Criticism and Its Effects
229
Every institution will have to battle with difficulty. Trials are
permitted in order to test the hearts of God’s people. When adversity
befalls one of the Lord’s instrumentalities, it will be shown how much
real faith we have in God and in His work. At such a time let none view
matters in the worst light and give expression to doubt and unbelief.
Do not criticize those who carry the burdens of responsibility. Let
not the conversation in your homes be poisoned with criticism of the
Lord’s workers. Parents who indulge this criticizing spirit are not
bringing before their children that which will make them wise unto
salvation. Their words tend to unsettle the faith and confidence not
only of the children, but of those older in years
The managers of our institutions have a most difficult task to main-
tain order and to discipline wisely the youth under their care. The
members of the church can do much to stay up their hands. When the
youth are unwilling to submit to the discipline of the institution, or in
any matter of difference with their superiors are determined to have
their own way, let not parents blindly sustain and sympathize with
their children.
Better, far better might your children suffer, better lie in their
graves, than be taught to treat lightly the principles that lie at the very
foundation of loyalty to truth, to their fellow beings, and to God
[179]
Criticism of Self Alone is of Practical Value
Would all professed Christians use their investigative powers to see
what evils needed to be corrected in themselves, instead of talking of
others’ wrongs, there would be a more healthy condition in the church
today. Some will be honest when it costs nothing; but when policy
will pay best, honesty is forgotten. Honesty and policy will not work
together in the same mind. In time, either policy will be expelled, and
truth and honesty reign supreme, or, if policy is cherished, honesty
will be forgotten. They are never in agreement; they have nothing in
common. One is the prophet of Baal, the other is the true prophet of
God. When the Lord makes up His jewels, the true, the frank, the
honest, will be looked upon with pleasure. Angels are employed in
making crowns for such ones, and upon these star-gemmed crowns will
257
Testimonies for the Church 7:183
258
Testimonies for the Church 7:185, 186