Basic HTML Version
Self-Denial
I saw that there was danger of the saints making too great prepa-
rations for conferences; that some were cumbered with too much
serving; that the appetite must be denied. There is danger of some
attending the meetings for the loaves and fishes. I saw that all those
who are indulging self by using the filthy weed tobacco, should lay
it aside and put their means to a better use. Those make a sacrifice
who deprive themselves of some gratification and take the means
they formerly used to gratify the appetite and put it into the treasury
of the Lord. Like the widow’s two mites, such gifts will be noticed
of God. The amount may be small; but if all will do this, it will
tell in the treasury. If all would study to be more economical in
their articles of dress, depriving themselves of some things which
are not actually necessary and should lay aside such useless and
injurious things as tea and coffee, giving to the cause what these
[122]
cost, they would receive more blessings here and a reward in heaven.
Many think that because God has given them the means, they may
live almost above want, can have rich food, and clothe themselves
abundantly, and that it is no virtue to deny themselves when they
have enough. Such do not sacrifice. If they would live a little poorer
and give to the cause of God to help forward the truth, it would be a
sacrifice on their part, and when God rewards every man according
to his works, it would be remembered by Him.
131