CARE OF THE SOUL by A. S. HUTCHINS

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Apr 13, 1869

CARE OF THE SOUL.

By A. S. HUTCHINS

“For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?”

These questions, put forth by the Son of God, should arouse us to a consideration of the vast importance of the salvation of the soul. And also to the fact, that the loss would be inconceivably great to the man who shall lose his soul, even though he might gain the whole world. Yet, oh! how painfully true it is, that many a man, will lose his soul for a small handful of this world's goods. All the bright glories, endless joy, and durable riches of the kingdom of God, are eclipsed by the perishable riches, worthless honor, and fame of this world.

Oh! that men would care for their souls as they care for the things of this world, then would they be useful, and happy, bright Jewels in the church of God, and finally be crowned with life and immortality in the world to come. Then would they know that the fruit of obedience is better than gold, yea than “fine gold” and “choice silver.” They would gather precious ones to Christ, to shine in brightness forever and ever.

Dear reader, do you give unmistakable evidence to your fellow-men, that you are caring for your soul? Or are you seeking a treasure here, and neglecting the soul?

Long since, a pious writer said: “The care of the soul will influence the whole conduct of a believer; he cannot live at large as other men do. The fear of the Lord is in his soul. The love of God is shed abroad in his heart. The commandments of God are written upon his mind. Sin therefore becomes his aversion, holiness his delight, religion his element, the people of God his companions, and Heaven the prize at which he aims.”

A. S. HUTCHINS.