MH page 157

This is an illustration of the way in which we are to work. We must offer men something better than that which they possess, even the peace of Christ, which passeth all understanding. We must tell them of God's holy law, the transcript of His character, and an expression of that which He wishes them to become. Show them how infinitely superior to the fleeting joys and pleasures of the world is the imperishable glory of heaven. Tell them of the freedom and rest to be found in the Saviour. “Whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst,” He declared. Verse 14 .

Workers should present the spiritual peace and heavenly hope of Christ rather than merely criticizing worldly pleasures. Focuses on sharing spiritual truths and scriptural promises.

Lift up Jesus, crying, “Behold, the Lamb of God, that taketh away the sin of the world!” John 1:29 , A.R.V. He alone can satisfy the craving of the heart and give peace to the soul.

Jesus alone can satisfy the deepest cravings of the human heart and grant true spiritual peace. Expressed in theological and devotional terms regarding spiritual salvation and comfort.

Of all people in the world, reformers should be the most unselfish, the most kind, the most courteous. In their lives should be seen the true goodness of unselfish deeds. The worker who manifests a lack of courtesy, who shows impatience at the ignorance or waywardness of others, who speaks hastily or acts thoughtlessly, may close the door to hearts so that he can never reach them.

Reformers should exhibit extreme unselfishness, kindness, and courtesy to avoid alienating those they wish to help. Provides ethical and behavioral standards for advocates of reform.

As the dew and the still showers fall upon the withering plants, so let words fall gently when seeking to win men from error. God's plan is first to reach the heart. We are to speak the truth in love, trusting in Him to give it power for the reforming of the life. The Holy Spirit will apply to the soul the word that is spoken in love.

Truth is to be spoken gently and in love, relying on divine agency to reform the heart. The paragraph focuses on divine spiritual operation and gentle communication without making empirical medical or behavioral claims.

Naturally we are self-centered and opinionated. But when we learn the lessons that Christ desires to teach us, we become partakers of His nature; henceforth we live His life. The wonderful example of Christ, the matchless tenderness with which He entered into the feelings of others, weeping with those who wept, rejoicing with those who rejoiced, must have a deep influence upon the character of all who follow Him in sincerity. By kindly words and acts they will try to make the path easy for weary feet.

Following Christ's example of tenderness and empathy influences character and leads to comforting others. It encourages moral emulation of Christ's emotional attunement as an ethical duty.