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Testimonies for the Church Volume 3
Such integrity is needed in the office of publication, where solemn,
sacred truths are going forth, upon which the world is to be tested.
The work of God calls for men of high moral powers to engage
in its promulgation. Men are wanted whose hearts are nerved with
holy fervor, men of strong purpose who are not easily moved, who
can lay down every selfish interest and give all for the cross and the
crown. The cause of present truth is suffering for men who are loyal
to a sense of right and duty, whose moral integrity is firm, and whose
energy is equal to the opening providence of God. Such qualifications
as these are of more value than untold wealth invested in the work and
cause of God. Energy, moral integrity, and strong purpose for the right
are qualities that cannot be supplied with any amount of gold. Men
possessing these qualifications will have influence everywhere. Their
lives will be more powerful than lofty eloquence. God calls for men
of heart, men of mind, men of moral integrity, whom He can make the
depositaries of His truth, and who will correctly represent its sacred
principles in their daily life.
In some respects Brother B has ability that but few have. If his heart
were sanctified to the work he could fill an important position in the
office with acceptance to God. He needs to be converted and to humble
himself as a little child, and seek pure, heart religion, in order for his
influence in the office, or in the cause of God anywhere, to be what
it ought to be. As his influence has been, it has injured all connected
with the office, but more especially the young. His position as foreman
gave him influence. He did not conduct himself conscientiously in
the fear of God. He favored particular ones more than others. He
neglected those who, for their faithfulness and ability, deserved special
encouragement, and he brought distress and perplexity upon those
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in who he should have had a special interest. Those who link their
affections and interest to one or two, and favor them to the disadvantage
of others, should not retain their position in the office for a day. This
unsanctified partiality for special ones who may please the fancy, to
the neglect of others who are conscientious and God-fearing, and in
His sight of more value, is offensive to God. That which God values
we should value. The ornament of a meek and quiet spirit He regards
of higher value than external beauty, outward adornment, riches, or
worldly honor.