Living In The Light

April 20, The Most Lofty Friendship

So Jesus said to them again, “Peace to you!
As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.”
—John 20:21 LL 119.1

If we had firm faith in God, if we appropriated His promises to ourselves, mingling faith with our prayers and efforts, we would surely see the salvation of God. . . . LL 119.2

In the work for this time, it is not money or talent or learning or eloquence that are needed so much as faith graced with humility. No opposition can prevail against truth presented in faith and humility, by workers who willingly bear toil and sacrifice and reproach for the Master’s sake. We must be co-workers with Christ if we would see our efforts crowned with success. We must weep as He wept for those who will not weep for themselves and plead as He pleaded for those who will not plead for themselves. LL 119.3

In giving His commission to the disciples, Christ said: “As My Father hath sent Me, even so send I you” (John 20:21). “In My name I send you forth, and by My Spirit I will qualify you for service.” And as He sent His disciples forth, so today He sends forth His ministers. They are His shepherds! It is their work to feed the flock of God with meat in due season. They may feel weak, inefficient, powerless; but if they make God their strength, He will work with them, and they will not labor in vain. They should feel that it is not a deceptive, unreal work in which they are engaged. It is not a work in which they will never know whether or not they have gained success. God said to Jeremiah: “Say not, I am a child; for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee, thou shalt speak. Be not afraid of their faces; for I am with thee to deliver thee.” Then the Lord put forth His hand, and touched His servant’s mouth, and said to him, “Behold, I have put My words in thy mouth” (Jeremiah 1:7-9). Let us thank God for such encouragement. LL 119.4

The closest and most lofty of all friendship is participation with Christ in His work for the uplifting of humanity. We are not to go forth in our own strength. Not in our own ability, but in the wisdom of God are we to trust. We are to speak the words that God gives us, feeling His holy touch upon our lips.— Manuscript 24, 1903. LL 119.5

Further Reflection: Have you ever asked God to place His words in your mouth? How would you use this grace of God in your social interactions with others? LL 119.6