Miscellaneous Lines of Missionary Work
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Stewardship of Means
In all our expenditure of means, we are to strive to fulfil the pur-
pose of Him who is the alpha and omega of all Christian effort.—
Testimonies for the Church 9:49
.
Money has great value, because it can do great good. In the hands
of God’s children it is food for the hungry, drink for the thirsty, and
clothing for the naked. It is a defense for the oppressed, and a means
of help to the sick. But money is of no more value than sand, only as it
is put to use in providing for the necessities of life, in blessing others,
and advancing the cause of Christ.—
Christ’s Object Lessons, 351
.
God Himself originated plans for the advancement of His work,
and He has provided His people with a surplus of means, that when
He calls for help, they may respond, saying,” Lord, Thy pound hath
gained other pounds.”—
Testimonies for the Church 9:58
.
Money cannot be carried into the next life; it is not needed there;
but the good deeds done in winning souls to Christ are carried to
the heavenly courts. But those who selfishly spend the Lord’s gifts
on themselves, leaving their needy fellow creatures without aid, and
doing nothing to advance God’s work in the world, dishonor their
Maker. Robbery of God is written opposite their names in the books
of heaven.—
Christ’s Object Lessons, 266
.
What is the value of money at this time, in comparison with the
value of souls? Every dollar of our means should be considered as
the Lord’s, not ours; and as a precious trust from God to us; not to
be wasted for needless indulgences, but carefully used in the cause of
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God, in the work of saving men and women from ruin.—
Life Sketches,
214
.
Is not the missionary work that is to be done in our world of
sufficient importance to command our influence and support? Should
we not deny ourselves of every extravagance, and put our gifts into
the treasury of God, that the truth may be sent into other countries,
and that home missions may be sustained? Will not this work meet
the approval of Heaven? The work for these last days has not been
supported by large legacies, or advanced by worldly influence. It has
been sustained by gifts that were the result of self-denial, of the spirit
of sacrifice. God has given us the privilege of becoming partakers with
Christ in His sufferings here, and He has provided that we may have a