Consecrated Efforts to Reach Unbelievers NP June 5, 1914 [typed] This manuscript is published in entirety in Church Officers’ Gazette 09/1914. +
In all the relationships of life, whether in the intimacy of the home circle or in the business and social world, there are many ways in which Seventh-day Adventists may acknowledge their Lord and win souls for His kingdom. We are living in the closing years of this earth’s history, and it is especially important that we lose no time in acquainting others with the precious truth that will prepare them to stand blameless before God in the day of judgment.
(25LtMs, Ms 2, 1914, 1)
Those who claim to be looking for the return of the Saviour should bring into active service all the powers of their being. The church on earth is to be the light of the world. God designs that through the individual members of His church, life-giving beams shall shine forth into the dark places of earth and into the heart of every benighted soul. Thus the whole earth is to be lightened with His glory.
(25LtMs, Ms 2, 1914, 2)
In the providence of God, those who are bearing the burden of His work have been endeavoring to put new life into old methods of labor, and also to invent new plans and new methods of awakening the interest of church members in a united effort to reach the world. One of the new plans for reaching unbelievers is the Harvest Ingathering Campaign for Missions. In many places, during the past few years, this has proved a success, bringing blessing to many and increasing the flow of means into the mission treasury. As those not of our faith have been made acquainted with the progress of the third’s angel’s message in heathen lands, their sympathies have been aroused, and some have sought to learn more of the truth that has such power to transform hearts and lives. Men and women of all classes have been reached, and the name of God has been glorified.
(25LtMs, Ms 2, 1914, 3)
In years past, I have spoken in favor of the plan of presenting our mission work and its progress before our friends and neighbors, and have referred to the example of Nehemiah. And now I desire to urge our brethren and sisters to study anew the experience of this man of prayer and faith and sound judgment, who made bold to ask his friend King Artaxerxes for help with which to advance the interests of God’s cause. Let all understand that in presenting the needs of our work, believers can reflect light to others, only as they, like Nehemiah of old, draw nigh to God and live in close connection with the Giver of all light. Our own souls must be firmly grounded in a knowledge of the truth, if we would win others from error to truth. We need now to search the Scriptures diligently, that, as we become acquainted with unbelievers, we may hold up before them Christ as the anointed, the crucified, the risen Saviour, witnessed to by prophets, testified of by believers, and through whose name we receive the forgiveness of our sins.
(25LtMs, Ms 2, 1914, 4)
As we exalt the cross of Calvary before others, we shall find that it exalts us. Let every believer now stand in his lot and place, catching the inspiration of the work that Christ did for souls while in this world. We need the ardor of the Christian hero who endures to the end, ever beholding Him who is invisible. Our faith must have a resurrection. Wherever we are, and whatever our opportunities, whether limited or extended, we are to exert a positive influence for good.
(25LtMs, Ms 2, 1914, 5)
In order to fulfil the purpose of God as laborers together with Him, it is not necessary that all believers work in the same manner or along similar lines. No precise lines are to be laid down. Let the Holy Spirit direct each worker; and let each be willing to listen to the counsel of those who have been chosen to lead out in the various activities of the church. Thus the truth will ever stand on vantage ground.
(25LtMs, Ms 2, 1914, 6)
Some can best recommend the truth, not by argument or talk, but by living the principles of truth, by leading a modest, humble life as consistent disciples of the meek and lowly Christ. Especially is this true of those who are unable to give an intelligent reason for their faith and of those who have a zeal not according to knowledge. Such believers should talk less in vindication of our faith, and study their Bible more, letting their deportment bear eloquent testimony to the power for good which the truth exercises on heart and life.
(25LtMs, Ms 2, 1914, 7)
“Be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear.” [1 Peter 3:15.] The fear here spoken of does not mean distrust or indecision, but with due caution, guarding every point, lest an unwise word be spoken, or excitement of feeling get the advantage, and thus leave unfavorable impressions upon minds, and balance them in the wrong direction. Godly fear, humility, and meekness are greatly needed by all, in order to represent correctly the truth for this time.
(25LtMs, Ms 2, 1914, 8)
God desires every believer to be a soul winner; and He will bless all who look to Him in confidence for wisdom and guidance. As they move guardedly, walking in wisdom’s way, and remaining true to the Lord God of Israel, the purity and simplicity of Christ, revealed in the life practice, will witness to the possession of genuine piety. In all that they say and do, they will glorify the name of Him whom they serve.
(25LtMs, Ms 2, 1914, 9)
The believer who is imbued with a true missionary spirit is a living epistle known and read of all men. The truth goes forth from his lips in no feigned words. His piety and zeal and consecrated judgment grow with the passing days, and the unbelieving world sees that he is in living communion with God and is learning of Him. The words spoken by converted lips are accompanied by a power that touches the cold hearts of unbelievers; for even those who know not God are enabled to distinguish between the human and the divine.
(25LtMs, Ms 2, 1914, 10)
My brethren and sisters, do you feel the sanctifying power of truth in heart and life and character? Have you the assurance that God, for the sake of His dear Son, has forgiven your sins? Are you striving to live with a conscience void of offense toward God and man? Do you often plead with God in behalf of your friends and neighbors? If you have made your peace with God, and have placed all upon the altar, you may engage with profit in soul-winning service.
(25LtMs, Ms 2, 1914, 11)
In following any plan that may be set in operation for carrying to others a knowledge of present truth, and of the marvelous providences connected with the advancing cause, let us first consecrate ourselves fully to Him whose name we wish to exalt. Let us also pray earnestly in behalf of those whom we expect to visit, by living faith, bringing them, one by one, into the presence of God. The Lord knows the thoughts and purposes of man, and how easily He can melt us! How His Spirit, like a fire, can subdue the flinty heart! How He can fill the soul with love and tenderness! How He can give us the graces of His Spirit, and fit us to go in and out, in laboring for souls! The power of overcoming grace should be felt throughout the church today; and it may be felt, if we take heed to the counsels of Christ to His followers. As we learn to adorn the doctrine of Christ our Saviour, we shall surely see of the salvation of God.
(25LtMs, Ms 2, 1914, 12)
To all who are about to take up special missionary work with the paper prepared for use in the Harvest Ingathering Campaign, I would say: Be diligent in your efforts; live under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Add daily to your Christian experience. Let those who have special aptitude work for unbelievers in the high places as well as in the low places of life. Search diligently for perishing souls. Oh, think of the yearning desire Christ has to bring to His fold again those who have gone astray!
(25LtMs, Ms 2, 1914, 13)
Watch for souls as they that must give an account. In your church and neighborhood missionary work, let your light shine forth in such clear, steady rays that no man can stand up in the judgment, and say, “Why did you not tell me about this truth? Why did not you care for my soul?”
(25LtMs, Ms 2, 1914, 14)
Then let us be diligent in the distribution of literature that has been carefully prepared for use among those not of our faith. Let us make the most of every opportunity to arrest the attention of unbelievers. Let us put literature into every hand that will receive it. Let us consecrate ourselves to the proclamation of the message, “Prepare ye the way of the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God!” [Isaiah 40:3.] Divine and human instrumentalities are to unite for the accomplishment of one great object. Now is the day of our responsibility. “The Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” [Revelation 22:17.]
(25LtMs, Ms 2, 1914, 15)
Ms 4, 1914
Untitled 1914 Missing.
Ms 6, 1914
Diary [Aug. 29-Sep. 14]/“We are on our way...” Refiled as Ms 82, 1900.
Ms 8, 1914
Fragments/Look Unto Jesus NP 1914 [typed] Portions of this manuscript are published in HP 19.
Those who continually look unto Jesus become like Him. He cleanses them from sin and imparts to them the heavenly wisdom. “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. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea, driven with the wind and tossed.” [James 1:5, 6.] Then let us keep our connection with the Saviour and seek Him as One who will unite His wisdom with the weakness of those who yearn for His companionship.
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 1)
Looking to Jesus in confidence day by day will place you on vantage ground and enable you to do a work that is essential. Look to your Redeemer in faith and loving trust, for power and wisdom to do the work of character building. He sits as a refiner, to purify the gold and silver from all dross. Then look continually unto Him, and no cheap or worthless material will be brought into the structure of your character building.
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 2)
By faith you may accept the merits of the blood of the Son of God, which He has shed that the sinner might not perish, but have everlasting life. God has laid upon Him all power, that He may impart help to every one who will break with Satan and acknowledge Christ as his only hope. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.]
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 3)
By faith, the soul palsied by sin may be cleansed and healed by the great Medical Missionary. When you are ready to co-operate with Him who can keep you from falling, your resolutions will be of some value. Christ, the chief Healer, will make you whole. He works mightily with every one who is in earnest. He will give strength and victory. All the mean and wicked traits of character can be taken away by the One who has purchased you as His property.
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 4)
The penalty of sin is death. But Christ took upon Himself humanity, that He might pay the price of redemption for every soul. He said, I will give My life, that the world may have a second probation. For our sakes He laid aside the robe and kingly crown and clothed His divinity with humanity. He took the burden of every sin and paid the penalty for every soul who desires to be free from the bondage of Satan and his associates.
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 5)
The powers which have held control over the sinner are to be broken. Every one who, with genuine repentance and conversion, accepts of the great gift that Christ has given is cleansed from his sins. In the light of the great sacrifice of Christ, we shall learn to despise all iniquity.
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 6)
Salvation is secured by a mutual contract. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.] Will you, with all your heart and mind and soul, enter into this contract?
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 7)
Our life on this earth is short, and it behooves us to separate from the enemy of our souls and to seek for soul cleansing. We will have a Helper in the Lord Jesus. Make a break with the enemy. Cast yourselves loose from the prince of the power of the air and from the legion of him associates.
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 8)
Satan will resist the efforts of those who choose to stand on the Lord’s side. He will resort to every kind of deception to frustrate their efforts. But God has given His Son to bear the sins of those who seek His truth and righteousness. He stands ready to impart grace to every one who looks to Him in faith.
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 9)
Every student should realize that he is to study in the school of Christ where he may obtain an education that will make of him a Christian soldier. The exercise of faith and manly courage will enlarge the comprehension of what it means to be a Christian. We are to seek for that faith that works by love and purifies the soul. We shall have severe conflicts with our hereditary and cultivated tendencies to evil. There must be a firm dependence upon the Captain of our salvation. He will not fail to do His part.
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 10)
In His great prayer, Jesus said, referring to His disciples, “For their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” [John 17:19.] Christ is “the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” [John 14:6.] And as many as receive Him, to them gives He “power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” [John 1:12.] To believe on Christ is to depend upon Him, to accept Him as a gift from God.
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 11)
*****
I have an abiding heart-felt trust in Him who comforted His disciples with the promise. “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.]
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 12)
These words should make our hearts abound with such gratitude and thankfulness, that we would break forth in thanksgiving and praise to God and unite with the heavenly host in songs of rejoicing. It is a marvel to me why poor, unbelieving, sinful souls do not appreciate these great and sacred truths.
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 13)
*****
“And the word of the Lord came unto Zechariah, saying, Thus speaketh the Lord of hosts, saying, Execute true judgment, and show mercy and compassion every man to his brother: and oppress not the widow, nor the fatherless, the stranger; nor the poor; and let none of you imagine evil against your brother in his heart. But they refused to hearken, and pulled away the shoulder, and stopped their ears, that they should not hear. Yea, they made their hearts as an adamant stone, lest they should hear the law, and the words which the Lord of hosts has sent in His Spirit by the former prophets: therefore came a great wrath from the Lord of hosts. Therefore it came to pass that as He cried, and they would not hear; so they cried, and I would not hear, saith the Lord of hosts: but I scattered them with a whirlwind among all the nations whom they knew not. Thus the land was desolate after them, that no man passed through nor returned: for they laid the pleasant land desolate.” [Zechariah 7:8-14.]
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 14)
The Lord speaks the truth plainly, that we may understand our true condition, and that we may overcome the objectionable features of our character.
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 15)
Come into line. Repent, “repent ye, and be converted that your sins may be blotted out.” [Acts 3:19.] Confess your sins, with deep sorrow of heart. Leave the ways and works of Satan, and come to Christ with humility and repentance, with heart broken and a contrite spirit. Exchange your life of wickedness for a life of righteousness. Trust in the mercy of Him who gave His life, that you might be saved, not in your sins, but by repentance and faith and confession from your sins. By your example show to others what true repentance means and what conversion will do for a man. Let others see in you the power that comes from an active faith. Show the world how to become partakers of that glorious hope which cannot be taken away. Have faith in Jesus Christ. “Turn ye, turn ye,” He says, “for why will ye die?” [Ezekiel 33:11.]
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 16)
Our past life with its mistakes is not a pleasant picture to look upon. But it must be held up to our view, that we may desire something better.
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 17)
*****
My brethren, who are seeking to advance the work of God and to save perishing souls, be sure that you are not an enemy in sheep’s clothing. Are you harboring jealousy or evil surmising. Are you working to destroy confidence in your fellow workmen while you magnify yourself? Let every one seek the Lord, bearing in mind that he has a soul to save. If he will persevere, he may make thorough work for eternity.
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 18)
“I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, with all lowliness, and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love. Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” [Ephesians 4:1-3.]
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 19)
This will create an atmosphere that will bring the angels who keep and guard the soul.
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 20)
“This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind, having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart.” [Verses 17-18.]
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 21)
This class of people lives a life separate from God. God cannot work in a church where the members allow the enemy to work by and through them. Many have no faith in those with whom they are associated, because they have no faith in themselves. Instead of yielding to the spirit of repentance, they seem to be past feeling.
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 22)
“Who being past feeling have given themselves over to lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 23)
“But ye have not so learned Christ; if so be that ye have heard Him, and have been taught by Him, as the truth is in Jesus: that ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; and be renewed in the spirit of your mind: and that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbor: for we are members one of another. Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath.” [Verses 19-26.]
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 24)
Can there be anger without sin? Yes, there is a holy indignation at the total depravity of the human heart.
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 25)
“Neither give place to the devil. Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labor, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 26)
“Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. And grieve not the Holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: and be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” [Verses 27-32.]
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 27)
*****
I address my brethren and sisters in every church. Magnify Christ. Follow after no man whose life reveals that he is not a follower of Christ. Serve Him with heart and soul and mind.
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 28)
Every dollar that is withheld from the place that God has designed for it is defrauding His cause. There is great need of help at Berrien Springs. Are there not some who have means who can help them in this place? The Lord has greatly blessed them, but they need to have more comfortable quarters for the winter. The Lord would be pleased to have you do something just now.
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 29)
*****
I cannot give encouragement to make such a call for means to be invested in the sanitarium at Battle Creek, that we shall have but little to give to the needy fields. Neither can I encourage large numbers of our most promising youth to go to that place to receive a medical missionary training. Some of the things that are taught in Battle Creek are not sound, sanctified principles of truth. Dangerous sentiments will be inculcated in many minds that will in future time open the door to Satan’s sophistries.
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 30)
The time has come for God to work in our behalf. I wish to make a sure work for eternity.
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 31)
We cannot find words fitly to explain the latest development of ideas held by some. They contain threads of pantheism. These ideas are so mixed with the truth, that the truth is made of no effect. These specious theories constitute a denial of the personality of God, the atonement of Christ and His work in the sanctuary. They take away the vital principles which have made us a separate people.
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 32)
*****
Too frequently, when we are asked to help some cause, there goes with the favor bestowed in response to the call a spirit of upbraiding.
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 33)
*****
The Lord will help us if we ask in faith, nothing doubting.
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 34)
*****
The action of mind upon mind is given us as a talent from the Lord for the use of which He will hold us responsible.
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 35)
*****
No one can live to himself, even if he would. He is under the control of a mind that is a power of influence either for good or for evil. The Lord provided for His saints an influence that leads to a life of usefulness. The opposite influence comes from Lucifer, the angel who in his rebellion in heaven led many of the angels away from their allegiance to God. He desires to perpetuate sin. And with the host of angels who acknowledge his leadership, he constantly seeks to counterwork the efforts of God for man’s salvation.
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 36)
*****
The personality of God is represented in Jesus Christ. He is the express image of His Father’s person. An understanding of the first chapters of the book of Hebrews is important. We may find comfort and encouragement in studying these chapters prayerfully.
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 37)
“Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God. But exhort one another daily, while it is called, Today: lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.” [Hebrews 3:12-13.]
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 38)
Sin is deceptive, especially when it appears clothed in garments of righteousness. Unless we keep the Word of God ever before us, we shall be drawn away from the truth into by and forbidden paths. Those who are taken in the snare of the enemy are those who are hardened through the deceitfulness of sin, who have not received the divine rays of light from heaven. They may be filled with an intense earnestness, but they are moved by a power from beneath. Satan is well acquainted with the Scriptures. He can lead minds to misunderstand what is written, to misquote, and to misinterpret what God has written. Unless we are constantly on guard, he will obtain possession of our minds.
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 39)
“For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end.” [Verse 14.]
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 40)
The danger signal is lifted. Let those who have had an experience in the beginning of the work of the first and second and third angel’s messages, “hold fast the beginning of their confidence steadfast unto the end.”
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 41)
“While it is said, Today if ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation. For some, when they had heard, did provoke: howbeit not all that came out of Egypt by Moses. But with whom was He grieved forty years? was it not with them that had sinned, whose carcasses fell in the wilderness? And to whom sware He that they should not enter into His rest, but to them that believed not? So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief.
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 42)
“Let us therefore fear, lest a promise being left us of entering into His rest, any of you should seem to come short of it. For unto us was the gospel preached as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it.” [Chapters 3:15-4:2.]
(25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, 43)
Ms 10, 1914
Interview/An Interview with Dr. Thomason “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California September 8, 1914 Previously unpublished.
Interview of E. G. White with Dr. Thomason
After greetings, Sister White spoke of the work she is trying to do now in getting books out for the people.
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 1)
Sara: The Doctor is leaving the sanitarium, and he has called to tell you good-by.
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 2)
E. G. White: You are leaving? (Then followed remarks about her own wish to keep in the path of duty.)
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 3)
Sarah: Did you understand that the Doctor is leaving the sanitarium altogether, disconnecting from the work here?
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 4)
E. G. White: No, I didn’t. Do you feel that that is your duty?
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 5)
Dr. Thomason: Yes, for the present. You didn’t know I was going?
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 6)
E. G. White: No. I could wish you had deferred it a little.
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 7)
Dr. Thomason: I am going East for a few weeks and will be back for a few days in November.
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 8)
E. G. White: I am very careful how I give out anything unless I understand. I want to know just what the Lord would have me do.
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 9)
Dr. Thomason: Did you know anything about the changes in the medical staff at the sanitarium?
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 10)
E. G. White: No, I didn’t.
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 11)
Dr. Thomason: Didn’t Elder Andross and Brother White talk with you about it?
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 12)
E. G. White: If they did, I don’t remember it. What has changed your mind about staying here?
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 13)
Dr. Thomason: I feel that some of the board think it is best for me to go.
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 14)
E. G. White: I’d like to know more particulars.
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 15)
Dr. Thomason: I supposed you understood the situation.
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 16)
E. G. White: No, I don’t. Something was said about higher wages, I think. I charged them to be very careful how they treated that matter. It is a very critical time now. We are to stand as firm to principle as the needle to the pole. What I want to know is, Am I in the line of my duty? I shall know, because I have always known.
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 17)
Dr. Thomason: Some felt it was best for me to make a change.
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 18)
E. G. White: I can’t tell about that. We must be very careful how we make changes.
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 19)
Dr. Thomason: They are having trouble to get some one to take the work.
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 20)
E. G. White: If I were you, I’d put off this matter. Yet I have not that acquaintance with the matter that would warrant me in advising in regard to it. Was it a question of means?
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 21)
Dr. Thomason: Well, partly, but that was not the principal thing. I have never made the matter of means a test of my duty.
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 22)
E. G. White: I can say about these things, I have had them to meet again and again. What we want to know is what God wants of us. We must move with an eye single to the glory of God. If it is a matter of more means to handle, be careful to follow on to know the Lord, that His going forth is prepared as the morning.
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 23)
I am not in a position to carry burdens unless I have to.
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 24)
Sara: The Doctor did not come to lay any burden on you, but just to say good-by.
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 25)
E. G. White: If the Lord sees fit to place on some other one the work I have been doing, I would say Amen and Amen.
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 26)
There is great danger of mixing ourselves up with things that will make us a lot of trouble.
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 27)
I should wait to see my way as plain as A, B, C. Come to the Lord as a little child, and you will not have to go in darkness. You may have trials from various causes. It is not for me to say just what you should do.
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 28)
Dr. Thomason: No, I didn’t want you to do that.
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 29)
E. G. White: I would never strike for higher wages.
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 30)
Dr. Thomason: No, I laid that aside. I told them I would stay without reference to that.
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 31)
E. G. White: How we come out depends on ourselves. We will be brought through the straitest places. I have had many severe trials. (She speaks of the loss of her husband.)
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 32)
Be sure that every step you take is right. I mean to know where I am, and I hope you will. I feel an intensity over our young men and other men who have worked with us, that none of them shall take a false step. I hate to have any one go away and not know the Lord has prepared the way. Do not move in an independent manner. I am sorry you are going away. Where are you going?
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 33)
Dr. Thomason: I am not sure yet. I may stay on the coast, but the most earnest call is from South Africa. I had a letter from my sister there last night, and one from a number of the conference committee, urging me to come back.
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 34)
E. G. White: Take it all to the Lord, and don’t make any move you will be sorry for. I cannot give you such advice and assurance as if the Lord had opened it up before me, but I do feel intensely that every one should make right moves.
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 35)
Dr. Thomason: I came in to say good-by. I do not want to tire you.
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 36)
E. G. White: I am glad you came. I have an intense interest that those who are laboring should not consult self, but should bind off their work so well that the Well done can be said to them.
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 37)
The Lord doesn’t require me to go through the hard spots any more.
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 38)
The Lord help you. Don’t stretch forward to high wages.
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 39)
Dr. Thomason: I am praying a great deal about this whole matter.
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 40)
E. G. White: I hope you will. We need to make every step in surety now, to know we are walking in the counsel of God.
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 41)
Thank you for speaking of this matter. Move soundly with the best of judgment. The Lord give you light and knowledge that come from Himself.
(25LtMs, Ms 10, 1914, 42)
Ms 12, 1914
Interview/An Interview Between W. C. White and Mrs. Ellen G. White “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California August, 15, 1914 Previously unpublished.
(Report of an interview held between Mrs. Ellen G. White and Elder W. C. White, “Elmshaven,” Sanitarium, California, Sabbath afternoon, August 15, 1914.)
(25LtMs, Ms 12, 1914, 1)
Finding Mother in the sitting room about 2:30 p.m., I told her about the forenoon meeting at the sanitarium chapel and the home news.
(25LtMs, Ms 12, 1914, 2)
After a few minutes’ conversation, Mother asked me if there were any matters that I wished to present to her. I told her there was a testimony written in 1908, regarding the school work in the South, that I should like to have her consider. Then I brought forward the letter dated January 8, 1908, addressed “To Those Bearing Responsibilities in Washington and Other Centers.” Slowly and distinctly I read this letter to her.
(25LtMs, Ms 12, 1914, 3)
At the close of the reading, I referred to the fact that what she had written about the school work in the South and its need of help had led several men, representing small enterprises, to feel that they were free to make a general canvass of our churches for donations, and that this was opposed by our brethren. I also stated that I had been thinking that we ought to have a board of seven or nine trustees appointed to receive gifts and to dispense help where most needed.
(25LtMs, Ms 12, 1914, 4)
Mother said: “That ought to be done. It has been presented to me several times that something like that should be done. If we would be sensible enough to counsel together kindly and courteously, the blessing of God would be seen in the work, and the grace of God in the action of the workers. Then God can make impressions on hearts.
(25LtMs, Ms 12, 1914, 5)
“Unity of spirit and action puts a trust-note in their hands regarding the receiving of means and the whole line of work. An impression is made that cannot be effaced from minds, that the work is to be perpetuated. It gives evidence that the work is based on truth and righteousness.”
(25LtMs, Ms 12, 1914, 6)
I said that a board of trustees could receive gifts, and appropriate a little here and a little there, where most needed.
(25LtMs, Ms 12, 1914, 7)
Mother said: “It has been shown me several times that this ought to be done, and I have wondered that it has been so long before this was entered into.
(25LtMs, Ms 12, 1914, 8)
“There ought to be a firm confidence established between brethren who are accepted to act a part in this work—not a make-believe unity, but a solid compact; that when questions arise, it can be shown that they were dealing not with supposition, but with truth.”
(25LtMs, Ms 12, 1914, 9)
I said that a board of trustees properly selected would give confidence to our people, and that these trustees could give counsel to the workers.
(25LtMs, Ms 12, 1914, 10)
Mother said: “That is the way it has been presented to me for a long time. Then if they see evils in the work, they can change matters. If handled at once, the changes can be made easily.
(25LtMs, Ms 12, 1914, 11)
“We must show that we are walking on solid ground. If we are working in harmony with the principles of righteousness and truth, the angels of God will work with us. The people must see righteousness and consistency in the work. Righteousness and truth must work in perfect harmony. God will be with the workers, and prosperity will follow them, as they labor in simplicity and truth.
(25LtMs, Ms 12, 1914, 12)
“It is our business to make sure that the work will go forward safely and as perfectly as possible. Men will see our determination to dig deep and lay a sure foundation, and the God of Israel will be our rearward.
(25LtMs, Ms 12, 1914, 13)
“One subject I must speak of: Those having families should not be called upon to bear undue hardships and privations. They should be allowed to deal with their families. We must not suffer the idea that those working hard to build up shall be treated indifferently. The angels of God will be their dependence for surely and success.
(25LtMs, Ms 12, 1914, 14)
“Let us draw in even cords—not one pulling this way, and another that way. Then the angels of God will give success.
(25LtMs, Ms 12, 1914, 15)
“These things will have to be repeated over and over again, in order that our brethren may draw in harmony and unity for uplifting—not in themselves, but for uplifting in the presence of God. They are to labor in accordance with His Word. Then the lessons given will be of such a character that the students will understand them as ‘yea’ and ‘amen’ for the victory. It is because we do not walk steadily in sure tracks that there are failures. But there is no need of failures, because God has spoken, and His will shall be fulfilled. Nothing will enable us to prevail like presenting to God the sure word of His promises. Then there is no failure.
(25LtMs, Ms 12, 1914, 16)
“We do not talk faith one-half, no not one-quarter as much as we should if we expect the victory. There is not one-quarter of the faith exercised that it is our privilege to exercise. We have honored the promises so little that we do not know where we are. We should prove the Lord and see that He means just what He says. He is a God of mercy, knowledge, and power; and all these are for us, if we will take them.
(25LtMs, Ms 12, 1914, 17)
“These words were spoken for me to speak to the people. If all will take hold by living faith, we shall see the salvation of God.”
(25LtMs, Ms 12, 1914, 18)
Here Mother rested for some time.
(25LtMs, Ms 12, 1914, 19)
After this I spoke about our system of auditing all conference and institutional accounts and stated that some of our brethren thought that the accounts of independent and self-supporting auxiliary enterprises, which received gifts from our people, should also be audited. I also stated the objection to this.
(25LtMs, Ms 12, 1914, 20)
Mother said: “I thought that was done. That ought to be done every time. The money they receive is God’s money. According to the light given me, this should be done. If confidence in the brethren is shown, the people’s gifts will live and repeat themselves.
(25LtMs, Ms 12, 1914, 21)
“God lives and reigns. We must take God at His word. Then there will be wondrous works wrought. We are to magnify the Lord God of Israel in obeying His Word; then glorify Him because our expectations are fulfilled. We have a working God; therefore in full confidence we can open our lips and glorify Him. And with our purses we can work for the saving of souls all around us.”
(25LtMs, Ms 12, 1914, 22)
Ms 13, 1914
An Ellen White statement written at the end of a letter from Elder J. N. Loughborough NP January 18, 1914 Previously unpublished.
(The following E. G. White statement appears in her handwriting at the end of a letter from J. N. Loughborough, written to her from Lodi, California, January 18, 1914.)
(25LtMs, Ms 13, 1914, 1)
All such testimonies as these are of value. Keep up this line of work. The Holy Spirit will make the impression on human hearts and minds, working on human minds in simplicity, and angels of God will make impression. Cultivate faith. Speak and pray in faith. Walk humbly with the Lord. Grasp by faith the promises. A great work was presented before [me] that will certainly be realized, if we walk humbly in faith.
(25LtMs, Ms 13, 1914, 2)
I am of the best courage. If we walk by faith we shall work intelligently, and souls will be convicted and converted. My age is eighty-six.
(25LtMs, Ms 13, 1914, 3)
*****
Elder Loughborough’s letter follows:
(25LtMs, Ms 13, 1914, 4)
Lodi, California January 18, 1914 Mrs. E. G. White Sanitarium, California Dear Sister White:
I have been glad to learn from your son W. C. White that you have kept tolerably well this winter. There has been so much rainy and cloudy weather I feared you had been deprived of your rides which you prize so much. I daily pray for you that the Lord will still give you strength for the work He still has for you.
(25LtMs, Ms 13, 1914, 5)
I have lately completed a careful reading of the last edition of Great Controversy. I was especially interested to see the pains that were taken in the book in giving references for all historical statements.
(25LtMs, Ms 13, 1914, 6)
As to my health and labor. The 26th of this month, if spared, I will be eighty-two years of age. While my general health is comparatively good, I have not the strength for much public speaking. During the Week of Prayer, I attended all the day meetings and gave the readings in four of the meetings. It was a precious season in Lodi, both for the church and school.
(25LtMs, Ms 13, 1914, 7)
In Vol. VII, p. 288 of your writings I read, “As those who have spent their lives in the cause of God draw near the close of their earthly history, they will be impressed by the Holy Spirit to recount the experiences they have had in connection with His work,” etc.
(25LtMs, Ms 13, 1914, 8)
Though I cannot go out in public speaking, I have been moved to write; and our editors are, without knowing what I am now doing, calling for such writings. I have much of the blessing of the Lord from day to day. As I seek to draw nearer and nearer to Him, the Holy Spirit draws nears to me.
(25LtMs, Ms 13, 1914, 9)
May the Lord continue His rich blessings with you is the prayer of,
(25LtMs, Ms 13, 1914, 10)
Yours in the Blessed Hope
(25LtMs, Ms 13, 1914, 11)
(signed) J. N. Loughborough
Ms 14, 1914
Ellen White’s Comments on “The Value of Organization” [as reported by W. C. White] St. Helena, California August 3, 1914 This manuscript is published in entirety in 13MR 111-112.
Ellen White Comments on “The Value of Organization” by C. C. Crisler, as reported by W. C. White.
Dear Bro. Crisler:
This morning Mother seemed to be quite strong, and she asked if there was anything needing her attention. Then I told her of the manuscript you had prepared on “The Value of Organization,” which has a bearing on the relationship of the Madison School to the organized work of the Seventh-day Adventist denomination. Mother said she would be pleased to have me read it to her, and we read the first 26 pages. [Page references refer to the working manuscript, not the printed pamphlet. No copies of the draft document are known to have been preserved.]
(25LtMs, Ms 14, 1914, 1)
When we reached page twelve, lines 8-4 from the bottom, Mother said: “This should be repeated and emphasized.” Page 13, lines 5 and 6: “That is important. Meetinghouses will be built and institutions of learning established.” Paragraph 2, page 13: “With humility and love the workers make deep impressions.” Page 17, first paragraph: “That is good.” Paragraph 3: “I am glad of that statement.” Page 20, last paragraph: “Frequently this matter has been presented to me in this way. If humble workers will carry the message in great humility, the power of God will set home the truth to the hearts of the people. There is danger of getting out of the line of true humility, which God approves and which proves itself.
(25LtMs, Ms 14, 1914, 2)
“When the workers become confused, let them drop upon their knees and plead with God to make clear the understanding of His truth, and the people will be impressed. If they keep in the line of humility, the angels of God will impress hearts, and they will receive the truth, where otherwise they would not. These words were spoken to me distinctly: ‘I will make the impressions. I will lead men to speak words of great import to the people, and these words will make their impression.’
(25LtMs, Ms 14, 1914, 3)
“There is a large compass for us to work out. The Lord Jesus is imbuing the workers with His Spirit, and with understanding also, and He wants the workers to make the truth as impressive as possible.
(25LtMs, Ms 14, 1914, 4)
“God will make His Word a power of intelligence to the people. Satan will bring every jot and tittle of influence that it is possible for him to bring that will divert minds from the truth. Guard every point so that the people will have no excuse to turn away from the truth, because to accept it requires a sacrifice on their part.
(25LtMs, Ms 14, 1914, 5)
“If when engaged in the work the laborers would drop right down on their knees and plead with God to save these souls for whom Christ died, God would hear and souls would be won to Christ Jesus.”
(25LtMs, Ms 14, 1914, 6)
Ms 15, 1914
“Let This Work Go Forward” NP May, 1914 Previously unpublished.
A statement by Ellen White upon receipt of the following extract:
(25LtMs, Ms 15, 1914, 1)
Extract from a letter written by Dr. J. Taylor Stratton, Chairman of the Davidson County Board of Education, Madison, Tennessee, under date of May 11, 1914. The letter is addressed to Dr. P. E. Claxton, United States Commissioner of Education.
(25LtMs, Ms 15, 1914, 2)
“Private schools also are being pushed to an efficiency hitherto unknown, and perhaps the most noted of these are the schools organized and conducted by those affiliating with the Seventh-day Adventist church. Their central training school is located nine miles from Nashville, and near my home, and the practical side of their school work has been a constant demonstration of desirable things to this community.
(25LtMs, Ms 15, 1914, 3)
“From this center, well-equipped young men and women have gone out to our hill country and ridge sections and have established schools that have proven most wonderful agencies for the moral, intellectual, and physical uplift of these people. They make their homes with these people and teach them the better things of life by example as well as by precept.
(25LtMs, Ms 15, 1914, 4)
“While these schools are not equipped like the modern high school, yet I find that they are emphasizing and successfully teaching domestic science, manual training, and agriculture through which their influence reaches into the homes and very noticeably advances the standard of the community life.”
(25LtMs, Ms 15, 1914, 5)
Yours very truly,
(25LtMs, Ms 15, 1914, 6)
(signed) J. Taylor Stratton *****
Ellen White’s statement:
(25LtMs, Ms 15, 1914, 7)
“Be sure and preserve this to be used to accomplish the work that needs to be done to educate and to train students. There is to be encouragement to carry forward the grand work that is to be done. I am deeply interested. Let this work go forward. Let nothing be done to bind about this work. It is the Lord’s work, and let us all act our individual part. We can all engage in this work. My soul is deeply interested.”
(25LtMs, Ms 15, 1914, 8)
Ms 16, 1914
Interview/EGW Comments at Worship NP August 5, 1914 Previously unpublished.
Ellen White's Comments at Worship, Wednesday evening, August 5, 1914
[Ellen White's secretary:] I found her just ready to have worship. I told of the work of the day—study of Jeremiah Scriptures. Read portions from Jeremiah 33—verses 1-4, 6-16, and particularly emphasized the promises by re-reading these.
(25LtMs, Ms 16, 1914, 1)
After praying, Sister White prayed also, thus:
(25LtMs, Ms 16, 1914, 2)
“Heavenly Father, I come to Thee just as I am, needy, and dependent; and I ask of Thee to inspire my soul with a faith that will lay hold of the promises, and that will grasp the blessing that we so much need at the present time. I ask Thee, Lord, that Thy grace may be given us right here. We want it. We want to honor Thee; we want to glorify Thee. We want to do Thy will, and we want to walk in accordance with Thy Word, that we may receive the promise. Oh Lord, help us to claim it by a living faith. Help us to lay hold upon Thee. Help us to grasp the promise, as Thou hast presented in Thy Word, that the light shall shine into our hearts and minds. Amen.”
(25LtMs, Ms 16, 1914, 3)
* * * * *
[Ellen White's secretary:] Before the prayer, Sister White had been urging the importance of our meditating on the promise, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” She had expressed the wish, also, before prayer, that we might have praying seasons, to break through the clouds of darkness the enemy brings close, and have a season of refreshing, as in the olden days when she and her husband and others would meet together for prayer. She seemed to be longing for special blessings.
(25LtMs, Ms 16, 1914, 4)
After the praying season, she said, in part:
(25LtMs, Ms 16, 1914, 5)
“We want to ask. He has said, ‘Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.’ We want to claim the blessing by faith; and I felt as if I wanted to speak these words of faith. We will not allow the darkness to come into our minds. We want truth to triumph; and we want God to be our front guard and our rearward. We want to be just what God would have us to be. I am so thankful that we can bring our praise to God and believe that He will hear our praise and that He will answer our petitions. I am very thankful, and I want this faith that we can carry through discouragements; it will be with us, and help us. If we are ever overcomers, we have got to have a hard tug of it; and yet, just get sight of the Lord and what He has said He would do, and claim and hold to it, and He will hear, and He will answer prayer.
(25LtMs, Ms 16, 1914, 6)
“Well, I am thankful that there is hope for us in God, and we will cling to the promise. We will not let go. I thought I must say these words because unbelief comes in so easy, and we slide right away from it. Now the Lord wants us to have a faith that will speak. That faith that will speak will bring the promise just as He has promised; and I feel encouraged as I think these things over. There is light for us in the Lord. Let us talk light; let us act light; let us seek with all our hearts to do the will of God, and we shall see of his salvation. Satan shall have no power over us. We want that faith that works by love and purifies the soul.
(25LtMs, Ms 16, 1914, 7)
“Oh, I feel so anxious for our household here, and we will press the battle to the gates. The Lord is good to us. He has given us rich promises, and we have nothing to discourage us. And we want now to lay right hold and put away unbelief. Just press right to the side of Christ; and if we do so, His grace will be imparted unto us. I feel as though I wanted to be in that position that I can honor God and glorify Him; let us, every one, try. Let us, every one, have a testimony that we can bear when we come together again. It is the light of the Lord, and we want His grace, and we want His salvation. Let us not give over till we have a perfect victory. Now that is what I have to say.
(25LtMs, Ms 16, 1914, 8)
“I hope we will have that faith that overcometh unbelief, that will hang upon the promises. We must have that living faith that will claim the promise, and believe and trust in God; and we shall see of His salvation. That is how I feel. I do not feel discouraged in any wise; I feel just as though the Lord is my Keeper; the Lord is my Saviour; and I will trust Him till the last. Amen.”
(25LtMs, Ms 16, 1914, 9)
Ms 17, 1914
Prayer of E. G. White NP December 26, 1914 Portions of this manuscript are published in LS 441.
Prayer by Sister E. G. White during an interview with Elder and Mrs. E.W. Farnsworth
Heavenly Father, we come to Thee with our brethren to repeat the same prayers that they have offered for me and others. Let Thy blessing rest upon us. Be Thou our front guard and our rearward, that the enemy shall have no power to control mind or body, but that we shall be in a position that Thou canst speak and we can hear.
(25LtMs, Ms 17, 1914, 1)
Thou wilt answer our petitions; and we ask Thee, Lord, for Christ's sake, if it is Thy will, to give me strength and to give me grace to still continue. I am perfectly willing; or, I am perfectly willing to leave my work at any time that Thou seest best. Oh Lord, I greatly desire to do some things, Thou knowest, and would be willing to do them if Thou wilt give me strength; but we will make no complaint, because Thou hast spared my life so much longer than many anticipated and than I have anticipated myself.
(25LtMs, Ms 17, 1914, 2)
And now I ask Thee that my brethren that have come to see me, my children—I call them my children—I ask Thee to give them Thy grace and Thy keeping power under all circumstances and under all conditions. Thou canst guard them. We want to see the Lord's work done; and wherever Thou canst give strength to have it done, we pray Thee that Thou wouldst give that strength at this time.
(25LtMs, Ms 17, 1914, 3)
Give us light; give us joy; give us the great grace that Thou hast in store for the needy; and let us obtain it; and help us to carry it out. We ask it in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth.
(25LtMs, Ms 17, 1914, 4)
Sweep back every mist of darkness and let the sunlight of Thy glory in. We give ourselves to Thee tonight. We are so pleased to see these brethren. We do not know what to say nor we hardly know how to treat it—it is a graciousness that we did not expect—but we ask Thee to let Thy blessing rest upon them, and let it rest upon me. And may we see the order of the Lord, and may we see the glory of His working in the meetings that shall be held. We ask Thee in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth. Amen.
(25LtMs, Ms 17, 1914, 5)