JOS. CLARKE by Jos. Clarke

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Jun 21, 1870

JOS. CLARKE

By Jos. Clarke

Items.

THAT religion which has for its base line of operation, the fear of man, is only an eye service at the best. The less you have of it the better. But in getting clear of it, do not I beg of you, run to the other extreme, and lay aside all regard for good men; for in doing this you will insult God.

Religion is well styled in the Bible a mystery; for while it is very simple and easy to him who possesses it, it is perfectly inexplicable to the wicked man. He smiles at its developments in his little child, and wonders how it became so wise. But he frowns angrily when its principles cross his track, little thinking it is one web of truth, purity, and love.

Never grudge what you have once pledged or given to the treasury of God's truth. Satan may tempt you hard here, if you are poor; but do not yield to him a moment, lest you lose not your treasure only but Heaven itself. This is an ugly trait, this ruining your covenant with God, and withdrawing the sacrifice. If you feel like doing this at all, it shows you are far from God, and have forgotten the sweetness of heavenly joys, and pardoning love. Haste back to the fold, and increase your offering. Bind yourself to Heaven by every means.

Give to God your best time, best strength, and your best treasure, and best service.

God's people should never let his cause go a begging. Any want of the cause should be supplied on the first call, and more too, so that it may be said, “It is enough.”