464
Testimonies for the Church Volume 5
“Spare Thy people, O Lord, and give not Thine heritage to reproach.”
But if it is only your own feelings and active mind that prompt you
to write, then refrain until the Lord’s Spirit presses and moves you.
Do not think that because you pursue a certain course and do certain
things it is an evidence that they are right and that you must present
them to others as a rule or guide. It is not best for you to feel at liberty
to speak your mind upon such matters as concern the welfare of our
youth, recommending books which do not tend to spirituality or piety.
If you fancy that such reading will develop firm, unspotted principle
you are mistaken. May the Lord help you to move cautiously and
humbly, and not throw out misleading statements in the papers; for
they will be considered as having been sanctioned by our people. You
are putting a burden upon others to counteract the influence of these
sentiments.
My brother, your safety is in walking humbly with God. I tremble
when I read your many articles, giving counsel and rules for other
ministers. It is hardly proper for you to have so much to say in this
direction. If you become self-sufficient and self-confident, the Lord
will certainly leave you to make some mistake. You need carefully
to guard your own soul and to seek a daily, living experience in the
[518]
things of God. You should keep self out of sight and let Jesus appear.
Christ is your strength, your shield; you are a weak, erring man and
need to be very cautious, lest you stumble. I entreat you to be on your
guard that you do not in word or in deed mar the sacred work of God.
I have felt so thankful for you that you could act a part in this great
work. Jesus loves you, and He will work with your efforts if you have
a living connection with God. But you must live a life of watchfulness
and prayer. Do not become careless. Do not separate from Jesus, but
bring Him into your everyday life. Do not make work for yourself
and others by careless admissions and counsels; but know that unless
Christ is taken into your heart, unless your eye is single to the glory of
God, pride will come into your heart, self-esteem will prevail, and you
will, ere you are aware, be walking carelessly. “Make straight paths
for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way.”
There are many of our youth whom God has endowed with superior
capabilities. He has given them the very best of talents; but their
powers have been enervated, their minds confused and enfeebled, and
for years they have made no growth in grace and in a knowledge