A WORD TO THE WISE IS SUFFICIENT.
By M. W.
It is frequently remarked that the T. and M. society of S. D. Adventists has proved a great success. It has exceeded the most sanguine expectations of those who first launched out in this noble enterprise about eight years ago. By untiring efforts, hard study, judicious management, and strict economy, the tract society has been raised to the position it now occupies in the promulgation of the glorious truths pertaining to earth's closing scenes. And while we feel to praise God for past blessings and present favors, let us bear in mind the fact that the work must be sustained by us. Through God's providence we are permitted to assist with our means in carrying forward the last message of mercy. From the first, our tract society has been conducted by devoted men and women who have manifested a spirit of sacrifice and self-denial which commends itself to all. They have the full confidence of the brethren, who feel assured that when they make offerings and donations to the tract society, their money is appropriated where most needed. Those not intimately connected with the work cannot have an adequate idea of the responsibility which rests upon our State secretaries, and the amount of labor performed by them. Those who were favored with the privilege of attending our late Missionary Institute at South Lancaster, were surprised to find so much being accomplished by one individual. We believe a good work is begun in the establishment of missionary institutes. The brethren will not only learn how to work, but will be better prepared to sympathize with those who are bearing heavy burdens in the work. The secretary who has the cause at heart, feels a constant responsibility in regard to the financial condition of the society. The tracts and pamphlets ordered cost the society a large amount of money. The secretary feels anxious to know how the expense is to be met. Some churches are poor, and can distribute more reading matter than they can pay for. Here is a most excellent opportunity for our more wealthy brethren to show their liberality, and, as Paul says, “the proof of your love.” Some of the brethren and sisters, more especially the sisters, have adopted the plan of selling tracts, thus obtaining readers, and at the same time keeping the missionary fund good. Others act as colporteurs, going from house to house and loaning publications to interested readers, taking them up in a few days and loaning to others. While there are still others who are very profuse in their demands upon the tract society, but never realize that Paul's “filthy lucre” is a most excellent commodity in carrying forward the missionary work. South Lancaster, Mass. M. W.