Self-Confidence
Young men who have had only a few years of imperfect experience
in the cause of present truth ...should manifest a delicacy in taking
positions contrary to the judgment and opinions of those whose lives
have been interwoven with the cause of God and who have had an
active part in this work for many years. God does not select to lead out
in His sacred, important work, men of immature judgment and great
self-confidence. Those who have not passed through the sufferings,
trials, opposition, and privations that have been endured to bring the
work to its present condition of prosperity, should cultivate modesty
and humility. They should be careful how they become exalted, lest
they be overthrown. They will be accountable for the clear light of
truth which shines upon them.
I saw that God is displeased with the disposition that some have to
murmur against those who have fought the heaviest battles for them,
and who endured so much in the beginning of the message, when the
work went hard. The experienced laborers,—those who toiled under
the weight and the oppressive burdens when there were but few to
help bear them,—God regards; and He has a jealous care for those
who have proved faithful. He is displeased with those who are ready
to find fault with and reproach the servants of God who have grown
gray in building up the cause of present truth. Your reproaches and
murmurings, young men, will surely stand against you in the day of
God.
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Humility in Young Ministers
As long as God has not laid heavy responsibilities upon you, do not
get out of your place, and rely upon your own independent judgment,
and assume responsibilities for which you are not fitted. You need
to cultivate watchfulness and humility, and to be diligent in prayer.
The nearer you live to God, the more clearly will you discern your
weaknesses and dangers. A practical view of the law of God, and clear
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