Record of Progress and An Appeal In Behalf of the Boulder-Colorado Sanitarium

Chapter 2—Our Attitude Toward the Lord's Institutions

To the Brethren and Sisters of the Colorado Conference:

In past years, I have written many things to our brethren and sisters in America, in Europe, and in Australia, regarding the attitude they should sustain toward our denominational institutions. I am now sending some of these things to you, as timely instruction. SpTB05 23.1

From a letter written in 1889, I quote: SpTB05 23.2

Those who bear heavy responsibilities in our institutions should be strengthened and sustained by the knowledge that the members of every place are praying for the prosperity and success of these institutions. If the churches do not feel that the work done in our institutions is a most important work, and that the laborers need their sympathy and hearty, intelligent cooperation, this deficiency will retard the advancement of the work. Complaints are not infrequently made in regard to the men who carry a heavy load. Discouragements come upon these men because of the unconsecrated elements in the churches, who love to talk, and say, “Report, and we will report it.” This makes more work for the men who are already overburdened. SpTB05 23.3

Those who daily consecrate themselves to God, and endeavor to hold up the hands of those who bear responsibilities, will be blessed of heaven. We are engaged in a great work, and Satan will use all his power to win to his side the very men and women who could cooperate with God in doing a precious work, if they were cleansed, sanctified, and guided by the Holy Spirit; if they had warm, true hearts of tender love, and gave due respect to those whom God has appointed to carry on a great and important work. The men engaged in the Master's service have often been wounded by those who think and speak evil, and create feelings of distrust and jealousy, which should not be tolerated or kept alive by unsanctified tongues. SpTB05 23.4

These same principles were brought to the attention of our brethren and sisters in the Iowa Conference in 1902. In a communication addressed to them is the following instruction: SpTB05 24.1