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Lifework
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We need to follow more closely God’s plan of life. To do our
best in the work that lies nearest, to commit our ways to God, and
to watch for the indications of His providence—these are rules that
ensure safe guidance in the choice of an occupation.
He who came from heaven to be our example spent nearly thirty
years in common, mechanical work, but during this time He was
studying the Word and the works of God. He also was helping and
teaching all whom His influence could reach. When His public
ministry began, He went about healing the sick, comforting the
sorrowful, and preaching the gospel to the poor. This is the work of
all His followers.
“The greatest among you,” Christ said, “must become like the
youngest, and the leader like one who serves. For ... I am among
you as one who serves.”
Luke 22:26, 27
, NRSV.
Love and loyalty to Christ are the spring of all true service. In
the heart touched by His love, there is born a desire to work for Him.
This desire should be encouraged and rightly guided. Whether in the
home, the neighborhood, or the school, the fact that there are poor,
afflicted, ignorant, or unfortunate people should be regarded, not as
a misfortune, but as affording a valuable opportunity for service.
In this work, as in every other, skill is gained in the work itself.
It is by training in the common duties of life and in ministry to
the needy and suffering, that efficiency is assured. Without this the
best-meant efforts often are useless and even harmful. It is in water,
not on the land, that people learn to swim.
Importance of Church Membership
Another obligation, too often lightly regarded—one that should
be made plain to every young person who has been awakened to
the claims of Christ—is the obligation of church relationship. Very
close and sacred is the relation between Christ and His church—He
the bridegroom, the church the bride; He the head, the church the
body. Connection with Christ, then, involves connection with His
church.
The church is organized for service, and in a life of service to
Christ, connection with the church is one of the first steps. Loyalty
to Christ demands the faithful performance of church duties. This is