Not Yours, but You

Pacific Press Publishing Company · Mountain View, California · May 31, 1905

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 31, No. 22.

Not Yours, but You.

In Paul's announcement of his third visit to Corinth, he wrote to the brethren that he would not be a burden to them, adding, "I seek not yours, but you." This was the principle upon which Christ came to earth. But while both Christ and His apostle made this claim, they both laid stress upon the duty and privilege of giving to the Lord's cause. Jesus advised His followers to lay up treasure in heaven, and Paul advised the cultivation of the grace of giving. Why this counsel when it is not men's possessions, but themselves, that are wanted?—Because men's hearts follow their treasure. Their interest is where their means is invested. "Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." The advice to lay up treasure in heaven is for your good, not the Lord's benefit. It is safe there; no thief can steal it; no rust nor moth can injure it. "He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the Lord." Then it is safe, for the Lord is good pay. If a man has any faith at all in the idea of a future life, any faith in the Word of God, he will esteem it better business policy to invest in God's enterprises than in houses and lands, or in any other earthly ventures. Jesus knew that the only way to save the rich young man's soul was to get him to invest his means in the cause of God; and, because he would not follow the Lord's advice, he was lost. When the Lord wants your means, dear reader, it is because He wants you.