The Signs of the Times
September 10, 1902
Work for Christians
Because the world was ruined through sin, God gave His Son to draw men back to Him. He so loved the world that He gave all that heaven could give for the saving of the lost. In every soul that receives this love, it will manifest itself in like manner. God so loved that He gave all. If we love with His love, we too will give all. We shall be co-workers with Him whose mission it is to “preach the Gospel to the poor, ... to heal the broken hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised.” All who pray in sincerity, “Be Thou my pattern,” will work in Christ's lines; they will show that they themselves are striving to follow Christ, and, as the natural result, they will lead others to seek the higher life. ST September 10, 1902, par. 1
“Lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees; and make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed.” All about us there are souls who have gone out of the way—souls who have been wounded and bruised by the enemy, and who long for help, for comfort, for sympathy. These souls, when brought in contact with us, should find a strong hand stretched out to clasp their hand—a strong, living faith, that will help them to put their trust in Jesus. ST September 10, 1902, par. 2
Let none feel that Christ has placed them on the judgment seat, to pass judgment on a brother or a sister who has fallen into error. Many hearts are sorely stricken, to whom words fitly spoken would bring peace and rest. Such ones are a test to their brethren and sisters. All Heaven looks on to see how we deal with those who need our help. The way in which we relate ourselves to them shows whether the fire of divine love is burning in our hearts. ST September 10, 1902, par. 3
Every one who names the name of Christ is called, so far as lies in his power, to help every other soul in the heavenward way. The Saviour records all such efforts as put forth for Himself; for He has identified Himself with suffering human beings. ST September 10, 1902, par. 4
The power of speech is a precious gift of God, and when used to utter words of hope and courage to the oppressed, it is a savor of life unto life. But it may be a savor of death unto death. Harsh, or even thoughtless words may be a great hindrance to the struggling, fainting soul. They may sting and bruise until he is driven upon Satan's battle-ground, never again to listen to the voice of Christ. ST September 10, 1902, par. 5
What power for good the church would have, if all its members were so imbued with the Spirit of Christ that they would speak only words of comfort and hope; if no one felt at liberty to judge, to oppress, to cast a shadow on the life of another! ST September 10, 1902, par. 6
Many, blinded by sin, have lost sight of Christ, and are groping in the dark shadow of discouragement. Go to them, with a heart filled with love and tenderness, and tell them of the Saviour. Invite them to receive the righteousness of Christ, to claim justification through faith in the divine Surety. Point them to His atonement for their sins, to His merits, and His changeless love for them. ST September 10, 1902, par. 7
“That he might sanctify the people with His own blood,” Jesus “suffered without the gate,” bearing the reproach. “Let us go therefore unto Him without the camp, bearing His reproach. For here have we no continuing city, but we seek one to come. By Him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name.... Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you perfect in every good work to do His will, working in you that which is well-pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ.” ST September 10, 1902, par. 8