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Selected Messages Book 2
think of it over and over and over again, and it seems to me that we
can do an excellent work if we set a right example. But if we desire
that which the most of our brethren cannot receive, this injures our
influence. One brother says, “Such and such a brother has a certain
wage, and I must have a wage to correspond.” And so the wages will
climb, and keep climbing, higher and still higher. The fact is, that the
wages of some may have to be lower and still lower in order that we
may meet the extensive requirements of the work that is before us in
warning the world....
In years past, when this subject of wages has been under consider-
ation, I have told my brethren that the Lord knows all about the spirit
that prompts us to action, and that He can turn matters in our favor at
times when we do not expect it. As we set a right example, the blessing
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of the Lord will rest upon us. I have seen the Lord work in many ways
and in many places to help the very ones that view these matters in the
right light and set a self-sacrificing example. And, brethren, as you
labor earnestly, prayerfully, humbly, in the spirit of Christ, God will
open doors before you. The people will see your self-denial.
At times when my brethren have come to me, seeking advice as
to whether they should demand a higher wage, I have told them they
might gain a little means by asking for higher wages, but that the
blessing of God will accompany those who follow a different course.
God sees the self-denial; the Lord God of Israel sees every motive;
and when you come into a hard place, the angels of God are there to
help you, and to give you victory after victory.
I have been very clear in counseling my brethren not to demand
large wages, for this is not the impelling motive that leads us to spend
our energies in the work of soulsaving.
We are not to let the wage question stand in the way of our re-
sponding to the call of duty, wherever our service may be required.
The Lord can bring matters around so that a blessing will attach to our
labors far exceeding any compensation we may or may not receive;
and He will give to His servants words to speak that are of the highest
consequence to perishing souls.
The people are hungering and thirsting for help from Heaven. I
have tried to put in practice these principles of self-sacrifice, and I
know whereof I speak when I say that the blessing of God will rest
upon you when you make the call of duty first. I am glad for this