Being and Doing – 11 October – Consolation

THE heart sometimes grows jealous of itself, and is fearful of being glad.   We check the signs of returning joyfulness;  we would keep about us the signs of woe, careful for the monument, not content with the grave in the heart.   This must not be.   After the storm can the blue break out too quickly?   Every impulse towards returning happiness is of God.   Back to the old work then, with as much of the old care and diligence as may be.  In the words of the glorious old German, Richter, ‘The most beautiful wreath we can lay on the grave of our dead, is the fruit wreath of good deeds done to others.’

GEORGE DAWSON

HOW foolish it is not to enjoy with gratitude the consolations which God sends us after the afflictions He sometimes causes us to feel!   There is, it seems to me, great wisdom in enduring storms with resignation, and in enjoying the calm when it pleases Him to restore it to us, for this is to follow the ordinances of Providence.

Madame de SÉVIGNÉ

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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.