Qualifications of the Canvasser
15
To Those Attending School
To those who are attending school that they may learn how to
do the work of God more perfectly, I would say: Remember that
it is only by a daily consecration to God that you can become soul
winners. There have been those who were unable to go to school
because they were too poor to pay their way. But when they became
sons and daughters of God they took hold of the work where they were,
laboring for those around them. Though destitute of the knowledge
obtained in school, they consecrated themselves to God, and God
worked through them. Like the disciples when called from their nets
to follow Christ, they learned precious lessons from the Saviour. They
linked themselves with the Great Teacher, and the knowledge they
gained from the Scriptures qualified them to speak to others of Christ.
Thus they became truly wise, because they were not too wise in their
own estimation to receive instruction from above. The renewing power
of the Holy Spirit gave them practical, saving energy.
The knowledge of the most learned man, if he has not learned
in Christ’s school, is foolishness so far as leading souls to Christ
is concerned. God can work with those only who will accept the
invitation: “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy-laden, and
[12]
I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I
am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.”
Matthew 11:28-30
.
Right Principles
By many of our canvassers there has been a departure from right
principles. Through a desire to reap worldly advantage their minds
have been drawn away from the real purpose and spirit of the work. Let
none think that display will make a right impression upon the people.
This will not secure the best or most permanent results. Our work is
to direct minds to the solemn truths for this time. It is only when our
own hearts are imbued with the spirit of the truths contained in the
book we are selling, and when in humility we call the attention of the
people to these truths, that real success will attend our efforts; for it is
only then that the Holy Spirit, who convinces of sin, of righteousness,
and of judgment, will be present to impress hearts.