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Covetousness
I saw that Satan bade his angels lay their snares especially for
those who were looking for Christ’s second appearing and keep-
ing all the commandments of God. Satan told his angels that the
churches were asleep. He would increase his power and lying won-
ders, and he could hold them. “But,” he said, “the sect of Sabbath-
keepers we hate; they are continually working against us, and taking
from us our subjects, to keep the hated law of God. Go, make the
possessors of lands and money drunk with cares. If you can make
them place their affections upon these things, we shall have them
yet. They may profess what they please, only make them care more
for money than for the success of Christ’s kingdom or the spread
of the truths we hate. Present the world before them in the most
attractive light, that they may love and idolize it. We must keep in
our ranks all the means of which we can gain control. The more
means the followers of Christ devote to His service, the more will
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they injure our kingdom by getting our subjects. As they appoint
meetings in different places, we are in danger. Be very vigilant then.
Cause disturbance and confusion if possible. Destroy love for one
another. Discourage and dishearten their ministers; for we hate them.
Present every plausible excuse to those who have means, lest they
hand it out. Control the money matters if you can, and drive their
ministers to want and distress. This will weaken their courage and
zeal. Battle every inch of ground. Make covetousness and love of
earthly treasures the ruling traits of their character. As long as these
traits rule, salvation and grace stand back. Crowd every attraction
around them, and they will be surely ours. And not only are we
sure of them, but their hateful influence will not be exercised to lead
others to heaven. When any shall attempt to give, put within them a
grudging disposition, that it may be sparingly.”
I saw that Satan carries out his plans well. As the servants of
God appoint meetings, Satan with his angels is on the ground to
hinder the work. He is constantly putting suggestions into the minds
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