Pacific Union Recorder
June 29, 1905
Methods of Labor—2
Those who are appointed to open the work in new fields should be careful that their defects are not exalted as virtues, thus retarding the work of God. These are testing truths that we are bringing before the people, and in every effort they should be presented in their real beauty. The laborer should not throw about the truth the peculiarities of his own character or manner. Keep self in the background; let it be lost sight of in Jesus. Let the work of God bear the impress of the divine. PUR June 29, 1905, par. 1
Much has been lost for want of wise methods of labor. Every effort should be made to give character and dignity to the work. It requires much wisdom to reach ministers and men of influence. But why should they be neglected as they have been by our people? These men are responsible to God just in proportion to the talents entrusted to them. Where much is given, much will be required. Should there not be deeper study and much more prayer for wisdom, that we may learn how to reach these classes? Should not wisdom and tact be used to reach these souls, who, if truly converted, will be polished instruments in the hands of God to reach others? If we can win to Christ and the truth souls to whom God has intrusted large capabilities, our influence will through them be constantly extending, and will become a far-reaching power for good. PUR June 29, 1905, par. 2
God has a work to be done which the workers have not yet fully comprehended. Ministers and the world's wise men are to be tested by the light of present truth. The Third Angel's Message is to be set before them judiciously, in its true dignity. There must be most earnest seeking of God, most thorough study; for the mental powers will be taxed to the utmost in laying plans which will place the work of God on a more elevated platform. PUR June 29, 1905, par. 3
After most earnest effort has been made to bring the truth before those whom God has intrusted with large responsibilities, be not discouraged if they reject it. Truth was rejected in the days of Christ. PUR June 29, 1905, par. 4
When the importance of reaching the higher classes is urged, let none receive the idea that the poor and unlearned are to be neglected. Right methods of labor will not in any sense exclude these. It was one of the evidences of Christ's Messiahship that the poor had the gospel preached to them. We should study to give all classes an opportunity to understand the special truths for this time. When our labors are so conducted as to reach only the lower classes, we may fail in benefiting even these. If our efforts are so conducted as to include the upper classes, we shall be more successful in reaching the lower also. PUR June 29, 1905, par. 5
Be sure to maintain the dignity of the work by a well-ordered life and godly conversation. Never be afraid of raising the standard too high. The spirit of Jesus should pervade the soul of the worker; it is the pleasant, sympathetic words, the manifestation of disinterested love for their souls, that will break down the barriers of pride and selfishness, and show the unbelievers that we have the love of Christ, and then the truth will find its way to the heart. This is our work, and the fulfilling of God's plan. Courtesy, refinement, Christian politeness must be cherished. Endeavor not to offend any unnecessarily. All should seek to have the softening, subduing influence of the Spirit of God, Christlike tenderness, and love for souls. PUR June 29, 1905, par. 6
Those who are sent out to labor together, should put self away, lay aside their own peculiarities, and seek to unite, heart and soul, in carrying out God's will. In order to work to advantage, they must work in harmony. When laborers are associated together who decidedly vary, both in natural disposition and character, and in their manner of labor, each will need to keep a careful watch over his own strong traits of character, and to exercise the meekness of Christ, or he will be in danger of drawing apart from the others. Such a separation would retard the work and dishonor God. No move should be made independently or in opposition to one another. Pray together; counsel together in humility, willing to be instructed. This will bring you where God will be your counselor. PUR June 29, 1905, par. 7
As laborers together with God, you should come close to one another. Precious lessons of love, confidence, respect for one another, must be given, both in and out of the desk. You must live that which you teach. Remember that the new converts look to you for an example. Work for your own souls until self is subdued, until Christ recognizes His image in you. The most impressive lesson that you can give to those whom you educate, will be that of a Christlike character. PUR June 29, 1905, par. 8
Be careful to maintain the elevated character of the missionary work. Let all, both men and women, be constantly inquiring, “What am I? and what ought I to be?” Let all consider that they can not give to others what they do not possess themselves; therefore they should not settle down content with their natural ways and habits, seeking to make no change for the better. Paul says he had not attained, but “I press toward the mark.” There must be constant reformation, unceasing advancement. Unless the workers are constantly seeking for higher attainments, they will greatly hinder one another in the work. Changes will be constantly occurring, new duties will arise, new fields of labor will open, and united, thoroughly organized effort alone can bring success. PUR June 29, 1905, par. 9
In our work heretofore there has been too much of a disposition to put the light under a bushel, rather than on a candlestick, where it might give light to all that are in the house. Let no special efforts be made to exalt the men, but seek to magnify the work. Bring your minds up to appreciate its greatness. Let not your own narrow plans and limited ideas be allowed to shape your methods of working in God's cause. We are not to imitate the world's manner of dealing, but to reveal the generous, unselfish spirit of Christ. Study carefully the Word of God, the instructions given to ancient Israel, and let all arrangements be such as rightly to represent Him in whose cause you labor. PUR June 29, 1905, par. 10
Mrs. E. G. White