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The Acts of the Apostles
of his strength, in whose shelter he could hide without fear. From the
exiled apostle on rocky Patmos there went up the most ardent longing
of soul after God, the most fervent prayers.
The history of John affords a striking illustration of the way in
which God can use aged workers. When John was exiled to the Isle
of Patmos, there were many who thought him to be past service, an
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old and broken reed, ready to fall at any time. But the Lord saw fit to
use him still. Though banished from the scenes of his former labor,
he did not cease to bear witness to the truth. Even in Patmos he made
friends and converts. His was a message of joy, proclaiming a risen
Saviour who on high was interceding for His people until He should
return to take them to Himself. And it was after John had grown old in
the service of his Lord that he received more communications from
heaven than he had received during all the former years of his life.
The most tender regard should be cherished for those whose life
interest has been bound up with the work of God. These aged workers
have stood faithful amid storm and trial. They may have infirmities,
but they still possess talents that qualify them to stand in their place
in God’s cause. Though worn, and unable to bear the heavier burdens
that younger men can and should carry, the counsel they can give is of
the highest value.
They may have made mistakes, but from their failures they have
learned to avoid errors and dangers, and are they not therefore compe-
tent to give wise counsel? They have borne test and trial, and though
they have lost some of their vigor, the Lord does not lay them aside.
He gives them special grace and wisdom.
Those who have served their Master when the work went hard,
who endured poverty and remained faithful when there were few to
stand for truth, are to be honored and respected. The Lord desires the
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younger laborers to gain wisdom, strength, and maturity by association
with these faithful men. Let the younger men realize that in having
such workers among them they are highly favored. Let them give them
an honored place in their councils.
As those who have spent their lives in the service of Christ draw
near to the close of their earthly ministry, they will be impressed by
the Holy Spirit to recount the experiences they have had in connection
with the work of God. The record of His wonderful dealings with His
people, of His great goodness in delivering them from trial, should