Revival of the Canvassing Work
287
is right to give counsel and suggest plans; but every man should be left
free to seek direction from God, whose he is and whom he serves.
* * * * *
A Preparation for the Ministry. Some men whom God was calling
to the work of the ministry have entered the field as canvassers. I have
been instructed that this is an excellent preparation if their object is
to disseminate light, to bring the truths of God’s word directly to the
home circle. In conversation the way will often be opened for them
to speak of the religion of the Bible. If the work is entered upon as it
should be, families will be visited, the workers will manifest Christian
tenderness and love for souls, and great good will be the result. This
will be an excellent experience for any who have the ministry in view.
Those who are fitting for the ministry can engage in no other
occupation that will give them so large an experience as will the
canvassing work.
* * * * *
Enduring Hardness. He who in his work meets with trials and
temptations should profit by these experiences, learning to lean more
decidedly upon God. He should feel his dependence every moment.
No complaint should be cherished in his heart or be uttered by
[335]
his lips. When successful, he should take no glory to himself, for his
success is due to the working of God’s angels upon the heart. And let
him remember that both in the time of encouragement and the time
of discouragement the heavenly messengers are always beside him.
He should acknowledge the goodness of the Lord, praising Him with
cheerfulness.
Christ laid aside His glory and came to this earth to suffer for
sinners. If we meet with hardships in our work, let us look to Him
who is the Author and Finisher of our faith. Then we shall not fail nor
be discouraged. We shall endure hardness as good soldiers of Jesus
Christ. Remember what He says of all true believers: “We are laborers
together with God: ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building.”
1
Corinthians 3:9
.
* * * * *