The Test of Character

January 1, 1970

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It is not the conduct which is seen on the surface that makes for greatness of character, but the motive which underlies conduct. Most men are hones when it is to their advantage to be honest, but the test of character comes in being honest when to do so means personal loss and sacrifice. Many men will give freely of their means for a good cause when it seems to be the popular thing to do, but the test of generosity and brotherly kindness lies in giving when it is difficult to give or when there is no spotlight and no applause. Most men carry with them a veneer of courtesy and chivalry when the stage is set for such things, but the test of a gentleman and a virtuous man lies in his conduct in such matters when there are no other eyes on him. Neither the veneer of education, nor social acceptance nor a good publicity agent is proof of sterling qualities, no able to erase the differences where there is lack of them. Greatness of character is determined only by that which a man and his God do not keep secret from each other. To this point of view the Savior of mankind pains His respects in the Sermon on the Mount when He suggested that men do and be what they are in secret and “thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly.”

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