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Temperance Worker
133
learn not to move too fast, and require too much of those who are
newly converted to the truth.—
Manuscript 1, 1878
.
Encouragement of Little Attentions
—In all our associations
it should be remembered that in the experience of others there are
chapters sealed from mortal sight. On the pages of memory are sad
histories that are sacredly guarded from curious eyes. There stand
registered long, hard battles with trying circumstances, perhaps trou-
bles in the home life, that day by day weaken courage, confidence,
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and faith. Those who are fighting the battle of life at great odds may
be strengthened and encouraged by little attentions that cost only a
loving effort. To such the strong, helpful grasp of the hand by a true
friend is worth more than gold or silver. Words of kindness are as
welcome as the smile of angels.—
The Ministry of Healing, 158
.
Offer Something Better—Don’t Attack
—It is of little use to
try to reform others by attacking what we may regard as wrong
habits. Such effort often results in more harm than good. In His
talk with the Samaritan woman, instead of disparaging Jacob’s well,
Christ presented something better. “If thou knewest the gift of
God,” He said, “and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink;
thou wouldst have asked of Him, and He would have given thee
living water.”
John 4:10
. He turned the conversation to the treasure
He had to bestow, offering the woman something better than she
possessed, even living water, the joy and hope of the gospel. This
is an illustration of the way in which we are to work. We must
offer men something better than that which they possess, even the
peace of Christ, which passeth all understanding. We must tell
them of God’s holy law, the transcript of His character, and an
expression of that which He wishes them to become. Show them
how infinitely superior to the fleeting joys and pleasures of the world
is the imperishable glory of heaven. Tell them of the freedom and
rest to be found in the Saviour. “Whosoever drinketh of the water
that I shall give him shall never thirst” (
verse 14
), He declared.
Lift up Jesus, crying, “Behold, the Lamb of God, that taketh
away the sin of the world!”
John 1:29
, A.R.V. He alone can satisfy
the craving of the heart, and give peace to the soul.
Unselfish, Kind, Courteous
—Of all people in the world, re-
formers should be the most unselfish, the most kind, the most cour-
teous. In their lives should be seen the true goodness of unselfish
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