Waiting or Doing
The sermon emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's providence and pleasing Him in all things, whether in times of rest or activity.
Mary Wilder Tileston preaches about the importance of contentment and obedience to God's will, emphasizing that whether we are called to worship in stillness or serve in busyness, we should do so with a light heart and a smooth brow. She highlights the blessing in accepting God's providence, whether it leads us to work or rest, and encourages maintaining tranquility and contentment in all circumstances by seeking to please God alone.
Text
As his share is that goeth down to the battle, so shall his share be that tarrieth by the stuff: they shall share alike.
--1 SAMUEL 30:24 (R. V.)
WORSHIP or service,--which? Ah, that is best
To which He calls us, be it toil or rest,--
To labor for Him in life's busy stir,
Or seek His feet, a silent worshipper.
--CAROLINE A. MASON
LET us no more yearn for present employment when God's providence bids us "be still," than we would think it good to yearn after cessation while God bids work. Shall we not miss a blessing if we call rest a weariness and a discontent, no less than if we called God's work a thankless labor? If we would be holy in body and spirit, shall we not keep smooth brow, light heart, whether He bids us serve His table, or wait our summons?
--EDWARD WHITE BENSON
He who acts with a view to please God alone, wishes to have that only which it pleases God that he should have, and at the time and in the way which may be most agreeable to Him: and, whether he have it or not, he is equally tranquil and contented, because in either case he obtains his wish, and fulfils his intention, which was no other than purely to please God.
--LORENZO SCUPOLI
Sermon Outline
- Waiting or Doing
- Understanding the Balance
- The Call to Worship or Service
- The Importance of Attitude
Key Quotes
“As his share is that goeth down to the battle, so shall his share be that tarrieth by the stuff: they shall share alike.” — Mary Wilder Tileston
“He who acts with a view to please God alone, wishes to have that only which it pleases God that he should have,” — Mary Wilder Tileston
Application Points
- Seek to please God in all things, and trust in His providence.
- Maintain a holy spirit and body by keeping a smooth brow and light heart, regardless of circumstances.
- Focus on trusting in God's will, rather than seeking present employment or activity.