Power for Service
431
Christian motives demand that we work with a steady purpose, an
undying interest, an ever-increasing importunity, for the souls whom
Satan is seeking to destroy. Nothing is to chill the earnest, yearning
energy for the salvation of the lost.
Mark how all through the word of God there is manifest the spirit
of urgency, of imploring men and women to come to Christ. We must
seize upon every opportunity, in private and in public, presenting every
argument, urging every motive of infinite weight, to draw men to the
Saviour. With all our power we must urge them to look unto Jesus,
and to accept His life of self-denial and sacrifice. We must show that
we expect them to give joy to the heart of Christ by using every one of
His gifts in honoring His name.—
The Ministry of Healing, 164-165
.
* * * * *
It is not the length of time we labor, but our willingness and fidelity
in the work, that makes it acceptable to God. In all our service a full
surrender of self is demanded. The smallest duty done in sincerity
[507]
and self-forgetfulness, is more pleasing to God than the greatest work
when marred with self-seeking. He looks to see how much of the spirit
of Christ we cherish, and how much of the likeness of Christ our work
reveals. He regards more the love and faithfulness with which we work
than the amount we do.
Only when selfishness is dead, when strife for the supremacy is
banished, when gratitude fills the heart, and love makes fragrant the
life,—it is only then that Christ is abiding in the soul, and we are
recognized as laborers together with God.—
Christ’s Object Lessons,
402
.
* * * * *
Of all people in the world, reformers should be the most unselfish,
the most kind, the most courteous. In their lives should be seen the
true goodness of unselfish deeds. The worker who manifests a lack of
courtesy, who shows impatience at the ignorance or waywardness of
others, who speaks hastily or acts thoughtlessly, may close the door to
hearts so that he can never reach them.
As the dew and the still showers fall upon the withering plants, so
let words fall gently when seeking to win men from error. God’s plan