these complaints. The workman would not have to complain of exploitation and treatment unworthy of a human being on the part of the masters, nor would the latter complain of insolence and excessive claims on the part of the former.
The Christian spirit renders the master just, and more than just, toward the workman, the workman contented, modest, and respectful; the Christian spirit renders the master the father of those whom he employs, and makes them to a certain extent his equals. Yes, if the Christian spirit had governed every strata of society, conditions would have been far more satisfactory; in spite of steam power and machinery we should have more independent workmen. However, if you, young man, belong to the working classes, you must constantly bear in mind the fact that dependence is not degradation. But it forms part of the scheme or economy of divine providence, that many, very many human beings do, and must live in this or a similar state of dependence.
If this lot has perhaps fallen to your share, see that you do not complain and murmur against the providence of God, and indulge in discontent in regard to your lot; do not consider this dependence to be something degrading, unworthy of a human being, and therefore to be spoken of with contempt. You may, and you should, strive to raise yourself to an independent position, through industry, energy, perseverance, prayer, and the use of lawful means. But to do this by defiance, insubordination, chicanery, unjust demands and actions, would be to rise up against the law and ordinance of God; would be a sin.
