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Manual for Canvassers
Canvassers need self-culture and polished manners, not the affected
and artificial manners of the world, but the agreeable manners that are
the natural result of kindness of heart and a desire to copy the example
of Christ. They should cultivate thoughtful, care-taking habits,—habits
of industry and discretion,—and should seek to honor God by making
of themselves all that it is possible for them to become. Christ made
an infinite sacrifice to place them in right relations to God and to their
fellow men; and divine aid, combined with human effort, will enable
them to reach a high standard of excellence. The canvasser should be
chaste like Joseph, meek like Moses, and temperate like Daniel; then
a power will attend him wherever he goes.
Preparation for Their Work
Very much more efficient work can be done in the canvassing field
than has yet been done. The canvasser should not rest satisfied unless
he is constantly improving. The Lord desires every one to improve to
the utmost the talents committed to his trust. He desires the workers in
His cause to study His word diligently, that its practical teaching may
have a positive bearing upon their lives. The faithful, youthful Timothy
was taught by experienced men of God’s appointment how to study the
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word and how to explain it. Paul, his father in the gospel, speaking by
the Holy Spirit, addressed him in the words: “Thou therefore, my son,
be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.” “Study to show thyself
approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly
dividing the word of truth.” “Hold fast the form of sound words, which
thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.” “And
the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same
commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.”
2 Timothy 2:1, 15
;
1:13
;
2:2, 3
. Here is a thought that we should do
well to ponder. Timothy was to make the very best use of his powers
in hearing the word of the Lord from the lips of Paul. This instruction
he was faithfully to preserve, and entrust to men who would impart
the principles of truth.
* * * * *
Canvassers should be sent out two and two. Inexperienced workers
should be sent out with those of more experience, who can give them