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would obey this instruction, the widow’s heart would sing for joy;
hungry little children would be fed; the destitute would be clothed;
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and those ready to perish would be revived. Heavenly intelligences
are looking on, and when, imbued with zeal for Christ’s honor, we
place ourselves in the channel of God’s providence, these heavenly
messengers will impart to us a new spiritual power so that we shall be
able to combat difficulties and triumph over obstacles.
And what a blessing would reward the workers. To many who
are now indolent, selfish, and self-centered, it would be as life from
the dead. There would be among us a revival of heavenly charity and
wisdom and zeal.
Ministers’ Wives Adopting Orphans
The question has been asked whether a minister’s wife should
adopt infant children. I answer: if she has no inclination or fitness
to engage in missionary work outside her home, and feels it her duty
to take orphan children and care for them, she may do a good work.
But let the choice of children be first made from among those who
have been left orphans by Sabbathkeeping parents. God will bless
men and women as they with willing hearts share their homes with
these homeless ones. But if the minister’s wife can herself act a part
in the work of educating others, she should consecrate her powers to
God as a Christian worker. She should be a true helper to her husband,
assisting him in his work, improving her intellect, and helping to
give the message. The way is open for humble, consecrated women,
dignified by the grace of Christ, to visit those in need of help, and
shed light into discouraged souls. They can lift up the bowed down
by praying with them and pointing them to Christ. Such should not
devote their time and strength to one helpless little mortal that requires
constant care and attention. They should not thus voluntarily tie their
hands.
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Orphans’ Homes
When all is done that can be done in providing for orphans in our
own homes, there will still be many needy ones in the world who
should be cared for. They may be ragged, uncouth, and seemingly in