“How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without
a preacher?” – Romans 10:14
There are those in all our cities who have not had the truth presented to them; who have not heard the warning message of the Lord’s soon coming; who have not heard that the end of all things is at hand. Unless messengers go to them in the Spirit of Christ, how shall these people hear the gospel invitation? How shall they know that their sins may be forgiven through the mercy of a crucified and risen Saviour? (1)
By showing an interest in the wants of suffering humanity we can best reach hearts. The culture of the mind and heart is much more easily accomplished when we feel such tender sympathy in others that we scatter our benefits and privileges to relieve their necessities. (2)
God calls not only for your benevolence, but for your cheerful countenance, your hopeful words, the grasp of your hand. As you visit the Lord’s afflicted ones, you will find some from whom hope has departed; bring back the sunshine to them. There are those who need the bread of life; read to them from the Word of God. Upon others there is a soul sickness that no earthly balm can reach or physician heal; pray for these, and bring them to Jesus. (3)
Brethren and sisters, as this appeal in behalf of the needy comes to you, I hope that you will respond. Let every member take a lively interest in this good work. Do not let Jesus be disappointed in you. The Word of God abounds with instruction as to how we should treat the widow and fatherless, and the needy, suffering poor. If all would do the work of the Master, the widow’s heart would sing for joy, and hungry little children would be fed, the destitute would be clothed, and those ready to perish would be revived. (4)
Charge for the Day: Consider the last paragraph above…. “If all would do the work of the Master, the widow’s heart would sing for joy, and hungry little children would be fed, the destitute would be clothed, and those ready to perish would be revived.” (4) Today, determine to be the soul-winner God needs you to be for His purpose.
1. The Review and Herald, July 2, 1895
2. Letter 116, 1897
3. Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6, p. 277
4. Manuscript 26, 1891