Love and Forbearance among Brethren
Dear Brethren and Sisters,
I am indeed thankful for this privilege of meeting with those who
are laboring to spread the light of truth in the various countries of
Europe. It is a grand, a noble work, and one which should call forth
every energy of the being. As laborers for God, we need a more sacred
nearness to him, and a closer fellowship with one another, that our
prayers and efforts may not be hindered. We must not expect in our
own strength to meet and press through the moral darkness that is in
the world but we must perseveringly labor for that strength which is
found alone in Jesus. He loves us, and those who labor in his spirit
will realize his assistance in all their efforts. It is impossible, even with
the strong arguments of truth, to reach the hearts of men, unless there
is, united with these arguments, a divine power.
A machine may be perfect in all its parts, and yet there be much
friction and wear in its movements; but apply oil, and it performs its
work quietly and well. So with us. It is necessary to have the oil
of grace in our hearts, in order to prevent the friction that may arise
between us and those for whom we labor. Then, having not only
the arguments of truth but the oil of grace, we can bear the message
with power. Prejudice will be broken down, and a great work will be
accomplished. “Without me.” says Christ, “ye can do nothing.” The
branch cannot bear fruit except it abide in the vine; neither can we
except we abide in Christ.
If the love of Jesus is cherished in the heart, it will be seen in the
labors; the will and the manners will be brought under the moulding
influence of the Holy Spirit. In the prayer of Christ just before his
crucifixion, he said, “And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they
also might be sanctified through the truth.” The teacher of the people
must be an example to the flock of God in all meekness, patience,
forbearance, and love. He is, in a special sense, a living epistle,
“known and read of all men.”How important, then, that the sanctifying
power of the truth be seen in his character.
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