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Press Close to Those Who Need Help, August 24
For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.
Luke 19:10
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The whole heavenly universe are intensely interested in every penitent soul
that comes to Jesus; and they are interested, too, in the impenitent—in those whom
they hope to see saved by repentance and reformation. Angels are watching our
every act. They are familiar with every word uttered. They are intensely desirous
of seeing us value above all else the instruction of God’s Word. They desire us to
learn Christ’s meekness and lowliness—the highest of all sciences, the science of
gladness and humility and love through Christ Jesus.
The angels desire that we shall learn that the Son of man came “to save that
which was lost.” Christ came not to save that which is good and righteous, but
“that which was lost.” Brethren and sisters, when you see a soul slipping away
from the truth, and endangering his hope of eternal salvation, press close to his
side, and seek to help him in every way you can. Inquire into his needs; pray with
him; labor kindly, patiently, with him; never despair of helping him.
Church members have a work to do along the line of taking an interest in the
youth. They should shake hands with them, and manifest a kindly interest in their
welfare. Let us shield the youth, so far as possible, from worldly temptations
and allurements. If possible, let us find some employment for them, whereby
their minds may be occupied with that which is ennobling. This is genuine
ministry—a ministry that God approves, and that lifts up before the one who
ministers, as well as before the one ministered unto, a standard against the enemy.
Satan cannot overcome by his wiles those who in word and deed are ministers of
righteousness....
To everyone is given the privilege of helping his fellow men to place their feet
on the Rock of Ages....
Christ never ceases to seek us when we wander from the fold. With unwearying
steps He searches until He finds us, and brings us back to His fold. Again and
again we would have perished, had it not been for His loving care.... Little do
we realize the strength of the forces that are now at work in this world. The
whole heavenly host are seeking to save that which was lost; the fallen angels are
working with a power from beneath to counteract the efforts of Christ and His
colaborers....
May God help us to fight the good fight of faith, and to clothe ourselves with
the whole armor, and, having done all, to stand.... Let us watch for souls as do
those that must give an account.—
Manuscript 102, 1904
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