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Testimonies for the Church Volume 4
and hardships he was to receive an education which would be of the
utmost importance to him. These trials would prepare him to exercise
a fatherly care over all who needed his help. No knowledge, no study,
no eloquence, could be a substitute for this experience in trials to one
who was to watch for souls as they that must give an account. In doing
the work of a humble shepherd, in being forgetful of self and interested
for the flock given to his charge, he was to become fitted for the most
exalted work ever entrusted to mortals, that of being a shepherd of the
sheep of the Lord’s pasture. Those who fear God in the world must
be connected with Him. Christ is the most perfect educator the world
ever knew. To receive wisdom and knowledge from Him was more
valuable to Moses than all the learning of the Egyptians.
Brother and Sister F, I entreat you to be in earnest and come to
God through Jesus Christ. “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for
whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” He who spends
his talents and his means in self-indulgence, in gratification of the
lower passions, will reap corruption. His harvest is sure. His mind
will lose its susceptibility and power. His intellect will be shattered
and his life shortened. God requires you to make more thorough
efforts to subdue and control self. I was shown that God and angels
are ready and waiting to help you in this important work. If you
delay, if you are even dilatory, it may be too late. Your probation is
lengthened, your character is now forming, and soon, my dear brother
and sister, it will be stereotyped forever. Halfway work with you will
not advance you one step toward heaven. Indecision soon becomes
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decision in the wrong direction. Many decide to serve themselves
and Satan by not making determined efforts to overcome their defects
of character. While many are petting sinful propensities, expecting
to be overcomers sometime, they are deciding for perdition. Brother
and Sister F, in the name of Jesus Christ you may be victorious even
now “in this thy day.” Do not plan and study for self. You cannot
be wholly the Lord’s while encouraging any degree of selfishness.
Such great love as the Redeemer has shown you should be received
with great humility and continual rejoicing. In order to be happy,
you must control your thoughts and words. It will require a masterly
effort on your part; nevertheless it must be done if you are to be the
acknowledged children of God. Be not weary in your efforts. Satan is
battling for your souls, and he must be disappointed.