Phineas F. Bresee - A Prince In Israel - Media Sabda Org

Phineas F. Bresee
A PRINCE IN ISRAEL
By E. A. Girvin
CHAPTER 38
Characteristics -- Appearance and Manner -- As a Friend -- Humility -- Industry, Intensity,
and Self-Control -- Control of Time and Money -- Gift of Expression and Literary Style -- A
Poet in Soul -- Courage and Gentleness -- Charity -- Sympathy for Outcasts -- Serious in
Conversation -- An Impressive Incident -- Soul Life -- The Hymnology of the Church -- Pulpit
Preparation -- His Eloquence -- His Unction
Characteristics of Dr. Bresee
In some sense the General Assembly of 1907, marked perhaps the greatest epoch in the illustrious
career of Dr. Bresee, and I take it that this will be an appropriate place in the narrative of his life to
tell something of the impressions which I gathered of his real nature and personality during the many
happy years that I was privileged to enjoy his friendship and confidence.
Appearance and Manner
His noble brow, strong, regular features, large flashing black eyes, and firm but restful mouth,
were an appropriate index of the great soul that dwelt within. His complexion was dark, and until
his later years, his hair was black. His habitual expression was one of strength and repose.
Benevolence and benignancy shone in his countenance.
As a Friend
He was a loyal and self-sacrificing friend. Those who were thus favored, were always sure of his
hearty support and unwavering devotion. In his greeting of friends he was very warm and cordial,
and loved to have them visit him, and accept of the hospitality of himself and his good wife.
Although manifold in his labors, and always busy, he gladly took time to converse with all who came
to see him. He was the soul of hospitality, and when his friends or brethren were sick and needed a
home, he welcomed them with the cordial concurrence of Mrs. Bresee, to their abode. Though his
toils and responsibilities were never ended, he was always glad to meet a friend and have a chat with
him. His face would light up with pleasure, his greeting would be hearty, and his whole manner
would show that he was really pleased to see the caller.
He did not dwell in inaccessible heights. He made no pretense of being superhuman, never
patronized others, and was entirely free from that sanctimoniousness which mars the character of
some really good and gifted men. Plain and unassuming, he was easily approachable, and had a rare
knack of putting people at their ease, and making them feel at home. About him there was nothing
forbidding or austere. He was intensely human, had a keen sense of humor, and greatly enjoyed a
good joke. In the midst of the cares and responsibilities that rested so heavily upon him, he would
frequently relax and tell a funny story. He would laugh very heartily at anything which was really
witty or humorous. On these occasions he would often purse his lips, smile, bow his head a little, nod