Human Relations
51
We should preserve the strictest chastity in thought and word and
deportment. Let us remember that God sets our secret sins in the light
of His countenance. There are thoughts and feelings suggested and
aroused by Satan that annoy even the best of men; but if they are not
cherished, if they are repulsed as hateful, the soul is not contaminated
with guilt, and no other is defiled by their influence. Oh, that we
each might become a savor of life unto life to those around us!.—
The
Review and Herald, March 27, 1888
.
Far-reaching Effects of Influence—We may never know until
the judgment the influence of a kind, considerate course of action to
the inconsistent, the unreasonable, and unworthy. If after a course of
provocation and injustice on their part, you treat them as you would
an innocent person, you even take pains to show them special acts of
kindness, then you have acted the part of a Christian; and they become
surprised and ashamed, and see their course of action and meanness
more clearly than if you plainly stated their aggravated acts to rebuke
them.—Lt 20, 1892. (.)
[433]
Discourtesy and Its Influence—The good qualities which many
possess are hidden, and instead of attracting souls to Christ they repulse
them. If these persons could see the influence of their uncourteous
ways and unkind expressions upon unbelievers and how offensive is
such conduct in the sight of God, they would reform their habits, for
a lack of courtesy is one of the greatest stumbling blocks to sinners.
Selfish, complaining, sour Christians bar the way so that sinners do
not care to approach Christ.—
The Review and Herald, September 1,
1885
. (HC 229.)
Be Lovable—Let Christ be seen in all that you do. Let all see that
you are living epistles of Jesus Christ.... Be lovable. Let your life win
the hearts of all who are brought in contact with you. There is too little
done at the present time to render the truth attractive to others.—MS
6, 1889.
Every Action an Influence—Every word you speak, every action
you perform, has an influence for good or evil upon those who associate
with you; and, oh! how necessary it is that you have Christ dwelling
in your heart by faith, that your words may be words of life, and your
works, the works of love.—
The Review and Herald, June 12, 1888
.
Responsible for One’s Influence—God holds everyone responsi-
ble for the influence that surrounds his soul, on his own account, and