Labor Among the Churches
101
the matter through and press his censure, although in doing so he hurts
his own soul and endangers the souls of others.
Brother S should shun church trials and should have nothing to do
in settling difficulties, if he can possibly avoid it. He has a valuable
gift, which is needed in the work of God. But he should separate
[108]
himself from influences which draw upon his sympathies, confuse his
judgment, and lead him to move unwisely. This should not and need
not be. He exercises too little faith in God. He dwells too much upon
his bodily infirmities and strengthens unbelief by dwelling upon poor
feelings. God has strength and wisdom in store for those who seek for
it earnestly, in faith believing.
I was shown that Brother S is a strong man upon some points, while
upon others he is as weak as a child. His course in dealing with the
erring has had a scattering influence. He has confidence in his ability
to labor in setting things in order where he thinks it is needed, but he
does not view the matter aright. He weaves into his labors his own
spirit, and he does not discriminate, but often deals without tenderness.
There is such a thing as overdoing the matter in performing strict duty
to individuals. “And of some have compassion, making a difference:
and others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the
garment spotted by the flesh.”
Duty, stern duty, has a twin sister, which is kindness. If duty and
kindness are blended, decided advantage will be gained; but if duty is
separated from kindness, if tender love is not mingled with duty, there
will be a failure, and much harm will be the result. Men and women
will not be driven, but many can be won by kindness and love. Brother
S has held aloft the gospel whip, and his own words have frequently
been the snap to that whip. This has not had an influence to spur others
to greater zeal and to provoke them to good works, but it has aroused
their combativeness to repel his severity.
If Brother S had walked in the light, he would not have made so
many serious failures. “If any man walk in the day, he stumbleth not,
because he seeth the light of this world. But if a man walk in the
night, he stumbleth, because there is no light in him.” The path of
obedience is the path of safety. “He that walketh uprightly walketh
surely.” Walk in the light, and “then shalt thou walk in thy way safely,
and thy foot shall not stumble.” Those who do not walk in the light will
[109]
have a sickly, stunted religion. Brother S should feel the importance