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Missionary Visiting

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Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park, Washington, D. C. · Jun 6, 1912

FromReview and Herald, Vol. 89, No. 23.

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Missionary Visiting

By F. Hall

F. HALL
IN doing missionary work, whether with or without real success, the experiences of each worker vary according to custom, education, and spiritual liberty of the people. First, in starting on a visit, it is necessary to have a quiet time to get impressions from the Lord as to what home to enter, and to ask God's companionship and blessing. This always gives courage and power, enabling one to meet the most difficult experiences.
Caring for the sick is closely connected with the gospel ministry, and through this work individuals can be reached very easily who otherwise would not care to listen to the truth even for a moment. There are other homes where one's personal society is liked, but the truth dreaded and hated. These are the hardest to reach, and bring the hardest feelings of regret after turning homeward, realizing that nothing has been accomplished. But the truth must not be sacrificed in this way; it must be brought forth as the highest motive of friendship, so that all may realize that the love existing is that for their eternal good.
Where some in the family are not Christians, inquire after them in a friendly way, and send them selected reading-matter until there is opportunity of meeting them personally. This often disarms prejudice, and finds acceptance with the whole family.
Another excellent entering wedge is a wise distribution of interesting papers and tracts containing good gospel truths. These will always open doors for missionaries.
In "Gospel Workers," page 340, we read: "Whenever you can get access to the fireside, urge your way there. Take your Bible and open before the people its great truths. Your success will not depend so much upon your knowledge and accomplishments, as upon your ability to find your way to the heart. By being social and coming close to the people, you can turn the current of their thoughts more easily than by the most able discourses."
When a person is interested, he should be followed up until he accepts Christ.But this must be done at the right time and with discretion. If individuals know that you are interested in them, you will find much to do in active missionary work. Treat every one with due respect, especially the aged mothers and fathers in Israel. The poor should not be neglected. Sunshine must be brought to them, as well as to the rich. All must be treated alike as Christians. A hearty hand-shake should be given when necessary. Personal visiting in the homes should not be neglected by the gospel minister. A heart filled with the grace of God, cheerfulness, courtesy, interest in your work, courage, a strong will sanctified by the Holy Spirit, holy deportment, and humility of mind are all needed in this work, in order to be successful in winning souls for the Master. These graces will help to open barred doors, so that the sunshine of heaven may reach to the sin-stricken hearts of many benighted sons and daughters of earth.
Kingston, Jamaica.