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The Ministry of Healing
By dwelling upon the faults of others, we are changed into the same
image. But by beholding Jesus, talking of His love and perfection of
character, we become changed into His image. By contemplating
the lofty ideal He has placed before us, we shall be uplifted into
a pure and holy atmosphere, even the presence of God. When we
abide here, there goes forth from us a light that irradiates all who
are connected with us.
Instead of criticizing and condemning others, say, “I must work
out my own salvation. If I co-operate with Him who desires to save
my soul, I must watch myself diligently. I must put away every
evil from my life. I must overcome every fault. I must become a
new creature in Christ. Then, instead of weakening those who are
striving against evil, I can strengthen them by encouraging words.”
We are too indifferent in regard to one another. Too often we forget
that our fellow laborers are in need of strength and cheer. Take care
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to assure them of your interest and sympathy. Help them by your
prayers, and let them know that you do it.
Not all who profess to be workers for Christ are true disciples.
Among those who bear His name, and who are even numbered with
His workers, are some who do not represent Him in character. They
are not governed by His principles. These persons are often a cause
of perplexity and discouragement to their fellow workers who are
young in Christian experience; but none need be misled. Christ has
given us a perfect example. He bids us follow Him.
Till the end of time there will be tares among the wheat. When
the servants of the householder, in their zeal for his honor, asked
permission to root out the tares, the master said: “Nay; lest while ye
gather up the tares, ye root up also the wheat with them. Let both
grow together until the harvest.”
Matthew 13:29, 30
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In His mercy and long-suffering, God bears patiently with the
perverse and even the falsehearted. Among Christ’s chosen apos-
tles was Judas the traitor. Should it then be a cause of surprise or
discouragement that there are falsehearted ones among His workers
today? If He who reads the heart could bear with him who He knew
was to be His betrayer, with what patience should we bear with those
at fault.
And not all, even of those who appear most faulty, are like Judas.
Peter, impetuous, hasty, and self-confident, often appeared to far