Labor Among the Churches
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These sympathizers have a powerful influence with others; things are
seen in a perverted light, great harm is done, and many souls are ru-
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ined. Satan in his rebellion took a third part of the angels. They turned
from the Father and from His Son, and united with the instigator of
rebellion. With these facts before us we should move with the greatest
caution. What can we expect but trial and perplexity in our connection
with men and women of peculiar minds? We must bear this and avoid
the necessity of rooting up the tares, lest the wheat be rooted up also.
“In the world ye shall have tribulation,” says Christ; but in Me ye
shall have peace. The trials to which Christians are subjected in sorrow,
adversity, and reproach are the means appointed of God to separate
the chaff from the wheat. Our pride, selfishness, evil passions, and
love of worldly pleasure must all be overcome; therefore God sends
us afflictions to test and prove us, and show us that these evils exist
in our characters. We must overcome through His strength and grace,
that we may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the
corruption that is in the world through lust. “For our light affliction,”
says Paul, “which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more
exceeding and eternal weight of glory; while we look not at the things
which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things
which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are
eternal.” Afflictions, crosses, temptations, adversity, and our varied
trials are God’s workmen to refine us, sanctify us, and fit us for the
heavenly garner.
The harm done to the cause of truth by premature moves can never
be fully repaired. The cause of God in-----has not advanced as it
might, and will not stand in as favorable a light before the people as
before this work was done. There are frequently persons among us
whose influence seems to be but a cipher on the right side. Their lives
seem to be useless; but let them become rebellious and combative,
and they become zealous workmen for Satan. This work is more in
accordance with the feelings of the natural heart. There is great need
of self-examination and secret prayer. God has promised wisdom to
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those who ask Him. Missionary labor is frequently entered upon by
those unprepared for the work. Outward zeal is cultivated, while secret
prayer is neglected. When this is the case, much harm is done, for
these laborers seek to regulate the consciences of others by their own
rule. Self-control is much needed. Hasty words stir up strife. Brother