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Agents for Heaven, January 13
Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as
brethren, be pitiful, be courteous.
1 Peter 3:8
.
What great need there is of cultivating tenderness and gentleness. None
should be ashamed to manifest a tender, compassionate spirit for those who
err; for those who think they make no mistakes and far from being without
fault before God. No one need to think that the manifestation of compassion
is something for which he need be ashamed....
When a crisis comes in the life of any soul, and another attempts to give
advice, that advice and counsel will have only the weight of influence for
good that their example and spirit of the adviser has accumulated for him.
It is the consistent life, the revelation of a sincere, Christlike interest for the
soul in peril, that will make counsel effectual to persuade and win into safe
paths. Those who are quick to censure others, who speak words that cut and
bruise the already wounded soul, are doing Satan’s work, and are laborers
with the prince of darkness....
Let the tempted and tried souls remember that when chastisement comes
upon them, it is the Lord who would save them from death. Let the souls
to whom reproof comes, remember that “as many as I love, I rebuke and
chasten” (
Revelation 3:19
).
The human agent, imbued with the Spirit of Christ, will watch for souls
as they that must give an account. The claims of Christ are upon us, and we
must understand our duty, and do it in the fear of God, with an eye single
to His glory, and not prove unfaithful. Let no thought of self or of natural
feelings be cherished to keep the lips silent. Speak, and be not afraid. With
the heart full of tenderness and love for souls, warn, exhort, and entreat.
Never cease to labor for a soul while there is one ray of hope. Your words
may cut to the soul. Oh, then be cautious, and clothe them with the love
and tenderness of Jesus. Soften every accent with love and sympathy.... As
you deal with others, as you judge others, so the Lord will judge and deal
with you. Let the agent who claims to be a child of God, practice the lessons
of Christ. If he is compelled to wound, let him feel the duty of healing as
compulsory upon him. The truth is ever to be spoken in love, with the Spirit
of Christ abiding in the soul.—
Letter 70, January 13, 1894
, to “Dear Brethren
in Responsible Positions in the Review and Herald Office.”
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