| The Best Things in Life |
Chapter 5 |
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There is special reference to temptation when sympathy with weakness is mentioned. Christ is touched with the feeling of our infirmities, for he was tempted in all points like we are. He knows all about temptation. When we are in the midst of the struggle, and when it seems to us we cannot hold out, he sympathizes with us, and is most gentle toward us. If we are in danger of falling, he helps us to overcome.
An English naval officer told a grateful story of the way he was helped and saved from dishonour in his first experience in battle. He was a midshipman, fourteen years old. The volleys of the enemy’s musketry so terrified him that he almost fainted. The officer over him saw his state, and came close beside him, keeping his own face toward the enemy, and held the midshipman’s hand, saying in a calm quiet, affectionate way, “Courage, my boy! You will recover in a minute or two. I was just so when I went into my first battle.” The young man said afterwards that it was as if an angel had come to him, and put new strength into him. The whole burden of his agony of fear was gone, and from that moment he was as brave as the oldest of the men. If the officer had dealt sternly with the midshipman, he might have driven him to cowardly failure. His kindly sympathy with him dispelled all fear, put courage into his heart, and made him brave for battle.
It is thus that Christ is touched with a feeling of our infirmity when, assailed by sudden temptation, we quail and are afraid. He comes up close beside us and says, “I understand. I met a temptation just like yours that tried me very sorely. I felt the same dread you feel. I suffered bitterly that day. I remember it. Be brave and strong, and your fear will vanish, and you will be victorious.” Then he takes our hand, and the thrill of his sympathy and of his strength comes into our hearts, dispelling all fear.
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