Self-Improvement
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being too indolent to search the Scriptures diligently and prayerfully,
that they may become giants in the understanding of Bible doctrines
and the practical lessons of Christ.
The minds of all should be stored with a knowledge of the truths of
God’s word, that they may be prepared, at any moment when required,
to present from the storehouse things new and old. Minds have been
crippled and dwarfed for want of zeal and earnest, severe taxation. The
time has come when God says, Go forward, and cultivate the abilities
I have given you.
The world is teeming with errors and fables. Novelties in the
form of sensational dramas are continually arising to engross the
mind; and absurd theories abound, which are destructive to moral and
spiritual advancement. The cause of God needs men of intellect, men
of thought, men well versed in the Scriptures, to meet the inflowing
tide of opposition. We should give no sanction to arrogance, narrow-
mindedness, and inconsistencies, although the garment of professed
piety may be thrown over them. Those who have the sanctifying
power of the truth upon their hearts will exert a persuasive influence.
Knowing that the advocates of error cannot create or destroy truth,
they can afford to be calm and considerate...
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There are many, even among our preachers, who want to rise in
the world without effort. They are ambitious to do some great work
of usefulness, while they disregard the little, every-day duties which
would render them helpful and make them ministers after Christ’s
order. They wish to do the work that others are doing, but have no
relish for the discipline necessary to fit them for it. This yearning
desire by both men and women to do something far in advance of
their present capabilities, is causing them to make decided failures at
the outset. They indignantly refuse to climb the ladder, wishing to
be elevated by a less laborious process.—
Testimonies for the Church
4:411-417
.
* * * * *
I am astonished that with the examples before us of what man may
be and what he may do, we are not stimulated to greater exertion to
emulate the good works of the righteous. Not all may occupy positions
of prominence; yet all may fill positions of usefulness and trust, and