Humility
by James H. Oliphant



Aug. 10, 1904

MY DEAR BROTHER HASSELL:--I just read in your paper the words---

'For sure of all the plants that share,

The notice of Thy Father"s eye,

None proves less grateful to His care,

Or yields Him meaner fruit than I.'

I read and re-read these words, and they seemed so true in my case I wanted to tell you about it. I have been saved from a self-righteous feeling, yet burdened with a sense of unworthiness. With me it is not only a feeling of unworthiness, but I know it is real unworthiness; so the mercy of God is my only hope. I also read and re-read the words: 'But Hezekiah rendered not again according to the benefits done unto him, for his heart was lifted up'; and, as I review my poor life, I know this too is true of me. I know God"s mercy to me has been great in temporal things, and I hope He has had mercy on me in the pardon of my sin, but I have not rendered again according to all these benefits.

Your brother in hope,

J. H. Oliphant