I Can’t Canvass by I. J. Hankins

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Jun 17, 1902

“I Can’t Canvass”

By I. J. Hankins

Of course you can’t, for you can’t do any good work. But, brother, stop a moment and consider. Why do you excuse yourself? It was the men who were called to the supper who excused themselves. Does your statement, “I can’t canvass,” reveal the fact that you have been impressed that you ought to canvass? If so, who impressed you? If it was the Lord, do you think he made a mistake? If he has called you to be an instrument in his hands, does he not know where he can use you to the best advantage?

If your own mind has been surrendered, and you are letting the mind of Christ be in you, will you ask to be excused from any work to which he may call you?—Surely not!

Since there ought to be one hundred men in the canvassing field where there is now one, it is evident that the Lord is calling men. Those who are called will know it, do know it. But won’t the Lord excuse them? Ask him. Sometimes we excuse ourselves from duty, and think that the Lord excused us. Do not make this mistake. Christ said he could do nothing; but he also said that the Father who dwelt in him did the work. If Christ dwells in us, he will use us as canvassers, if he chooses to do so, and if we are willing, and we shall be willing. He does not use men against their will. I am writing to those whom God is calling. You know, brother, sister, if he is calling you. If he is, do not be afraid to say, “I am ready, Lord; use me as thou wilt.” Who will respond to his convictions, and trust God for success? I. J. HANKINS.