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The Adventist Home
thoughtless and reckless as themselves. The powers which might be
turned to noble purposes they give to folly and mental dissipation
The Blessings of Christian Sociability—Christian sociability is
altogether too little cultivated by God’s people.... Those who shut
themselves up within themselves, who are unwilling to be drawn
upon to bless others by friendly associations, lose many blessings;
for by mutual contact minds receive polish and refinement; by social
intercourse acquaintances are formed and friendships contracted which
result in a unity of heart and an atmosphere of love which is pleasing
in the sight of heaven.
Especially should those who have tasted the love of Christ develop
their social powers, for in this way they may win souls to the Saviour.
Christ should not be hid away in their hearts, shut in as a coveted
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treasure, sacred and sweet, to be enjoyed solely by themselves; nor
should the love of Christ be manifested toward those only who please
their fancy. Students are to be taught the Christlikeness of exhibiting a
kindly interest, a social disposition, toward those who are in the great-
est need, even though these may not be their own chosen companions.
At all times and in all places Jesus manifested a loving interest in the
human family and shed about Him the light of a cheerful piety
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7
Testimonies For The Church 4, 624
.
8
Testimonies For The Church 6, 172, 173
.