WHAT IS THAT IN THINE HAND?
By Mrs. A. W. Heald
At the first camp-meeting I ever attended among our people, Elder —— preached from the text, “What is that in thine hand?” It will be remembered that these are the words of God to Moses when he begged to be excused from the Lord’s work. Moses answered, “A rod.” Said God, “Cast it on the ground. And he cast it on the ground, and it became a serpent; and Moses fled from before it.” At the word of God, Moses caught the serpent, and it became a rod in his hand. Through this rod Moses was to manifest to Pharaoh the great power of God. The words of the preacher have passed from my mind, but the thought remains, and has been a source of constant encouragement; may it not be also an encouragement to others? In order to work for God, it may not be necessary to go as a foreign missionary, or to enter the slums: this is good work; but it may not be your work. God has given you an individual work; you should learn what it is. “What is that in thine hand?” Is it gold and silver? have you the riches of this world? With them you may “make to yourselves friends; . . . that, when ye fail, they may receive you into everlasting habitations.” You may have the eloquent tongue: consecrate the gift to God’s service that so you may “persuade men.” Have you the gift of song? Then sing of Jesus’ love, and gather souls to join you in the heavenly song. Are you a ready writer? Consecrate the pen to God’s service. He will give you the power to cheer many a sad heart. But do you say, “I have no gift”? God says to you as to Moses, “What is that in thine hand?” What is that with which you are skillful? What is it that occupies your hands and your heart? Is it the hoe? Then think of God the Creator, as you work with him to cultivate the soul. Is it the mixing bowl and the bread board? Then work with God to prepare healthful, nourishing food for yourself and family. Is it the broom and duster? Then faithfully carry on the cleansing process. Is it the little child which claims your hands and heart? You have then a most sacred mission to train the infant soul for heaven. “What is that in thine hand?” Consecrate it and yourself to God; become a co-worker with him, and a blessing to those around you. You will find joy in the service; and in the great gathering day, you will come, “bringing in the sheaves,” and will share in the reward of the faithful.