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Counsels on Stewardship
The slightest departure from rectitude breaks down the barriers,
and prepares the heart to do greater injustice. Just to that extent that a
man would gain advantage for himself at the disadvantage of another,
will his soul become insensible to the influence of the Spirit of God.
Gain obtained at such a cost is a fearful loss.—
Prophets and Kings,
651, 652
.
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A Sacrifice of Principle
We often see men who stand high in positions of trust, as Christ’s
followers, but who have made shipwreck of faith. A temptation comes
to them and they sacrifice principle and their religious advantages to
secure a coveted earthly treasure. The bait of Satan is taken. Christ
conquered, thus making it possible for man to conquer also; but man
places himself under the leadership of the God of this world, and steps
from beneath the banner of Jesus Christ into the ranks of the enemy.
All his powers are devoted to gain, and he worships other gods before
the Lord.
The worldly man is not content with a present sufficiency, or with
even an abundance. He is always aiming to possess a larger stock, and
turns every thought, every power, in this direction.—
The Review and
Herald, March 1, 1887
.
Close and Selfish Dealing
I appeal to my brethren in faith, and urge them to cultivate tender-
ness of heart. Whatever may be your calling or position, if you cherish
selfishness and covetousness, the displeasure of the Lord will be upon
you. Do not make the work and cause of God an excuse for dealing
closely and selfishly with anyone, even if transacting business that has
to do with His work. God will accept nothing in the line of gain that
is brought into His treasury through selfish transactions. Every act in
connection with His work is to bear divine inspection. Every sharp
transaction, every attempt to take advantage of a man who is under
pressure of circumstances, every plan to purchase his land or property
for a sum beneath its value, will not be acceptable to God, even though
the money gained is made an offering to His cause. The price of the
blood of the only-begotten Son of God has been paid for every man,
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