WHY DON'T YOU SAY, AMEN?

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International Tract and Missionary Society · Oakland, California · Feb 10, 1887

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 13, No. 6.

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WHY DON'T YOU SAY, AMEN?

A FEW years ago, as Charles G. Finney was holding a series of meetings in the city of Edinburgh, many persons called upon him for personal conversation and prayer.
One day a gentleman appeared, in great distress of mind. He had listened to Mr. Finney's sermon on the previous evening, and it had torn away his "refuge of lies." Mr. Finney was plain and faithful with him, pointing out to him the way of life clearly, and his only hope of salvation. The weeping man assured him that he was willing to give up all for Jesus—that he knew of nothing he would reserve—all for Jesus.
"Then let us go upon our knees, and tell God of that," said Mr. Finney. So both knelt, and Mr. Finney prayed:—
"O Lord! this man declares that he is prepared to take thee as his God, and cast himself upon thy care, now and forever."
The man responded, "Amen!"
Mr. Finney continued: "O Lord! this man vows that he is ready to give his wife, family, and all their interests, up to thee."
Another hearty, "Amen!" from the man.
He went on: "O Lord! he says that he is also willing to give thee his business, whatever it may be, and conduct it for thy glory."
The man was silent—no response. Mr. Finney was surprised at his silence, and asked:—
"Why don't you say 'Amen' to this?"
"Because the Lord will not take my business, sir; I am in the spirit-trade," he replied.
The traffic could not stand such a test as that. The Lord will not take such a business under his care.—Selected.