Related commentaries – Wages

A Right Attitude in Service – Matthew 20:1 – 20:16

General Gordon’s Humility

General Charles G. Gordon was an outstanding man of God. When the English government wanted to reward him for his distinguished service in China, he declined all money and titles. Finally, after much arguing, he accepted a gold medal inscribed with his name and a record of his accomplishments. Following his death, however, it could not be found among his belongings. It was learned that on a certain date he had sent it to Manchester during a famine with the request that it be melted and used to buy bread for the poor. In his private diary for that day were written these words: “The only thing I had in this world that I valued, I have now given to the Lord Jesus.” (Encyclopedia of Illustrations #11446).