Unholy Ambition
529
My brother, there is danger of your trying to communicate too
much at one time. You are not required to make lengthy speeches or
to talk upon subjects that will not be understood or appreciated by
common people. There is danger of your dwelling upon themes at the
very top of the ladder, when those whom you are instructing need to
be taught how to climb successfully its first rounds. You talk of things
which those unacquainted with our faith cannot comprehend; hence
your speeches are not interesting. They are not food for those whom
you address.
Jesus was the greatest educator the world ever knew. In comparison
with His knowledge the highest human knowledge is foolishness. But
His instructions were so simple that all understood Him, both learned
and unlearned. He made no effort to show His deep knowledge, for
this they could not have understood. You seem to think your long talks
have a special influence to mold and fashion your hearers just as you
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wish, but you will certainly fail in this. You would have a much better
influence if you would talk less and pray more; God is your source of
strength.
Your long speeches on education in the sciences are painful to the
angels of God, who are constantly and intensely active in seeking to
call the thoughts and affections to heavenly things. Souls are perishing
while you neglect to work with your entrusted talents as Christ has
given you an example. Souls will be lost under your long, Christless
speeches. Your own soul is dwarfed and crippled in the knowledge of
Christ. You are losing very much because you are blinded by the spirit
and customs of an education which will not save the soul.
The youth need your labor. If you were a converted man, daily
learning lessons in the school of Christ, then your labors would be a
savor of life unto life. Then you could work with patience and love,
and in the power of God, for the souls of youth who are exposed
to temptation. Devote a portion of the time you consume in long
addresses, to personal labor for the youth who need your help. Teach
them the claims of God are upon them; pray with them. There are
many who are bound in evil habits with fetters as firm as steel. The
poor victims are fascinated with the charms of Satan’s allurements and
are unable to break away and stand in God-given freedom. They have
lost years; shall they lose the year just entered upon? Will the principal
of the school awaken to a sense of his responsibilities and give his