thought, the principle: "To every one his own," and the precept of brotherly love.
5. Truly, my friend, if you are obliged to pass your days in strenuous toil, in straitened circumstances, your rebel nature may incite you to discontent, to envy and covetousness. But beware of yielding to this temptation.
For envy and discontent gradually deprive those who indulge in them of the grace of God, and render them unable to enjoy such harmless pleasures as may come in their way. Discontent and covetousness embitter all enjoyment.
But, as I just said, if you are indeed animated by true Christian faith, this envy will be unable to find place in your heart. It may indeed knock at the door, but it can not enter and gain a firm footing there. The shield of faith, the helmet of hope, the breastplate of justice, will ward off these poisonous darts, so that they may not be able to inflict a mortal wound upon the heart.
Be content to play an insignificant part on this world's stage, and by your uprightness and honesty to secure for yourself one day an imperishable reward in heaven. Do not grudge to others a part which is frequently the occasion of eternal perdition. Let every one have his own, give to every one his due, and God will be your reward.
Friend, be upright, honest, true
Give to every one his due;
Happiness can not be gained
By what is wrongfully obtained
