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of God to keep the mind laboring constantly and excessively, even
upon religious themes.
There are amusements, such as dancing, card playing, chess, check-
ers, etc., which we cannot approve because Heaven condemns them.
These amusements open the door for great evil. They are not beneficial
in their tendency, but have an exciting influence, producing in some
minds a passion for those plays which lead to gambling and dissipation.
All such plays should be condemned by Christians, and something
perfectly harmless should be substituted in their place.—
Testimonies
for the Church 1:514
(1867).
Depending Upon God, We Refuse to Be Discouraged (counsel
to an overworked executive)—The Lord has graciously spared your
life to work in His lines. He does not want you to work yourself,
independent of the only power which can work successfully to accom-
plish His designs. Then do not fret, but trust, looking unto Jesus, the
Author and Finisher of your faith. Do not be in too much of a hurry.
That which you can do without great taxation to your physical and
mental powers, do, but do not feel that you must take so many cares
and burdens that you cannot keep your own soul in the love of God.
The vineyard is the Lord’s; the work in every part is His, and
He would have you so labor that your physical, mental, and moral
powers shall be preserved. Bear in mind that you are cooperating
with heavenly agencies. Do not allow the enemy to have the least
partnership in the firm. Receive your orders from God, and in no wise
be discouraged because you can only do the work of a finite agent.
The Infinite will work with His power to give you efficiency.
Do not think you are left to do impossible things. Do not expect
impossible things of others. Paul may plant, and Apollos water, but
God giveth the increase (see 1
1 Corinthians 3:6
). “Of old hast Thou
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laid the foundation of the earth: and the heavens are the work of Thy
hands. They shall perish, but Thou shalt endure” (
Psalm 102:25, 26
).
“They all shall wax old as doth a garment; and as a vesture shalt Thou
fold them up, and they shall be changed: but Thou art the same, and
Thy years shall not fail” (
Hebrews 1:11, 12
).—Lt 86a, 1893.
Individual Efforts Necessary—The victims of evil habit must be
aroused to the necessity of making an effort for themselves. Others
may put forth the most earnest endeavor to uplift them, the grace
of God may be freely offered, Christ may entreat, His angels may