Items of Thought by Jos. Clarke

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Feb 25, 1873

Items of Thought.

By Jos. Clarke

He who waits for a special revelation or dispensation of Providence to correct his errors, will very likely fail to heed it when it comes, or reject it wholly.

As a general thing, we may understand what is duty if we have a common sense sanctified, and a conscience enlightened and unperverted; where it is otherwise, we should be very slow to trust our own judgments.

Reforms in practice, of appetite, or passion, where habit has long held control, are very difficult; but continued reading as to the nature and consequences of evil habits, will finally cut off the roots of vice; and prayer and watchfulness will undermine the supports of sin, and finally, a complete victory is gained.

A becoming manner of treating religious subjects, of correcting error, and of rebuking sin, is always indispensable; and even the style of religious writings, and religious music, must be ecclesiastical, not secular.

Unusual heat in debate, or excitement in exhortation, or of indignation in giving instruction, all operate against the spirit of true reform, and pure religion.

To distinguish when, where, and how, to speak, and to whom, is a gift from the Creator.

The farther people get from God, the more they represent that they are going in the opposite direction.

None are louder in the praise of virtue than those who reject her presence; and none dread severity more than those who are severe.

Jos. Clarke.