Are We Faithful? by E. R. D.

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Nov 26, 1872

Are We Faithful?

By E. R. D.

FAITHFULNESS is a characteristic of the true child of God. It is required of servants that they be faithful to their employers. An eye-servant is lightly esteemed, but one who is as faithful to his employer’s interests as though they were his own, is considered a great treasure. Can we think that the great Ruler of all would require a less degree of faithfulness, of those in his service, than we require of our fellow-men? God has committed to us talents to use in doing good. Are we faithful to the trust? Are we using them all to the very best of our ability? We are required to do all that we can. It is not enough that we do as much as others. If he has given us the ability to do more than they, we must do all we can, and increase our talents with the using.

God has given us great light. Are we faithful in living up to that light? In what way can we better show our gratitude to him for this than by faithfully walking in the light, thereby showing to those around us that we believe what we profess?

If we are faithful, we may be instrumental in saving some soul, or reclaiming a back-slider, and “Let him know, that he who converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” Could we at all times realize the value of souls, we should be much more in earnest than we now are. I have often thought of the reply a captain of a vessel made when some one remarked to him, that they were rejoiced to know they had so careful a commander. Said he, “It is necessary that I should be careful, because I have souls on board. I think of my responsibility; and should anything happen through carelessness, I should have a great deal to answer for; I wish never to forget, sir, that souls are very valuable!” That was a powerful sermon in a few words. If some soul be lost, through our unfaithfulness, shall we not have much to answer for?

There are many incentives to a faithful discharge of the duties which devolve upon us as professed servants of the Most High. Were there no other, is it not enough, that he has condescended to intrust us with errands to do for him? that we may in this way show our love for him, and our interest in his cause? God has many and precious promises to those who prove faithful in his service. The reward promised is more than sufficient to repay us for all the sacrifices and efforts we may make, then

“O my soul, be ever faithful! Heart and hand, be true and just! Squander not the Master’s treasure, Nor betray his precious trust. Ever faithful! ever faithful! Ever true, and ever just! Faithful with the Master’s treasure; Faithful to his precious trust.”

E. R. D.