friend who sticketh closer than a brother, and he is content in knowing that they are the visitations of infinite wisdom.
“It is dark when the grim hand of sickness has passed fearfully over us, with its deathly magnetic stroke, and left behind the life-enduring sorrows of blindness, decrepitude or debility. It is indeed dark when we are neglected for the fair and comely who abound in this gay and heartless world; cheer up, thou poor sufferer, for there be those among the angels who love thee, and thou wilt yet shine fair as they, when touched by the effulgent light above in heaven.”
This is the language of the Christian. Can the moralist use it? He cannot. Though he may have all the comforts possible in this world; though he may have acquired them honestly and honourably; though he may be surrounded by this smiling children and wife at his fireside home, yet there is something wanting to make him happy. He is satiated, but he is not content.
To be content in whatever position it shall please God to place us, - whether rich or poor, in health or in sickness, is perfect happiness. And contentment is only obtained by leading a truly Christian life.
W. P. F.