“But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and 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
There might be very much more accomplished if there was more reading matter furnished for those who will pay for them or accept without money and without price. The efforts of the faithful ministers who preach the Word would be very much more effective if backed up by reading matter. Tracts and pamphlets should be prepared and our bound books explaining the Scriptures, all ready to be used at our large gatherings. There are many who will consider it a privilege to pay for publications upon present truth. It is far better for them to do so if they will, but we should not wait at this time for this. Many see no special importance in the unpopular truth applicable to these last days, and it is hard for them to feel any interest or see any occasion for the earnest efforts which would arouse them and call their attention to this subject. While they would turn their ears from the truth to enjoy pleasing fables, they would spend their money for that which is not bread and their labor for that which satisfieth not. Money is lavishly expended for the gratification of indulgence of perverted appetite in alcoholic liquor and tobacco stupefying the senses and bringing upon themselves and their loved ones inexpressible misery. They would not pay out their money to obtain light upon the truth—the saving, sanctifying truth which would elevate, ennoble, and sanctify them and give them a right hold of the better life.
But notwithstanding this deplorable condition of things, even some of the hardest cases of this class will accept the truth if their attention can be arrested. Many have become disgusted with the popular religion and if they can be convinced that they had found real truth, real genuine religion, will fall in love with it. They have been fast becoming infidels because of the inconsistent lives of professed Christians. There is too great fear of being repulsed. There should be a sowing beside all waters. There should be greater zeal and perseverance in making the most of favorable opportunities. There should be a seizing of the opportunities and pressing in the rays of light upon present truth judiciously, cautiously, and yet earnestly. (1)
Charge for the Day: Pray and ask God to help you discern and seize the opportunities before you to present His truth to others.
1. Letter 34, 1875