In many cases means which should be devoted to the missionary work is diverted into other channels, from mistaken ideas of benevolence. We may err in making gifts to the poor which are not a blessing to them, leading them to feel that they need not exert themselves and practice economy, for others will not permit them to suffer. We should not give countenance to indolence, or encourage habits of self-gratification by affording means for indulgence. While the worthy poor are not to be neglected, all should be taught, so far as possible, to help themselves.
(CS 166.1)
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The salvation of souls is the burden of our work. It was for this that Christ made the great sacrifice, and it is this that specially demands our beneficence.—Historical Sketches of the Foreign Missions of the Seventh-day Adventists, 293.
(CS 166.2)
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In want and distress, God’s children are calling to Him. Many are dying for want of the necessaries of life. Their cries have entered the ears of “the Lord of Sabaoth.” He will call to a strict account those who have neglected His needy ones. What will these selfish rich men do when the Lord asks them, “What did you do with the money I gave you to use for Me?”“These shall go away into everlasting punishment.”Matthew 25:46. The Lord will say to them, “Depart from Me, ye cursed; ... for I was an hungered, and ye gave Me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave Me no drink: I was a stranger, and ye took Me not in: naked, and ye clothed Me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited Me not.”Matthew 25:42, 43.
(CS 166.3)
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The wails of a world’s sorrow are heard all around us. Sin is casting its shadow over us. Let us make ourselves ready to cooperate with the Lord. The pleasure and power of this world will pass away. No one can carry his earthly treasures into the eternal world. But the life spent in doing the will of God will abide forever. The result of that which is given to advance the work of God will be seen in the kingdom of God.—The Review and Herald, January 31, 1907.
(CS 166.4) 2 I
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