404
Gospel Workers 1915
our characters noble or our lives useful, unless we become co-workers
with Him. Those who decline the struggle lose the strength and joy of
victory.
We need not keep our own record of trials and difficulties, griefs,
and sorrows. All these things are written in the books, and heaven
will take care of them. While we are counting up the disagreeable
things, many things that are pleasing to reflect upon are passing from
memory; such as the merciful kindness of God surrounding us every
moment, and the love over which angels marvel, that God gave His
Son to die for us. If as workers for Christ you feel that you have had
greater cares and trials than have fallen to the lot of others, remember
that for you there is a peace unknown to those who shun these burdens.
[478]
There is comfort and joy in the service of Christ. Let the world see
that life with Him is no failure.
If you do not feel light-hearted and joyous, do not talk of your
feelings. Cast no shadow upon the lives of others. A cold, sunless
religion never draws souls to Christ. It drives them away from Him,
into the nets that Satan has spread for the feet of the straying. Instead
of thinking of your discouragements, think of the power you can claim
in Christ’s name. Let your imagination take hold upon things unseen.
Let your thoughts be directed to the evidences of the great love of
God for you. Faith can endure trial, resist temptation, bear up under
disappointment. Jesus lives as our advocate. All is ours that His
mediation secures.
Think you not that Christ values those who live wholly for Him?
Think you not that He visits those who, like the beloved John in exile,
are for His sake in hard and trying places? God will not suffer one
of His true-hearted workers to be left alone, to struggle against great
odds and be overcome. He preserves as a precious jewel every one
whose life is hid with Christ in Him. Of every such one He says: “I
...will make thee as a signet: for I have chosen thee.” [
Haggai 2:23
.]
Then talk of the promises; talk of Jesus’ willingness to bless. He
does not forget us for one brief moment. When, notwithstanding
disagreeable circumstances, we rest confidingly in His love and shut
ourselves in with Him, the sense of His presence will inspire a deep,
tranquil joy. Of Himself Christ said: “I do nothing of Myself; but as
My Father hath taught Me, I speak these things. And He that sent Me