Care of Orphans
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every way unattractive, but they are bought with a price, and are just
as precious in the sight of God as are our own little ones. They are
God’s property, for whom Christians are responsible. Their souls, God
says, “will I require at thine hand.”
To care for these needy ones is a good work; yet in this age of
the world the Lord does not give us as a people directions to establish
large and expensive institutions for this purpose. If, however, there are
among us individuals who feel called of God to establish institutions
for the care of orphan children, let them follow out their convictions
of duty. But in caring for the world’s poor they should appeal to the
world for support. They are not to draw upon the people to whom the
Lord has given the most important work ever given to men, the work
of bringing the last message of mercy before all nations, kindreds,
tongues, and people. The Lord’s treasury must have a surplus to
sustain the work of the gospel in “regions beyond.”
Let those who feel the burden of establishing these institutions
have wise solicitors to present their necessities and raise funds. Let
the people of the world be aroused, let the denominational churches
be canvassed by men who feel the necessity that something be done in
behalf of the poor and orphans. In every church there are those who
fear God. Let these be appealed to, for to them God has given this
work.
The institutions that have been established by our people to care
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for orphans and the infirm and aged among us, should be sustained.
Let not these be left to languish and bring a reproach upon the cause of
God. To aid in the support of these institutions should be looked upon
not merely as a duty, but as a precious privilege. Instead of making
needless gifts to one another, let us bestow our gifts upon the poor and
helpless. When the Lord sees that we are doing our best for the relief
of these needy ones, He will move upon others to aid in this good
work.
The design of an orphans’ home should be not merely to provide
the children with food and clothing, but to place them under the care of
Christian teachers who will educate them in the knowledge of God and
His Son. Those who work in this line should be men and women who
are largehearted and inspired with enthusiasm at the cross of Calvary.
They should be men and women who are cultured and self-sacrificing,