Seite 88 - Counsels for the Church (1991)

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84
Counsels for the Church
Are we to wait until the fulfillment of the prophecies of the end
before we say anything concerning them? Of what value will our
words be then? Shall we wait until God’s judgments fall upon the
transgressor before we tell him how to avoid them? Where is our faith
in the word of God? Must we see things foretold come to pass before
we will believe what He has said? In clear, distinct rays light has come
to us, showing us that the great day of the Lord is near at hand, “even
at the doors.” Let us read and understand before it is too late
.
53
[65]
Your Talents Fit a Need
The Lord has a place for everyone in His great plan. Talents that
are not needed are not bestowed. Supposing that the talent is small.
God has a place for it, and that one talent, if faithfully used, will do
the very work God designs that it should do. The talents of the humble
cottager are needed in the house-to-house labor and can accomplish
more in this work than brilliant gifts
.
54
When men use their powers as God directs, their talents will in-
crease, their ability will enlarge, and they will have heavenly wisdom
in seeking to save the lost. But while the church members are listless
and neglectful of their God-given responsibility to impart to others,
how can they expect to receive the treasure of heaven? When professed
Christians feel no burden to enlighten those in darkness, when they
cease to impart grace and knowledge, they become less discerning,
they lose their appreciation of the richness of the heavenly endowment;
and, failing to value it themselves, they fail to realize the necessity of
presenting it to others.
We see large churches gathered in different localities. Their mem-
bers have gained a knowledge of the truth, and many are content to
hear the word of life without seeking to impart light. They feel little
responsibility for the progress of the work, little interest in the salva-
tion of souls. They are full of zeal in worldly things, but they do not
bring their religion into their business. They say: “Religion is religion,
and business is business.” They believe that each has its proper sphere,
but they say: “Let them be separated.”
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Testimonies for the Church 9:20
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Testimonies for the Church 9:37, 38