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that they gain will not exalt them, but will cause them to lean more
securely upon the Mighty One. Deep and fervent gratitude to God will
spring up in their hearts, and they will be joyful in the tribulation that
comes to them while pressed by the enemy.
[267]
A Season of Trust and Privilege
The present is a season of solemn privilege and sacred trust. If
the servants of God keep faithfully the trust given to them, great will
be their reward when the Master shall say, “Give an account of thy
stewardship.” [
Luke 16:2
.] The earnest toil, the unselfish work, the
patient, persevering effort, will be abundantly rewarded. Jesus will
say, Henceforth I call you not servants, but friends. [See
John 15:15
.]
The approval of the Master is not given because of the greatness of the
work performed, but because of fidelity in all that has been done. It
is not the results we attain, but the motives from which we act, that
weigh with God. He prizes goodness and faithfulness above all else.
I entreat the heralds of the gospel of Christ never to become dis-
couraged, never to regard the most hardened sinner as beyond the reach
of the grace of God. The one apparently hopeless may accept the truth
in the love of it. He who turns the hearts of men as the rivers of water
are turned, can bring the most selfish, sin-hardened soul to Christ. Is
anything too hard for God to do? “My word,” He declares, “shall not
return unto Me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it
shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.” [
Isaiah 55:11
.]
Those who are endeavoring to build up the work in new territory
will often find themselves in great need of better facilities. Their work
will seem to be hindered for lack of these facilities; but let them not lose
their faith and courage. Often they are obliged to go to the limit of their
resources. At times it may seem as if they could advance no farther.
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But if they pray and work in faith, God will answer their petitions,
sending them means for the advancement of the work. Difficulties
will arise; they will wonder how they are going to accomplish what
must be done. At times the future will look very dark. But let the
workers bring to God the promises He has made, and thank Him for
what He has done. Then the way will open before them, and they will
be strengthened for the duty of the hour.