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Working for the Intemperate
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well as tenderness. The disposition to flatter and exalt those who
have been rescued from the lowest depths sometimes proves their
ruin. The practice of inviting men and women to relate in public
the experience of their life of sin is full of danger to both speaker
and hearers. To dwell upon scenes of evil is corrupting to mind and
soul. And the prominence given to the rescued ones is harmful to
them. Many are led to feel that their sinful life has given them a
certain distinction. A love of notoriety and a spirit of self-trust are
encouraged that prove fatal to the soul. Only in distrust of self and
dependence on the mercy of Christ can they stand.
All who give evidence of true conversion should be encouraged
to work for others. Let none turn away a soul who leaves the service
of Satan for the service of Christ. When one gives evidence that the
Spirit of God is striving with him, present every encouragement for
entering the Lord’s service. “Of some have compassion, making a
difference.”
Jude 22
. Those who are wise in the wisdom that comes
from God will see souls in need of help, those who have sincerely
repented, but who without encouragement would hardly dare to lay
hold of hope. The Lord will put it into the hearts of His servants to
welcome these trembling, repentant ones to their loving fellowship.
Whatever may have been their besetting sins, however low they may
have fallen, when in contrition they come to Christ, He receives
them. Then give them something to do for Him. If they desire to
labor in uplifting others from the pit of destruction from which they
themselves were rescued, give them opportunity. Bring them into
association with experienced Christians, that they may gain spiritual
strength. Fill their hearts and hands with work for the Master.
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When light flashes into the soul, some who appeared to be most
fully given to sin will become successful workers for just such sin-
ners as they themselves once were. Through faith in Christ some will
rise to high places of service and be entrusted with responsibilities
in the work of saving souls. They see where their own weakness lies,
they realize the depravity of their nature. They know the strength
of sin, the power of evil habit. They realize their inability to over-
come without the help of Christ, and their constant cry is, “I cast my
helpless soul on Thee.”
These can help others. The one who has been tempted and tried,
whose hope was well-nigh gone, but who was saved by hearing