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Enduring Victory
117
Total Dependence on Christ the Only Solution
—Even those
who are sincerely seeking to reform are not beyond the danger
of falling. They need to be treated with great wisdom as well as
tenderness. The disposition to flatter and exalt those who have been
rescued from the lowest depths, sometimes proves their ruin. The
practice of inviting men and women to relate in public the experience
of their life of sin, is full of danger to both speaker and hearers. To
dwell upon scenes of evil is corrupting to mind and soul. And the
prominence given to the rescued ones is harmful to them. Many are
led to feel that their sinful life has given them a certain distinction. A
love of notoriety and a spirit of self-trust are encouraged that prove
fatal to the soul. Only in distrust of self and dependence on the
mercy of Christ can they stand.
The Rescued to Help Others
—All who give evidence of true
conversion should be encouraged to work for others. Let none turn
away a soul who leaves the service of Satan for the service of Christ.
When one gives evidence that the Spirit of God is striving with
him, present every encouragement for entering the Lord’s service.
“Of some have compassion, making a difference.”
Jude 22
. Those
who are wise in the wisdom that comes from God will see souls in
need of help, those who have sincerely repented, but who without
encouragement would hardly dare to lay hold of hope. The Lord
will put it into the hearts of His servants to welcome these trembling,
repentant ones to their loving fellowship. Whatever may have been
their besetting sins, however low they may have fallen, when in
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contrition they come to Christ, He receives them. Then give them
something to do for Him. If they desire to labor in uplifting others
from the pit of destruction from which they themselves were rescued,
give them opportunity. Bring them into association with experienced
Christians, that they may gain spiritual strength. Fill their hearts and
hands with work for the Master.
When light flashes into the soul, some who appear to be most
fully given to sin will become successful workers for just such sin-
ners as they themselves once were. Through faith in Christ, some
will rise to high places of service, and be entrusted with respon-
sibilities in the work of saving souls. They see where their own
weakness lies, they realize the depravity of their nature. They know
the strength of sin, the power of evil habit. They realize their inabil-