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The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Third-day, November 12, 1867

FromReview and Herald, Vol. XXX, No. 22

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POWER OF EXAMPLE.

By S. McIntosh

“How much did you give to-day?”
“Ten cents.”
“And ten last Sunday; you are getting liberal.”
“But I mean to hold on for awhile.”
“And why?”
“Mrs. C. and T. put nothing on the plate to-day, or last Sunday either.”
“And is that any reason why you should not? One Sunday there was only seventy cents from my class of twelve, and I gave fifty of that.”
“Well, I am going to wait and let others take hold and do a little.”
“It don’t make any difference to me what others do; that is no excuse for me; I shall do my duty.”
This conversation I heard not long ago between two individuals; and often since it has recurred to my mind. It led me to reflect on the influence our acts have upon others. Here was one willing to neglect duty because others failed to come up to the standard.
And is it not more or less so with all. Could we only see the influence one selfish or wrong act may exert, it would fill our minds with astonishment, and lead us to consider well our ways.
Christian friend, do you realize that some are looking to you as an example? That their very acts are but the reflection of your own? Others are looking to them and each to the other. They know that Christ is the perfect pattern; you profess to be following him, and they think it safe to follow you. Perhaps you have had greater experience or may possibly hold a more exalted place in the church, or may feel as if you were the least of all: but wherever you are your influence will be felt. Oh, be careful to cast it on the right side!
S. McINTOSH.
Battle Creek.