Indirect Influence by Chas. L. Boyd

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Dec 12, 1871

“Indirect Influence.”

By Chas. L. Boyd

“A CASUAL analogy convinceth, when a mind beareth not argument.” Many times the mind of those with whom we associate is, for some cause, prepared to resist any argument in favor of present truth. Shall such be compelled to listen to us? Can we favorably impress their minds with what they would not hear?

Perhaps some inconsistencies in our life have given an unfavorable impression of the truths which we would impress; and although the mind may be proof against argument, we may, by the aid of promised strength, live out, before them, the precious truths of the third angel’s message. An occasional hint, shrewdly thrown out, may make an impression which will move the spirit, and open a channel of thought which may lead to investigation and perhaps to the Lamb of God and a knowledge of the truth.

That huge and massive rock has resisted the storms and thunderbolts of ages; yet the silent stream at its base is undermining its foundation.

The strongest argument may be resisted; but a holy, godly life will make an impression.

We have a duty to do, a work to perform; the result is to be left with God. Who of us but can remember the effect on our mind in our childhood, of an action, a word, and even of a look? A kind word or look when in trouble, has cast a ray of sunshine along our path, which has lighted up many a cloudy day. But an angry word or an unkind look, when we were doing our best, caused a wound in our drooping spirits which it took long years to heal.

Thus a prejudice was formed either for or against the person, and perhaps the society to which they belonged.

We know not what impressions have been formed of Sabbath-keepers by the influence which we have exerted; nor shall we know till the Judgment reveals it.

Shall we then find that we have been a stumbling-block in the way of some who might otherwise have been saved? Or shall we find that our words, our ways, our deeds, and all our influence, have been such as to leave a godly impression?

What influence in regard to the truths which we profess are we having on our neighbors and associates? We profess to be Adventists! believers in the soon coming of our Lord and King.

Are our lives a living witness that we are sincere in our profession? There are many times when a direct exposition of our faith may not be advisable, but a zealous ardent, and holy life will be a living testimony in its favor. CHAS. L. BOYD.