MH page 151

Men deficient in school education, lowly in social position, have, through the grace of Christ, sometimes been wonderfully successful in winning souls for Him. The secret of their success was their confidence in God. They learned daily of Him who is wonderful in counsel and mighty in power.

Confidence in God and learning from Christ are the secrets to success in winning souls, regardless of low social position or lack of education. The text discusses spiritual success through faith and divine grace, with no empirical assertions suitable for scientific evaluation.

Such workers are to be encouraged. The Lord brings them into connection with those of more marked ability, to fill up the gaps that others leave. Their quickness to see what is to be done, their readiness to help those in need, their kind words and deeds, open doors of usefulness that otherwise would remain closed. They come close to those in trouble, and the persuasive influence of their words has power to draw many trembling souls to God. Their work shows what thousands of others might do, if they only would.

Workers with practical readiness and kindness effectively open doors of usefulness and draw others toward God. This emphasizes relational ministry and interpersonal influence, lacking empirical medical claims.

Nothing will so arouse a self-sacrificing zeal and broaden and strengthen the character as to engage in work for others. Many professed Christians, in seeking church relationship, think only of themselves. They wish to enjoy church fellowship and pastoral care. They become members of large and prosperous churches, and are content to do little for others. In this way they are robbing themselves of the most precious blessings. Many would be greatly benefited by sacrificing their pleasant, ease-conducing associations. They need to go where their energies will be called out in Christian work and they can learn to bear responsibilities.

Engaging in self-sacrificing work for others strengthens character and avoids the spiritual stagnation that comes from self-absorption. Presents a broad ethical and psychological perspective on altruism and character development.