The Gospel Herald
December 10, 1902
Christ's Representatives
Much work remains to be done in proclaiming the third angel's message. Notwithstanding the great needs of the cause, there are many workers who are content to do for the Master but little in comparison with what he has done for them. Why, O why, is man willing to remain so inactive, so helpless, when he could be accomplishing a great work in saving souls? The Saviour is asking us, “Why stand ye here all the day idle?” We should engage in his service, however great a sacrifice this may at first appear. Poor deluded souls must be aroused from the fatal lethargy of sin. The power of sin over them must be broken, else it will grow stronger and stronger, and at last result in their ruin. GH December 10, 1902, par. 1
Every one who is truly converted has the spirit of service. When Christ is indeed formed within, the hope of glory, his Holy Spirit works through the human agent to save other souls for whom he has died. GH December 10, 1902, par. 2
God invites his workers to call upon him for help, and he promises to hear and answer them. As they take up the cross, fully resolved to do what they can, he gives them strength to bear the burden. Why do we not enlist the help of Omnipotence? In these precious days of probation, let every laborer reach forth the hand in faith for the help and strength that will enable him to be a strong worker, in the Lord's vineyard. Let him pray for soundness of judgment and for heavenly wisdom. God is a mighty Helper. He will sustain every one who trusts in him. He is a sure, tried Anchor, holding his children fast to himself amidst every storm of opposition, every tempest of trial and adversity. When the heavens seem dark, when the strength seems to fail, he will give light and confidence to all who believe in him. To every troubled heart he will speak peace. GH December 10, 1902, par. 3
The Lord hears and answers prayer. He lays upon us no burden greater than we can bear in his strength and by his grace. In every time of need he is a present help. O that we might have faith to ask him for strength according to our great need. Faith is the hand by which we grasp the hand of the mighty Helper. God's promises are sure. Why should we not take him at his word? GH December 10, 1902, par. 4
“Jesus knows our every weakness;
Take it to the Lord in prayer.”
GH December 10, 1902, par. 5
Will not the Lord be pleased to let the light of his countenance shine upon us? O that his arm of power might be revealed. GH December 10, 1902, par. 6
Faith is “the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” But I fear that, with many of us, our faith does not reach any farther than our sight. Let no one allow his strength to be wasted by vain conflicts, or his heart wearied and saddened because of unanswered desires. Amidst the fiercest conflicts there is rest for every weary soul who trusts in Christ. To those who are afflicted with either physical or spiritual maladies, Jesus is saying, “Wilt thou be made whole?” He is ready and willing to do great things for those who trust in him. With tenderness and pity he is looking upon his children. He offers help to those who, doing the best they can, plead for capabilities that will enable them to do more for him. GH December 10, 1902, par. 7
O that I could impress the members of the church of Christ with the importance of using aright the talents that have been entrusted to them. O that I could make them see what an influence for good they might exert, if they would use their powers to God's glory. GH December 10, 1902, par. 8
We should not allow indifference or carelessness to mark our actions; for Satan is an untiring foe. Peter says, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.” Of us is required the fullest consecration, the most earnest devotion. The world is to be warned. The masses of the people will not heed God's solemn warning; nevertheless his message must be proclaimed to “every nation, and kindred, and tongue.” GH December 10, 1902, par. 9
The greatest work, the noblest effort, in which man can engage, is to point his fellow-men to the Lamb of God. O let us urge the importance of this work with greater earnestness than we have manifested in the past. Let our church-members begin to work. Let them reveal Christ in every thought, word, and act. If they represent him aright, they will receive the reward of life eternal and a home in heaven. GH December 10, 1902, par. 10