13:17Hebrews 13:17

Those placed under spiritual leadership are to obey and submit to their leaders, because those leaders keep watch over their souls as men who must give account to God.LS 405.2+2 That watching is a sacred and solemn charge rendered to God Himself, requiring wakefulness, humility, prayer, and eyes fixed on Christ.7T 13.2+2 It rests not on ministers alone but on every one entrusted with souls, including parents, teachers, physicians, managers, and every believer who has received light to share.Ms 45, 1895, par. 3+4 Faithful watching is done by personal labor in homes, seeking the lost, and plainly warning, reproving and instructing, and not by preaching alone.Ms 139, 1897, par. 19–20+3 Obedience lets leaders do this work with joy and not with grief, which is for the people's own good, while faithful watchers will rejoice with the saved and unfaithful watchers will answer for souls lost through neglect.LS 405.2+4

Those under spiritual leadership are commanded to obey and submit to their leaders because those leaders watch for their souls and must give account to God for their care.LS 405.2+4 Teachers bear this same accountable charge toward students, and must faithfully correct and guide them even when doing so brings perplexity and heartache rather than neglect their trust.Ms 82, 1897, par. 20 The obedience required is to faithful ministers collectively, not to one particular man.LS 405.2 It does not mean corrupting simplicity and trust in the Lord by sinking individuality in any living person, for those who bear the message of mercy must themselves remain under God's own discipline and teaching, and the Lord Himself will teach and qualify all who seek Him for wisdom whatever their calling or profession.RH Oct 16, 1900

Obedience enables leaders to carry out their watching with joy and not with grief, since grief over the work brings no benefit and is unprofitable to the people themselves.LS 405.2+3 Faithful leaders do this work as shepherds seeking to protect and encourage rather than hurt, bruise or discourage.Ms 143, 1899, par. 25 Members preserve order and unity by accepting the church's counsel and decisions rather than each following his own judgment.Lt 5, 1863, par. 4–5 Resisting guidance and the church's judgment undermines order and unity, so members should accept the church's decision trusting God to vindicate what is right in His own time.5MR 296.1–297.1

Elders, local and traveling, oversee the church by reproving, exhorting, correcting the unruly and comforting the feebleminded.Lt 5, 1863, par. 4–5 The command requires a teachable spirit, especially in the young, that they may be benefited by those who seek to help them by giving advice and laying bare faults.Ms 97, 1893, par. 6 It applies even when a person feels he is doing his best, thinks he is reproved for trifling matters, and is impatient that anyone should feel it duty to reprove him, and the giving of these directions shows there are those who need reproof, counsel and advice.Ms 97, 1893, par. 6 Those set over souls keep watch knowing they must answer to God, and therefore in the fear of God they reprove wrong habits and defects of character that misrepresent Christ.RH Jun 11, 1901 Believers must not murmur against them or act disrespectfully toward them when reproved, nor cherish sins as precious and claim they cannot be overcome, for to murmur at reproof is to refuse to watch and pray and strive against every imperfection and to stay deluded and unable to grow in grace, while to heed reproof is to learn true conversion by putting off the corrupt old man and putting on righteousness and true holiness.RH Jun 11, 1901

Obedience by those under charge is given by taking heed to the direction of God's Word.Ms 101, 1894, par. 2 Those in official position must make that obedience as easy as possible by showing Christlike meekness and lowliness of heart, forbearance, patience and proper consideration for others.Ms 101, 1894, par. 2 They must put away hereditary and cultivated passionate temper, self-importance, self-sufficiency and impatience that offend little ones and lead away from Christ.Ms 101, 1894, par. 2 Submission includes respecting the authority and judgment of those responsible, so applied to youth in institutions parents should not support children who reject discipline or insist on their own way but should teach them to honor those entrusted with responsibility.7T 185.3–186.1 Finishing appointed work is likewise to be done with joy and not with grief, keeping courage even when old age reminds of mortality and health limits strength for other labor.11MR 23.4

Those entrusted with responsibility and authority do not become superior or a pattern to follow merely by position, and are under God's jurisdiction and accountable to Him for souls.Ms 16, 1902, par. 10–11+2 They must be tender and true, humble rather than self-exalting, faithful and holy, keeping their eyes on Christ and resisting self-exaltation.Ms 16, 1902, par. 10–11+1 This responsibility begins with taking heed to themselves and to their teaching.Lt 24, 1902, par. 6 It requires recognizing the value God has placed on every person and regarding each man wherever he labors as working together with God, and cooperating with other workers in seeking the salvation of perishing souls instead of taking minute control of their course.Ms 100, 1894, par. 6

Those who lead should use their influence with discretion, kindness and Christian courtesy, seeking to draw people toward righteousness and truth, since their responsibility concerns souls whom Christ has purchased with His blood.Lt 74, 1896, par. 5–7 Men in positions of responsibility in the churches are to watch by revealing a devoted, earnest interest for souls and by helping one another by precept and example, and when they do this the church members are greatly helped.Lt 412, 1907, par. 4 Yet this does not mean those who have work to carry forward for the church have no liberty to act unless the men in responsible positions pass upon and assent to all their plans, for requiring that approval makes man the counselor and is a sure departing from the Lord.Lt 412, 1907, par. 4

Watching for souls as one who must give account is a sacred, solemn, exalted and important responsibility owed to God.7T 13.2+4 It calls for heartfelt concern, sympathy and tender longing for those unsaved and outside the fold, sharing Christ's own longing for them, with diligent work, warning and seeking to win them to Christ.7T 13.2+4 That wakeful work requires humility, prayer, a heart stayed on God and eyes fixed on Christ, and lack of time is no excuse for neglecting it.RH Jan 12, 1911+4 Understanding the duty itself requires that Christlike sympathy for the perishing.7T 13.2+4

God's workers are to recognize God, not any earthly authority, as the one to whom they answer, with Christ as Master to whom they belong and who has right to all their powers for His honor and glory.RH Nov 5, 1903+3 They are servants caring for their Lord's vineyard and interests while He is away, remembering the work is His, and an unfaithful servant will give account on His return.RH Nov 5, 1903+2 Their watching includes pointing people to God's standard of righteousness, remaining closely connected with God, and working together to present His Word plainly.RH Nov 5, 1903+2

God will demand a strict settlement in judgment for how the watching is done.MYP 17.2+2 That faithfulness will be tested in a soon-coming grand review in preparation for eternal life, where God will searchingly ask each one seeking to perfect Christian character whether watchful accountable care was fulfilled and whether a safe example was set that others could follow.MYP 17.2+2 The heavenly host are intensely anxious and interested in every student bearing that test, and those who pass receive words of approval and entrance into the joy of the Lord, a joy available now to everyone who follows on to know the Lord by seeking Him earnestly in prayer.MYP 17.2+1 Harsh, sharp, discourteous words in an unchristlike spirit that push tried and faltering souls into Satan's snares violate that trust and betray them as truly as Judas betrayed Christ, instead of laboring in Christlike tenderness with patience and long forbearance to develop character and keep hope alive.Ms 11, 1911, par. 14+1

Ministers, pastors, shepherds, preachers, conference workers, overseers and other God-appointed experienced spiritual leaders watch for souls as those answerable to God.GW92 447.2+4 They serve as Christ's ambassadors entrusted with Christ's blood-bought flock, needing to recognize the people entrusted to them with that sense of responsibility, to feed the church, oversee it, and care faithfully so the work may be joy rather than grief.GW92 447.2+4 Their work includes guarding the church against Satan's devices so it can stand amid conflict and promote God's glory, with clear discernment lest wrong influences pervert the work.GW92 447.2+2 Because they stand between the living and the dead they need converting power in the heart, a true sense of Christ's commission, sobriety and thoughtfulness as workers together with God, reverently opening the Word, listening for instruction and asking wisdom from heaven.GW92 447.2+2 A minister's success in leading in peace and holiness grows with his own growth in grace and knowledge of the truth, the church rarely rises above its ministers' standard, and both ministers and people need conversion and sanctification that teachers sanctified in soul, body and spirit can impress upon others.GW92 447.2+2 When those appointed to oversee fail to instruct, shepherd and care for the flock, members become weak, dependent on preaching, inefficient, unfruitful, selfish and unfaithful, hiding talents rather than serving Christ.AAP 11.3+2

Ministers must watch over souls entrusted to their care and give account for faithfulness, and if souls are lost through unfaithfulness God will require their blood at his hand.Lt 67, 1896, par. 15–18+3 Genuine laborers who work with this sense of responsibility are few.RH Jan 11, 1912+1 Those who err can be pardoned when they come to God in confession and repentance, though it is grievous to be dealt with by those who lack Christ's love and tenderness.RH Jan 11, 1912+1

Everyone who communicates truth watches for souls and must one day give account for those spoken to.GW 99.2+2 The same duty applies to everyone who has received light, each Christian being ready to serve and communicate that light and share the way of life with those who do not know it.GW 99.2+2 Those who fail to share what they have been given and therefore have nothing to impart are counted among those opposed to God and not guided by His will, and leaving neighbors uninformed can bring condemnation at the judgment.GW 99.2+2 Faithfulness in preparation as workers make the Word a constant companion, advance in knowledge, better represent Christ, are strengthened in faith and present proof of the fullness of grace and love in Christ, until by the Holy Spirit truth is graven on the mind as a treasure-house to supply others' needs, greatly blesses those for whom account must be given and entitles the worker to the reward promised to those who turn many to righteousness.GW 99.2+2 That accountability also rests on spiritually minded leaders who look after the church's spiritual good.GW 99.2+2

Watching is faithful, painstaking discharge of duty with self put in the background and forgotten, with a consistent life in which practice harmonizes with teaching, with watchfulness unto prayer, with removal of every stumbling block from others' way, and with earnest warnings and entreaties given with tender solicitude for those ready to perish so souls are won to Christ.Lt 67, 1896, par. 15–18+3 It means forgetting self entirely and living not to save reputation or gain sympathy but to save perishing souls from perdition by showing them truth and righteousness, becoming a living epistle known and read of all men.Lt 67, 1896, par. 15–18+2 Grace and wisdom are provided so every worker can do this and accomplish what the Lord designs.Lt 67, 1896, par. 15–18+3 If through lack of spiritual discernment and vital piety workers fail to forget self and labor faithfully and carefully, God will require at their hands the souls of those for whom they should have labored.Lt 67, 1896, par. 15–18+3

When Christ ascended He left His work on earth in the hands of His servants the under-shepherds, and through them with gifts unto men He communicates the words of eternal life as the ordained means for perfecting saints in knowledge and true holiness and edifying the body in unity.ST Jan 7, 1913 Ministers truly called to preach present truth stand between the living and the dead keeping watch over souls knowing they must answer to God, a solemn work demanding a deep sense of the importance of truth.GW92 215.2 Ministers working as teachers must render account for work coming from their hands under Christ's commission, and therefore need converting power upon the heart, sobriety, reverence, listening for instruction and asking heavenly wisdom as workers together with God.STBk 1.1–2

Ministers watch as those who must give account by being minutemen always ready to help those wanting religious guidance, crucifying preferences and keeping continual watchfulness.Lt 108, 1895, par. 9 Because they bear that accountable charge, the work must be carried on by better methods of justice and equity, and ministers must not be wronged in labor and support.Lt 108, 1895, par. 9 Every watchman on the walls of Zion is under sacred obligation to watch as one who must give account, and by grace can do heaven-approved work by laboring to keep the church in unity and peace with the charge to publish peace.STGC 83.1+1 Those watching over the church bear sacred responsibility and will give account, laboring as Christ's ambassadors to proclaim truth and preserve unity of the Spirit while members respect and support them, since to attack the minister is to attack Christ's messenger.RH Jan 6, 1903+1

Those placed at the head must guard souls as men who must give account, calling for faithful picked men, fathers and mothers in Israel with experience in bearing burdens and willingness to bear them.2T 467.2 The inexperienced who lack that experience or desire, and the selfish, self-caring, stingy and covetous, are to be barred and isolated where their traits harm the cause least, the more urgently because God's people live amid last-days perils.2T 467.2 God-appointed experienced leaders must guard against Satan's devices so the church can stand amid conflict and promote God's glory.RCNBP 9.2 Responsibility for a church includes heeding reports of disorder and division and reproving them, as Paul's duty to defend the church required.SLP 152.3

Teachers hold the shepherd's place over youth entrusted to them and must watch over students and care for souls knowing they must give account.STE 52.3–4+1 Their charge is more than imparting book knowledge; it is guiding and instructing in molding mind and character, fashioning minds and characters, requiring the teacher to be what he wishes students to become in balanced character, refined manner, neatness, careful habits and true Christian courtesy that wins confidence.STE 52.3–4+1 Teachers watch for pupils' souls and must give account for influence upon mind and character because pupils are God's property, forgetting self, feeling deep interest in pupils' success and prosperity, and conducting themselves as Christian gentlemen in the attitude of friend and counselor, whereupon angels linger, Jesus approves and sends grace into students' hearts.STSE 103.1–104.1+1 True educators are not true unless themselves learners in Christ's school receiving true education from the divine Instructor.Ms 53, 1896, par. 4

Teachers and school leaders answer to God for students' souls and are accountable when wrongdoing is allowed to mislead others and defeat the school's purpose, as if they had committed the sin themselves.Lt 145, 1897, par. 11–14+1 Instructors responsible for young people must as guardians who will give account watch and pray, correct wrongdoing with wholesome words, and maintain discipline in practice as well as teaching while protecting from harmful influences.Ms 81, 1897, par. 9 Guiding children and youth calls for patient loving care and disciplined Christlike conduct, since harshness and impatience harm the young and endanger souls.FE 262.3–264.1 Sabbath-school teachers and leaders answer to God for influence exerted over souls in their care, and must work earnestly to direct minds to heavenly things and deepen each lesson.TSSW 27.1–28.1+1

Watching as one who must give account is the most exalted work entrusted to mortals, to be a shepherd of the Lord's pasture with fatherly care, patience, tempered passions, forgetfulness of self and living interest for the flock.4T 343.1 It is learned not by knowledge, study or eloquence but by experience in self-denial, hardship and trial, as Moses though educated in all Egyptian learning still needed the school of trial as a humble shepherd, with forty years tending sheep in Midian training him to nourish the weak, instruct the wayward and bring back wanderers to maturity in Christ as leader of Israel.ST Jan 16, 1893+1 Those who fear God in this work must be connected with Him, receiving wisdom and knowledge from Christ the most perfect educator, more valuable than all worldly learning.4T 343.1

Parents are accountable to God for watching over children's souls, responsible for instructing, warning and counseling them knowing looks, words and actions affect their future, impressing the divine image upon a human soul.ST Sep 23, 1886+1 They must faithfully guide and train rather than manage fitfully, teaching useful work, age-suited responsibility, orderly habits and restraint of wants and pleasures.ST Aug 13, 1912+1 The duty belongs especially to parents and others who know evil's danger and God's care, looking after children from earliest years through youth to maturity and directing households in the Lord's way as Abraham did, shaping character after the divine pattern in trust toward God lest Satan train them.TSSW 102.2 Parents have the sacred responsibility to watch knowing they must give account.TSSW 35.2

The Lord gives children to parents as a most solemn charge to watch for their souls as those who must give account, training them to meet in God's kingdom and rejoice in their salvation.Lt 60, 1910, par. 2 This watching means the voice of prayer heard in the home and instruction line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little, laboring together with God with time short, keeping the family firm together when possible, never spoiling influence with scolding, and patiently kindly restraining from evil with mercy and tenderness as a constant school.Lt 60, 1910, par. 2 The same shepherd accountability applies to a father guiding spiritual training and protecting from worldly influences, and to parents and guardians of children by birth and adoption because they belong to the Lord.TEPD 14.1+1

A pastor's shepherding of the church is connected to fatherhood at home, with the same accountable care applying to a father guiding wife and children with care especially from infancy and treating character formation as sacred trust.Ms 42, 1903, par. 3–4+1 Carelessness at home reveals unfaithfulness in caring for the church, and neglecting home duty disqualifies from faithful shepherding.Ms 42, 1903, par. 3–4+1 A missionary to a foreign field watching for souls and answerable to God must count the cost before taking on family cares and ask whether a large family can be afforded while doing commissioned work.Ms 109, 1894, par. 6 If inclination brings many children, the calling is plain to care for them as husband and father without leaving the burden on the wife, entering business where the family need not be separated to bear the self-imposed burden together, faithfully training little ones for God and presenting a well-ordered household rather than leaving them to temptation and perilous example, for success abroad is impossible while time, thoughts and powers are drawn away.Ms 109, 1894, par. 6

Physicians must continually watch for souls just as surely as ministers, seeking saving of souls as well as healing of bodies under Christ the rightful Lord of body and soul.Lt 61, 1904, par. 16+1 A physician spiritually linked with God and entrusted with heavy responsibilities can speak timely words to the afflicted and present Christ mindful of each person's value, caring for spiritual welfare as well as physical suffering with Christ's humility and meekness and divine wisdom joined to skill and effort for those Christ died to save.6T 248.1+2 The head physician especially must watch as one to give account, having personal religion, depending on the Maker to direct healing, bowing in prayer with sufferers and leading patients to the great Physician, seeking as a humble suppliant wisdom for each case including critical operations of life or death, linked soul, mind and body with truth with Christ as Way, Truth and Life so Scripture comes clearly and a word in season is spoken, needing also the gospel minister's prayers.20MR 253.3–254.1

All physicians are under one Master, Jesus the Mighty Healer and Physician-in-chief and Life-giver, and only a Christian physician can do this sacred work acceptably, watching as learned from the Lord together with using full professional skill to heal suffering bodies.13MR 175.1 Watching requires putting away selfish plans, subordinating ambition and motive to the life that measures with God's life, recognizing the Redeemer's claim in all business, copying His example to prolong life, discarding false consistency and worldly etiquette that hinder saving souls, keeping constant connection with God and promoting His glory.13MR 175.1+2 As under-shepherds under Christ the Chief Physician, physicians watch while treating bodily suffering and apply the balm of Gilead and the healing message to bruises sin made upon soul as well as body in humanity wounded under the serpent's sting, since Christ as giver of life, truth and life, great Restorer who vanquished death, endowed reason and grants eternal life.EXMMP 2.1+2 A physician carrying heavy responsibilities should seek God's wisdom, stay grounded in truth and guide patients toward Christ to speak helpfully and care for each soul as precious.Lt 205, 1899, par. 18–20

Ministers and physicians share the duty to help those struggling with strong temptation and in danger of being overcome by satanic agencies, never passing by a soul in need but engaging even a stranger in conversation, making personal appeals, speaking, praying with and for them, and pointing to Jesus as righteousness, strength and health of countenance by public and private effort to win souls.CH 340.2–3+3 In sanitariums they are to watch as those who must give account by receiving in fullness instruction from the Author of truth to impart it, improving spiritual discernment and knowledge of God's will for the individual, keeping higher spiritual tone, seeing His plans worked out, laboring together with God and reflecting light wherever placed, so far more is done than yet has been done.14MR 341.1 They are to receive and share God's instruction, grow in discernment and carry out His plans, including personal effort to lead those in danger to Jesus.Lt 348, 1908, par. 6+1

Managers responsible for helpers must watch over spiritual welfare as those who must give account, teaching from Scripture, praying with and for them, guarding religious interests with parental care, and patiently tenderly helping them grow in Christian character, courage and faith.CH 515.2–516.2+3 Department leaders must not leave care and correction of workers and apprentices to the manager alone but must personally approach those in error kindly, warn of consequences and seek restoration.Lt 67, 1902, par. 8–11 Restaurant leaders who organize so they cannot care spiritually fail this responsibility and should bring best available talent to teach spiritual matters.Ms 232, 1902, par. 31–35

Missionaries must watch with awareness of giving account, and the charge applied in Newcastle means praying and laboring for spiritual welfare mindful of accountability.Lt 1a, 1896, par. 7–8+2 A purchasing agent and others brought into contact with many business men must constantly watch with spiritual watchfulness even in ordinary business, revealing high ennobling principles and speaking timely light-giving words some will appreciate as light.STB 116.5+1 In a publishing house workers are to treat mission as serving the Lord and bringing souls to Him with that accountability.Lt 2, 1900, par. 8

Canvassers as gospel workers, publishing-house workers, business men in contact with many, missionaries and evangelistic workers fulfill watching by praying for wisdom, valuing each soul, studying the Bible in small companies and speaking timely words, the weight of testimony placing this personal soul-care upon all such laborers.STB 116.5+4 Older church members long professing Christianity, fathers and mothers in Israel, must watch for youths' souls as those who must give account, with particular concern when youth come to colleges to guard them and fight back Satan lest he take them, holding them from the pit, making them feel not among strangers who care not, not holding aloof but patiently kindly leading rightly, loving them as younger members of the Lord's family purchased by blood, bringing every influence to educate, elevate morals, train courage with firm hold on divine power to resist moral pollution and mold society rather than be fashioned by the world.RH Feb 13, 1913 Ministers must pay special regard to children and youth, teaching that Christ's grace is freely given for every emergency, remembering youth chafing under unwise home restraint, and doing all possible with wise care to win them to Jesus.Ms 31, 1889, par. 79

Those responsible for young workers as God's appointed agents must educate and guide affectionately and patiently, encouraging with kindness rather than harshness, impatience or murmuring.Lt 148, 1899, par. 15–16 Sabbath-school teachers should take personal interest in children and youth, pray and speak with them and earnestly seek salvation, with faithful labor bringing joy when the cared-for are saved through Christ, and are accountable for careful prayerful efforts to win them.ST Aug 13, 1885+1 Those responsible for young people including parents and leaders in church institutions have sacred duty and must answer to God.RH Jul 19, 1906

The duty of caring for salvation rests also on every professed Christian, not leaders alone; none may remain indifferent or idle, each accountable for good left undone.Lt 25, 1884, par. 3–4 Every church member must watch knowing account must be given by living practical godliness, uniting with self-sacrificing Christians to impress truth on neighbors, laboring earnestly and striving to learn to communicate light and meet the need of those in darkness.Ms 45, 1895, par. 3 God wants His people to care knowing they will answer for faithfulness, belonging to all cooperating with Christ by obedience and by precept and example reflecting His life, going forward in faith not turning back in unbelief.20MR 321.5–6+1 The same duty applies to everyone receiving light to be ready to serve and communicate it, while those failing to share and having nothing to impart are counted opposed to God and not guided by His will.FE 472.3 Believers watch by taking responsibility for spiritual needs through practical personal work.Ms 85, 1909, par. 11–12

All who know the truth, ministers and lay members, men and women, bear individual accountability to watch, understood only when the heart beats in union with Christ's heart, feeling His tender longing and sympathy and making perishing sinners' burden one's own, making it first work to proclaim needed truth, warning thousands, winning to righteousness and giving the world present truth with every gift and talent.RH Aug 5, 1902 Watching for church and neighborhood missionary work means letting light shine in clear steady rays by telling truth and caring so that in judgment none can accuse of withholding truth or neglecting his soul.Ms 2, 1914, par. 14 Faithful care includes warning, reproving, rebuking and exhorting patiently, encouraging the weary timely and correcting the erring kindly and directly with truth, wholly different from searching for faults, continually censuring, thinking evil or judging thoughtlessly.RH Jan 19, 1905+1 The church is to watch not to look for mistakes but to seek well-being, offer timely counsel and give account, with disciples who do and teach as Christ did fulfilling responsibility as a continual sermon.Ms 160, 1904, par. 1–5+1

Watching for one another as those who must give account means faithfulness and earnest prayer with careful faithful mutual admonition all the more as the end is near.Lt 63a, 1893, par. 27–29+1 This is true Christian fellowship, friendship and brotherhood amounting to good purpose, the practical blessing designed through association, and without faithful love brought into daily life its highest benefit is lost and it is no longer Bible order.Lt 63a, 1893, par. 27–29+1 Everyone laboring for others must keep watching with continual watchfulness joined to earnest purpose and solemn prayer, working for God's glory and men's good with self out of sight, going neighbor to neighbor one by one in unselfish love, sympathizing, praying, watching for opportunities to do good, gathering a few to open the Word to darkened minds and making most of laboring with God.GW92 336.2 Converted people reflect this by seeking chances to warn and encourage those in darkness, invite to the Saviour and bear witness, some refusing but others coming.Ms 85, 1903, par. 22 Every Christian is to take up responsibility, use influence and means in Christ's work and help win souls with none excused, the Spirit enabling and shaping, belonging to God as bought with a price to do the Master's will in best-suited work with conduct and resources winning souls.Ms 124, 1897, par. 26–28+1

Workers in Maitland are shown fulfilling together the responsibility of watching as those who must give account.Lt 67, 1900, par. 22–24 Leaving favorable missionary ground like Petoskey without laborers for years is manifest neglect and criminal failure to watch.Ms 42, 1891, par. 8–9 In Battle Creek faithful workers must warn, teach clear Bible truth and help believers and unbelievers resist temptation and understand truth, with pastors and teachers guarding young helpers, patients and others from spiritual danger.YGBCOEP 18.1–2+1 Those placed over the work must give every ability to direct soul-winning where interest increases and God gives favor, staying with tent effort, visiting and giving Bible readings in families rather than replacing watching with guarding property or absorbing secular duties like opening boxes and distributing books.Lt 142, 1895, par. 8–9 Gospel workers must labor as men to answer to God, learned at camp meetings with experienced ministers taking young men into the field and going to hardest parts to rescue outsiders ignorant of truth, the account covering thousands dead in trespasses, thousands passing unwarned into the grave, and many uncared-for souls without God and without hope.17MR 247.1–2

Faithful watching for souls requires personal labor and pastoral care, for preaching alone cannot replace it and does not fulfill the duty, and those who only preach do only half the work.Ms 139, 1897, par. 19–20+4 Accountability for souls includes loving, kindly assistance to those convicted of sin, carrying the work of grace forward to completion, and knowing how to deal with souls, and neglecting this labor fails the responsibility.GW92 448.2+1 The duty rests also on every professed Christian, with none permitted to remain indifferent or idle, each answerable for good left undone.Lt 25, 1884, par. 3–4

That personal care means visiting members in their homes, learning their spiritual condition, and instructing, advising, counseling, encouraging and caring for them.ASCOP 17.2+2 It means giving each the teaching suited to needs, to reclaim the backslider, strengthen the weak and diseased and feeble, guard new believers and new converts, seek the lost sheep, feed each his portion in due season with watchful tender compassion, love, sympathy and unfailing perseverance, and personally visiting families to help through difficult points and to resist false doctrine after camp meetings.ASCOP 18.1+4 Neglecting this personal labor leaves churches disorganized, weak, sickly and ready to die, mixes the minister's work with self and removes power, and keeps God's blessing from resting because the Lord cannot work for the unfaithful, and may leave the worker faithless and despondent.Ms 5, 1883, par. 8–11+1

Faithful visiting and pastoral labor keeps the church in order and brings many more to rejoice in the truth, while neglect leaves the church and its borders without pastoral work and without growth.9MR 343.4–5+1 Watching means coming close to individual souls in personal work and not only preaching, taking personal interest to seek what troubles or confuses them and keeps them from truth's light even with patient effort and inconvenience, for eternal interests are at stake.15MR 341.2–342.2+1 Fitness for this accountable soul-care is shown when workers leave public preaching to labor from house to house as missionaries, and in God many can do valiantly in this close work and receive returns whose richness will surprise them.15MR 341.2–342.2 Neglecting personal contact leaves people without needed help.Lt 3, 1892, par. 16–18

Ministers must care through personal shepherding and not sermonizing alone, caring for sheep and lambs through personal labor and visiting families, and men untrained in this watchcare are unfit to send as missionaries to new foreign fields, since one thorough shepherd is better than twenty sermonizers who excuse themselves from visiting.Lt 50, 1892, par. 6 Churches cannot be built up and kept prosperous by preaching while personal labor is neglected, and those who learn a shepherd's work avoid one-sided ministry and give full proof of ministry.Lt 50, 1892, par. 6 The duty calls for constant vigilance to follow up those moved by the gospel and those convicted after camp meetings who want to begin the Christian life, using every ability to help them take stand with the Saviour and overcome darkness, because neglect lets good impressions fade and gives the enemy an opening to weaken them.GW92 448.1+2

Watching includes going out to search for the lost sheep, diligently seeking the perishing and strayed to bring them back to Christ's fold, carrying truth into homes and working among people and not only within an institution, hunting and fishing for souls and devising ways to bring sinners back, helping bring eternal realities near and representing Christ.Lt 145, 1903, par. 5+2 Care is shown by genuine personal interest and loving action especially toward young people purchased by His blood, rather than standing aloof or relying on sermons or censorious lectures, patiently and kindly leading them rightly as members of the Lord's family and guarding them from Satan, which strengthens their bond with the church.FE 55.2+2 Watching includes patient, prayerful, loving care for tempted youth through failings to win them to Christ, for inexperienced believers threatened by deceptive teachings, for people under temptation sought out to resist Satan, for those recovering from intemperance and degradation whose weakened will and cravings leave them vulnerable to repeated falls, and for young converts needing tender instruction to begin rightly when selfish desires draw away, continuing to work after relapse rather than giving up, closely guarding and giving work as dignity is regained.SPBC 168.3+4

Faithful shepherding requires giving oneself wholly to the work without separate or selfish interests, not neglecting it for personal preference, personal business, or secular labor, using strength temperately and preserving it for the sacred calling, since choices affect destiny of souls.ASCOP 13.3–14.1+3 Precious time must not be wasted merely to save a small amount of money, for that displeases God, and time is precious and worth more than such saving; economy is right but becomes meanness when aimed merely to increase personal wealth, which will bring ruin unless rightly used as the Lord's entrusted property, and neglecting flock care for business can harm the congregation and lose souls.1T 153.2+2 God's shepherds cannot work like tradesmen handling soulless timber for set hours and pay, laying down tools when eight hours end, but bear the burden of human minds with continual care under all circumstances, including travel, moving families from place to place and country to country at great expense with no settled home, spending in traveling, settling and unsettling and in buying, selling or transporting goods.Ms 142, 1903, par. 4–7+2 Their work is to preach good tidings to the poor and meek, bind up the brokenhearted, proclaim liberty and the acceptable year, comfort mourners, and give beauty for ashes, oil of joy for mourning, and praise for heaviness, with whole family sharing labor, wife setting example in neat tidy plain yet proper dress, children educated and trained with painstaking effort so all tells in missionary lines, and all always appearing cheerful and fresh to bring sunshine and saving help to the poor and needy.Ms 1, 1896, par. 5–7+1

God's servants labor as those who must give account through self-denial and sacrifice, leaving home, wife and children to become missionaries and turning life into sacrifice, so those deciding pay must have Christ's mind with true estimate of that cost and not deal closely with faithful ministers by a meager sum.Ms 25a, 1891, par. 20 Feeding the flock while bearing daily responsibilities in the love and fear of God as obedient children walking in all humility brings strength and wisdom from God for every trying circumstance.Ms 22, 1889, par. 29–33 That feeding requires studying Scripture and praying for wisdom to strengthen those ready to perish, live by the Word, and use its promises, guidance, counsel and reproof to give personal knowledge of truth, preparing spiritual food and warning the perishing especially in cities, speaking needed encouragement and dealing wisely, in earnest labor to seek salvation of the perishing and to lead youth and bring souls to Christ with awareness of account.Ms 2, 1883, par. 1–2+4

The work of watching for souls includes reproving, rebuking and exhorting with long-suffering, patience and sound doctrine, for when Christ ascended He left His work in the hands of His servants the under-shepherds to perfect the saints and edify the body in unity.ST Jan 7, 1913+2 This watching means hunting and fishing for souls while upholding truth before multitudes, speaking truth plainly and faithfully without attacking individuals or groups, guarding people from deception and from poisonous popular errors, and improving every opportunity to teach worldlings and help true-hearted believers and students labor intelligently with God.STB 297.2–298.1+1 It also requires vigilance and preparation against the enemy, being strong in the Lord and putting on the whole armor of God rather than trusting human strength, since salvation is nearer and the day is at hand.ST Sep 12, 1900

Those who must give account must not shun the cross by preaching only pleasing subjects that offend none, but must faithfully do personal labor for sinners and bring God's special message to each.GW92 448.2+1 They must address the selfish, the proud, the passionate, those robbing God in tithes and offerings, and the doubting and unbelieving who are blinded to their spiritual standing, praying for wisdom to reveal character defects and what conformity to the true standard requires.GW92 448.2 They must win confidence and affection, bring truth as it is in Jesus to bear on hearts as the only power to keep the soul steadfast against Satan through divine grace by the Holy Spirit, and warn, entreat and reprove with God's love and earnest prayer for divine help until every person is presented perfect in Christ, since speaking only smooth things confirms souls in sin and strengthens them in a wrong course.GW92 448.2+1 Neglect to warn, reprove and exhort patiently and faithfully is neglect of the watchman's duty for which God holds ministers responsible.Lt 6, 1883, par. 11–12

Watching as those who must give account means pointing people to God's standard of righteousness, speaking intelligently of the sacredness and importance of truth and of the needs of the present hour, and bearing an inspiring message against perverted principles.YGBCOEP 63.2+2 It includes warning of coming judgment and teaching obedience to God and preparation for the Lord's coming, laboring with awareness of answering for souls in care.Ms 102, 1904, par. 30–36

Responsibility to defend the church makes it right to heed reports of disorder, anarchy and division and to send reproof, and such reproof inspired by the Spirit of God corrects wrongs even when it rests on facts learned through others rather than on new revelation.AA 302.3+2 Paul exemplifies this faithful, sincere labor for souls in continuing to strengthen the churches and preach Christ despite opposition, false accusation, prejudice and persecution.SLP 179.1–2 Though an inspired apostle he was not always shown by direct revelation the present condition of the people, but received facts through the household of Chloe and private letters, judged them by light previously received and by foreknowledge of difficulties and dangers, and laid down general principles with tenderness and wisdom calling for all to speak the same things with no divisions.TBC1882 45.2–46.1 Reproof given on that ground is as much under inspiration as any other epistle, grounded in light God already gave, so refusing it as a common letter or mere human opinion rejects the responsibility to watch.5T 65.1–3+2

Watching requires giving plain warnings to those ruining themselves through evil habits, educating the ignorant and arousing the careless to responsibility for the body as the temple of the Holy Ghost, following Christ's deep interest in suffering humanity.16MR 57.2–3 The true minister must first educate and discipline himself, obtain and practice knowledge of health and life, and keep himself in health, so he can impart what he practices instead of remaining a novice or criminally neglecting people to sickness, suffering and death.16MR 57.2–3+1 Christ's delegated representatives work with His deep concern for sufferers and must not neglect these principles.Lt 19, 1892, par. 3

Watching includes discerning and pointing out defects in the church even when unwelcome, for such reproof belongs to missionary work and is to be done faithfully.Ms 59, 1898, par. 17–18 It means warning people of dangers as an act of care and not faultfinding, given truthfully even when it brings criticism, while there is time and with love for one another.Lt 182, 1898, par. 5–6 It calls for earnest appeal to those whose choices endanger their souls and heavenly reward.Lt 68, 1899, par. 5–8

Faithful watchfulness requires confronting wrongdoing rather than overlooking sin, since overlooking it is failure of duty and one who does not recognize his wrongdoing will perish in it.Ms 112, 1904, par. 12–14 Supporting a person's wrong course instead of upholding warnings given to him is unfaithful to God and helps make conduct more defiant.Lt 66, 1897, par. 13–14

Ministers commissioned to bear God's message to the churches have the duty and privilege of teaching systematic giving to His cause, seeing none are left in ignorance on the subject.RH Feb 4, 1902 They are to impress entire dependence upon God and accountability to Him for all benefits, as part of helping people reach a higher standard for which those answerable for souls are responsible.Ms 99, 1899, par. 28+1

Those claiming the shepherd's duty are not vindicated when they reject the plain commandment concerning the Sabbath, for they will answer for turning from God's word to human authority.Ms 52, 1900, par. 30–32 Men who preach truth betray the duty to watch for salvation when they seek opportunities to corrupt and ruin those in their care.Lt 82, 1886, par. 6

Men who preach truth watch as educators who present every person perfect in Christ, see that all who receive truth are firmly established, leave no part of the work incomplete, make God's work primary and other interests secondary, and work faithfully to guard from Satan's attacks and lead to victory.Lt 39, 1887, par. 2–3+1 They need wisdom and better knowledge of Satan's devices so he does not ruin precious souls before their eyes while he plays the game of life for souls, and they have a Source of strength so they need not become discouraged or be driven from the field.20MR 132.3

God calls His messengers to watch with no time to lose because last-days perils are upon them, warning of danger and not leaving untouched the solemn scenes prophecy revealed.Lt 87, 1896, par. 13 Done rightly this brings reformation in the churches and leads many more to believe, by advancing new principles and crowding in clear-cut truth that works like a sword cutting both ways without a needlessly controversial attitude, at times standing still to see the Lord's salvation, presenting truth as it is in Jesus with Daniel and Revelation speaking, and in every phase uplifting Jesus as the center of all hope.Lt 87, 1896, par. 13

Faithful work uses warnings, reproof, encouragement and every appropriate appeal to point people to Christ who takes away sin, and neglecting this leaves entrusted souls without needed spiritual guidance.Lt 21, 1899, par. 2+1 It makes daily duties and relations to God and one another clear, presents God's grace in the gift of His Son rather than human ideas and schemes, and lifts up Jesus so people are drawn to Him.Lt 93, 1892, par. 19

A steward entrusted with God's people who knows members of the flock are treated unjustly and can prevent it but remains silent becomes accountable along with the wrongdoer.Lt 31a, 1894, par. 6–10 Fear of losing influence does not excuse failure to speak for truth and justice.Lt 31a, 1894, par. 6–10

Seeking souls calls for careful education and training, including for inexperienced disciples, carried out mindfully as those who will give account.RH Feb 12, 1901+2 This care includes faithful, tender instruction for young converts, especially those vulnerable to temptation, so they come to true knowledge of righteousness in Christ and begin well.6T 92.1–93.2 It requires cautious, thoughtful care and wise use of influence to lead to Christ and impress truth, guarding those in care against the world's deceptive attractions that draw from God and harden hearts against grace.GW92 78.1 Accountability gives ministers strength to save the perishing, and genuine zeal teaches the inexperienced to seek souls as answerable to God so continual blunders are avoided by training youth before they enter the vineyard.17MR 48.3

Watching for souls as one who must give account is sacred and weighty work that calls for heartfelt concern for the unsaved outside Christ's fold, in sympathy with Christ's own longing for them and diligent labor to win them.7T 13.2+4 It requires a heart moved by His compassion and anguish for those who may be lost, a tender longing for souls and a true sense of their worth as purchased by infinite sacrifice, never satisfied with small acts of service as sufficient.Ms 139, 1897, par. 21–23+1 Rich and poor alike are to be treated with unvarying kindness because Jesus by infinite sacrifice proved His love for every person and showed their value as the purchase of His blood.Lt 6a, 1890, par. 9–12

Saving the erring must be done with courtesy, true tenderness of heart, kindness, interest and sympathy shown in every word and even tone of voice, with extra kindness toward one in error, while remaining true to principle, just, honest and religious.STOM 8.3+3 Harsh, denunciatory, impatient treatment drives souls away from Christ, does the enemy's work, opens a door of temptation, lets Satan misrepresent the worker as one who does not know the Lord, and confirms the erring in thinking his own way right and better.STOM 8.3+3 Genuine piety seen in words and character, with the love of Jesus in the heart, wins to repentance, faith and humility, sanctifying the soul, fashioning the whole man, abasing pride and purifying from defilement.STOM 8.3+1

God appoints leaders to watch in Christlike tenderness with patience and long forbearance toward the weak in faith, laboring to develop Christian character and keep hope alive, for He will demand a strict settlement in judgment for how it is done.Ms 70, 1895, par. 3–4 Sharp, uncourteous words in an unchristlike spirit that push and drive tried and faltering souls into Satan's snares violate that trust and betray them into the enemy's hands as verily as Judas betrayed Christ.Ms 70, 1895, par. 3–4 Responsibility gives no permission to order, dictate to or command harshly, but requires kindly, courteous treatment, for self-confidence and self-sufficiency make a person unsafe while Christ's meekness and lowliness teach the spirit needed for service.Lt 332, 1906, par. 8–9

Those who care for spiritual life must handle human minds carefully, remembering souls belong to the Lord and are being formed for heaven, not imposing their own character upon them, with words and example helping others grow in faith.Ms 16, 1892, par. 7 Those who show passion or impatience toward people needing help should repent, and all who name Christ should cultivate piety so as to represent Him and work with God.Ms 16, 1892, par. 7 Those in trust are guilty when conduct leads others from the right path and should follow Jesus' holy example so influence guides toward the right, and they can be trusted only as they value eternal things, build character rightly and seek God's will, since reckless favor-seeking makes others reckless.Ms 14, 1888, par. 13–14+1

Faithful watching begins with the state of the heart, not mere speech, preaching contradicted by life, lip knowledge, forms and ceremonies; Christ must abide in the soul and God be sanctified in the heart, making men and women of faith and prayer and power in whom truth inwrought inwardly blesses others outwardly.RH May 1, 1900+2 It requires guarding the heart against pride and rebellion, refusing self-deceit that wanders in fog and blames others, living by the living Word dwelling richly within, and closely examining self to see whether love to God or conceit rules.RH May 1, 1900 Those who teach truth stand between the living and the dead as Christ's ambassadors who must render account for work from their hands, and therefore need converting power in the heart, a true sense of Christ's commission, sobriety and thoughtfulness, reverently opening the Word, listening for instruction and asking wisdom from heaven.STA 1.1–2

Watching demands earnest, devoted, self-sacrificing labor with a heart sanctified by truth, not trifling with time or sacred responsibilities, since presenting solemn truth decides destiny; it means representing Christ in all things, preaching truth, preaching Christ and living Christ, living in the channel of light and diffusing light from the Sun of Righteousness in churches, cities and villages through much prayer and abiding connection with God.Ms 3, 1890, par. 9–11 Every gospel minister must often kneel for heavenly wisdom, live in obedience under divine power, guide all work by the Word with its promises, directions, warnings and reproofs, search Scripture with humble heart and willing mind to bring forth truth new and old, lead minds to personal knowledge of truth as it is in Jesus by Christ's method in the Spirit's power, and add earnest personal house-to-house study and prayer rather than pulpit preaching alone.RH Jan 21, 1902 Where this is neglected churches stay weak, dependent, inefficient, unfruitful, selfish and slothful, with members trained to rely on preaching to keep weak faith alive instead of being taught to work and become laborers together with God.RH Jan 21, 1902

Constant vigilance allows no listless indolence, for Satan will otherwise obtain the mastery; because the Lord is coming, one's own soul must be prepared by richly given grace and then diligent work done for souls in error and blindness to bring them to see peril, give up error, receive truth, believe there is both a God and a soul, and learn that God's statutes and laws cannot be disregarded without peril, since confidence in error never converts it into truth.Ms 23, 1894, par. 16–17 Those who watch must give timely words, know when to speak or remain silent, work steadily despite rejection or discouraging results, guard against Satan's devices so as not to be turned aside, surrender fully to God in Christ's abiding presence, stay alert to spiritual dangers and the enemy's plans, remain prayerful and faithful, and be ready for Christ's sudden return.GW 188.4+2 This requires daily conversion and discernment with humility as little children and Christlike tenderness, kindness and love in continual doing of Christ's words, lest rash unwise words, movements and actions without discernment put precious blood-bought souls in peril and leave them the sport of Satan's snares, sadly destroying confidence that ought to be placed in them.19MR 212.2+1

The great work requires wisdom from above and is most effective in perfect harmony under the Holy Spirit's direction, so divisions weakening God's cause must not occur.Ms 88, 1905, par. 8 Gospel workers must labor for thousands dead in trespasses and sins, passing into the grave unwarned and unconverted, left uncared for without God and without hope, learning the work at camp meetings where experienced ministers take young men into the field to the hardest parts to rescue those outside the fold who do not know truth.17MR 247.1–2+1 Those who labor must act solemnly remembering the account to be given, not carelessly, and must not draw people to depend on the minister instead of depending entirely on Christ, lest souls be endangered.TEPD 64.3 They must avoid worldly schemes and financial advantage that dishonor faith, hinder God's work or lower righteousness, serving so those in care see and desire holiness.Lt 71, 1902, par. 17–18

Those given sacred guardianship must like surgeon, physician, teacher or guide study carefully how to do what is entrusted, through humble prayer, close self-examination, study of Christ's life and daily learning in His school, discharging duty in harmony with truth with wisdom from above in Christian politeness and courteous speech and writing.Lt 11, 1895, par. 1–6 Carelessness, zeal, rashness and harsh thrusts in speaking and publishing that can never be taken back form habits needing repentance.Lt 11, 1895, par. 1–6 Watching stands opposite being drowsy, ease-loving and lukewarm, requiring men of prayer, faith and self-denial who restrain natural appetites and passions, evidence in life the power of truth presented, possess living faith, increase daily in knowledge of Christ, possess practical godliness, meekness and deep love for souls, search Scripture and pray for clearer light digging for truth as hidden treasure, and work with earnest zeal and devotion presenting Christ and testing truth rather than self, drinking living water and leaning on Him so labor gathers fruit and brings sheaves with rejoicing.ST Apr 15, 1913

Messengers carrying present truth to those not yet in the light must speed to them as fast as possible, remove prejudice by spreading evidences of present position from the Word so it is joyfully received, live in toil and anguish of spirit under the weight of the precious but often-wounded cause, lay aside worldly interests and comforts, and make advancing truth and saving perishing souls the first object.ExVEGW 49.1–2 Faithfulness brings rich reward, with the rescued finally saved shining as stars forever in crowns of rejoicing, and eternal satisfaction in having presented truth in purity and beauty so souls fell in love with it, were sanctified through it, were made rich, washed in the Lamb's blood and redeemed unto God.ExVEGW 49.1–2 God's workers sent with a special message labor as those who must give account even when unappreciated and obstructed, laboring on hardened hearts like breaking and preparing soil so the gospel seed can root and harvest, praying and laboring diligently where God is working with wise direction of effort and needed rest, representing Christ through tenderness, lowliness and meekness and directing sympathies to Jesus rather than binding them to themselves.Ms 24, 1897, par. 18–20+3

Watching includes praying earnestly for those visited and showing Christ's love with tender concern, humble heartfelt prayer, toil and anguish, putting aside worldly interests and comforts to advance truth and save people, with deep concern for souls brought into contact with truth and righteousness as worth saving, especially those who suffer.EW 51.2–3+4 Those rescued and finally saved will be lasting joy and reward.EW 51.2–3 The Lord's servants must watch constantly and vigilantly, pray earnestly and faithfully warn every soul in danger.Ms 149, 1897, par. 13–15 Ministers must therefore carry solemnity into the pulpit, not talk at random or act indiscreetly, but labor earnestly, cautiously and attentively to guard against dangers drawing people from God, use influence wisely to win them to Christ and impress truth upon them, and with wisdom, perseverance and devoted attention protect them from Satan's devices and win the victory.4T 267.2+2

In schools those responsible must stay alert to temptations and help youth use words, example and influence for good, remembering teachers are responsible for spiritual influence, since impatience or un-Christlike conduct can endanger souls while love for Christ and care for the entrusted call them to guard influence.Ms 174, 1897, par. 97–100+1 Guardianship of the young includes moral and spiritual oversight beyond temporal provision, requiring wisdom and tact especially in crisis, drawing near to God and learning from Him rather than yielding to students' inclinations, with those in care heeding God's authority above human wisdom.Ms 119, 1899, par. 5–6+1 Watching requires a sense of the solemnity of the times and sacred nearness to God, making it a duty in kindness and love to correct frivolity, lightness, trifling, thoughtless tittering and laughing that misrepresents Christ to unbelievers, to be diligent students in His school letting Him possess the heart and mold character, yet not with sour faces, gloom or sadness but with cheerfulness, countenance lifted and lighted by Christ's brightness, strength in God, clinging to Him and confident prayer for promised wisdom and divine power given with Jesus.Ms 42, 1894, par. 6–7

Those placed by providence over sheep and lambs, especially teachers of youth, must put aside everything tending to corrupt influence and dare not let Satan control the spirit, since corrupt influence opposes God's will and endangers souls.Ms 34, 1893, par. 19–20 Giving way to natural feelings and impulses makes a watcher weak and untrustworthy, a channel through which Satan taints and corrupts many, with unholy fits unnerving him and ending in shame and confusion, while the Spirit of Christ renews and restores the one who feels weakness and flees to the unchanging One for grace and power to resist evil, and God keeps those He has placed and gives strength as the day requires.Ms 34, 1893, par. 19–20 A minister who lets unholy thoughts and selfish plans distract him neglects watchful care, and the resulting loss of mental and physical strength blunts discernment, dishonors God and harms work he could have done by trusting God and giving whole strength to it.3T 242.1 He must give himself carefully and earnestly to the work, preserving strength for it and refusing distractions, selfish plans or indulgence weakening judgment and service, since unfaithfulness can damage souls he was called to serve and those harmed may condemn him at the judgment.Lt 29a, 1872, par. 56–61

A shepherd is accountable to warn and protect, as seen when failure let a destructive delusion enter and sheep were harmed while being watched, for which God held the shepherd responsible.1T 231.2–232.1 Those set to care for souls and answer for them have much work in a school term, like farming with much labor over hearts whose soil is unplowed and unharrowed, breaking and subduing hardened ground so the Word as gospel seed finds favorable ground and yields harvest.11MR 37.1–3 Watching means laboring earnestly for those in whom God's image is defaced by sin to reform, elevate and ennoble them, a work belonging even to youth brought among the impure and intemperate, done while communing constantly with God, keeping pure, refusing anything dishonoring Him, living always with eye single to His glory, and receiving strength of purpose and power to resist temptation in cooperation with Him.Ms 103, 1893, par. 9–10

One imbued with Christ's Spirit understands duty and does it in fear of God with eye single to His glory without unfaithfulness, letting no thought of self or natural feeling keep lips silent but speaking unafraid with heart full of tenderness and love, warning, exhorting and entreating, never ceasing to labor while one ray of hope remains.Lt 70, 1894, par. 20–22 Because words may cut to the soul, every accent must be softened with Jesus' love, tenderness and sympathy, remembering the plague of one's own heart and lack of harmony with God's holy will; if compelled to wound, feeling healing to be equally compulsory, with truth ever spoken in love and Christ's Spirit abiding in the soul.Lt 70, 1894, par. 20–22 It is carried out by persuasive influence binding people to the heart through love for Jesus and because they are His, by Christlike words and deportment representing Jesus and kindling hunger and thirst for righteousness and truth, by conscientious self-denying self-sacrificing devotion not narrow and selfish, and by keeping the Lord's way and teaching by precept and example so right principles are implanted for saving souls and become widespread blessing.Lt 6a, 1890, par. 9–12

Teachers bear this accountable charge toward students and must faithfully correct and guide them even when doing so brings perplexity and heartache, and students' conduct can make this work grievous or bring joy.Ms 82, 1897, par. 20
Teachers must take deep interest in pupils' success and prosperity, recognizing pupils belong to God and guarding influence, for impatience or un-Christlike conduct can endanger souls.CE 148.2–149.1+1
Guardianship of the young includes moral and spiritual oversight beyond temporal provision, needing wisdom and tact in crisis by drawing near to God rather than yielding to inclinations, with those cared for heeding God's authority above human wisdom.Ms 119, 1899, par. 5–6+1
Faithful tender instruction is needed to begin new believers rightly when vulnerable to temptation and selfish desires may draw them, lest neglect leave them without needed help.Ms 56, 1900, par. 23–25
Feeding the flock in humility with daily responsibilities in love and fear of God as obedient children walking humbly brings strength and wisdom to meet every trying circumstance.Ms 22, 1889, par. 29–33

Devoting oneself to watching and saving the strayed also works out one's own salvation, developing Christlike character and strengthening spiritual life, bringing present and eternal good to watcher and helped, with faithful labor bringing joy rather than grief especially when those helped are redeemed through Christ.5T 606.3+4
The same accountability belongs to ministers overseeing the church for Christ's blood-bought flock, so that their work may be a source of joy rather than grief, with timely words to the weary and wholehearted service directed to winning souls.RH Dec 14, 1916+2
In Sabbath-school work faithful labor brings joy when those cared for are saved through Christ, teachers taking personal interest in children and youth, seeking them earnestly, speaking and praying with them personally and appealing for their hearts.ST Aug 13, 1885+1
Consecrated workers may cherish great hopes for those they serve because the Holy Spirit works with them, in personal efforts to teach truth and seek salvation of people in sin for whom atonement was made.Lt 202, 1897, par. 7–8
Converted people show concern by seeking chances to warn and encourage those in darkness, invite them to the Saviour and bear witness for Him, with some refusing but others coming.Ms 85, 1903, par. 22

Watching for souls means laboring earnestly for people in whom God's image has been defaced by sin to reform, elevate and ennoble them, and this belongs even to youth brought among the impure and intemperate while communing constantly with God, keeping pure, refusing dishonor to God and living with eye single to His glory, receiving strength and power to resist as they cooperate with Him.Ms 103, 1893, par. 9–10
Christians belong to God as bought with a price to do His will in best-suited work, using influence, abilities, means and resources to help win souls, with the Holy Spirit enabling and shaping workers for this service, and no one is excused.Ms 124, 1897, par. 26–28+1
Watching as those who must give account means faithfulness and earnest prayer for one another, with careful and faithful mutual admonition all the more as the end is nigh.Lt 63a, 1893, par. 27–29+1
This watching is true Christian fellowship and friendship and working brotherhood that amounts to some good purpose, the practical blessing God designs through association.Lt 63a, 1893, par. 27–29+1
Without faithful love in practical daily life fellowship loses its highest benefit and is no longer after Bible order.Lt 63a, 1893, par. 27–29+1

Faithful admonition and prayer for one another must be brought into practical daily life, all the more as the end is nigh, as true brotherhood.Lt 63a, 1893, par. 27–29+1
Everyone who labors for others must keep continual watchfulness joined to earnest purpose and solemn prayer, working only for God's glory and men's good with self out of sight.GW92 336.2
This requires coming close to neighbors one by one in unselfish interest and love, sympathizing with them, praying for them, and watching for opportunities to do them good.GW92 336.2
It requires gathering a few together to open the Word to darkened minds and making the most of laboring with God in His vineyard.GW92 336.2

Ministers must carry the burden of souls with earnest devoted self-sacrificing labor, preaching truth and preaching and living Christ and representing Him in all things without trifling with time or sacred responsibilities.STBk 50.2+2
This watching is day by day, hour by hour, living in the channel of light in churches and among people in cities and villages, diffusing light received from the Sun of Righteousness, devoting much time to prayer and sending petitions to heaven even among the frivolous and careless to stay in Christ's love and connected with God.STBk 50.2+2
This faithful watching brings continual growth to every church, whereas where guarding is lacking truth has not sanctified hearts, little proper labor is done, and there is declension with dishonest and licentious men in churches.STBk 50.2+2
A minister's success in leading the flock in peace and holiness grows with his own growth in grace and knowledge of truth, and the church rarely rises above its ministers' standard, so both ministers and people need conversion and sanctification in soul, body and spirit.AAP 11.3+1
Urgency belongs to watching because time is short and eternal realities are faced, calling for sacrifice and self-denial and Christ's humility to bring truth before surrounding cities and save perishing souls, and multitudes may be saved through such sacrifice.Ms 83, 1910, par. 35–36+1

Saving even one soul means one soul saved to Christ, and faithful soul-winners will meet those helped in the city of God with crowns, be recognized by them, and join them laying crowns at Jesus' feet and filling heaven with music to the Lamb, which is the way to gain victory, win heaven and shun hell.Ms 83, 1910, par. 35–36
Self-denying workers who devote time to seeking and caring for souls gain rich experience as they share truths, their own hearts opened to the Word and taught by the Great Teacher.6T 86.1
Earnest labor to seek salvation of those ready to perish fulfills accountability, each person being responsible for the gift given with blessing in faithful doing, and believing and practicing Bible truth is worthwhile for those laboring to find and teach truth.Lt 50, 1909, par. 5+3
The work for souls is inspected by Christ the Chief Shepherd and receives His approval only if done well, and shepherds in every place must care faithfully for churches and support truth while churches pray for success.Lt 4, 1908, par. 14+1
When overseers fail to instruct and shepherd, churches become weak, dependent on preaching, inefficient, unfruitful, selfish and slothful, hiding talents instead of working together with God.6T 434.2+3

That watching requires often kneeling for wisdom, living in obedience under divine power, guiding work by the Word with promises, directions, warnings and reproofs, searching Scripture humbly to bring out truth new and old and leading minds to personal knowledge of truth by Christ's Spirit-taught method, with earnest house-to-house Scripture study and prayer rather than pulpit preaching alone.RH Jan 21, 1902
This care includes teaching and training members to use abilities in practical missionary work and serve others, lest they remain idle instead of diligent workers.Ms 151, 1897, par. 16–18+1
Neglecting personal labor leaves churches disorganized, weak, sickly and ready to die, mixes self with the work, removes power and keeps God's blessing from resting, because the Lord cannot work for the unfaithful.Lt 50, 1892, par. 7–9
Watching as one who must give account is the most important part of a shepherd's duty and test of a minister after God's order, meaning more than preaching: visiting homes to instruct, advise and counsel, learning condition to feed each in due season, convict the backslider, seek the lost, guard new converts, and strengthen the diseased and feeble with unfailing tender compassion, love, sympathy and perseverance.Lt 50, 1892, par. 7–9
Ministers who fail to earnestly seek the lost by visiting, praying and sharing truth with tenderness are false shepherds, and those who claim the role but neglect God-given work fail in responsibility.Lt 26d, 1887, par. 30–31+1

Ministers in leadership who neglect pastoral responsibility should be removed from that station, because the church suffers when members are neglected, and officers will be called to account if they neglect guarding the flock.Lt 96, 1892, par. 11–12+1
Workers must not wait until asked but actively seek to save through example, prayers and appeals, carrying assigned burdens thoroughly and promptly rather than leaving them to others or settling for occasional preaching, with watchfulness, thoroughness, prompt thought and action, and careful work, since neglect leaves others vulnerable.Lt 13, 1886, par. 3–4+3
The duty to watch applies to the Lord's workers and calls for diligence in service as watchful workers answering for souls in care.Lt 102a, 1897, par. 1–2
Those in responsible positions who fail when need is great are especially guilty, and faithful guardians should remain rather than be deceived and abandon duty; neglect leaves entrusted ones without needed guidance and vulnerable to harm.Lt 21, 1899, par. 2+2
Faithful work uses warnings, reproof, encouragement and every appropriate appeal to point people to Christ who takes away sin.Lt 21, 1899, par. 2

Those entrusted with church oversight must teach members to use abilities in missionary work and labor for those who do not know truth, for failing to strengthen churches leaves members idle and neglected souls a cause for accountability, with experienced ministers bringing young men into the work.Ms 151, 1897, par. 16–18+2
The duty to watch calls for a deep burden leading to earnest labor, and may bring a sense of answerability before God for people not ready to meet the Lord in peace, requiring diligence as faithful stewards serving in love for one another.Lt 100, 1897, par. 1–5+4
Here the duty is applied to leading youth and laboring to bring souls to Christ with awareness of giving account.Ms 35, 1885, par. 16
Watching with accountability includes making opportunities to present truth about Jesus from gratitude for God's Son, using opportunities to awaken interest in salvation, and laboring diligently to bring souls to Christ for those ready to perish.ST Dec 17, 1894+2
Those entrusted must stay in living connection with God with the True Shepherd's Spirit, discerning peril and speaking timely words under the Holy Spirit to draw souls into safe paths and strengthen what remains ready to die, for mere human judgment and business ability cannot do this.Ms 100, 1894, par. 21–22

Manifesting a wolf's spirit to bite and devour and ruin and destroy fails the charge and meets a fearful account in judgment.Ms 100, 1894, par. 21–22
Those accepting trust are sentinels before heaven, and many souls have been lost through unfaithfulness who might have been saved by faithfulness.Lt 16a, 1895, par. 9+1
Faithfulness requires letting those in danger know they are appreciated and will not be given up, speaking, praying and exhorting in love, dealing with the erring in Christ's mercy and compassion rather than pushing them away as traitors, driving them to desperation and discouraging recovery.Lt 16a, 1895, par. 9+1
It requires cherishing Christ's character, appreciating what rightly carrying responsibilities to God's honor involves, rather resigning than bearing dishonorably, being daily converted clean vessels free from strange delusion.Lt 16a, 1895, par. 9
Leaders who guide others are responsible for example and faithful duty, and the greater the responsibility the more serious unfaithfulness becomes, for if leading brethren fail those they lead may fail.1T 678.1+1

Shepherds are guilty when conduct leads others from the right path and should follow Jesus' holy example so influence guides rightly.Ms 14, 1888, par. 13–14
Vigilance includes continuing family-like concern for believers especially the tempted or straying, actively caring and fighting for those Christ died to save rather than leaving them in indifference, each soul restored to first love being gained for Christ.Ms 63, 1898, par. 3–4+2
It calls for urgent pleading when people, including ministers, are tempted to return to teachings left behind, lest Satan gain victory, and earnest efforts to help those who may be lost through deception.Lt 71, 1904, par. 4–5+2
Watchmen must help people avoid losing eternal life through worldliness and selfishness, by faithful painstaking duty with self forgotten, consistent life harmonizing practice with teaching, watchfulness unto prayer, removal of stumbling blocks, and earnest warnings and entreaties with tender solicitude to win souls.Lt 67, 1896, par. 15–18+1
Grace and wisdom are provided so every worker can do this, and by watchfulness and prayer can accomplish the Lord's design; if through lack of discernment and vital piety they fail to forget self and labor, God will require at their hands the souls for whom they should have labored.Lt 67, 1896, par. 15–18

Ministers must watch day by day as those who must give account, and laboring with awareness of giving account applies to guiding youth with alert earnest care.STA 50.2–51.1+1
Connection with God is everything to fulfilling the duty, requiring staying grounded in truth, making ambitions subordinate to the life that measures with God's life, recognizing the Redeemer's claim, discarding false consistency and worldly etiquette that hinder saving souls, and constantly studying to follow Christ and promote His glory.13MR 175.1+4
Physicians entrusted with physical and spiritual needs are responsible to watch and give account, using work to win souls and minister with the Master Physician's love and compassion, which is essential to true medical missionaries.Ms 136, 1902, par. 14
A physician carrying heavy responsibilities should seek God's wisdom, stay grounded in truth, and guide patients toward Christ to speak helpfully and care for each soul as precious.Lt 205, 1899, par. 18–20
Those who settle among others to share truth must take seriously the responsibility of answering to God, and shepherds must do good by walking humbly with God and hiding self in Christ to share light and serve with love for souls.Lt 216, 1897, par. 3+4

Abiding in Christ brings order, purity from defilement and peace, with Jesus looking on ready to do good for everyone walking in His way.Ms 235, 1902, par. 6
The work can demand intense sustained labor on behalf of people in spiritual danger.Lt 216, 1897, par. 3
Those responsible must watch by giving every ability to direct soul-winning labor where interest increases, continuing to labor for those still coming rather than cutting off opportunity, and persistently visiting the interested to establish them.STB 145.4+4
This calls for constant watchfulness even in ordinary business, revealing ennobling principles and speaking timely light-giving words to business contacts, praying and laboring mindfully of accountability, treating publishing work as serving the Lord to bring souls to Him.STB 145.4+2
It is expressed through invitations, appeals and assurances of promises, recorded in heaven, with faithful stewards making soul-winning the aim in every circumstance, kindly admonishing the unfaithful and praying with and for them.Ms 159, 1898, par. 16+1

Accountable watchcare in schools means staying alert to temptations, helping youth use words, example and influence for good, giving interested people deciding about the Sabbath diligent watching, prayer and personal care, recognizing choices carry spiritual weight.Ms 174, 1897, par. 97–100+2
Ministers must watch with shepherd's care to preach the Word rather than promote secular business such as mining stock, staying in connection with God ready in season and out, prioritizing soul-saving and using energies to awaken people to sin's danger and draw them to Christ.Lt 15, 1889, par. 2–3+1
Faithful pastors and teachers must guard young helpers, patients and others from spiritual danger in Battle Creek by warning, teaching clear Bible truth, and helping believers and unbelievers resist temptation and understand truth.YGBCOEP 18.1–2+1
Caring for souls as answerable to God calls for cautious thoughtful care and wise use of influence to lead to Christ and impress truth, guarding against the world's deceptive attractions that draw from God and harden hearts.GW92 78.1+1
Ministers working as teachers must render account for work from their hands, standing between living and dead under Christ's commission, needing converting power, solemnity, sobriety, reverence, listening for instruction and asking heavenly wisdom, while workers laboring earnestly knowing they must give account direct work to winning souls with wholehearted service bringing joy.9T 58.3–59.1+1

Laboring as one who must give account belongs to those wide-awake for Jesus, including leading youth needing guidance, serving as home missionaries and denying self, being responsible for great light, answering what is done with it, and placing self rightly to receive more.19MR 139.1
Watching with accountability calls for earnest personal appeals made with Christ's gentleness to bring people to God.Ms 63, 1898, par. 21
Workers must faithfully and patiently care for young people as answerable to God, seeking to win them through wise guidance, prayer, pity and Christlike love.Lt 86, 1896, par. 15–16
A minister is a true shepherd knowing he must give account, meaning far more than discourses or mere preaching, but living the gospel, working for others' spiritual increase, hunting the lost and devising ways to bring sinners back, so that in unselfish diligent labor souls are saved and the word goes in power glorifying His name.Ms 33, 1912, par. 36
Watching and accountability is a great work requiring wisdom from above and forbids haphazard action when discerning how to guide and place people in demanding service, being most effective in perfect harmony under the Holy Spirit without divisions weakening the cause.Ms 88, 1905, par. 8+1

God has laid weighty responsibilities on men to watch, requiring endowment with the Holy Spirit as the appointed agency to represent Christ in all places and times.Lt 30, 1895, par. 17–19
Spiritual laborers are responsible to God, and caring requires watchfulness with accountability, though genuine laborers with this sense are few, while those who err can be pardoned on confession and repentance, grievous though handling without Christ's love is.6T 302.2+3
Servants called to preach bear solemn responsibility, and their companions and home support can strengthen or hinder how they carry it, requiring them to use influence for truth as watched examples, encouraging faith or burdening with unbelief and complaint.1T 138.2–139.1+1
Those entrusted with oversight answer for faithfulness and influence, calling for plain open dealing with wrongs and faithful open care for the flock, as watchmen on Zion's walls seeking God's strength and wisdom under His Spirit's guidance.3T 240.3–4+2
Faithful leaders watch as shepherds to protect and encourage rather than hurt, bruise or discourage, and their care should bring them joy rather than grief, while burdening them through wrongdoing grieves stewards who care for spiritual safety.Ms 143, 1899, par. 25+1

Ministers must watch diligently knowing they must give account, laboring for salvation and bringing people to decision while God's call is still fresh, and must labor for people who do not know truth with that seriousness, bringing young men into the work.Lt 21, 1897, par. 29–32+1
God's ministers labor as those who must give account through self-denial and self-sacrifice, leaving home, wife and children to become missionaries and turning life into sacrifice, so those deciding pay must have Christ's mind and true estimate of cost and not deal closely with meager sums.Ms 25a, 1891, par. 20
God's servants watch and are accountable, working together to present God's Word plainly, and all Christians must labor with earnestness speaking no discouragement while searching out the honest with the Bible in self-denial to reveal everlasting life and the warning message.Lt 38, 1899, par. 18+1
Christ gave His life and will forever bear nail prints that believers might have eternal life, and no one failing this soul-labor will live with the Saviour in the earth made new.Ms 23, 1910, par. 13–14
Spiritual guardians are shepherds giving account, so those responsible for youth need wisdom in crisis rather than yielding to inclination or allowing contempt for counsel, drawing near to God to serve as true shepherds.Ms 26, 1900, par. 5–8

A pastor must watch faithfully as accountable, and the same applies to guiding the family, with a father guiding wife and children from infancy as sacred trust in character formation, neglect disqualifying him from faithful shepherding.6MR 49.1–2
Every believer must act as a saver of souls and will answer for souls contacted yet left unsaved, so God's people must be aroused to bring knowledge of truth even when opposed, opposition only hurting feelings and afterward bringing sorrow and shame on opposers.Ms 64, 1910, par. 43
Watching with account gives ministers strength to save the perishing, requiring training youth before the vineyard with genuine zeal teaching the inexperienced to seek souls as answerable to God, so continual blunders are avoided.17MR 48.3
Caring with account can demand intense sustained labor on behalf of people in spiritual danger.Lt 216, 1897, par. 3
Those laboring for spiritual good are called to continue laboring for those still coming rather than cutting off opportunity.Lt 144, 1897, par. 12–13

One imbued with Christ's Spirit warns and entreats while hope remains with tenderness and memory of his own heart, understanding duty and doing it in God's fear with eye single to His glory, speaking unafraid without self or feeling silencing lips, never ceasing while one ray of hope lasts, softening every accent with Jesus' love and remembering his own plague and disharmony, feeling healing as compulsory as wounding and ever speaking truth in love with Christ abiding.Lt 70, 1894, par. 20–22
Shepherds in every place must care faithfully and support truth while churches pray for success.Lt 4, 1908, par. 14
Those appointed over the church must do good by walking humbly and hiding self in Christ.Lt 173, 1903, par. 17
Watching applies to discerning placement in service, requiring constant discernment and the Spirit's influence.Lt 71, 1897, par. 1–6
Leaders must answer for souls by preaching the Word rather than secular business.Lt 15, 1889, par. 2–3

Servants prioritize soul-saving to awaken people to sin's danger.Ms 45, 1903, par. 6
Leaders can be trusted only if they value eternal things and seek God's will, building character rightly, since reckless favor-seeking makes others reckless, requiring eternal vigilance.Lt 80, 1903, par. 13–15
Consecrated workers may cherish great hopes because the Holy Spirit works with personal efforts to teach truth.Lt 202, 1897, par. 7–8
Watching applies to workers over those recovering from degradation, requiring careful guidance and close guarding of weakened wills, giving work as they regain dignity.Ms 19, 1899, par. 27–30
Watching is the work of every individual Christian in daily association in physical and mental training, doing most essential missionary work for one another through Christian example in spirit, words and faithful duty, using reasoning powers to bear burdens as Christ expects.Lt 2, 1895, par. 11–12

Those receiving light must share the way of life with those who do not know it, with leaving neighbors uninformed bringing condemnation at judgment, accountability also applying to spiritually minded leaders looking after the church's good.Ms 100, 1900, par. 1–3
God calls people to watch, including using opportunities to speak words awakening interest in salvation.Ms 110, 1903, par. 23
Ministers are watchmen who neglect duty when they fail to warn, reprove and exhort patiently and faithfully, God holding them responsible.Lt 6, 1883, par. 11–12
Accountability connects with earnest labor for the perishing, so those who must give account should work diligently.6MR 86.1
A minister as answerable must preserve strength and refuse distractions, selfish plans or indulgence weakening judgment and service, for unfaithfulness damages served souls who may condemn him at judgment.Lt 29a, 1872, par. 56–61

Those appointed have a duty to be an example, with abiding in Christ bringing order, purity and peace.Ms 235, 1902, par. 6
Those entrusted remain human and must resist self-exaltation and remain humble, tender, true and faithful looking to Christ, honoring truth by holiness.Ms 142, 1903, par. 120–121
Believers must take responsibility for others' spiritual needs through practical personal work for their faith.Ms 85, 1909, par. 11–12
Ministers in leadership who neglect pastoral responsibility should be removed because the church suffers.Lt 96, 1892, par. 11–12
Those entrusted with truth must guard people from Satan's attacks and lead them to victory, with urgent wisdom, perseverance and devoted attention.Lt 39, 1887, par. 2–3+1

Work for souls as service is inspected by Christ for approval only if done well.21MR 201.3
Those caring are those who must give account, requiring leaders to serve with that sense, recognizing entrusted people and caring earnestly.Lt 26, 1898, par. 1–3+1
Faithful shepherds require visiting families, teaching the Bible, caring for individuals, praying for and with them, and lovingly guiding the young to Christ, with neglect leading to faithlessness and despondency.Ms 5, 1883, par. 8–11
Watching includes warning of dangers as care not faultfinding, given truthfully even when bringing criticism, done while there is time with love for one another.Lt 182, 1898, par. 5–6
All Christians must labor by being earnest and searching out the honest with the Bible, since Christ gave His life and no one failing this labor will live with Him in the earth made new.Ms 23, 1910, par. 13–14

Watching includes making daily duties and relations to God and one another clear, presenting God's grace in His Son rather than human schemes, and lifting up Jesus to draw people.Lt 93, 1892, par. 19
The watching cannot be measured like hourly trade work but requires continual labor under all circumstances, unlike carpenters and painters with set hours and pay for lifeless timber, ministers bearing the burden of human minds.Ms 33, 1912, par. 4–7
Accountability requires the chosen missionary to move family place to place and country to country at great expense, maintain proper plain yet fitting appearance, train children painstakingly, spend in traveling and settling and unsettling, and always appear cheerful and fresh to bring sunshine and saving help to poor and needy.Ms 33, 1912, par. 4–7
Ministers must watch as those who will answer, being cautious to dangers and using influence to win to Christ.4T 267.2
Earnest labor in the pulpit excludes random talk and indiscretion, requiring solemnity and earnest labor for souls, and watching stands opposite being drowsy, ease-loving and lukewarm.Lt 7, 1889, par. 2+1

It requires men of prayer, faith and self-denial restraining appetites, evidencing truth in life, living faith, daily increase in Christ, practical godliness, meekness and deep love for souls, searching Scripture, praying for light, digging for truth, and working with zeal presenting Christ and testing truth rather than self, leaning on Him to gather fruit and sheaves with rejoicing.ST Apr 15, 1913
Watching must be done in tenderness with patience and long forbearance to develop character and keep hope alive, never forgetting each person as blood-purchased by infinite sacrifice, rich and poor alike with unvarying kindness, since sharp uncourteous driving of faltering souls into Satan's snares betrays them.Ms 70, 1895, par. 3–4+1
It is carried out by persuasive loving influence binding hearts through love for Jesus, Christlike words and deportment kindling hunger for righteousness, and conscientious self-denying devotion with eye single to God's glory.Lt 6a, 1890, par. 9–12
Keeping the Lord's way and teaching by example implants right principles as widespread blessing, requiring daily conversion, childlike humility, tenderness, kindness and love as doers of Christ's words, lest rash words imperil precious souls to Satan's snares and lose deserved confidence.Lt 6a, 1890, par. 9–12+1
A father must guide spiritual training and protect from worldly influences, and parents and guardians must watch knowing account must be given because children by birth and adoption belong to the Lord.TEPD 14.1+1

Following inclination to bring many children creates a plain calling for a missionary father to care for them without leaving burden on his wife, entering business where family need not be separated to bear the self-imposed burden together.Ms 109, 1894, par. 6
Faithful training for God and a well-ordered household rather than leaving children to temptation and perilous example is required, for success abroad is impossible while time, thoughts and powers are drawn away.Ms 109, 1894, par. 6
Counting the cost before family cares and asking whether a large family can be afforded while doing commissioned work is required.Ms 109, 1894, par. 6
Valuing each soul and making opportunities count, praying for wisdom to speak helpfully and seeking God's approval in His sight, fulfills accountability for canvassers sharing Christ's grace.MC 34.2
Giving account requires every publishing worker to do what is required looking to Jesus as owner of every soul, in houses built to send heavenly light worldwide and bring souls into the fold as a missionary plant for conversion.12MR 46.1

Meeting in small companies to study the Bible and pray to be strengthened, enlightened and sanctified by the Spirit is required, without which no one can overcome.12MR 46.1
Teaching Scripture and praying with employees to grow in character, courage and faith fulfills restaurant managers' patient tender care for religious interests.4MR 285.1
Teaching members to use abilities belongs to flock care, and labor for those without truth requires bringing young men into the work.Ms 151, 1897, par. 28–29+1
Neglected souls are a cause for accountability, and fear of losing influence does not excuse silence when members are treated unjustly, silence making the silent steward accountable with the wrongdoer for failing truth and justice.Lt 31a, 1894, par. 6–10+1
Directing efforts wisely with rest while laboring where God works fulfills watching, praying and laboring diligently, and labor persists even when unappreciated and obstructed.Ms 24, 1897, par. 18–20+1

Representing Christ through tenderness, lowliness and meekness is required, directing sympathies to Jesus rather than self, and preachers define watching by presenting every person perfect in Christ, establishing all firmly, leaving nothing incomplete, making God's work primary and faithfully repulsing Satan's game for souls.20MR 132.3+1
A Source of strength means workers need not be discouraged or driven from the field, but better knowledge of Satan's devices is needed lest he ruin precious souls before their eyes.20MR 132.3
The watching involves guarding amid influences drawing away from Christ, while Christ Himself cares tenderly for those trying to follow Him.Lt 297, 1904, par. 8
Those who labor must avoid worldly schemes and financial advantage that dishonor faith, hinder work or lower righteousness, serving so those in care see holiness and desire it.Lt 71, 1902, par. 17–18
The Lord's servants must watch constantly and vigilantly, pray earnestly and faithfully warn every soul in danger knowing they will give account.Ms 149, 1897, par. 13–15
Such care is not satisfied by treating small acts of service as sufficient.Ms 82, 1897, par. 20

Watching for souls as one who must give an account requires a heart moved by Christ's compassion and anguish for those who may be lost.Ms 139, 1897, par. 21–23 It means a tender longing for souls joined to a true sense of their value.Ms 139, 1897, par. 21–23 Such care is not satisfied by treating small acts of service as sufficient.Ms 139, 1897, par. 21–23