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Mind, Character, and Personality Volume 2
Understanding Humanity—He who seeks to transform humanity
must himself understand humanity. Only through sympathy, faith, and
love can men be reached and uplifted. Here Christ stands revealed as
the Master Teacher; of all that ever dwelt on the earth, He alone has
perfect understanding of the human soul.—
Education, 78
(1903).
There is a science in dealing with those who seem especially weak.
If we would teach others, we ourselves must first learn of Christ. We
need broad views, that we may do true medical missionary work and
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show tact in dealing with minds.
Those who are really the least in need of help are likely to receive
the most of our attention. But we need to show special wisdom in
dealing with those who seem inconsiderate and thoughtless. Some
do not comprehend the sacredness of the work of God. Those of the
least ability, the thoughtless, and even the indolent, especially demand
careful, prayerful consideration. We must exercise tact in dealing with
those who seem to be ignorant and out of the way. By persevering
effort in their behalf we must help them to become useful in the Lord’s
work. They will respond readily to a patient, tender, loving interest.
We are to cooperate with the Lord Jesus in restoring the inefficient
and the erring to intelligence and purity. This work ranks equally in
importance with the work of the gospel ministry. We are called upon
by God to manifest an untiring, patient interest in the salvation of those
who need divine polishing.—Lt 113, 1905. (.)
Do Not Discuss Grievances—“Blessed are the peacemakers; for
they shall be called the children of God.” Who calls them so? All the
heavenly intelligences. Then do not encourage any tempted soul to tell
you the grievances of a brother or a friend. Tell them that you do not
want to hear their words of censure and evil speaking, because your
Counselor has told you in His Word that if you cease to stir up strife
and become a peacemaker, you will be blessed. Tell them that this is
the blessing you are craving.
For Christ’s sake do not speak or think evil. May the Lord help us
not only to read the Bible, but to practice its teachings. The human
agent who is faithful in his work, who unites gentleness with his
power, justice with his love, causes rejoicing among the heavenly
intelligences, and glorifies God. Let us strive earnestly to be good
and to do good, and we shall receive the crown of life that fadeth not
away.—MS 116, 1898.
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