Dependence and Independence
211
honored by their having any part to act in His work while they are
mere machines.—
Testimonies for the Church 3:495, 496
(1875).
Independent Men Are Needed—Independent men of earnest en-
deavor are needed, not men as impressible as putty. Those who want
their work made ready to their hand, who desire a fixed amount to
do and a fixed salary, and who wish to prove an exact fit without the
trouble of adaptation or training are not the men whom God calls to
work in His cause. A man who cannot adapt his abilities to almost any
place if necessity requires is not the man for this time.
Men whom God will connect with His work are not limp and
fiberless, without muscle or moral force of character. It is only by
continued and persevering labor that men can be disciplined to bear a
part in the work of God. These men should not become discouraged
if circumstances and surroundings are the most unfavorable. They
should not give up their purpose as a complete failure until they are
convinced beyond a doubt that they cannot do much for the honor of
God and the good of souls.—
Testimonies for the Church 3:496
(1875).
Unsanctified Independence Springs From Selfishness—The
evils of self-esteem and an unsanctified independence, which most
impair our usefulness and which will prove our ruin if not overcome,
spring from selfishness. “Counsel together” is the message which has
been again and again repeated to me by the angel of God. By influenc-
ing one man’s judgment, Satan may endeavor to control matters to suit
himself. He may succeed in misleading the minds of two persons; but
when several consult together, there is more safety. Every plan will
be more closely criticized; every advance move more carefully stud-
ied. Hence there will be less danger of precipitate, ill-advised moves,
which would bring confusion, perplexity, and defeat. In union there is
strength. In division there is weakness and defeat.—
Testimonies for
the Church 5:29, 30
(1882).
(C) Independence of Spirit
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The Hazards of Personal Independence—Ever remember what
is due to our Christian profession as God’s peculiar people; and beware
lest in the exercise of personal independence your influence may work
against the purposes of God, and you, through Satan’s devices, become
a stumbling block, directly in the way of those who are weak and