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Christian Service
would be their influence for good. The disciples were to speak with
the same simplicity with which Christ had spoken.—
The Acts of the
Apostles, 28
.
Thousands can be reached in the most simple and humble way.
The most intellectual, those who are looked upon as the world’s most
gifted men and women, are often refreshed by the simple words of
one who loves God, and who can speak of that love as naturally as the
worldling speaks of the things that interest him most deeply. Often
the words well prepared and studied have but little influence. But the
true, honest expression of a son or daughter of God, spoken in natural
simplicity, has power to unbolt the door to hearts that have long been
closed against Christ and His love.—
Christ’s Object Lessons, 232
.
Faith
God’s workers need faith in God. He is not unmindful of their
labors. He values their work. Divine agencies are appointed to co-
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operate with those who are laborers together with God. When we think
that God will not do as He has said, and that He has no time to no-
tice His workers, we dishonor our Maker.—
The Southern Watchman,
August 2, 1904
.
The worker for God needs strong faith. Appearances may seem
forbidding; but in the darkest hour there is light beyond. The strength
of those who, in faith, love and serve God, will be renewed day by
day.—
Gospel Workers, 262
.
There is in genuine faith a buoyancy, a steadfastness of principle,
and a fixedness of purpose, that neither time nor toil can weaken.—
Christ’s Object Lessons, 147
.
Often the Christian life is beset by dangers, and duty seems hard
to perform. The imagination pictures impending ruin before, and
bondage or death behind. Yet the voice of God speaks clearly, “Go
forward.” We should obey this command, even though our eyes cannot
penetrate the darkness, and we feel the cold waves about our feet. The
obstacles that hinder our progress will never disappear before a halting,
doubting spirit. Those who defer obedience till every shadow of uncer-
tainty disappears, and there remains no risk of failure or defeat, will
never obey at all. Unbelief whispers, “Let us wait till the obstructions
are removed, and we can see our way clearly;” but faith courageously