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Testimonies for the Church Volume 2
of this extra labor is lost upon the people, who are often too weary
to be benefited by what they may hear; and who can tell how great
is the loss sustained by the ministers who thus labor? In the end
nothing is gained by this draft upon the vitality.
Frequently the strength is exhausted at the commencement of
a protracted effort. And at the very time when there is much to be
gained or lost, the devoted minister of Christ, who has an interest,
a will to labor, cannot command the strength. He has used it up in
singing, in lengthy prayers and protracted preaching, and the victory
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is lost for want of earnest, well-directed labor at the right time. The
golden moment is lost. The impressions made were not followed
up. It would have been better had no interest been awakened; for
when convictions have been once resisted and overcome, it is very
difficult to impress the mind again with the truth.
I was shown that if our ministers would exercise care to preserve
their strength, instead of needlessly expending it, their judicious,
well-directed labor would accomplish more in a year than could
be accomplished by long talking, praying, and singing, which are
so wearisome and exhausting. In the latter case, the people are
frequently deprived of labor which they much need at the right time,
for the laborer is in need of rest and will endanger his health and life
if he continues his effort.
Our dear Brethren Matteson and D. T. Bourdeau have made
a mistake here, and should reform in their manner of labor. They
should speak short and pray short. They should come to the point
at once and stop short of exhaustion in their labors. They can both
accomplish more good by doing this, and at the same time preserve
strength to continue the labors which they love, without breaking
down entirely.
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