54
The Retirement Years
which you might have accomplished much good. There is a useful
work in which you might engage, visiting from house to house and
speaking the right words, but your untidy influence works counter to
the precious influence you might otherwise exert.
Remember that you can do an acceptable work for the Lord, but
your personal appearance must be such as will recommend you as one
who is letting his light shine for the Master. Will you not now take hold
of this matter, and seek to effect a reformation in dress and appearance?
If you should be entrusted with public work in our religious gatherings,
with your lax ideas as to proper dress, you would not have the best
influence over those whom you were trying to help.
This is not a matter of but little consequence, for it affects your
influence over others for time and for eternity. You cannot expect the
Lord to give you the fullest success in winning souls for Him unless
your whole manner and appearance is of a nature that will win respect.
The truth is magnified even by the impression of neatness in dress, and
I know that you desire to use every jot of your influence on the side of
the Master.
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I have dwelt upon this matter because this is a decided defect in
your character. The Lord has not been glorified by your laxness in
dress. It may seem to be but a small matter, but it is against the honor
and glory of God. Men and women who are rich in grace and the
influence of holiness will be circumspect in every matter that helps to
give them influence. Your present and future usefulness in the service
of the Master depends in a measure upon how you relate yourself to
this matter. We are nearing the close of time, and we must do all in
our power to win souls for Christ’s kingdom.—
Letter 336, 1908
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Shun Overwork and Distrust of Brethren
Now, Brother Haskell, I suppose that you are in California and that
you will find much work to do. I hope that health will be granted to
you, but be careful not to overwork. You know that your head will
not bear much perplexity, therefore shun this, and do not load down
with responsibilities that others should carry. If your brethren seek to
save you from overwork, do not mistrust their efforts. Do not think
that it is because they have not confidence in you that they put some