HERE is a little girl watching by the cradle of sleeping baby. She is not idly sitting there, longing for the times to pass, and murmuring because she has to watch the little one. Oh! no; fingers and thoughts are both busy. How earnest and patient she looks as she occupies herself with the knitting in her hands! Instead of discontent, which so many children feel when called upon to care for baby, there is a patient, sweet expression on her face that shows her task is being happily fulfilled.
Do you not think it is better, dear children, to do what we have to dc cheerfully, than to be full of growling and discontent? In the one case we will be happy and will make others happy; in the other case we will be miserable and will cast a shadow and gloom about us.
And let us seek to use well the time that God has given us, as this dear girl seems to be doing. When her task is over, perhaps she will get out for a nice play; and what a light, happy heart she can have after having been so faithful in duty.
When we work, let us work cheerfully and well. God tells us, “whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might.” Eccles. 9:1010Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest. (Ecclesiastes 9:10). Then, when the work is all done, will come the rest and pleasures. When the workers for Jesus have finished their work, they will have a sweet rest, and an eternity of pleasures and joy.
“In Thy presence is fulness of joy; at Thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.” Ps. 16:11.
ML 05/04/1902