Special Testimonies to Ministers and Workers—No. 3

How to Secure Necessary Funds

From the beginning of our missionary work, we have been much perplexed to know how we could secure funds adequate to the support of missionary enterprises in the fields which Providence has opened before us. Missionary work is to be widely extended, and those who believe the truth should avoid using their means in purchasing that which is unnecessary. We are not to study our convenience, but rather our necessities. We shall have to bind about our wants in order that there shall be means in the treasury to raise the standard of truth in new territory. Seek God; believe in him who has infinite resources. If we move wisely, putting our ability into the work, the good hand of God will be upon us. We must push forward the work, not waiting to see the funds in the treasury before we undertake it. God forbid that when his providence summons us to enter the fields white already to harvest, that our steps should be retarded by the cry, “Our treasury is exhausted. We have no means to sustain the workers that are already in the field, and it is impossible for us to enlarge our operations.” SpTA03 50.1

We thank God that our Sabbath-schools have contributed enough to advance many a precious enterprise. Children and youth have given their pennies, that like little rivulets have supplied a stream of beneficence. Children should be educated in such a way that they may perform unselfish acts which Heaven will rejoice to see. When the dew of youth is upon them, children should be trained how to do service for Christ. They should be taught self-denial. SpTA03 51.1

The fields nigh and afar off belong to God; for the world is his. Usurpers have taken possession of God's earthly property, but he will make a way so that the truth may be presented in the dark corners of the earth. If men will only follow the leadings of the Holy Spirit, they will find ways and means by which the message may go forth, and gain a glorious victory. The servants of God who live in obedience to his requirements, who speak the truth in humility, will carry an influence with them which will work for the salvation of many souls. But we must not allow the people to hang helplessly upon us. We are human and finite. We must direct them to Christ, saying, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” Jesus pleads the case of his co-laborers, but every hour they need to feel humble dependence upon the Captain of their salvation, and through the intercession of Christ, our Advocate, many souls will be saved unto eternal life. The Lord has provided for the descent of the Holy Spirit upon his workers, and every one who sincerely seeks God, will find him. We are to come boldly to the throne of grace, and seek the footstool of mercy. We are to believe that the Lord hears and answers our prayers. Our great High Priest, who has passed into the heavens, says, “I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever.” The Holy Spirit abides with consecrated laborers who, in any locality, are seeking to advance the cause. SpTA03 51.2