Lay Members to Go Forth
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should feel a love for souls, a burden of labor for them, and should
make it a study how to bring them into the truth. They can distribute
our publications, hold meetings in their homes, become acquainted
with their neighbors, and invite them to come to these meetings. Thus
they can let their light shine in good works.
Let the workers stand alone in God, weeping, praying, laboring
for the salvation of their fellow men. Remember that you are running
a race, striving for a crown of immortality. While so many love the
praise of men more than the favor of God, let it be yours to labor in
humility. Learn to exercise faith in presenting your neighbors before
the throne of grace and pleading with God to touch their hearts. In this
way effectual missionary work may be done. Some may be reached
who would not listen to a minister or a colporteur. And those who thus
labor in new places will learn the best ways of approaching the people
and can prepare the way for other laborers.
A precious experience may be gained by one who engages in this
work. He has upon his heart the burden of the souls of his neighbors.
He must have the help of Jesus. How careful he will be to walk
circumspectly, that his prayers may not be hindered, that no cherished
sin may separate him from God. While helping others, such a worker
is himself obtaining spiritual strength and understanding, and in this
humble school he may become qualified to enter a wider field.
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Christ declares: “Herein is My Father glorified, that ye bear much
fruit.”
John 15:8
. God has endowed us with faculties and has entrusted
us with talents in order that we may use them for Him. To every man
is given his work—not merely work in his fields of corn and wheat,
but earnest, persevering work for the salvation of souls. Every stone
in God’s temple must be a living stone, a stone that shines, reflecting
light to the world. Let the laymen do all that they can; and as they
use the talents they already have, God will give them more grace and
increased ability. Many of our missionary enterprises are crippled
because there are so many who refuse to enter the doors of usefulness
that are opened before them. Let all who believe the truth begin to
work. Do the work that lies nearest you; do anything, however humble,
rather than be, like the men of Meroz, do-nothings.
We shall not be stinted for means if we will only go forward trusting
in God. The Lord is willing to do a great work for all who truly believe
in Him. If the lay members of the church will arouse to do the work