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Testimonies for the Church Volume 5
upon the soul its mark,—the image of sin, deceit, and dishonesty. Love
to God is learned at the family altar, of the father and mother in very
babyhood.
The want of a religious influence is sadly felt in the office; there
should be greater devotion, more spirituality, more practical religion.
Missionary work done here by God-fearing men and women would
be attended with the very best results. Brother R’s course is not well-
pleasing to God. A man in his position should be a man of devotion;
he should be among the first in religious matters. His only safety is in
maintaining a living connection with God and feeling his dependence
upon Him. Without this, he will not do justice to his position, neither
will he exert a right influence in the office and over those with whom
his business brings him in contact.
I have also seen that there should be a close investigation of the
manner of dealing in the office, both with brethren and with unbeliev-
ers. Benevolence, purity, truth, and peace are the fruits that should
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be seen there. Motives and actions should be closely examined and
compared with the law of God; for this law is the only infallible rule by
which to regulate the conduct, the only reliable code of honor between
man and man.
Unity of the Work
The Lord would have union among those who manage His work in
different parts of the field. Those who manage His work on the Pacific
Coast, and those who are engaged in His work on the east side of the
Rocky Mountains, should be of the same mind and judgment,—one in
heart, in plans, and in action. He would not have those at either office
think it a virtue to differ with their brethren at the other publishing
house. There should be a comparing of notes, an interchange of
plans and ideas; and if any improvements are suggested in either
office, let the managers consider the proposition, and adopt improved
plans and methods. In both publishing houses there are very great
improvements to be made, and the managers have much to learn. And
the lesson which will bear its mark most decidedly and happily in the
advancement of the work is to lean less to their own understanding, and
to learn more of the meekness and lowliness of Christ. Let not those
at either office be so egotistical, so unlike Christ, as to maintain their