Unless we cast aside all thoughts of ourselves and, in a sense, cease
each individual constructs a kingdom within their own heart. The arrogant pass judgment on the minds and manners of others to satisfy themselves, and when strife arises, their venomous nature is laid bare. Many may exhibit a semblance of gentleness as long as everything goes smoothly and harmoniously, but how few are capable of maintaining the same demeanor of moderation when provoked and agitated? There is no other remedy for this ailment than to uproot the pernicious weeds of self-love and the desire for victory. This is precisely what the teachings of Scripture accomplish. They remind us that the endowments we possess are not our own but rather gifts freely bestowed by God, and those who boast in them betray ingratitude. As Paul asks, "Who makes you different from anyone else? What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as though you did not?" (1 Corinthians 4:7). Therefore, through diligent self-examination, let us remain humble. By doing so, our pride will find no nourishment, while there will be much to tame and subdue it. Moreover, we are instructed to regard with reverence and respect the gifts of God present in others, honoring those in whom they reside. Since God has chosen to bestow honor upon them, it would be inappropriate for us to deprive them of it. Likewise, we are encouraged to overlook their faults, not by flattery but by refusing to insult those whom we ought to regard with honor and goodwill. By adhering to these principles in all our interactions, our conduct will not only be characterized by moderation and humility but also by kindness and friendship. The path to true meekness lies in cultivating a humble opinion of ourselves and a genuine respect for others within our hearts.
5. How arduous is the task of seeking the good of our neighbor! Unless we cast aside all thoughts of ourselves and, in a sense, cease to be ourselves, we will never fulfill it. How can we manifest those works of charity that Paul describes unless we renounce ourselves and wholly dedicate ourselves to others? Charity, as Paul says, is patient and kind. It does not envy or boast; it is not proud or rude. It does not seek its own interests, nor is it easily provoked (1
Corinthians 13:4-5). If seeking not our own were the only requirement, nature would have no power to comply. It inclines us so strongly to love ourselves alone that it is unwilling to allow us to pass by ourselves and our own concerns, so that we may attend to the interests of others and selflessly yield our rights to another. But Scripture, in leading us to this, reminds us that everything we receive from the Lord is granted on the condition that we employ it for the common good of the Church. Therefore, the rightful use of all our gifts is to generously and kindly share them with others. There can be no surer rule or stronger exhortation to observe it than when we are taught that all the endowments we possess are divine deposits entrusted to us for the very purpose of being distributed for the benefit of our neighbor. Scripture goes even further, likening these endowments to the various members of the body. Just as no member functions for itself or seeks its own private use, but transfers its function to fellow members, deriving its benefit in common with the entire body, so too should the godly individual act. Whatever a pious person can do, they are bound to do for their brethren, not seeking their own interests apart from earnestly striving for the collective edification of the Church. Let this, then, be our approach to showing goodwill and kindness, recognizing that in all that God has bestowed upon us and by which we can assist our neighbor, we are His stewards and accountable for our stewardship. Moreover, the only proper mode of administration is that which is governed by love. In doing so, we will not only unite the pursuit of our neighbor's advantage with regard to our own but also subordinate the latter to the former. Lest we overlook this as the law for faithfully administering every gift we receive from God, He Himself applied this law to the smallest expressions of His own kindness. He commanded the first fruits to be offered to Him as a testimony by the people that it was impious to reap any benefit from goods not previously consecrated to Him (Exodus 22:29; Exodus 23:19). If the gifts of God are not sanctified to us until we personally dedicate them to the Giver, it would be a gross misuse to show no signs of such dedication. It is futile to argue that our offerings cannot enrich the Lord. Although, as the Psalmist declares, "You are my Lord; apart