TO THE MEMBERS OF DIST. NO. 7, N. Y. T. AND M. SOCIETY.
By J. Q. Foy
The work of God is moving forward, is destined to triumph, and that soon and gloriously. To us is granted the exalted privilege of sharing in it. I am happy to know that some of you are proving your love to God, and your interest in the good cause, by doing what you can. May you be encouraged still to labor on, and may the Lord greatly bless your efforts. Why should we lack interest in this noblest of causes—a cause in which all Heaven is interested? “Let us not be weary in well doing; for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” Gal. 6:9. Others there are, who, I greatly fear, are permitting the golden opportunity to pass—are neglecting duty. Such, no doubt, are grateful for the light of present truth; but are we not required to let our light shine? and would not this be a privilege as well as duty, did we really possess the Spirit of the Master? Are we waiting for a more favorable opportunity? Do we excuse ourselves from want of ability? Even the Saviour said, “I can of mine own self do nothing.” John 5:30. We may connect ourselves with Heaven; and so sure as we do this, we shall be co-workers with the heavenly host. Failing to do this, we are not only unfit to engage in the work of God, but are standing in the way of the work, and lending our influence to the cause of our common enemy. We may excuse ourselves for this or that reason, but the work will be accomplished; and to those that labor the reward will be given. Much is said about hard times. But, really, what has this to do with the work of God? It may afford better opportunities for doing good. It may be a reason for greater diligence and perseverance; but an excuse for folding our hands in idleness—never. Imagine the Saviour of men making such a plea for neglecting his mission to earth! Come, as many as can, to our next quarterly meeting [see appointment], and let us endeavor to “provoke one another to love and good works.” I repeat, the work is moving forward. “Then on let us press, for Jesus is near,
And strengthen each other with words of good
cheer.”