Clergy/Leaders’ Mail-list No. 0-204 (Practical Christian Living)

THE END OF A MATTER IS BETTER by David Virtue

“The end of a matter is better than its beginning, and patience is better than pride. Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools.” – Ecclesiastes 7:8-9 Jonas Salk was born in New York City in 1914. He entered the City College of New York intending to study law, but soon became intrigued by medical science. In 1938, he was interning under microbiologist Thomas Francis, Jr. when they discovered a vaccine for influenza. It was used by the armed forces during World War II. In 1947, he became the head of the Virus Research Lab at the University of Pittsburgh Medical School. While working there, with the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis, Salk saw an opportunity to develop a vaccine against polio, and devoted himself to this work for the next eight years. In 1955 Salk’s years of research paid off and his vaccine has virtually eliminated polio in many parts of the world. During his research, Dr. Salk had his share of critics. At one point, he made an interesting observation about the nature of criticism. “First,” he said, “people will tell you that you are wrong. Then they will tell you that you are right, but what you’re doing really isn’t important. Finally, they will admit that you are right and that what you are doing is very important; but after all, they knew it all the time.” During any difficult undertaking, you will encounter criticism and discouragement. Take heart, for if the Lord wants you to do it, it will get done! Are you facing an uphill battle? Today in prayer, thank Christ that He is with you and is committed to see the undertaking through to its completion. “Criticism is easier than craftsmanship.” – Zeuxis, Greek painter. God’s Word: “Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun.” – Psalm 37:5-6 From the Virtuosity Digest: David Virtue <>