Living In The Light

September 14, A Plaintive Appeal

“And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work.”
—Revelation 22:12 LL 272.1

Go to work, brethren. It is not alone the large camp-meetings or conventions and councils that will have the especial favor of God; the humblest effort of unselfish love will be crowned with his blessing, and receive its great reward. Do what you can, and God will increase your ability. Let no church think it is too small to exert an influence and do service in the great work for this time. Let no one excuse himself because there are others who have talents to employ in the cause. Do your part. God will excuse no one. Jesus has given to “every man his work,” and every person will be rewarded “according as his work shall be.” Everyone will be judged “according to the deeds done in the body,” and will “give account of himself to God.” LL 272.2

There is need of systematic labor; but where some of you are so long in devising, and planning, and getting ready for the work, Satan preoccupies the field with bewitching fables, and the attention of men and women becomes absorbed in the delusions of the master deceiver. These very minds were unsettled and inquiring in regard to the Bible truth, and had the opportunity been improved, they would have given unprejudiced attention to the message; but after receiving error, it is doubly hard to induce them to give a candid investigation to the evidences of our faith. LL 272.3

Take up the work anywhere and everywhere. Do that which is the nearest to you, right at your own doors, however humble and uncommended it may seem. Work only for the glory of God and the good of men and women. Let self sink out of sight, while with earnest purpose and solemn prayers of faith you work for Him who has died that you might live. Go to your neighbors one by one, and come close to them till their hearts are warmed by your unselfish interest and love. Sympathize with them, pray for them, watch for opportunities to do them good, and as you can, gather a few together and open the Word of God to their darkened minds. Keep watching, as he who must render an account for the souls of men and women, and make the most of the privileges that God gives you of laboring with Him in His moral vineyard.— Review and Herald, March 13, 1888. LL 272.4

Further Reflection: : What act of service “nearest you” can you do for someone today? LL 272.5