118
Gospel Workers 1915
We need more Christlike sympathy; not merely sympathy for those
who appear to us to be faultless, but sympathy for poor, suffering, strug-
gling souls, who are often overtaken in fault, sinning and repenting,
tempted and discouraged. We are to go to our fellow-men, touched,
like our merciful High Priest, with the feeling of their infirmities.—
The
Ministry of Healing, 163, 164
.
Integrity
Men of tried courage and strong integrity are needed for this time,
men who are not afraid to lift their voices for the right. To every laborer
I would say, In all your official duties, let integrity characterize each
act. All tithes, all moneys entrusted to you for any special purpose,
should be promptly placed where they belong. Money given for the
cause of God should not be appropriated for personal use, with the
thought that it can be replaced later on. This the Lord forbids. It is a
temptation from the one who works evil and evil only. The minister
who receives funds for the Lord’s treasury should give the donor a
written receipt for the same, with the date. Then, without waiting to
be tempted by financial pressure to use this means for himself, let him
deposit it where, when called for, it will be forthcoming.
[142]
Union with Christ
A vital connection with the Chief Shepherd will make the under-
shepherd a living representative of Christ, a light indeed to the world.
An understanding of all points of our faith is essential, but it is of still
greater importance that the minister be sanctified through the truth he
presents.
The worker who knows the meaning of union with Christ, has
a constantly increasing desire and capacity to grasp the meaning of
service for God. His knowledge enlarges; for to grow in grace means
to have an increased ability to understand the Scriptures. Such a one
is indeed a laborer together with God. He realizes that he is but an
instrument, and that he must be passive in the Master’s hands. Trials
come to him; for unless thus tested, he would never know his lack
of wisdom and experience. But if he seeks the Lord with humility
and trust, every trial will work for his good. He may sometimes seem