Trouble often came out of nowhere to muddle up life.”
–Cliff Hudgins (Viejo and the Ranger)
“But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you are blessed. And do not be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled.”
–1 Peter 3:14 (NKJV)
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I’ve mentioned this week that we need to have fellowship with master disciples from the past, as well as the idea of developing a personal mission statement. Today, I want to share something from General Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson’s private writings. I picked this up from Terry Tuley’s book, Battlefields of Blessing: Civil War.
We must always be people of integrity, men and women of honor and righteousness. Ponder the following by General Jackson.
1) Through life let your principle object be the discharge of duty.
2) Disregard public opinion.
3) Sacrifice life rather than your word.
4) Endeavor to do well everything which you undertake.
5) Never speak disrespectfully without cause.
6) Spare no effort to suppress selfishness.
7) Avoid trifling conversation.
In his notes he further said, “Avoid bad company; there is danger of catching their habits.”
Good character takes work. It doesn’t happen overnight. There must be trials, tests, storms that need come your way to help knock off the rough edges of your character. The Holy Spirit has His part as well, and He will look to it. Don’t hinder Him.
In years past I have written much about a key word that few understand today–DUTY. People have their agenda or follow an immoral agenda posted by others. Few really understand the concept of true duty. Solomon spent a life of misery. Oh, he had wealth, fame, and power. The world was at his fingertips, but when old age came his way he said it was all vanity. There was one thing required: DUTY.
“Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.”
–Ecclesiastes 12:13(NIV)
Come to think of it, that would make quite a personal missions statement!