Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)

Lt 9, 1868

Clarke, Joseph

March 22, 1868

Previously unpublished.

Dear Brother Clarke:

While at Lovett’s Grove, I was shown some individual cases. I saw that you and your Brother John should improve the talents committed to you, for God would soon require what He has lent you with usury. I saw that fireside preachers were needed: I was shown that as individuals are investigating the evidences of our position, they can be much helped by your visiting them in their family, praying with them, and imparting instruction to them from the Word of God. 1LtMs, Lt 9, 1868, par. 1

There are many ways in which our different talents can be improved. I was shown, Brother Clarke, that it was not duty for you to give to others your property; much of your time, I was shown, would be occupied in writing, and improving opportunities of doing good to others, by leading them to the truth. 1LtMs, Lt 9, 1868, par. 2

There are others who have property, and if they are faithful stewards, will distribute as God has prospered them; and they will act their part in the work of God. 1LtMs, Lt 9, 1868, par. 3

I saw that God had wrought for you in your neighborhood. I saw that Brother Van Gorder should take a fearless, straight-forward course, settle deep into the work of God; I saw that there had been a little shrinking and fearfulness on his part to advocate his faith, boldly declare the truth. If you do not gain any to the faith, you will not lose ground, your own soul will be strengthened. 1LtMs, Lt 9, 1868, par. 4

Every talent, I saw, must be improved. You should possess deep humility of soul, and work, work, while the day lasts. Move understandingly, move cautiously, and then your work will not need to be repented of. 1LtMs, Lt 9, 1868, par. 5

In love. 1LtMs, Lt 9, 1868, par. 6