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Voluntary Service

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Pacific Press Publishing Association · Mountain View, California · Sep 20, 1910

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 37, No. 37.

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Voluntary Service

WORK for Christ must be voluntary work; that is, we may compel ourselves, but others can not compel us. Christ "gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity." He says to each one, "My son, give Me thine heart." In other words, "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength." If we are truly given to God, He will accept us; but the gift implies on our part willing giving for willing service, for willing suffering, for willing sacrifice, for His sake. There may be a struggle with self; it may cost the crucifixion of ease and pleasure. But that love which crucifies is stronger than that which is crucified; so that if our work for Christ is compelled, it will be the love of Christ which constrains us, and that love must first be born within our own hearts. Others, by circumstances, or systems, or through our pride or generosity, may compel us to work, but it will not be work for Christ. Work for Him must be voluntary, or it is not for Him.