POSTING UP by J. Clarke

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Jul 22, 1862

POSTING UP.

By J. Clarke

It was suggested by a brother at the conference at Lovett's Grove, that we post ourselves, or become informed as to "the plan" of systematic benevolence which God prospers, and avoid "a plan" which is sure to fail.

I have been looking over the papers devoted to this subject, and I find a clear and accurate statement of Bro. White's practice, with his views on the subject, written out in full, in Good Samaritan, No. 5, Jan. 1861.

Perhaps some may have lost or lent this No. of the Good Samaritan, but in most cases we may find a copy among the brethren, or in some other way find what is the principle which Bro. White has recommended; for (as the old maxim has it), where there is a will there is a way.

There seems to be a stupidity, an apathy, in Ohio, on the subject of S. B. True, some are moving forward, but the movement is not a general one yet, as to system and thoroughness. Some churches are yet wholly in the back ground, and there are individuals who suppose themselves in the work, who have property, yet have either forgotten, or else never perused, Good Samaritan No. 5.

The fact is, if we want the work to prosper in Ohio, we must bring all the tithes into the storehouse, we must have our S. B. treasuries full to overflowing, must be zealous to find ways to do for the Lord.

Bro. White suggests a tenth of one's income as a general rule. Now if that is the present rule in Ohio, I think it must be that the S. D. Adventists in Ohio live pretty economically; and should providence deal

with us on this principle, truly our income for 1862, would be small. See Matt. iii, 8. A tithe means a tenth.—Webster.

We must have the means on hand, and have it ready. Says a brother, “We need not be in very great haste about S. B. movements just now, as we can borrow a hundred dollars from Bro. ——— for present calls.” Now this idea is all wrong. Good Samaritan, No. 5, which gives the approved plan, adopted by the church, was published Jan. 1861, and had the church moved forward then, in Ohio, on that plan, we should have had hundreds now on hand, or perhaps it might have been loaned to the S. D. A. P. Association. How cheering that would be, to have a loan of a few hundred dollars there. We could afford to donate half of it, and then have money left, after supporting the tent. See Testimony No. 6, pp. 17–21, also pp. 43–45.

But, says one, We have not adopted the plan till of late, at the organization. Well, if that is so, let us haste and redeem the time. Let us get into the habit of giving, setting apart the tithe (tenth), and let the person who gives think of what Malachi says, and pledge accordingly; looking up to our heavenly Father for prosperity.

Have you not noticed that God prospers those most who are liberal? At least, such are not left to want. Think of the promises to the liberal soul. Think how God blessed his ancient people when they came right up to the mark, voluntarily, cheerfully, each in proportion to his ability.

Time is hasting to its close. Mercy still waits a little—precious is the passing hour; for in it we may lay up a treasure above. Haste, then! Let us haste to do all that God requires; haste to fill this little but precious hour, with such deeds as shall cause joy in heaven, and make us friends in those realms where selfishness is abhorred, and goodness is honored. I wish I could speak all I feel. Lord, help us to arouse!

J. CLARKE.