| Strength and Beauty |
Chapter 2 |
Page 6 |
That is, the way to get one’s rights is not to care for them, but to give them up; the way to win honor among men is not to demand honor nor even to think of it; the way to achieve influence is never to plan or strive to have influence, but to think only of fulfilling love’s whole duty, regardless of cost, giving out the best of one’s life in self forgetful service, in Christ’s name for other.
All life confirms the truth of our Lord’s word: “Whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.” God loves to give us power when we do not desire or seek it for ourselves; but what we strive after for our own glory he does not wish us to have. There is always a crown for humility, but there is none for pride or self conceit.
A beautiful story is told of two great generals in the American Civil War. During General Sherman’s last campaign in the South, certain changes in commanders were made. General Howard was placed at the head of a special division. Soon after this the war closed and there was to be a grand review of the army at Washington. The night before the review, Sherman sent for Howard and said: “The political friends of the officer you succeeded are determined that he shall ride at the head of the corps, and I want you to help me out.”
“It is my command,” said Howard, “and I am entitled to ride at its head.” “Of course you are,” replied Sherman. “You lead the men through Georgia and the Carolinas; but, Howard, you are a Christian, and can stand the disappointment.”
“If you put it on that ground,” said Howard, “there is but one answer. Let him ride at the heard of the corps.” “Yes, let him have the honor,” said Sherman, “but you will report to me at nine o’clock, and will ride by my side at the head of the army.”
Howard protested, but his commander’s orders were positive. So, that day, in the grand review, the man who had yielded his rights had a place of higher honor at the head of the whole army. It is ever thus – the meek inherit the earth; those who forget themselves and serve without striving for place, in the end receive the truest honor before both God and man.
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