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Counsels for the Church
When a verbal or written pledge has been made in the presence of
our brethren to give a certain amount, they are the visible witnesses
of a contract made between ourselves and God. The pledge is not
made to man, but to God, and is as a written note given to a neighbor.
No legal bond is more binding upon the Christian for the payment of
money than a pledge made to God.
Persons who thus pledge to their fellow men do not generally think
of asking to be released from their pledges. A vow made to God, the
Giver of all favors, is of still greater importance; then why should we
seek to be released from our vows to God? Will man consider his
promise less binding because made to God? Because his vow will not
be put to trial in courts of justice, is it less valid? Will a man who
professes to be saved by the blood of the infinite sacrifice of Jesus
Christ, “rob God”? Are not his vows and his actions weighed in the
balances of justice in the heavenly courts?
A church is responsible for the pledges of its individual mem-
bers. If they see that there is a brother who is neglecting to fulfill his
vows, they should labor with him kindly but plainly. If he is not in
circumstances which render it possible for him to pay his vow, and
he is a worthy member and has a willing heart, then let the church
compassionately help him. Thus they can bridge over the difficulty
and receive a blessing themselves
Offerings of Thanksgiving to Be Set Aside for the Poor
In every church there should be established a treasury for the poor.
Then let each member present a thank offering to God once a week or
once a month, as is most convenient. This offering will express our
gratitude for the gifts of health, of food, and of comfortable clothing.
And according as God has blessed us with these comforts will we
lay by for the poor, the suffering, and the distressed. I would call the
attention of our brethren especially to this point. Remember the poor.
Forego some of your luxuries, yea, even comforts, and help those
who can obtain only the most meager food and clothing. In doing for
them you are doing for Jesus in the person of His saints. He identifies
Himself with suffering humanity. Do not wait until your imaginary
wants are all satisfied. Do not trust to your feelings and give when you
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Testimonies for the Church 4:469-476