Calls for Laborers
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glory. He expects corresponding self-denial and sacrifice on the part of
those whom He came to bless and save. Everyone is required to work
to the extent of his ability. Every worldly consideration should be laid
aside for the glory of God. The only desire for worldly advantages
should be that we may the better advance the cause of God.
Christ’s interests and those of His followers should be one; but the
world would judge that they are separate and distinct, for those who
claim to be Christ’s pursue their own ends as eagerly, and waste their
substance as selfishly, as nonprofessors. Worldly prosperity comes
first; nothing is made equal to this. The cause of Christ must wait till
they gather a certain portion for themselves. They must increase their
gains at all hazards. Souls must perish without a knowledge of the
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truth. Of what value is a soul for whom Christ died in comparison
with their gains, their merchandise, their houses and lands? Souls must
wait till they get prepared to do something. God calls these servers
of Mammon slothful and unfaithful servants, but Mammon boasts of
them as among his most diligent and devoted servants. They sacrifice
their Lord’s goods to ease and enjoyment. Self is their idol.
Doing nothing to bring souls to Jesus, who sacrificed everything
to bring salvation within our reach! Selfishness is driving benevolence
and the love of Christ from the church. Millions of the Lord’s money
are squandered in the gratification of worldly lust, while His treasury
is left empty. I know not how to present this matter before you as
it was presented to me. Thousands of dollars are spent every year
in gratifying pride of dress. That very means should be used in our
missions. I was shown families who load their tables with almost
every luxury and gratify almost every desire for fine clothes. They
are engaged in a prosperous business, or are earning good wages, but
nearly every dollar is expended upon themselves or their families. Is
this imitating Christ? What burden do these feel to carefully economize
and deny inclination that they may do more to advance the work of
God on earth? Should Elder Andrews have the advantage of some
of the means thus needlessly expended, it would be a great blessing
to him and give him advantages which would prolong his life. The
missionary work might be enlarged a hundredfold if there were more
means to employ in carrying out larger plans. But the means which
God designed should be used for this very purpose is expended for
articles which are thought necessary to comfort and happiness, and