Gods Call for You

He Shall Direct Thy Paths

Lay Institute for Global Health Training
1
PART 1 ONLY GOD KNOWS THE FUTURE.......................................................................................................................1
PART 2 HOW TO KNOW GODS WILL...............................................................................................................................5
PART 3 - CONTENTMENT.......................................................................................................................................................10
PART 4 CHOOSING COUNSELORS...................................................................................................................................13

Compiled by Herbert Atherton (1983)

Part 1 Only God Knows the Future

Herb Atherton: Wildwood Hospital Administrator in the 1970s.

I had been the administrator of a medical institution only a few short months when two fine Christian young ladies
who were working as aides approached me. They told me they wanted to get their degrees in nursing, and then they
would return. As we were many times short of registered nurses, I felt this was a wise idea, and gave my consent and
blessings. However, the Director of Nurses, a prudent, fine Christian lady who had served many years in the institution,
felt that these young people were not mature enough to stand the pressures of nursing school. But the youth took my
counsel and left. Both lost their way, one through discouragement, and the other because of drugs.
As a consequence of this tragic affair I began to search for Bible and Spirit of Prophecy statements to guide me in my
counseling. The following study is a culmination of nearly twenty years of gathering this God-given material on how to
offer direction to people's lives. I present it with a humble realization of the seriousness and need for studies on the
subject of counseling. "0, for generals, wise and considerate, well-balanced men, who will be safe advisers, who have
some insight into human nature, who know how to direct and counsel in the fear of God. (2 Selected Messages, p. 362)

Only God Knows Our Future
Moses, called by God's providence into sheepherding, could not foresee the future. The thought must have come
frequently that surely his education, experience and talents had prepared him for greater responsibilities than tending
sheep. But Moses recognized this as a temptation. Recalling God's providences and guidance in directing him to the
wilderness, he sought, instead, to discover the special lessons available to him at this time. Forsaking human reasoning,
he trusted the judgment of the Highest Counselor. He believed His all-knowing Creator knew best the work that must be
accomplished in His servant's life.

Jeremiah 10:23 Psalm 32:8 Ezekiel 10:8-12

The Faith I Live By, p. 323. "The Lord's hand has been reached out in tenderest compassion and love; but they do not
care to trust Him. They want to feel fully able to devise and plan for themselves.The lord marks out a way in which He
would have them walk. He has lent them talents to be used for His glory, to do a certain work for the Master; but Satan
says, 'I will countermand the order of Christ. I will find another line of work for active brain and busy hands, whereby
they shall serve me. I will eclipse eternal interests before this youth, and attract his mind by worldly interests"
"Young men and women, inquire in your business relations, Am I where God would have me to be? Am I in the line
of my duty? The blessing of God will be upon those who are just where God's plans would have them be. Has the Lord
given you light that He requires you to do a certain work? If so, it is not safe for you to be disobedient. Let there be seri-
ous thinking on your part. Ask yourself, Am I serving my Master, Jesus Christ? Or am I pleasing myself, and failing to
please God, and to bring honor to Hi s holy name?"

We Have Not Wisdom to Plan Our Own Lives
Ministry of Healing, pp. 478, 479. "Many are unab1e to make definite plans for the future. Their life is unsettled. They
can not discern the outcome of affairs, and this often fills them with anxiety and unrest. Let us remember that the life of
God's children in this world is a pilgrim life. We have not wisdom to plan our own lives. It is not for us to shape our
future. 'By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance,
obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.'
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He Shall Direct Thy Paths


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"Christ in His life on earth, made no plans for Himself. He accepted God's plans for Him, and day by day the Father
unfolded His plans. So should we depend upon God, that our lives may be the simple outworking of His will. As we
commit our ways to Him, He will direct our steps.

"Too many, in planning for a brilliant future, make an utter failure. Let God plan for you. As a little child, trust to the
guidance of Him who will 'keep the feet of His saints.'"

The First Step--Commitment
Proverbs 3:6 "In all thy ways acknowledge him and he shall direct thy paths."

Desire of Ages, p. 668. "Those who decide to do nothing in any line that will displease God, will know, after presenting
their case before Him, just what course to pursue."

Patriarchs and Prophets, pp. 126, 127. "It was no light test that was thus brought upon Abraham, no small sacrifice that
was required of him.God had spoken, and his servant must obey; the happiest place on earth for him was the place
where God would have him to be.
"Many are still tested as was Abraham. They do not hear the voice of God speaking directly from the heavens, but he
calls the by the teachings of his word and the events of his providence. They may be required to abandon a career that
promises wealth and honor, to leave congenial and profitable associations, and separate from kindred, to enter upon what
appears to be only a path of self-denial, hardship, and sacrifice. God has a work for them to do; but a life of ease and the
influence of friends and kindred would hinder the development of the very traits essential for its accomplishment. He
calls them away from human influences and aid, and leads them to feel the need of his help, and to depend upon him
alone, that he may reveal himself to them. He who will do this has the faith of Abraham, and will share with him that 'far
more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, with which the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be
compared."

Christs Object Lesson, p. 173. "If we surrender our lives to His service, we can never be placed in a position for which
God has not made provision. Whatever may be our situation, we have a Guide to direct our ways; whatever our
perplexities, we have a sure Counselor; whatever our sorrow, bereavement, or loneliness, we have a sympathizing Friend.
If in our ignorance we make missteps, Christ does not leave us."
Above all else in his own life, the Christian should value purity of character--the only thing he will take to heaven. He
under-stands that an all-wise, loving God who has ordered today's circumstances knows best how to reveal to himself his
own poverty of heart. In seeing his weakness, he knows how to flee to his sin-pardoning Saviour. He could run from
today's trials, but the confidence he has in the out-workings of Divine Providence anchors him to the very position in
which he knows God has placed him.
The Christian knows that if he were to run now, he would have to be brought around again to similar circumstances
possibly more difficult the next time, until he claims the victory God has planned for him.

God Has an Appointed Place for Each One
Prophets and Kings, p. 536. "To every nation and to every individual God has assigned a place in His great plan."

The Christian is like one of the heavenly bodies that has its appointed place and rounds. He is no longer a "wandering
star," but has a "special place" in the eternal plan of heaven that is unique to his life alone and to no one else's. This is the
place that only he can fill. Remaining in his rightful sphere, no matter how humble the task, brings joy to his soul and
purpose to his experience.
Years ago a man and his wife came to my home and announced that they had decided either to join our work, or go to
Alaska. I counseled them that if they were not certain that God was calling them into our work, they should go to Alaska.
This greatly surprised them until I studied with them God's unique place for them. Incidentally, they went to Alaska.
An understanding of God's call to one's special place is a concept that is not readily accepted by the human mind,
although well substantiated by God's word. It lends a sense of purpose to the life, as well as meaning, to the suffering and
trials common to the Christian walk.

Prophets and Kings, p. 536. To every nation and to every individual God has assigned a place in His great plan.
"Special particular; distinctive; peculiar; unique
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He Shall Direct Thy Paths


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Christs Object Lessons, pp. 326,327. "He gives 'to every man his work.' (Mark 13:34) Each has his place in the
eternal plan of heaven. Each is to work in cooperation with Christ for the salvation of souls. Not more surely is the place
prepared for us in the heavenly mansions than is the special place designed on earth where we are to work for God.

Peculiar" exclusive; particular; unique; special
Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, p. 513. "Everyone has his peculiar sphere and vocation."

"Specific" limited; precise; explicit
Education, p. 267. The specific place appointed us in life is determined by our capabilities. Not all reach the same
development or do with equal efficiency the same work." (See Ed. 138:1)

In Heavenly Places, p. 228. He allots to everyone a place and a work, and if we individually submit ourselves to be
worked by the Lord, however confused and tangled life may seem to our eyes, God has a purpose in it all, and the human
machinery, obedient under the hand of divine wisdom, will accomplish the purposes of God. As in a well-disciplined
army every soldier has his allotted position and is required to act his part in contributing to the strength and perfection of
the whole, so the worker for God must do his allotted part in the great work of God.

WARNING -- Are you in the place that God has chosen for another Christian?

Ministry of Healing, p. 476. Every man has his place in the eternal plan of heaven. Whether we fill that place depends
upon our own faithfulness in cooperating with God.

From the above statements we can see that God has only one place at a time for us, and that we are to fill that place.

How to Find God's Special Place
As God has a special place for us, He must have some positive way of revealing it without our having to rely on
guess or feeling; but the revelation "depends upon our own faithfulness in cooperating with God." (MH 476:1)

I Kings 19:15, 16 (NIV) The LORD said to him, Go back the way you came, and go to the Desert of Damascus.
When you get there, anoint Hazael king over Aram. Also, anoint Jehu son of Nimshi king over Israel, and anoint Elisha
son of Shaphat from Abel Meholah to succeed you as prophet.

From this scripture one can plainly see that Elijah knew that Elisha was to take his place.

Prophets and Kings, pp. 220,221. "Had Elisha asked Elijah what was expected of him,--what would be his work,--he
would have been answered: God knows; He will make it known to you. If you wait upon the Lord, He will answer your
every question. You may come with me if you have evidence that God has called you. Know for yourself that God stands
back of me, and that it is His voice you hear. If you can count everything but dross that you may win the favor of God,
come.

(For further study read The Call of Elisha, Prophets and Kings, pp. 217-228.)

God Knows; He will Make It Known to You
Even though Elijah already knew that God had called Elisha to work with him, he insisted that Elisha get his orders
directly from God.

Testimonies to Ministers, pp. 493,494. The Lord has not placed anyone of His human agencies under the dictation and
control of those who are themselves but erring mortals. He has not placed upon men the power to say, you shall do this,
and you shall not do that (See 5 Testimonies, p. 463.)

SpTB09 Testimonies to the Church Regarding Individual Responsibility and Christian Unity, p. 24. No man is a
proper judge of another man's duty. Man is responsible to God; and as finite, erring men take into their hands the
jurisdiction of their fellow men, as if the Lord commissioned them to lift up and cast down, all heaven is filled with
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He Shall Direct Thy Paths


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indignation. There are strange principles being established in regard to the control of the minds and works of men, by
human judges, as if these finite men were gods
A fine Korean Christian working as a laboratory technician came to me for counsel. He wanted to leave our work to
make money to bring his family to America. I suggested that perhaps it would be best that he work in a large city hospital
where I had connections and could help him get located. Also, there were Korean families in that city, and he could
board with them and save money. Then he startled me with a question: "How about the colporteur ministry?" I informed
him that I didn't think this would be a good idea, because his English was so poor that he would have trouble
communicating with the people. In his next response he mentioned a Korean who spoke hardly any English. He said "He
number one colporteur in this union.
A week before this, the colporteur and his family had visited in our home for Sabbath dinner. There had been
absolutely no communication except for smiles and other attempts. Incredulously I asked how this was possible. The
answer came, "Oh, he pray four hours each day before going out to canvass."
(Incidentally, I met this earnest Korean young man a few years later in another union. Yes, you guessed it - he was the
number one colporteur in that union! That has been the last time I ever advised anyone as to what they should do as their
life's work.)

If You Wait Upon the Lord, He Will Answer Every Question
5 Testimonies, p. 572. "Wait, and God will help you. Be patient, and the clear light will appear." (See 5T 463:1)

2 Selected Messages, p. 363. "Let there be much praying done, and even with fasting, that not one shall move in
darkness, but move in the light as God is in the light."

2 Selected Messages, p. 362. "There may be individuals who will make a rush to do something, and enter into some
business they know nothing about. This God does not require. Think candidly, prayerfully, studying the Word with all
carefulness and prayerfulness, with mind and heart awake to hear the voice of GodTo understand the will of God is a
great thing

You May Come With Me If You Have Evidence That God Has Called You (See further explanation under 5T 512)
Know for Yourself That God Stands Back of Me

Are the people I am to work with, or the institution I am considering a call to serve in, loyal to God and His Church?

Counsels on Health, p. 306. "In the sacrifice of Christ for fallen men, mercy and truth have met together, righteousness
and peace have kissed each other. When these attributes are separated from the most wonderful and apparently successful
work, there is nothing to it."

This is a simple "rule of thumb to be used to judge a work, whether it is truly of God. If it is, sacrifice, mercy, truth,
righteousness and peace will be revealed. Watch for these as you visit an institution or campus. Ask God to open your
eyes, mind, and heart; and to reveal during your visit these simple, basic concepts. If you have an honest heart, He will
do this for you.

Counsels on Health, p. 74. "Self-denial is essential to genuine religion. Those who have not learned to deny themselves,
are destitute of vital, practical godliness."

Medical Ministry, p. 132. "Those who sacrifice for truth make a great impression on the world. Their example is
contagious and convincing."

Medical Ministry, p. 132. "Never forsake the true standard, even though to cling to it makes you a beggar. . . . Worldly
policy is not to become the policy of the servants of God."




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He Shall Direct Thy Paths


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Part 2 How To Know Gods Will

Three Ways That God Reveals His Will
5 Testimonies, p. 512. (See also SC 87:2, 3) "There are three ways in which the Lord reveals His will to us, to guide
us, and to fit us to guide others. How may we know His voice from that of a stranger? How shall we distinguish it from
the voice of a false shepherd? God reveals His will to us in His word, the Holy Scriptures. His voice is also revealed in
His providential workings; and it will be recognized if we do not separate our souls from Him by walking in our own
ways, doing according to our own wills, and following the promptings of an unsanctified heart, until the senses have
become so confused that eternal things are not discerned, and the voice of Satan is so disguised that it is accepted as the
voice of God.

"Another way in which God's voice is heard is through the appeals of His Holy Spirit, making impressions upon the heart
which will be wrought out in the character. If you are in doubt upon any subject you must first consult the Scriptures. . . .
You ought to be able to distinguish His voice."
How May We Know His Voice from That of a Stranger? (Read John 10:4, 5 and Isaiah 8:20)

5 Testimonies, p. 134. "Those who are the most closely connected with God are the ones who know His voice when He
speaks to them. Those who are spiritual discern spiritual things."

5 Testimonies, p. 69. "The Lord requires us to obey the voice of duty, when there are other voices all around us urging us
to pursue an opposite course. It requires earnest attention from us to distinguish the voice which speaks from God."

Ministry of Healing, p. 509. "Christ is ever sending messages to those who listen for His voice."

Scripture, Providence, and Impressions

Scripture
Psalm 73:24 "Thou salt guide me with thy counsel."

3 Testimonies, p. 482. "The only safe course for Christians is to repulse the enemy with God's word. Satan urges men
into places where God does not require them to go, and presents scripture to justify his suggestions."

Providence -- not a feeling, but a happening, or "revilement"
6 Testimonies, p. 24. "It is the very essence of all right faith to do the right thing at the right time. God is the great
Master Worker, and by His providence He prepares the way for His work to be accomplished. He provides opportunities,
opens up lines of influence, and channels of working. If His people are watching the indications of His providence, and
stand ready to cooperate with Him, they will see a great work accomplished. Their efforts, rightly directed, will produce
a hundred-fold greater results than can be accomplished with the same means and facilities in another channel where God
is not so manifestly working."

Education, p. 267. "We need to follow more closely God's plan of life. To do our best in the work that 1ies nearest, to
commit our ways to God, and to watch for the indications of His providence--these are rules that ensure safe guidance in
the choice of an occupation."

Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 258. "Wherever in His providence God has placed you, He will keep you."

5 Testimonies, p. 454. We must sleep no longer on Satan's enchanted ground, but call into requisition all our resources
and avail ourselves of every facility with which Providence has furnished us."

When driving, we always seem to welcome green stop lights, but tend to approach the red ones with some impatience.
In reality, we should be equally grateful for both. God uses both green and red lights to guide the consecrated seeker after
His will. Red lights are often opposing circumstances that Providence uses to arrest us in our headlong dash to get things
done. The following story is an experience along this line:
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Our institution became the recipient of a large tract of land in Africa for the purpose of starting a school for the
African people. About 6,000 copies of our newsletter spread the report of plans for the project. In response, thirty-two
people soon arrived on our campus, each man and woman feeling certain that God had given them a special call to be a
part of this work. Fund-raising and the gathering of equipment was gaining momentum, when suddenly everything
seemed to stop short. We found that work permits for such a large group were impossible to obtain, and that the cost of
shipping equipment was prohibitive.
Eventually eight people departed for Africa. The rest were redirected through God's providence to strengthen the work
in several other places.
From this experience we learned that when we start down a path in God's order, He may lead us to an un-thought-of
destination.
The individual is not to lament when Providence indicates a change in the plans we have set our hearts on. He should
ever remember that "Nothing can touch him except by our Lord's permission," (MB 71:2) We should rejoice because
our heavenly Father has kept us from making a misstep that might have brought tragedy to our lives and to others.
Ours is to watch and wait for the direction only God can give. In this way alone can a faith be built that cannot be
shaken.
Let us not forget that God also uses yellow lights--cautions and warnings of the still small voice of conscience that
can easily be stilled if we so choose.

Impressions -- an effect produced on the mind, the senses, or the feelings
Acts of the Apostles, p. 279. "Impressions alone are not a safe guide to duty. The enemy often persuades men to believe
that it is God who is guiding them, when in reality they are following only human impulse."

5 Testimonies, p. 647. "Men have not the wisdom from God and the constant enlightenment from the Source of all
power that would make it safe for them to follow impulses or impressions."

2 Testimonies, p. 505. "This dependence upon impressions is one of the special deceptions of Satan."

5 Testimonies, p. 572. (Letter to D.M. Canright) "If you yield to impressions you will lose your soul, and the soul is of
great value with God."

In Heavenly Places, p. 139. "The sanctifying grace of God upon the human mind sanctifies the reasoning powers. This
will be kept before the mind, will this action that I propose to enter into glorify God? There will be a humble spirit of
deep humility, and less dependence will be placed upon human wisdom and far more confidence to reach out after God
with humble prayer, Teach me Thy way and Thy will. And the Lord will create a train of thought that will be safe to
follow. Past experiences will be revived, and the safe way will be fastened in the mind."

Isaiah 30:21. And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the
right hand, and when ye turn to the left.

Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 20. The words of God are the wellsprings of life. As you seek unto those
living springs you will, through the Holy Spirit, be brought into communion with Christ. Familiar truths will present
themselves to your mind in a new aspect, texts of Scripture will burst upon you with a new meaning as a flash of light,
you will see the relation of other truths to the work of redemption, and you will know that Christ is leading you, a divine
Teacher is at your side."

During World War II, while on naval duty in the South Seas, our ship confirmed a certain harbor's safety before
entering, by lining up three lights that were located on land. When these three lights were directly in line it was safe to
pass through the channel that led through the reef. When providence and impressions are supported and backed up by
Scripture and the Spirit of Prophecy, we know that it is safe to proceed, and that God is leading. Be sure you have all the
facts and all that the Bible reveals on the subject. "In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be es-
tablished." (Read 2 Corinthians 13:1)
The Right Motive

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1 Samuel16:7. But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I
have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD
looketh on the heart.

Christs Object Lessons, pp. 398, 399. The Lord desires us to rest in Him without a question as to our measure of
reward. When Christ abides in the soul, the thought of reward is not uppermost. This is not the motive that actuates our
service. . . He would not have us eager for rewards nor feel that for every duty we must receive compensation. We
should not be so anxious to gain the reward as to do what is right, irrespective of all gain. Love to God and to our fellow
men should be our motive."

Ministry of Healing, p. 499. "Remember that in whatever position you may serve, you are revealing motive, developing
character. Whatever your work, do it with exactness, with diligence; overcome the inclination to seek an easy task."

How sad that many are making decisions based on feelings and the flimsiest evidence, with no comprehension of the
vital consequences of their shallow actions. Too often the only considerations are:
What are my salary and living conditions going to be? If I go there, Mary is nearby. Here is an opportunity to get
away from my problems and mistakes. (Yet their problems follow them every place they go.) Heres my chance to get
away from my parents. There are eligible men here. That part of the country has such a wonderful climate. -- Such
are human reasonings. Human wisdom will lead away from self-denial, from consecration, and will devise many
things that tend to make of no effect God's message. (See 2SM 207:4)
Ministry of Healing, pp. 476, 477. Seekest thou great things for thyself? Seek them not. (Jeremiah 45:5) The Lord has
no place in His work for those who have a greater desire to win the crown than to bear the cross. He wants men who are
more intent upon doing their duty than upon receiving their reward--men who are more solicitous for principle than for
promotion.

Ministry of Healing, p. 477. "If any are qualified for a higher position, the Lord will lay the burden, not alone on them,
but on those who have tested them, who know their worth, and who can understandingly urge them forward. It is those
who perform faithfully their appointed work day by day, who in God's own time will hear His call, 'come up higher.

Christs Object Lessons, p. 402. ''It is not the length of time we labor but our willingness and fidelity in the work that
makes it acceptable to God. In all our service a full surrender of self is demanded. The smallest duty done in sincerity
and self-forgetfulness is more pleasing to God than the greatest work when marred with self-seeking. He looks to see
how much of the spirit of Christ we cherish, and how much of the likeness of Christ our work reveals. He regards more
the love and faithfulness with which we work than the mount we do.

"Only when selfishness is dead, when strife for supremacy is banished, when gratitude fills the heart, and love makes
fragrant the life--it is only then that Christ is abiding in the soul, and we are recognized as laborers together with God.

Matthew 20:26-28. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister;
And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered
unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.

God's Sustaining Power
(Genesis 28:15; Isaiah 41:10; Isaiah 40:29-31)

Counsels on Health, p. 424. "God takes care of you in the place where it is your duty to be."

Desire of Ages, p. 48. Angels from the courts above will attend the steps of those who come and go at God's
command.

Our job is not to decide how God should do things; but to find out what he is doing, and fit ourselves into it.

Ministry of Healing, pp. 248,249. "Those who surrender their lives to His guidance and to His service will never be
placed in a position for which He has not made provision. Whatever our situation, if we are doers of His word, we have a
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Guide to direct our way; whatever our perplexity, we have a sure Counselor; whatever our sorrow, bereavement, or
loneliness, we have a sympathizing Friend."

Desire of Ages, p. 371. The means in our possession may not seem to be sufficient for the work; but if we will move
forward in faith, believing in the all-sufficient power of God, abundant resources will open before us. If the work be of
God, He Himself will provide the means for its accomplishment. He will reward honest, simple reliance upon Him. The
little that is wisely and economically used in the service of the Lord of heaven will increase in the very act of imparting.

A friend and I served together in a medical and educational institution. The pressures were great. The facilities were
old and faulty, and the State wanted to close us down. Funds were lacking, and the situation seemed impossible, so my
friend left. He had not been certain of his calling to that institution at that time. I, too, might have become discouraged
had I not had a strong call to serve there. The adversity that disheartened my friend only brought me courage, assurance
and peace. I could say in my heart, "God has called me here for the very purpose of facing this situation. I will trust Him
to see me through." God did! Sometime later, His providences led us into a new functional building.

The Weight of Evidence
Evidence has weight. Flimsy evidence moves the scales of conviction but little. However, convicting evidence gives
grounds for belief and establishes the point in question. Evidence should be plainly visible and concrete, not just straws
in the wind.

Demonstration -- is an explanation by example, or an experiment concluded by human reasoning
3 Testimonies, p. 258. The unbelief that demands perfect knowledge will never yield to the evidence that God is
pleased to give. He requires of His people faith that rests upon the weight of evidence, not upon perfect knowledge.
What is presented here are the two thought processes in examining evidence: faith, as opposed to human reasoning.

Prophets and Kings, p. 82. His (Solomon's) failure teaches us that, whatever a man's intellectual qualities may be, and
however faithfully he may have served God in the past, he can never with safety trust in his own wisdom and integrity.

2 Selected Messages, p. 207. Human wisdom will lead away from self-denial, from consecration, and will devise many
things that tend to make of no effect God's messages.

Our part is only to believe through the eye of faith that God will direct our ways. We are to examine the voice of God
that comes through the Scriptures, providence and the impressions of the Holy Spirit. These are the mediums of God-
given evidence through which He speaks to us.

2 Selected Messages, p. 362. Not a move should be made but that movement and all that it portends are carefully
considered--everything weighed.

3 Testimonies, p. 255. Satan has ability to suggest doubts and to devise objections to the pointed testimony that God
sends, and many think it a virtue, a mark of intelligence in them, to be unbelieving and to question and quibble. Those
who desire to doubt will have plenty of room. God does not propose to remove all occasion for unbelief. He gives
evidence, which must be carefully investigated with a humble mind and a teachable spirit, and all should decide from the
weight of evidence."

3 Testimonies, pp. 104,105. Those who engage in this work (dealing with minds) should have clear discernment and
good powers of discrimination. True independence of mind is an element entirely different from rashness. That quality of
independence which leads to a cautious, prayerful, deliberate opinion should not be easily yielded, not until the evidence
is sufficiently strong to make it certain that we are wrong. This independence will keep the mind calm and unchangeable
amid the multitudinous errors which prevail, and will lead those in responsible positions to look carefully at the evidence
on every side, and not be swayed by the influence of others, or by the surroundings, to form conclusions without in-
telligent, thorough knowledge of all the circumstances.

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Gospel Workers, pp. 157, 158. God would draw minds from the conviction of logic to a conviction deeper, higher,
purer, and more glorious. Often human logic has nearly quenched the light that God would have shine forth in clear rays
to convince men that the lord of nature is worthy of all praise and glory, because He is the Creator of all things.

Desires of Ages, p. 458. "God does not compel men to give up their unbelief. Before them are light and darkness, truth
and error. It is for them to decide which they will accept. The human mind is endowed with power to discriminate
between right and wrong. God designs that men shall not decide from impulse, but from weight of evidence, carefully
comparing scripture with scripture."

The Cost of Evidence Rejected
3 Testimonies, p. 258. Those who will not act when the lord calls upon them, but who wait for more certain evidence
and favorable opportunities, will walk in darkness, for the light will be withdrawn. The evidence given one day, if
rejected, may never be repeated.

This statement does not refer to small mistakes made in ignorance, but to an outright rejection of revealed truth.

5 Testimonies, p. 69. "By once neglecting to comply with the call of Gods Spirit and His word, when obedience
involves a cross, many have lost much--how much they will never know till the books are opened at the final day."

5 Testimonies, p. 720. Men who neglect to heed the calls of the Spirit and the word of God, because obedience involves
a cross, will lose their souls.

Counsels on Health, p. 561. "I would that all my brethren and sisters would remember that it is a serious thing to grieve
the Holy Spirit, and He is grieved when the human agent seeks to work himself and refuses to enter the service of the
Lord because the cross is too heavy or the self-denial too great."

1 Testimonies, p. 408. "Those who hesitate to devote themselves unreservedly to God make poor work of following
Christ. They fol1ow Him at so great a distance that half the time they do not really know whether they are following His
footprints or the footsteps of their great enemy."

Courage to Press Forward
! Isaiah 45:2 "I will go before thee, and make the crooked places straight."
! Christs Object Lessons, p. 333. As the will of man cooperates with the will of God, it becomes omnipotent.
Whatever is to be done at His command may be accomplished in His strength. All His biddings are enablings.
! Christs Object Lessons, p. 301. "God makes no requirement without making provision for its fulfillment.
Through the grace of Christ we may accomplish everything that God requires."
! Ministry of Healing, p. 510. "In a moment decisions may be made that fix one's condition forever." (See 3
Testimonies, p. 499.)
! 4 Testimonies, p. 344. "Indecision soon becomes decision in the wrong direction."

Review and Herald, Dec. 29, 1910. "Into the daily life there come many perplexing problems that we cannot solve.
There are those that wish to adjust every difficulty, and to settle every question before they begin to work. Such will
surely fail. In the end, the future will be just as indistinct, and the problems just as perplexing, as when they began to
speculate about them. It is in following light given that we receive greater light. Those who go forward in faith will find
the solution of the problems that perplex them. Light will shine on the pathway of the workers who go forward without
questioning. God will go before them, giving them skill and understanding to do that which needs to be done. Having
committed themselves to the work, and having asked wisdom from God, let them trust in Him. They cannot carry the
burden of their responsibility alone. This Christ does not ask them to do. He will carry, not a part, but the whole of the
weight of their burden; for He is a mighty Saviour.
"Move forward at the call of God. When He points out a work to be done, in His name and with full faith take up that
work. You may not see the end from the beginning. Perplexities may surround you. Others may tell you of the lions in
the way. But nevertheless go forward, saying, The Lord wants this work done, and I will act my part faithfully. I will not
fail nor be discouraged." (See also Desires of Ages, p. 679.)

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Christian Service, p. 282. "When men in positions of responsibility are in such a hurry to establish some new institution
that is untimely, the showing made is not only against the interests of the lord's cause, but against the interests of the men
who in human wisdom have tried to advance too rapidly. God is not glorified by those who attempt to go faster t an He
leads. Perplexity, embarrassment, and distress are the result. The lord does not desire His representatives to repeat these
mistakes; for the past record of such movements does not glorify Him."


Part 3 - Contentment

Clever Methods of Securing Workers
Early in my Adventism, and as a new administrator, I served a rural population in an Eastern Kentucky hospital. Our
primitive setting was not attractive to qualified Adventist personnel. To recruit workers I took trips to our large medical
centers where I would make friends with doctors and workers; then I would suggest that they invite their friends for a
slide presentation showing the unusual aspect of our work with the mountain people.
Yes, this clever method got results, but over a period of time I found that many of the workers secured in this manner
proved to be a hindrance to our work and a plague to our existence.
The Spirit of Prophecy has much wisdom to offer those who run our institutions. Counsels on Health, pages 283 and
284, brought my experience into focus: "They beguiled the unwary, and made an easy conquest of those who love
change. . . . Any underhanded scheme, any influence brought to bear to try to secure help that others have engaged and
trained, is nothing less than downright stealing." Beware of the person who charmingly invites you from your post of
duty before going through right channels, the leaders of the institution.

The Lord of the Harvest
I was complaining to a friend about the great need for qualified workers, when suddenly he asked if I really believed
God's Word, then quoted these scriptures: Luke 10:2 ; James 4:2
This, then, was my problem: unbelief, compounded by a lack of confidence to reach out and trust God's heart-felt
desire and ability to fulfill our needs. I saw that I must now trust His simple promise, "But my God shall supply all your
need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:19)

Desires of Ages, p. 370. The work is of God, and He will furnish means, and will send helpers, true, earnest disciples,
whose hands also will be filled with food for the starving multitude."

Can we settle for anything less than this type of worker? Let's put away our unbelief, and trust God by asking Him to
do what He said He will do. Remember, God is not only the leader of our institutions, but He wants to be our Personnel
Director, if we will but let Him. Then we do not have to rely on clever, underhanded schemes to get laborers. I have since
learned through practical experience in trusting Him, that God's promises are sure.

Contentment (read Philippians 4:11 and Hebrews 13:5)
Christs Object Lessons, pp. 402,403. "However trying their labor, the true workers do not regard it as drudgery. They
are ready to spend and to be spent; but it is a cheerful work, done with a glad heart.

Ministry of Healing, pp. 472,473. "Let us remember that while the work we have to do may not be our choice, it is to be
accepted as God's choice for us. Whether pleasing or unpleasing, we are to do the duty that lies nearest."

Desire of Ages, p. 88. "He (Christ) did not strive for worldly greatness, and in even the lowliest position He was
content."

Contentment is not always a direct result of encouraging circumstances. The most valuable sense of contentment is
that which rules in times of duress and strain. This contentment is purchased only through submission to God and the
presence of the Holy Spirit in the life.
Some are never really content with the situation in which God has placed them. They are constantly looking around
for greener pastures and will eventually invite the enemy to lead them away into strange pastures. When God wants an
individual to make a move, He will clearly call it to his attention.
Busy Workers--Lonely Wives
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Practical Addresses (Wildwood Press), page 128 Christ meant something when He said. And everyone that hath
forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall
receive an hundred fold, and shall inherit everlasting life. He intended to impress upon us the fact that we must make
eternal things of first importance, and so relate ourselves to the cause and work of God that we shall not be hindered by
things of a temporal nature. Everything of this character must come in secondary. The armor of God, once put on, is not
to be laid off for slight excuses.
"What we need now is untiring energy and perseverance, so that we will not be broken off from the work by
difficulties and home perplexities. If we do allow our interest to be thus separated, the enemy will understand it, and he
will make trouble right in our families to draw us away from the work. But if we firmly take our stand as God's
workmen, saying 'The Lord has given us a message, and we cannot be faithful watchmen unless we stand at our post of
duty; we will carry the work through at all hazards ' then we shall find that angels of God will minister to our households
at home, and will say to the enemy. 'Stand back.' It is a great and solemn work in which we are engaged, and God will
help us to carry it forward if we learn to rely wholly upon Him.

Often a minister, Bible worker, doctor or administrator in God's work has to spend long hours at his duties and
frequently be away from home--sometimes for long periods of time. This calls for a real sacrifice on the part of the wife
and children. Just as the husband has a call from God in his duties, so the wife, as his partner, has a share in his call. It is
her God-given duty to fill in the gaps, and uncomplainingly carry on, that there be no breakdown in the family relation-
ships, or Gods work neglected.

Gospel Workers, p. 464. "Stirred by the love of Christ and the needs of the lost, men have left the comforts of home and
the society of friends, even that of wife and children, to go to foreign lands, among idolaters and savages, to proclaim the
message of mercy. Many in the attempt have lost their lives, but others have been raised up to carry on the work. Thus
step by step the cause of Christ has progressed, and the seed sown in sorrow has yielded a bountiful harvest. The
knowledge of God has been extended, and the banner of the cross planted in heathen lands."

Desire of Ages, p. 147. "There was danger that Mary would regard her relationship to Jesus as giving her a special claim
upon Him, and the right, in some degree, to direct Him in His mission. For thirty years He had been to her a loving and
obedient son, and His love was unchanged; but He must now go about His Father's work. As Son of the Most High, and
Savior of the world, no earthly ties must hold Him from His mission, or influence His conduct. He must stand free to do
the will of God. This lesson is also for us. The claims of God are paramount even to the ties of human relationship. No
earthly attraction should turn our feet from the path in which He bids us walk.


Should We Leave Our Appointed Place?
In Heavenly Places, p. 228. As in a well-disciplined army every soldier has his allotted position and is required to act
his part in contributing to the strength and perfection of the whole, so the worker for God must do his allotted part in the
great work of God The man or woman who leaves the place God has given him or her, in order to please inclination
and act on his own devised plan, meets with disappointment, because he has chosen his way instead of God's way."

5 Testimonies, p. 184. "But we should fear to 1eave our appointed work unless the Lord clearly indicates our duty to
serve Him in another field. Many are eagerly turning from present duties and opportunities to some wider field; many
imagine that in some other position they would find it less difficult to obey the truth.

5 Testimonies, p. 86. "Many a youth who is ignorant of the world, ignorant of his weakness, ignorant of the future, feels
no need of a divine hand to point out his course. He considers himself fully competent to guide his own bark amid the
breakers. Let such youth remember that, wherever they may go, they are not beyond the domain of God. They are not
free to choose what they will without consulting the will of their Creator.
"Talent is ever best developed and best appreciated where it is most needed. But this truth is overlooked by many
eager aspirants for distinction. Though superficial in religious experience and mental attainments, their shortsighted
ambition covets a higher sphere of action than that in which Providence has placed them. The Lord does not call them, as
He did Joseph and Daniel, to withstand the temptations of worldly honor and high station. But they force themselves into
positions of danger and desert the only post of duty for which they are fitted."
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People who are constantly looking around and searching for greener pastures will eventually be led away into strange
pastures by the enemy. When God wants you to make a move He will clearly bring it to your attention.

3 Testimonies, pp. 499,500. "You are not excusable for leaving the most important though unpleasant work, hoping to
get rid of doing it altogether, or thinking that it will become less unpleasant, while you occupy your time upon pleasant
matters not really taxing. You should first do the work which must be done and which involves the vital interests of the
cause, and only take up the less important matters after the more essential are accomplished."

3 Testimonies, p. 73. "There are those who would understand their duty clearly if it were in harmony with their natural
inclinations. Circumstances and reason may clearly indicate their duty; but when against their natural inclination, these
evidences are frequently set aside. Then these persons will presume to go to God to learn their duty. But God will not be
trifled with. He will permit such persons to follow the desires of their own hearts. Psalm 81:11, 12: 'But my people would
not hearken to My voice. So I gave them up unto their own hearts' lust: and they walked in their own counsels."

1 Testimonies, p. 548. "Some will not submit to the planing knife of God. As it passes over them, and the uneven surface
is disturbed, they complain of too close and severe work. They wish to get out of God's workshop, where their defects
may remain undisturbed. They seem to be asleep as to their condition; but their only hope is to remain where the defects
in their Christian character will be seen and remedied."

3 Testimonies, p. 13. "I was shown that when the Lord released him (James White) from his position, he would give
him just as clear evidence of his release as he gave him when He laid the burden of the work upon him. But he has borne
too many burdens, and those laboring with him at the Office, and also his ministering brethren, have been too willing that
he should bear them. They have, as a general thing, stood back from bearing burdens, and have sympathized with those
who were murmuring against him, and left him to stand alone while he was bowed down beneath censure, until God has
vindicated His own cause. If they had taken their share of the burdens, my husband would have been relieved.

Under serious sickness, discouragement and censure Elder James White refused to leave his post of duty unless God
released him. May this example of faithfulness give us courage to stand by against the onslaughts of Satan, knowing that
God's hand is on the wheel. Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays these couriers from the swift com-
pletion of their appointed rounds." (Herodotus)
How strange for a star to leave its appointed orbit to become a wandering star, lost in the oblivion of space.























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Part 4 Choosing Counselors

How Most People Choose Counselors
1. Anyone who will listen to them.
2. Only those whom they know will agree with them. (They avoid those whom they feel will be too frank, or who
will give them counsel they do not wish to hear.)
3. Intimate friends.
4. Ministers, psychiatrists, or professional counselors, if things are really bad.

Proverbs 12:15 "The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.

Man Needs Help (read Jeremiah 10:23 and Proverbs 14:12)
We are not to strike off by ourselves in vital and important matters. God has a plan for man to work through
counselors, and He wants us to follow this arrangement.

God Has Counselors
Testimony to Ministers, p. 497. "Among God's people are some who have had long experience in His work.These men
should be regarded as tried and chosen counselors. They should be respected, and their judgment should be honored by
those who are younger or who have had less experience, even though these younger men may be in official positions.

Proverbs 11:14 "Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counselors there is safety.

An Example of One Who Chose Bad Counsel
2 Chronicles 10:6-15, 18, 19

Ellen G. White's Experience in Following Counsel
2 Selected Messages, p. 239. "Shall I interpret these long months of sickness as evidence of the displeasure of God
because I came to Australia? I answer decidedly, No, I dare not do this. At times before leaving America I thought that
the Lord did not require me to go to a country so far away, at my age and when I was prostrated by overwork. But I
followed the voice of the (General) Conference, as I have ever tried to do at times when I had no clear light myself.I
am in Australia, and I believe that I am just where the Lord wants me to be. Because suffering is my portion, I have no
thought of beating a retreat." (See 3T 492:2)

However, there is another side to receiving counsel that must be considered. Human counsel may be misleading, and is
never safe.

Desire of Ages, p. 668. "We are not to place the responsibility of our duty upon others, and wait for them to tell us what
to do. We cannot depend for counsel upon humanity. The Lord will teach us our duty just as willingly as He will teach
somebody else."

Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, p. 528. "The will and voice of finite man are not to be interpreted as the
voice of God.
6 Testimonies, p. 382. The truth is too often marred by the channel through which it passes.

(Read John 2:24, 25)

In Heavenly Places, p. 132. We are never safe while we are guided by human opinions, but we are safe when we are
guided by a 'Thus saith the Lord.'"

6 Testimonies, p. 140. Defeat comes in depending on human methods, human inventions, and placing the divine
secondary."

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Give Advice Obtained Directly from the Word of God (1 Peter 4:11; John 3:34; John 8:28; John 10:4, 5 and
Thessalonians 2:13)

Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, p. 423. "Man is finite; there is no light in his wisdom. His unaided reason
can explain nothing in the deep things of God, nor can he understand the spiritual lessons that God has placed in the
material world. But reason is a gift of God, and His Spirit will aid those who are willing to be taught. Mans words, if of
any value, echo the words of God.

Counsel should be weighed with the sum total of the advice received combined with our personal study, realizing that
the responsibility lies with us and our relationship to the word of God.

3 Testimonies, p. 258. The unbelief that demands perfect know1edge will never yield to the evidence that God is
pleased to give. He requires of His people faith that rests upon the weight of evidence, not upon perfect knowledge.
Those followers of Christ who accept the light that God sends them must obey the voice of God speaking to them when
there are many other voices crying out against it. It requires discernment to distinguish the voice of God.

In view of these statements, what does it mean in Proverbs 24: 6, where it says, "For by wise counsel thou shalt make
thy war: and in a multitude of counselors there is safety."? No matter how dedicated and wise one or a few men may be,
God has not favored them with all wisdom. If we choose our counselors prayerfully and wisely among individuals of a
wide range of varied experiences, we shield ourselves from running to extremes. Also, one of the counselors may have
just the evidence from God to give us the consecrated direction we seek. In this way we can carry out the following in-
struction from God.

The Final Decision Must Be Personal
Great Controversy, p. 598. "With divine help we are to form our opinions for ourselves, as we are to answer for
ourselves before God."

James 1:5 "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it
shall be given him."

Desire of Ages, p. 456. "To those who thus yield themselves to God, having an honest desire to know and to do His will,
the truth is revealed as the power of God for their salvation. These will be able to distinguish between him who speaks
for God, and him who speaks merely from himself."

Fundamentals of Christian Education, pp. 348, 349. "I respect human authority, and the advice of my brethren; but I
cannot depend wholly upon these. I want Thee, 0 God, to teach me. I have covenanted with Thee to adopt the divine
standard of character, and make Thee my counselor and guide,--a party to every plan of my life; therefore teach me."

Sent From God With A Mission

In conclusion, I share with you from the book by Elder Meade MacGuire, called The Life of Victory, a chapter under
the title, "Sent from God." As this book was written by this great man of God in the early twenties, it will be difficult for
most of you to obtain a copy. Therefore, I present it just as it was written, for all those who are earnestly seeking God's
call for you. May you, too, receive the same inspiration from these words that have given me a sense of direction and
mission in my life.

"' There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.' He was a burning and a shining light:' John 1:6; 5:35.
'Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judea, and all the region round about Jordan, and were baptized of him in
Jordan, confessing their sins. Matthew 3:5, 6
Here is an example of a marvelously successful ministry, the secret of which may easily be overlooked. This great
harvest of souls did not come as a result of high attainments in worldly scholarship. Nor did it come as the culmination of
many long years of an increasingly successful ministry.
A man was sent from God. He was a burning and a shining light. Thousands flocked to him and were converted.
We have an equally striking testimony concerning Christ, and also concerning ourselves.
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'Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of Him that sent Me, and to finish His work.' John 4:34.
The consciousness of the fact that He was sent from God seemed never absent from His mind, and is expressed about
thirty-five times in thirteen chapters of the book of John. Let us study a few of these statements:
I seek not Mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent Me.' John 5:30.
'My doctrine is not Mine, but His that sent Me.' John 7:16
I know Him: for I am from Him; and He hath sent Me.' John 7:29
'Yet a little while am I with you, and then I go unto Him that sent Me.' John 7:33
I am not alone, but I and the Father that sent Me.' John 8:16
'He that sent Me is true; and I speak to the world those things which I have heard of Him.' John 8:26
I proceeded forth and came from God; neither came I of Myself, but He sent Me.1 John 8:42
'I must work the works of Him that sent Me, while it is day.' John 9:4
'He that seeth Me seeth Him that sent Me.' John 12:45
I have not spoken of Myself; but the Father which sent Me, He gave Me a commandment, what I should say, and
what I should speak.' John 12:49
There was not the slightest uncertainty in the mind of Christ on these two points: He was sent from God, and He had
a definite work to do for God.
Obviously, this should be the ruling motive in the lives of all Christ's disciples. A mere kindly disposition toward the
unfortunate, or sympathy for those in need, or a conviction that one ought to help the lost, is inadequate. Since the word
of God is positive and explicit and personal, there must be a divine certainty on the part of the one called.
When praying to our Father, the Saviour said, As Thou hast sent Me into the world even so have I also sent them into
the world.' John 17:18.
Later, in speaking directly to His disciples, He said, 'As My Father hath sent Me, even so send I you. John 20:21.
Christ was certain that He was sent of God into the world for a definite work. We have equal grounds for certainty
that we are sent of Christ into the world for a definite work. How frequently and in how many ways has the Lord
emphasized this truth.
'Not more surely is the place prepared for us in the heavenly mansions than is the special place designated on earth
where we are to work for God. Christs Object lessons, p. 327.
Closely allied to the question of Christ's being sent from God into the world, was the question of His relation to this
world as the messenger of God.
Then said Jesus again unto them, I go My way, and ye shall seek Me, and shall die in your sins: whither I go, ye
cannot come. Then said the Jews, Will He kill Himself? because He saith, Whither I go, ye cannot come. And He said
unto them, Ye are from beneath; I am from above: ye are of this world; I am not of this world. I said therefore unto you,
that ye shall die in your sins.' John 8:21-24.

How striking and significant are those words, you are of this world; I am not of this world. You are from beneath; I
am from above.
Again in His prayer to the Father the Saviour, in the most definite and personal way, includes His disciples with
Himself: 'They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. John 17: 16.
And in directly addressing them, He said: If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are
not of the world, but I have chosen you out world, therefore the world hateth you.' John 15:19.
With a little thought one can see plainly why the conviction that He is not of this world belongs with the conviction
that He is sent of God. One who is 'of this world' cannot help the world. It is because He is 'from above, that He has
power to rescue those 'from beneath.' A man rows out to sea in a lifeboat to rescue some shipwrecked mariners. If the
men struggling in the water could rescue themselves, he would have no mission there. What folly, then, for him to cast
himself into the sea. His power to save lies in the fact that he is not in the water with them, but in the 1ifeboat.
Our power as Christ's disciples to save men in the world lies in the fact that we are from above, and not of this world.
What folly, then, for a professed disciple to attempt work for God while compromising with the world. Many seem to
think that the more closely they can affiliate with the world while still professing to be Christians, the better they can win
men; but the very opposite is true, as the Saviour Himself taught.
Christ seemed never to be unconscious of these two vital facts, and often declared them publicly: 'I do not belong
here. I am from above. My only reason for being here is that I am sent from God to save men. When that work is done, I
shall return to Him.' How profoundly such a conviction would affect the lives and ministry of all Christ's disciples.
Imagine a representative of the Red Cross on a mission of mercy to a country ravaged by war, pestilence, starvation,
and death. He is supplied with abundant means to treat the sick, and to clothe and feed the perishing. But he feels that he
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can accomplish more for the people by becoming as much like them as possible. He neglects the care of his health, and
goes half clothed and half fed, ragged and unclean. How he would dishonor the glorious country and principles he is
supposed to represent. Instead of saving people, many would be lost because of his misguided course, who might have
been saved if he had rightly fulfilled his mission.
Christ's disciples are to be a peculiar people; in this world, but not of the world. They are to be citizens and
representatives of the heavenly world and dispensers of heavenly treasure. John was only a man, but he was 'sent from
God.' That gave him the assurance of God's presence and power. It made him invincible. It brought the multitudes to him.
It clothed him with power to present truth that convicted and converted sinners.
It is a great thing to be sent from God, and to know it. And it is a great thing to abandon oneself utterly to God's
mission.
Every true disciple should be able to answer these questions at any time with deep conviction and divine certainty:
Why are you here? Because Christ sent me. What are you doing? I am doing the will of Him that sent me. What are you
teaching by word and life? I am teaching only what He has taught me and given me to teach. Many seem to overlook the
fact that the very foundation of service is believing on Jesus. Service is deeper and broader than mere human activity.
'Then said they unto Him. What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? Jesus answered and said unto
them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on Him whom He hath sent.' John 6:28, 29.
The highest service-John could render to God was to believe on Jesus--believe that he himself was sent from God as
the forerunner of Christ.
If we know by experience the joy and satisfaction of acceptance in the Beloved, how can we do any less?