The Canvasser’s Capital
By J. M. Johanson
MANY of our canvassers, when beginning their field work, are possessors of but little more than their canvassing outfit and a firm conviction that the mission before them is worthy of the best efforts and the greatest sacrifice that man can make in order that perishing souls may hear God’s message of mercy and love. To all who thus go forth, God says, “I know thy poverty, but thou art rich;” and to every man, however poor he may appear, God has committed a treasure, which, if rightly used, will prove an almost inexhaustible source from which may be drawn, in abundance, means, knowledge, and true happiness; but which, if allowed to lie idle, or if used carelessly, will be certain to bring disappointment, weariness, and discontent, utterly unfitting the holder for the place of usefulness God would have him fill. The name of this treasure is TIME. Our monthly reports show continually how important it is that we, as workers for God, recognize that our time belongs to him, and that the right or wrong use of our stewardship affects the cause in which we labor, and possibly the salvation of souls, as well as our own best interests. The reports show that many of our workers are putting in excellent time, and making the most of every opportunity, and their reports are always filled with precious experiences that speak of courage and hope. But they also show that “much more efficient work can be done in the canvassing field than has yet been done,” and that if every worker would make up his mind to put in five full days every week, our present output of books would be almost doubled. Such a sowing of the good seed would speedily strengthen the cause, and bring prosperity to our agents and tract societies. “Success is not the result of chance or destiny; it is the outworking of God’s own providence, the reward of faith and discretion, of virtue and persevering effort;” and while it is true that there are difficulties and obstacles all along the way, it is equally true that to the one who, with faith in God, makes the most of time and opportunity, every difficulty, instead of being a stumbling-block and a cause of discouragement, becomes a source of strength and a means of a richer and deeper experience in God’s power to give us the victory and success in our work. J. M. JOHANSON,
General Agent of Australasia.