Criticism
Those Who Criticize Others—Those in responsible positions
who have the least conscientious scruples in reference to their own
course of action are the ones who watch most jealously for the mistakes
of others. Position does not make the man. Only by a living connection
with God is the Holy Spirit implanted in the heart. Those who have this
connection are faithful and true and will not betray holy trust.—
Letter
77, 1898
, p. 4 (August 26, 1898, to Brother and Sister Waggoner).
Sowing Seeds of Doubt and Unbelief-In past ages there have
been those who have exercised their capabilities and powers in doing a
work, by the help of the Holy Spirit, which constituted them laborers
together with God. But there have also been those who have criticized
their work, and rejected the messages which they bore. So it is today.
There are those in responsible positions who, by their words and
actions, sow seeds of doubt and unbelief. These seeds are called tares
by our Lord; and those who sow it are under the guidance of evil angels.
They are at work both openly and secretly, seeking to counteract the
work which God has appointed his divine agencies to perform through
human agencies. All who do this work see with defective and perverted
eyesight. Their imagination is inspired by satanic agencies, and they
see many things in a false light. Unless they repent, they will soon,
like Esau, find no place for repentance, though they seek it carefully
with tears.—
Letter 87, 1896
, p. 6 (August 25, 1896, to O. A. Olsen).
Ridicule Debases the Soul—Caviling, ridicule, and misrepresen-
tation can be indulged in only at the expense of the debasement of your
own souls. The use of such weapons does not gain precious victories
for you, but rather cheapens the mind, and separates the soul from
God. Sacred things are brought down to the level of the common, and
a condition of things is created that pleases the prince of darkness, and
grieves away the Spirit of God.
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Caviling and criticism leave the soul as devoid of the dew of grace
as the hills of Gilboa were destitute of rain. Confidence cannot be
placed in the judgment of those who indulge in ridicule and misrepre-
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