284
The Adventist Home
The sense of being owners of their own homes would inspire them
with a strong desire for improvement. They would soon acquire skill in
planning and devising for themselves; their children would be educated
to habits of industry and economy, and the intellect would be greatly
strengthened. They would feel that they are men, not slaves, and would
be able to regain to a great degree their lost self-respect and moral
independence
Educate our people to get out of the cities into the country, where
they can obtain a small piece of land and make a home for themselves
and their children
Caution Regarding Selling Homes—There are poor men and
women who are writing to me for advice as to whether they shall
sell their homes and give the proceeds to the cause. They say the
appeals for means stir their souls, and they want to do something for
the Master, who has done everything for them. I would say to such:
“It may not be your duty to sell your little homes just now, but go to
God for yourselves; the Lord will certainly hear your earnest prayers
for wisdom to understand your duty.
God does not now call for the houses His people need to live in;
but if those who have an abundance do not hear His voice, cut loose
from the world, and sacrifice for God, He will pass them by and will
[374]
call for those who are willing to do anything for Jesus, even to sell
their homes to meet the wants of the cause
A Praiseworthy Independence—Independence of one kind is
praiseworthy. To desire to bear your own weight and not to eat the
bread of dependence is right. It is a noble, generous ambition that
dictates the wish to be self-supporting. Industrious habits and frugality
are necessary
Balancing the Budget—Many, very many, have not so educated
themselves that they can keep their expenditures within the limit of
their income. They do not learn to adapt themselves to circumstances,
2
Historical Sketches of The S.D.A. Foreign Mission, 165, 166
.
3
General Conference Bulletin, Church and Sabbath School, April 6, 1903
.
4
Testimonies For The Church 5, 734
.
5
The Review and Herald, September 16, 1884
.
6
Testimonies For The Church 2, 308
.