Bible Study Necessary to Efficiency
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they flee to the stronghold of truth, whence they may obtain wisdom,
knowledge, and strength to work the works of God. They will not rest
without an unction from on high.
As the worker makes a constant companion of the word of God, he
gains an increased ability to labor. Continually advancing in knowl-
edge, he becomes constantly better able to represent Christ. He is
strengthened in faith, and can present to unbelievers a proof of the
fulness of the grace and love that is in Christ. His mind is a treasure-
house, from which he can draw to supply the needs of others. By the
work of the Holy Spirit the truth is graven on his mind, and those to
whom he communicates truth, and for whom he must one day give
account, are greatly blessed. He who in this way obtains a preparation
for the ministry, is entitled to the reward promised to those who turn
many to righteousness.
The perusal of works upon our faith, the reading of arguments
from the pens of others, is an excellent and important aid, but this will
not give the mind the greatest strength. The Bible is the best book
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in the world for giving intellectual culture. Its study taxes the mind,
strengthens the memory, and sharpens the intellect more than the study
of all the subjects that human philosophy embraces. The great themes
which it presents, the dignified simplicity with which these themes are
handled, the light which is shed upon the great problems of life, bring
strength and vigor to the understanding.
In the great conflict before us, he who would keep true to Christ
must penetrate deeper than the opinions and doctrines of men. My
message to ministers, young and old, is this: Guard jealously your
hours for prayer, Bible study, and self-examination. Set aside a portion
of each day for a study of the Scriptures and communion with God.
Thus you will obtain spiritual strength, and will grow in favor with
God. He alone can give you noble aspirations; He alone can fashion
the character after the divine similitude. Draw near to Him in earnest
prayer, and He will fill your hearts with high and holy purposes, and
with deep, earnest longings for purity and clearness of thought.
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A true knowledge of the Bible can be gained only through the aid
of that Spirit by whom the Word was given. And in order to gain this