The Liberal Man Who Devises Liberal Things

Isaiah 32:8 presents the liberal man as one possessed of generous and benevolent feelings—a person of large views and public spirit, far above covetousness and self-seeking, ever desirous to promote the welfare of his country and the best interests of his fellowmen.

There exists a natural liberality, constitutional to certain temperaments. From earliest days, some evince benevolent disposition. Yet natural liberality operates chiefly in promoting temporal welfare alone, rarely concerning itself with the precious, undying soul and the eternity toward which we hasten.

The truly liberal character, however, is indebted to a higher source than human nature. As water cannot rise higher than its fountain, neither can man develop character exceeding his inheritance. Though feelings of amiability have survived the Fall, all human character—however lovely—bears the universal attribute of decay. The heart remains deceitful above all things and desperately wicked, as Jeremiah declares.

The world constantly overlooks the agency of Elohim's Spirit, crediting human education, example, or philosophy for what is truly the fruit of the Spirit. This was the burden of W. Runciman's observation.

The liberal man's distinguishing mark lies not merely in doing liberal things, but in devising them. Any wealthy person may give largely. But to originate and carry forward plans for mankind's improvement requires wisdom, energy, patience, and genuine benevolence. The devising demands far greater expenditure of mind and labor than the doing.