Living In The Light

December 17, Never Say This

“But if that evil servant says in his heart, ‘My master is delaying his coming.’ ”
—Matthew 24:48 LL 369.1

When feasting upon God’s Word, because of the precious light you gather therefrom, present it to others that they may feast with you. But let your communications be free and heartfelt. You can best meet the people where they are, rather than in seeking for lofty words which reach to the third Heavens. The people are not there, but right here in this sorrowing, sinful, corrupt world, battling with the stern realities of life. LL 369.2

Christ came not to be ministered unto, but to minister. He was our example, and God has apportioned to us our work, to minister to the necessities of others, according to the ability He has given us. As we use this ability to the best account, it will increase. Those who do all they can on their part with what God has entrusted to them, and bear their whole weight upon Him, He will strengthen them just when strength is required. In thus doing, we give God room to work for us; to teach and lead and impress us, and make us channels through which His light can be communicated to many who are in darkness. LL 369.3

As a people we are surely saying by our works, “My Lord delayeth His coming.” Our Lord has given us a fearful caution, not even to say this in “our hearts.” With many the warning is utterly disregarded. Their works, and words, and their life is saying distinctly to others, “My Lord delayeth His coming.” Say not, unfaithful steward, this concerneth not me; I am a Christian. Was not the evil steward a professed Christian? A forgetful, negligent, slothful steward of his Lord’s goods? He was outwardly a steward, a professed Christian. He calls Christ, “My Lord.” He believes in the coming of his Lord; but he only says, “That coming is delayed.” Then he presumes on that delay to use for the gratification of his own appetite and pleasure, his Lord’s goods. But his portion is assigned him with hypocrites and unbelievers, where is weeping and gnashing of teeth. I entreat you my brethren to arouse from your sloth, and take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares.— Review and Herald, January 5, 1869. LL 369.4

Further Reflection: : Are your procrastinating on something that God has asked you to do? What has God called you to do today that you failed to do yesterday? LL 369.5