Chapter 11—Selling Homes and Property
God calls upon those who have possessions in lands and houses, to
sell, and to invest the money where it will be supplying the great want
in the missionary field. When once they have experienced the real
satisfaction that comes from thus doing, they will keep the channel
open, and the means the Lord entrusts to them will be constantly
flowing into the treasury, that souls may be converted. These souls will,
in their turn, practice the same self-denial, economy, and simplicity, for
Christ’s sake, that they, too, may bring their offerings to God. Through
these talents, wisely invested, still other souls may be converted; and
thus the work goes on, showing that the gifts of God are appreciated.
The Giver is acknowledged, and glory redounds to Him through the
faithfulness of His stewards.
When we make these earnest appeals in behalf of the cause of
God, and present the financial wants of our missions, conscientious
souls who believe the truth are deeply stirred. Like the poor widow,
whom Christ commended, who gave her two mites into the treasury,
they give, in their poverty, to the utmost of their ability. Such often
deprive themselves even of the apparent necessities of life; while there
are men and women who, possessing houses and lands, cling to their
earthly treasure with selfish tenacity, and do not have faith enough in
the message and in God to put their means into His work. To these last
are especially applicable the words of Christ, “Sell that ye have, and
give alms.”
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Expect Individual Guidance
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
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