Being and Doing – 18 May – Trifles

A SINGLE sin, however apparently trifling, however hidden in some obscure corner of our consciousness, a sin which we do not intend to renounce, is enough to render real prayer impracticable.   A course of action not wholly upright and honourable, feelings not entirely kind and loving, habits not spotlessly chaste and temperate, any of these are impassable obstacles.   If we know of a kind act which we might, but do not intend to perform, if we be aware that our moral health requires the abandonment of some pleasure which yet we do not intend to abandon – here is cause enough for the loss of all spiritual power.

F. P. COBBE

THERE are many things that appear trifles, which greatly tend to enervate the soul, and hinder its progress in the path to virtue and glory.  The habit of indulging in things which our judgment cannot thoroughly approve grows stronger and stronger by every act of self-gratification, and we are led on by degrees to all excess of luxury which must greatly weaken our hands in the spiritual warfare.  If we do not endeavour to do that which is right in every particular circumstance, though trifling, we shall be in great danger of letting the same negligence take place in matters more essential. 

MARGARET WOODS

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These quotes are from ‘Being and Doing’ A selection of helpful thoughts from various authors arranged for daily reading.

Collected by Constance M Whishaw and first published in 1908 for members of the Being and Doing Guild whose object is to do all they can for the relief of suffering and misery.

Most of the writers are 19th Century Christians from Britain and Europe who were committed to living their faith through deeds as well as words – Being AND Doing.

For many years these words have kept me company and encouraged me on the journey of faith.  I hope they will encourage others also.