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tance of means for his support might possibly stand in the way of his
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usefulness. Although feeble in health, he labored during the day in
serving the cause of Christ, and then toiled a large share of the night,
and frequently all night, that he might make provision for his own and
others’ necessities. The apostle would also give an example to his
brethren, thus dignifying and honoring industry. When our ministers
feel that they are suffering hardships and privations in the cause of
Christ, let them in imagination visit the workshop of the apostle Paul,
bearing in mind that while this chosen man of God is fashioning the
canvas, he is working for bread which he has justly earned by his
labors as an apostle of Jesus Christ. At the call of duty this great apos-
tle would lay aside his business to meet the most violent opponents
and stop their proud boasting, and then he would resume his humble
employment. His religious industry is a rebuke to the indolence of
some of our ministers. When they have opportunity to labor to help
sustain themselves they should do so with gladness.
God never designed that man should live in idleness. When Adam
was in Eden, means were devised for his employment. Though the
race is not always to the swift nor the battle to the strong, yet he that
dealeth with a slack hand will become poor. Those who are diligent in
business may not always be prospered; but drowsiness and indolence
are sure to grieve the Spirit of God and destroy true godliness. A
stagnant pool becomes offensive; but a pure, flowing brook spreads
health and gladness over the land. A man of persevering industry will
be a blessing anywhere. The exercise of man’s physical and mental
powers is necessary to their full and proper development.
Young ministers should study to make themselves useful wherever
they are. When invited to visit persons at their homes, they should not
sit idle, making no effort to help the ones whose hospitality they share.
Obligations are mutual; if the minister shares the hospitality of his
friends, it is his duty to respond to their kindness by being thoughtful
and considerate in his conduct toward them. The entertainer may be
a man of care and hard labor. By manifesting a disposition not only
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to wait upon himself but to render timely assistance, the minister may
often find access to the heart and open the way for the reception of
truth.
God has no use for lazy men in His cause; He wants thoughtful,
kind, affectionate, earnest workers. Active exertion will do our preach-