Sales Promotion of Books
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importance of making haste in the circulation of our literature. In
response to these appeals the brethren and sisters came forward and
purchased many books. Some took a few, and some purchased large
quantities. Most of the purchasers paid for the books they took. A few
[343]
arranged to pay afterward.
Because books were being sold at low prices, some being especially
reduced for the occasion, many were purchased, and some by persons
not of our faith. They said: “It must be that these books contain a
message for us. These people are willing to make sacrifices in order
that we may have them, and we will secure them for ourselves and our
friends.”
But dissatisfaction was expressed by some of our own people. One
said: “A stop must be put to this work, or our business will be spoiled.”
As one brother was carrying away an armful of books, a canvasser
laid his hand upon his arm and said: “My brother, what are you doing
with so many books?” Then I heard the voice of our Counselor saying:
“Forbid them not. This is a work that should be done. The end is near.
Already much time has been lost, when these books should have been
in circulation. Sell them far and near. Scatter them like the leaves of
autumn. This work is to continue without the forbiddings of anyone.
Souls are perishing out of Christ. Let them be warned of His soon
appearing in the clouds of heaven.”
Some of the workers continued to appear much cast down. One was
weeping and said: “These are doing the publishing work an injustice
by purchasing these books at so low a price; besides, this work is
depriving us of some of the revenue by which our work is sustained.”
The Voice replied: “You are meeting with no loss. These workers who
take the books at reduced prices could not obtain so ready sale for
them except it be at this so-called sacrifice. Many are now purchasing
for their friends and for themselves who otherwise would not think of
buying.”—
Testimonies for the Church 9:71-73
.
Better Ways Than Public Appeals for Means—I was shown that
there have been unhappy results from making urgent calls for means
at our camp meetings. This matter has been pressed too hard. Many
men of means would not have done anything had not their hearts been
softened and melted under the influence of the testimonies borne to
them. But the poor have been deeply affected and, in the sincerity
of their souls, have pledged means which they had a heart to give,