Loma Linda Messages

Not Amusements but Consecrated Work

There are some who feel that if there is prosperity here it will be necessary to get up some amusement. Let us not cherish such thoughts as this. Rather let the people see that you have a mind for usefulness and duty, and that to the saving of the soul. The amusements that consume time just to gratify self, do not pay. LLM 566.5

I have felt so thankful regarding the improvements that I see here. God has prospered you, and He will continue to prosper. And we must give ourselves to the education of those who do not appreciate these things. We must keep it before them in the living light. Regarding the securing of means for the development of the work, you must exercise the living faith that takes hold from above. Some here know what a battle we have had in order to secure harmonious action; and we thank the Lord that when the enemy comes in like a flood, then the Spirit of the Lord lifts up for us a standard against the enemy. LLM 567.1

Some will think that by having amusements here we will gain more influence. But what we want is to go steadily forward, with our hands firmly holding the divine promises, believing that Christ will lead and guide and bless, and place a heavenly stamp upon our work. Do not feel that there is not enough in all that we have to do in this place for Christ and heaven, and that you must reach out for some amusement outside of your God-given work. Do not do it; for this will not harmonize with Christ's example. Stand solidly for God. Tell the students, here we have Riverside and other places. If you want to do a good work, take our publications, and carry them to these places. Hold meetings, and let the people see that you have a living connection with heaven. If you are a child of God, your prayers, and your work to strengthen and build up will have an influence, and God will bestow His blessing upon you. We need not feel that we must provide amusements to gratify the desires of some who come in here hoping to attract attention to themselves. It would be better that such ones should go elsewhere. We are here to give the last message of warning to a perishing world, and every jot of our influence is to be consecrated to God. It is not His will that frivolous, unsanctified amusements shall be instituted here. We have a heaven to win, a hell to shun; let us work solidly in behalf of ourselves and others for eternal life in the kingdom of God. LLM 567.2

At Paradise Valley I told the workers that they must do all in their power to honor and glorify God. God makes the impression upon hearts; it is not we who make it. If we work faithfully to glorify God, he will make the impression upon the people. He will lift up and strengthen every soul that seeks Him in sincerity. He will teach us how to lay hold of His promises, so that His grace shall abound in the soul. LLM 567.3

It is our privilege to be co-workers with God. Let no one feel that he must secure the highest place in order that he may do the greatest amount of acceptable service. Do not fear that you will lose patronage unless you enter into some of the world's fashions and amusements. Your eyes must be fixed on the pattern Christ Jesus. Imitate Him, in works, in conversation, in your deportment before the people. If you will follow in the footsteps of Jesus, you will have an everlasting reward. The way is open for you to work in unison with Christ; and He who gave His precious life for you will help and strengthen you, and guide you step by step, if you desire to be led. LLM 567.4

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Sanitarium, Calif.,

May 22, 1911.-5- B.-20-1911. April 30,’11.

Elder J. A. Burden, Loma Linda, Calif.:

Dear Brother and Sister Burden,

On Wednesday evening we took the train at Los Angeles. We had good accommodations, and nothing in particular transpired to cause any unpleasantness. It was a very long train of cars. We had a good lunch, and were all very comfortable. LLM 568.1

My letter must be a short one, as my head is easily wearied. As soon as I begin to use it, I am troubled with disagreeable pains. I have not yet recovered from the severe affliction I suffered at Glendale. After our trip to Fernando my heart and arm were seriously painful. Sara gave me most thorough treatment, and after a long time relief came. I was urged to visit Long Beach, to see how they were situated in the work there; but I was in such pain that I had to refuse. I dared not venture to go. LLM 568.2

In the afternoon of the day that we left for home, Elder Andross took us in an automobile to visit the several churches and the Bible workers’ home in Los Angeles. We did not get out of the conveyance, but stopped and spoke to some of those engaged in the work. It was a very pleasant trip, and I was very glad to see so much of the work in Los Angeles. The automobile was an easy-riding machine that did not jolt me, so I was spared any increased suffering. LLM 568.3

We reached home in safety, and on Friday I got relief from the pain I had endured for two days and nights. I felt that the Lord had blessed me; and on the next day, Sabbath, I consented to speak in the Sanitarium chapel. I was surprised to meet so large a congregation there, and was thankful for the opportunity of speaking to them. LLM 568.4

My mind is settled in regard to the purchase of the land in front of the Loma Linda Sanitarium. We must have that piece of land. I will pledge myself to be depended upon for one thousand dollars. I hope to be favored with an opportunity to hire some money soon but I shall not worry in regard to this, or I shall not be able to do anything. The effort of speaking on Sabbath and of reading my letters today is all I have been able to do to the present time. But as soon as I can I will make some movement concerning the raising of the one thousand dollars. The piece of land we must have; for it will never do to have buildings crowded in there. Do not fail to carry through the purchase of it. Do your best, and I will do my best. The money from me you may depend upon. We shall be able to send it soon. LLM 568.5

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Sanitarium, Calif.,

May 24, ‘11 -5- B.-22-1911. May 7, 1911.

Brethren Ruble, Burden, and Evans, Loma Linda, Calif.:

Dear Brethren,

I have words of instruction for you and your co-workers who are ministers and physicians and counsellors at Loma Linda. During my visit to Southern California, light was given me that many of the leaders in our sanitariums were failing of meeting the requirements of God, and, more than this, they did not realize their lack. I was instructed that those who stand in positions of responsibility in these important institutions are engaged in a most sacred work, that they have little time in which to do the work committed to their trust, and that it was of the utmost importance that faithfulness and consecration mark their efforts in every line. LLM 569.1

In a remarkable way God has brought into our possession some of the institutions through whose agency we are to accomplish the work of reformation to which we as a people are called. At this time every talent of every worker should be regarded as a sacred trust to be used in extending the work of reform. LLM 569.2

The Lord instructed me that our sisters who have received training that has fitted them for positions of responsibility, are to serve with faithfulness and discernment in their calling, using their influence wisely, and, with their brethren in the faith, obtaining an experience that will fit them for still greater usefulness. The instruction of the apostle Peter, “Add to your faith virtue, and to virtue knowledge,” they are to bring into their individual experience, and this work of daily sanctification through cooperation with the Spirit of God, will develop their knowledge and capabilities. LLM 569.3

In ancient times the Lord worked in a wonderful way through consecrated women who united in his work with men whom He had chosen to stand as His representatives. He used women to gain great decisive victories. More than once, in times of emergency, He brought them to the front and worked through them for the salvation of many lives. Through Esther the queen the Lord accomplished a mighty deliverance for His people. At a time when it seemed that no power could save them, Esther, and the women associated with her, by fasting and prayer and prompt action, met the issue, and brought salvation to their people. LLM 569.4

A study of women's work in connection with the cause of God in the Old Testament times will teach us lessons that will enable us to meet emergencies in the work today. We may not be brought into such a critical and prominent place as were the people of God in the time of Esther; but often converted women can act an important part in more humble positions. This many have been doing and are still ready to do. It is a woman's duty to unite with her husband in the disciplining and training of her sons and daughters, that they may be converted, and their powers consecrated to the service of God. There are many who have ability to stand with their husbands in sanitarium work, to give treatments to the sick and to speak words of counsel and encouragement to others. There are those who should seek an education that will fit them to act the part of physicians. LLM 570.1

In this line of service a positive work needs to be done, women as well as men are to receive a thorough medical training. They should make a special study of the diseases common to women, that they may understand how to treat them. It is considered most essential that men desiring to practice medicine shall receive the broad training necessary for the following of such a profession. It is just as essential that women receive such a training, and obtain their diplomas certifying their right to act as physicians. LLM 570.2

Our institutions should be especially thorough in giving to women a training that will fit them to act as midwives. There should be in our sanitariums lady physicians who understand well their profession, and who can attend women at the time of childbirth. Light has been given me that women instead of men should take the responsibility in such cases. I was directed to the Bible plan, in which at such times women acted the part of the physician. This plan should be carried out by us; for it is the Lord's plan. LLM 570.3

Again and again light has been given me that women should be chosen and educated for this line of work. Now the time has come when we should face the matter clearly. More women should be educated for this work, and thus a door of temptation may be closed. We should allow no unnecessary temptation to be placed in the way of physicians and nurses, or the people for whom they minister. LLM 570.4

The Lord has greatly favored us in providing suitable buildings at Loma Linda for the carrying forward of the work as it should be carried. Let us be in earnest in following the counsel we have received. LLM 570.5

I have been instructed to say to our leading sanitarium workers throughout our ranks; the work must move forward on a higher plane, and after a more sacred order than it has heretofore if it is to accomplish all that God designs should be accomplished by it in our churches and for the world. We need to pray, and to consider earnestly what is the great spiritual need of men and women in this age. Strange things are being done, which are not after the Lord's counsel, but after the devising of men. As wicked practices increase among those who are determined to do wickedly, there is a great need that our people bring into prominence before the world a pure, untainted work. The Lord says to us, Be ye clean that labor in the health institutions. Work under the influence of the Holy Spirit of God. Let the men holding positions of sacred trust view the work from a high standpoint. LLM 570.6

I ask you who stand as leaders in this work to read prayerfully chapters four to eleven of the book of Deuteronomy; for there is instruction that all need who would understand God's dealings with His people. And I wish to impress upon all who read these chapters that they mean much to every soul who carries responsibilities in connection with sanitarium work. “Thou art a holy people unto the Lord thy God,” the Lord declares, “and the Lord thy God hath chosen thee to be a peculiar people unto Himself above all nations that are upon the earth.” All the directions He has given are to be carefully observed, from the greatest to that which may seem least. LLM 571.1

The Lord says, to all, Purify your souls from all commonness. Set before your children and households an example in word and deportment that will lead them to desire above all things to render to God consecrated loving service. Pray for your home; instruct your family, sanctify the Lord God of Israel in your hearts and in your lives. I am deeply pained as I see with some a spirit of carelessness in speech and deportment. This is a hindrance to spirituality. The Lord declared to Israel. “What doth the Lord require of thee, but to fear the Lord thy God, and to walk in all His ways, and to love Him, and to serve the Lord thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul, and to keep the commandments of the Lord, and His statutes, which I command thee this day for thy good. Behold the heaven and the heaven of heavens is the Lord's thy God, the earth also, and all that therein is. Only the Lord had a delight in thy fathers to love them, and He chose their seed after them, even you above all people, as it is this day.” Read these words thoughtfully, and consider how great are the privileges of the people whom the Lord chose to serve Him. To all connected with sacred duties I am charged to say, Seek the Lord. Take heed to your conversation; lay off all cheapness of speech; for the Lord would have you become intelligent workers and wise counsellors. Let those with whom you associate see nothing of frivolity in your words and works. You have the knowledge of sacred truth, and you are to honor those truths as men and women who must give an account for the talents entrusted to them. LLM 571.2

God would have His honor exalted before men as supreme, and His counsels confirmed in the eyes of the people. The witness of the prophet Elijah on Mount Carmel gives the example of one who stood wholly for God and His work in the earth. The prophet calls the Lord by His name, Jehovah God, which He himself had given to denote His condescension and compassion. Elijah calls Him the God of Abraham and Isaac and Israel. He does this that he may excite in the hearts of his backslidden people humble remembrance of the Lord, and assure them of His rich free grace. Elijah prays, “Be it known this day that thou art the God of Israel.” The honor of God is to be exalted as supreme, but the prophet asks further that his mission also may be confirmed. “Let it be known that Thou art God in Israel,” he prays,” and that I am Thy servant, and have done all things at Thy word.” “Hear me, O Lord,” he pleads, “Hear me.” Elijah is intense. As he prayed the silence of death seemed to be about him. As the Amen was spoken, lo, the fire of heaven descended on the sacrifices in sight of the multitude. LLM 572.1

The people were wonderfully affected by the scene. At the manifestation of God's power, they fell on their faces on the earth, and extolled the God of Abraham, and gave glory to the God of Israel. With a loud voice they shouted, “The Lord, He is the God; the Lord, He is the God.” LLM 572.2

But while the people acknowledged the God of heaven, the priests, with hardened hearts, refused to be convinced. They would remain still the prophets of Baal. Thus they showed themselves ripe for destruction. And Elijah said to the people, “Take the prophets of Baal; let not one of them escape.” The time had come when delusion was unveiled. The people saw the false prophets, and when the word was spoken, they fell upon the prophets, brought them down to the brook Kishon, and took part in their slaughter. Thus was Elijah's faith crowned with victory, the priests of Baal put to shame, and the worshipers of false gods confounded. LLM 572.3

Elijah's whole life was devoted to the work of reform. He was a voice crying in the wilderness to rebuke sin and press back the tide of moral evil. And while he came to the people as a reprover of sin, his message offered the balm of Gilead for the sinsick souls of all who would be healed. His zeal for God's glory and his deep love for the house of Israel present lessons for the instruction of all who stand today as representatives of God's work in the earth. Let the conductors of our institutional work catch the spirit of zeal felt by Elijah and learn its intensity. Let them seek for the grace of God that will give them an experience in advance of that which they have heretofore enjoyed. Let them love the work of God, and pray for its advancement in the world. LLM 572.4

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Sanitarium, Calif.,

May 22, 1911.-5- B. 18, 1911. May 18, 1911.

J. A. Burden:

....

I wish to say to Elder Burden that the money which I pledged to help purchase the eighty-five acres will be sent without fail. Please let me know if a couple of weeks’ delay will trouble you seriously. I am truly glad that I gave my promise to help to purchase this land, under the influence of the Spirit of God. I felt that the land must be secured; otherwise that we should have reason to regret that we did not obtain it. LLM 573.1

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Sanitarium, Calif.,

June 7, 1911 -5- K.-32-1911. June 5, 1911.

Dr. D. H. Kress.:

I realize that a place like Loma Linda needs experienced men and women to conduct the work in its different departments. But the Lord is willing to work with all who will commit their ways to Him, and who will be led by the Holy Spirit. All are to be workers with Christ. He commits to His true followers the power of persuasion, the power of His grace and truth, a deep and constant love for His work in home and foreign fields. He gives them hearts that are in earnest in gathering with Christ. With helpers possessing such gifts as these, the medical missionary work cannot be without fruit. LLM 573.2

The power of persuasion is a wonderful gift. It means much to those who would win souls to Christ. Let us keep our souls in the love of God. If Christ is working with His messengers, fruit will be seen as the result of their efforts. LLM 573.3

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Sanitarium, Calif.,

July 7, ‘11-5- B.-34-1911. June 7, 1911.

Elder J. A. Burden, Loma Linda, Calif.:

Dear Brother and Sister Burden,

I want to say to you both that I am thankful I was moved to speak as I did concerning the piece of land in front of the Loma Linda Sanitarium. I was urged by the Spirit of God to make the pledge of one thousand dollars; and I did so hoping that others, who were better able to give than I, would follow my example. I dared not leave the meeting without following the conviction I had; and now I feel that I have done my duty, showing my faith by my works. LLM 573.4

I am glad that we were able to send you my part of the first payment a few days ago. LLM 574.1

I would like to inquire what progress has been made in the raising of means for the purchase of the land. My investment was not made in order to lessen the responsibility of others who should help. Do what you can to encourage those who have money that they can use in the cause, to use it wisely and not let it slip away into speculation. Secure pledges from those who have not money in sight. We need special wisdom to move out at the right time. I thank the Lord that He encouraged me to walk by faith, and I pray that He will help you to show others their privilege in this matter. LLM 574.2

True faith is the substance of things hope for, and the evidence of things not seen. Thus far the Lord has led us as we have moved under the guidance of His Spirit. He will continue to work for us if we are careful to follow the counsel He gives. LLM 574.3

Medical missionary work is the pioneer work of the gospel. Let us seek to understand the scope of the work to be done in our sanitariums for the saving of the souls and the healing of the bodies of those who come to us for relief. My soul is drawn out to encourage men and women to see in Christ the great Physician. If they will be drawn to Him, He will be their helper. He understands their every need. He stands ready to heal both body and soul. Let Physicians and nurses learn to tell of the One who has power and who is willing to do a marvelous work for human beings. Talk of His love, tell of His power to save every sinful soul who will cast himself upon Christ's merits. His power will save to the uttermost all who truly accept Him. LLM 574.4

I am glad that your wife is wholeheartedly united with you in the work. Let her stand by you to give help and encouragement. LLM 574.5

I have written to you the instruction that has been given me regarding the special work to be done by the lady physicians in our sanitariums. It is the Lord's plan that men shall be trained to treat men, and the women trained to treat women. In the confinement of women, midwives should take the responsibility of the case. In the Bible times it was not considered a proper thing for men to act in this capacity; and it is not the will of God that men should do this work today. Very much evil has resulted from the practice of men treating women, and women treating men. It is a practice according to human devising, and not according to God's plan. Long has the evil been left to grow, but now we lift our voice in protest against that which is displeasing to God. LLM 574.6

Ellen G. White

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