Christian Spouse’s Behavior
37
but simply live the life of Christ. In words, in spirit, in character, in
meekness, in patience and forbearance, in cheerfulness, be a signpost
pointing out the way, the path that leads heavenward.
[46]
Be a witness for Christ. Exemplify the strength of the Christian’s
hope, which is cast into that within the veil. Reveal that the anchor
holds you under all circumstances. Let your home be made pleasant
and cheerful. Jesus—you must rely on Jesus every moment. Draw
your strength from Jesus. He will give you that which you ask in
sincerity. If you seek Him with your whole heart, He will be found of
you.
Home Missionary Work by Mother—God does not call mothers
away from home missionary work which will leave their children under
the control of influences that are demoralizing and ruinous to the soul.
Are not her children in need of missionary labor? Are not her children
worth earnest and prayerful effort? Shall she neglect home missionary
work for a larger field? Let her try her skill in her own home—take up
her appointed, God-given work. If she has utterly failed, it is because
she has not had faith or may not have presented the truth and lived
the truth as it is in Jesus. Let her, after years of apparent failure, try
again other methods, seeking counsel of God. Present His promises
on your knees before Him. “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of
God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be
given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering” [
James 1:5, 6
].
Cheerfulness Better Than Complaining—Have you felt your
lot was hard, and complained and murmured? Then as you received
no help in this line, begin another course of action. Speak kindly; be
cheerful. Because you have Jesus as your helper, break forth in songs
of praise. When tempted, when reviled, revile not again; and labor
with your children while there is one out of Christ. Sow the seed, the
living seed, deep into the soil of the heart. Let your words be wisely
chosen. Consider yourself as God’s appointed missionary, to be the
light of your home.
[47]
Again I say, It is not like the works of God to call the mother
away from her husband and from her children to engage in what she
considers higher work. Take right hold of the duties lying directly in
your path.
Post of Duty at Home—I am pained when I receive letters from
mothers who have children inquiring, “Shall I leave my children to