Preparation for Death
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Jesus in life, and insult Him by giving Him a mere pittance at death.
Let all of this class remember that this robbery of God is not an
impulsive action, but a well-considered plan which they preface by
saying, “Being in sound mind.” After having defrauded the cause of
God through life, they perpetuate the fraud after death. And this is
with the full consent of all the powers of the mind. Such a will many
are content to cherish for a dying pillow. Their will is a part of their
preparation for death, and is prepared so that their possessions shall
not disturb their dying hours. Can these dwell with pleasure upon
the requirement that will be made of them to give an account of their
stewardship?
We must all be rich in good works in this life, if we would se-
cure the future, immortal life. When the judgment shall sit, and the
books shall be opened, every man will be rewarded according to his
works. Many names are enrolled on the church book that have rob-
bery recorded against them in the ledger of heaven. And unless these
repent, and work for the Master with disinterested benevolence, they
will certainly share in the doom of the unfaithful steward.
Losses Due to Lack of Will
It often happens that an active businessman is cut down without
a moment’s warning, and on examination his business is found to be
in a most perplexing condition. In the effort to settle his estate, the
lawyers’ fees eat up a large share, if not all, of the property, while his
wife and children and the cause of Christ are robbed. Those who are
faithful stewards of the Lord’s means will know just how their business
stands, and, like wise men, they will be prepared for any emergency.
Should their probation close suddenly, they would not leave such great
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perplexity upon those who are called to settle their estate.
Many are not exercised upon the subject of making their wills
while they are in apparent health. But this precaution should be taken
by our brethren. They should know their financial standing, and should
not allow their business to become entangled. They should arrange
their property in such a manner that they may leave it at any time.
Wills should be made in a manner to stand the test of law. After they
are drawn, they may remain for years, and do no harm, if donations
continue to be made from time to time as the cause has need. Death