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lations as will lead to the formation of correct habits of thought and
action. Such a training is necessary not only for the young men but
for the older workers, in order that their ministry may be free from
mistakes, and their sermons be clear, accurate, and convincing.
Some minds are more like an old curiosity shop than anything else.
Many odd bits and ends of truth have been picked up and stored away
there; but they know not how to present them in a clear, connected
manner. It is the relation that these ideas have to one another that gives
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them value. Every idea and statement should be as closely united as
the links in a chain. When a minister throws out a mass of matter
before the people for them to pick up and arrange in order, his labors
are lost; for there are few who will do it.—
The Review and Herald,
April 6, 1886
.
Methodical Service Expedites Success—There are some young
men and women who have no method in doing their work. Though
they are always busy, they can present but little results. They have
erroneous ideas of work, and think that they are working hard, when
if they had practiced method in their work, and applied themselves
intelligently to what they had to do, they would have accomplished
much more in a shorter time. By dallying over the less important
matters, they find themselves hurried, perplexed, and confused when
they are called upon to do those duties that are more essential. They
are always doing, and, they think, working very hard; and yet there
is little to show for their efforts.—
The Youth’s Instructor, August 31,
1893
.
System and Promptness Save Time—There must be men who
will begin a work in the right way, and hold to it and push it forward
firmly. Everything must be done according to a well-matured plan,
and with system. God has entrusted His sacred work to men, and He
asks that they shall do it carefully. Regularity in all things is essential.
Never be late to an appointment. In no department or office should
time be lost in unnecessary conversations. The work of God requires
things which it does not receive, because men do not learn from the
God of wisdom. They press too many things into their life, postpone
until tomorrow that which demands their attention today, and much
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time is lost in painfully picking up the lost stitches....
Some workers need to give up the slow methods of work which
prevail, and to learn to be prompt. Promptness is necessary as well