| The Life of Dr. J.R. Miller |
Chapter 1 |
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Yet he took equal delight in studying the book of Nature which was spread out so entrancingly before him. Those who are familiar with the scenery of the Ohio Valley, especially in the vicinity of Beaver, know that no praise of its beauty can be called extravagant. In the autumn season especially, the fields and forests of that region present a wealth of beauty. Long walks in the country and extended rowing excursions on the river increased his love for God and God’s world and all mankind.
Busy as he was – in preparation for recitation, in hearing his own classes, in athletic interests – he had time for the ministry to others for which he was always known. A daughter of Matthew Duff, an assistant in the school, wrote in the summer of 1912:
“I have heard both father and mother speak of the way J.R. Miller had of doing little kindnesses that boys are not in the habit of doing. One such kindness was taking care of me one night when I was a very sick baby and my parents were worn out… It has been my habit for years to read to mother from Dr. Miller’s ‘Year Book.’ I don’t think she ever realized that he had grown old.”
Very early in life he had begun to manifest a deep interest in vital personal religion, and this was intensified during the first winter at the academy. Those who were his fellow student speak of him as a young man of prayer. He was a regular and devout worshipper in the church, where his voice joined heartily in leading its service of praise. He despised ostentation in religion, yet religion was to him a matter of daily life, and it shone out in every word and deed. One has said, “His life was a happy illustration of the Master’s promise, ‘He that believeth on me, from within him shall flow rivers of living water.’”
He made no parade of the fact that his fullness of life came from God, yet his intimate relations with God could not be hidden. His associates knew that his life was renewed by daily contact with Him whom, even then, he was fond of calling his Friend.
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