We ought not to court publicity for our virtue, or notoriety for
our zeal; but, at the same time, it is a sin to be always seeking to
hide that which God has bestowed upon us for the good of others. A
Christian is not to be a village in a valley, but "a city set upon a
hill;" he is not to be a candle under a bushel, but a candle in a
candlestick, giving light to all. Retirement may be lovely in its
season, and to hide one's self is doubtless modest, but the hiding of
Christ in us can never be justified, and the keeping back of truth
which is precious to ourselves is a sin against others and an offence
against God. If you are of a nervous temperament and of retiring
disposition, take care that you do not too much indulge this
trembling propensity, lest you should be useless to the church. Seek
in the name of Him who was not ashamed of you to do some little
violence to your feelings, and tell to others what Christ has told to
you. If thou canst not speak with trumpet tongue, use the still small
voice. If the pulpit must not be thy tribune, if the press may not
carry on its wings thy words, yet say with Peter and John, "Silver
and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee." By Sychar's
well talk to the Samaritan woman, if thou canst not on the mountain
preach a sermon; utter the praises of Jesus in the house, if not in
the temple; in the field, if not upon the exchange; in the midst of
thine own household, if thou canst not in the midst of the great
family of man. From the hidden springs within let sweetly flowing
rivulets of testimony flow forth, giving drink to every passer-by.
Hide not thy talent; trade with it; and thou shalt bring in good
interest to thy Lord and Master. To speak for God will be refreshing
to ourselves, cheering to saints, useful to sinners, and honouring to
the Saviour. Dumb children are an affliction to their parents. Lord,
unloose all Thy children's tongue.
