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goes to some place where all are in harmony with him. But is his
spiritual strength increased thereby? In many cases not. He comes to
have as little real stamina as a hothouse plant. He ceases to watch; his
faith becomes weak; he is neither growing in grace himself nor aiding
others.
Do any shrink from maintaining the truth in the midst of unbelief
and opposition? I ask them to call to mind the believers in Nero’s
household; consider the depravity and persecution which they encoun-
tered, and gather from their example a lesson of courage, fortitude,
and faith.
It may at times be advisable for those who are young in the faith
to be withdrawn from great temptations or opposition and to be placed
where they can enjoy the care and counsel of experienced Christians.
But it should be ever kept before their minds that the Christian life is
a constant warfare; that the indulgence of sloth or indolence will be
fatal to success.
We should not, after accepting the truth, unite with those who
oppose it, nor in any manner place ourselves where it will be difficult
for us to live out our faith. But should anyone while thus situated
receive the truth, he should weigh the matter carefully before leaving
his position. It may be the design of Providence that his influence and
example shall bring others to the knowledge of the truth.
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Many are connected in family relations with opposers of the faith.
These believers are often subjected to great trials, but by divine grace
they may glorify God by obedience to the truth.
As servants of Christ we should be faithful in the position where
God sees that we can render most efficient service. If opportunities
of greater usefulness are presented to us, we should accept them at
the Master’s bidding, and His approving smile will be upon us. But
we should fear to leave our appointed work unless the Lord clearly
indicates our duty to serve Him in another field.
Different qualifications are needed for different departments of
the work. The carpenter is not fitted to work at the anvil, nor the
blacksmith to use the plane. The merchant would be out of place
beside the sickbed, and the doctor in the counting room. Those who
become weary with the work which God has committed to them, and
place themselves in positions where they cannot or will not work, will