Seclusion
The incessant reading and writing of many ministers unfits them
for pastoral work. They consume valuable time in abstract study,
which should be expended in helping the needy at the right moment.
Some ministers have given themselves to the work of writing during
a period of decided religious interest, and sometimes these writings
have had no special connection with the work in hand. At such times it
is the duty of the minister to use his entire strength in pushing forward
the present interest. His mind should be clear, and centered upon the
one object of saving souls. Should his thoughts be preoccupied with
other subjects, many might be lost to the cause who could have been
saved by timely instruction.
When the temptation comes to seclude themselves, and to indulge
in reading and writing at a time when other duties claim their imme-
diate attention, ministers should be strong enough to deny self, and
devote themselves to the work that lies directly before them. This is
undoubtedly one of the most trying tests that a studious mind is called
to undergo.
The duties of a pastor are often shamelessly neglected because the
minister lacks strength to sacrifice his personal inclinations for seclu-
sion and study. The pastor should visit from house to house among his
flock, teaching, conversing, and praying with each family, and looking
out for the welfare of their souls. Those who have manifested a desire
to become acquainted with the principles of our faith should not be
neglected, but thoroughly instructed in the truth.
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Certain ministers who have been invited to houses by the heads of
families, have spent the few hours of their visit in secluding themselves
in an unoccupied room to indulge their inclination for reading and
writing. The family that entertained them derived no benefit from the
visit. The ministers accepted the hospitality extended them without
giving an equivalent in the labor that was so much needed.
People are easily reached through the avenues of the social circle.
But many ministers dread the task of visiting; they have not cultivated
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