FOR MISSIONARY WORKERS.—Concluded.
By S. C. S.
1. SHOULD we cultivate a love for those around us, that will prompt us to be ready to help as we have opportunity? Gal. 6 : 10. “As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.” 2. As the doctrine we advocate is unpopular, there will be more or less prejudice to overcome. While we should all be zealous in advocating the truth, should we be careful to temper our zeal with judgment, wisdom, and moderation? Matt. 10 : 16. “Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves : be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.” “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” “And be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear.” 4. Should all strive to work in harmony, and co-operate with the efforts of our leaders? Matt. 12 : 25. “Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation ; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand.” 5. Should our lives daily recommend the truth we so zealously strive to place before others? 1 Tim. 4 : 12, last clause ; 1 Peter 2 : 12. “But be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” “Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles ; that, whereas they speak against you as evil doers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.” 6. Should we feel the responsibility of improving the talents God has given, and endeavor to add thereto by their active exercise? Luke 8 : 18, last clause. “For whosoever hath, to him shall be given ; and whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he seemeth to have.” [They who do not improve or increase their Lord’s talents are those who have them taken away, because they have proved themselves unworthy of his gifts.] 7. Is there any danger of becoming so swallowed up in the cares of this life and selfish interests, as to be in darkness with reference to the approach of the coming of the Lord? Luke 21 : 34. “And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares.” [Neither should we allow these to absorb our best energies, thus leaving the cause of God to languish. Let none of us excuse ourselves from doing something. There may be some who are so situated that they can do but little, but God requires that little. All can and should cast their whole influence on the side of truth ; and if sanctified through it, then we can hope that both words and actions will correspond with our high profession. Each one should consider it a great privilege to have a part in the closing work ; and it should ever be borne in mind that our service, to be acceptable to God, must be rendered by loving hearts and willing hands. And when he shall come who is to reward every man according to his work, then those who have been faithful will receive the welcome commendation, “Well done.” S. C. S.]