“I have yet to speak on God’s behalf.” Job 36:2 (KJV)
We ought not to court publicity for our virtue, or notoriety for our zeal. But, at the same time, it is a sin to be always seeking to hide that which God has bestowed upon us for the good of others.
A Christian is not to be a village in a valley, but “a city set upon a hill.” He is not to be a candle under a bushel, but a candle in a candlestick, giving light to all. Retirement may be lovely in its season, and to hide one’s self is doubtless modest, but the hiding of Christ in us can never be justified, and the keeping back of truth which is precious to ourselves is a sin against others and an offence against God.
If you are of a nervous temperament and of retiring disposition, take care that you do not too much indulge this trembling propensity, lest you should be useless to the church. Seek in the name of him who was not ashamed of you to do some little violence to your feelings, and tell to others what Christ has told to you. If you cannot speak with trumpet tongue, use the still small voice. If the pulpit must not be your tribune, if the press may not carry on its wings your words, yet say with Peter and John, “Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee.” Talk to the Samaritan woman by Sychar’s well if you cannot preach a sermon on the mountain. Utter the praises of Jesus in the house if not in the temple, in the field if not upon the exchange, and in the midst of your own household if you cannot in the midst of the great family of man. From the hidden springs within, let sweetly flowing rivulets of testimony flow forth, giving drink to every passer-by. Do not hide your talent, but trade with it, and you will bring in good interest to your Lord and Master. To speak for God will be refreshing to ourselves, cheering to saints, useful to sinners, and honoring to the Savior. Lord, unloose all your children’s tongues.
Adapted from Morning and Evening.
