The Sale of Christ’s Object Lessons

AU.1901-11-01.001

Much painstaking effort will be required of those who have the burden of canvassing for Christ’s Object Lessons; for instruction must be given that a sense of the importance of the work may be kept before the workers, and that all may cherish the spirit of self-denial and self-sacrifice that is exemplified in the life of our Redeemer. Christ made sacrifices at every step,-sacrifices that none of His followers can ever make, because they have never occupied the position that He occupied. He was the most exalted being in the heavenly courts; but He laid aside all His glory, and came to this earth to suffer for sinners.

AU.1901-11-01.002

In all the self-denial and self-sacrifice required of us in this work, amid all the unpleasant things that occur, we are ever to consider that we are yoked up with Christ, partakers with Him of His spirit of kindness, forbearance, self-denial, and self-sacrifice. This spirit will open the way before us, and give us success in the work, because Christ is our recommendation to the people. If we meet with hardships in our work, let us look to Him who is the author and finisher of our faith. Then we shall not fail nor be discouraged. We shall endure hardness as good soldiers of Jesus Christ.

AU.1901-11-01.003

When there is a continual reliance upon God, a continual practice of self-denial, workers will not be easily repulsed; for they will remember that in every place there are souls for whom the Lord has need, and for whom the devil is seeking, that he may bind them up in his slavery of sin, of disregard for the law of God. The Lord Jesus, standing by the side of the canvassers, is the chief worker; the Holy Spirit, working with them, makes impressions just where they are needed.

AU.1901-11-01.004

In the Scriptures we read, «Not slothful in business, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord.» Every branch of God’s work is worthy of diligence, but nothing could be more deserving than this work at this time. None should labor with the expectation of receiving his reward in this life, but with his eyes fixed steadfastly upon the prize at the end of the race. Men and women are wanted now who are as true to duty as the needle to the pole,-men and women who will work without having their way smoothed and every obstacle removed. If we seek the Lord and become converted; if of our own choice we become free and joyous in God; if with gladsome consent of the heart we respond to His gracious call, wearing the yoke of Christ which is one of obedience and service,-our difficulties will be removed, our murmurings will be stilled, and many of the questions that may arise will be solved.

AU.1901-11-01.005

I am so glad that so much harmonious action has been shown in striving to carry out this purpose of God, and to make the most of His providences. But let none become weary in well doing, for in due season we shall reap if we faint not. My brethren, let us have faith in God, and after we have by sanctified energy and much prayer done all that we can do in this work for our schools, we shall see the glory of God. When the trial has been fully made, there will be a blessed result.

AU.1901-11-01.006

In doing this work a four-fold blessing will be realized,-a blessing to our schools, to the world, to the church, and to ourselves. While means will be gathered for the relief of the schools we shall sow the seeds of truth in many souls who will receive it and be saved by it. The self-sacrificing efforts put forth by the members of our churches will prove a means of uniting them that they may be sanctified, body, soul, and spirit, as vessels unto honor, prepared to receive the Holy Spirit which God will impart. Those who will seek to do God’s will, laying out every talent to the best advantage, will become wise in working for the kingdom of God. They will learn lessons of the greatest consequence to them, and they will feel the highest happiness of a rational mind. Peace and grace and power of intellect will be given to them.

AU.1901-11-01.007

These are the results that will surely come if we fulfill the purpose of God. Then let us all be faithful in this work. Let us do our best in placing this book before the people. Let us carry forward this work without flinching in the name of the Lord. Let His plan be vindicated, and when this work has been accomplished, God will indicate to us what to do next. Mrs. E. G. White. —