Counsel to those new in the faith

I would like to address those of you who have come to a knowledge of the truth. You are young in the faith, and there is a great need for you to walk humbly with God. You must learn daily in the "School of Christ" by dwelling particularly—through meditation and conversation—upon the lessons He gave to His disciples. Walk with all humility of mind, distrustful of self and seeking wisdom from the God of wisdom. Ensure that all your ways and methods are in firm and close connection with the will of God so that there may be no confusion.

We must never forget how difficult it is to remove long-cherished errors from the minds of men, especially those taught from childhood. Bear in mind that earth is not heaven; there will be discouragements to meet and overcome. However, forbearance, tenderness, and pity should be exercised toward all who are in darkness. If we are to bring them to the light, it will not be solely through arguments. It must be through the work of the grace of Christ in your own heart, revealed in your character with firmness, yet with the meekness and simplicity of Christ.

Through much prayer, you must labor for souls, for this is the only method by which you can reach hearts. It is not your work, but the work of Christ by your side that impresses the heart.

Be determined that you will not be at variance among yourselves. Instead, let the peace of Christ reside in your own hearts; then, it will be an easy task to bring that peace into your own families. When the garden of the heart is neglected, poisonous weeds of pride, self-esteem, and self-sufficiency obtain a rank growth. We must individually "watch unto prayer."

The Responsibility of the Husband

The husband bears a great responsibility. The characters we form will speak loudly in our home life. If there is a sweet accord in the home circle, the angels of God may minister there. If there is wise management at home—kindness, meekness, and forbearance combined with firm principles—then be assured that the husband is a true "house-band." He binds the family together with holy chords and presents them to God, binding himself with them upon the altar of God. What a light shines forth from such a family!

A family that is properly conducted is a favorable argument for the truth. The head of such a family will carry out the very same kind of work in the church as is revealed in the family. Wherever severity, harshness, or a lack of affection are exhibited in the sacred circle of the home, there will assuredly be a failure in the plans and management of the church. Unity in the home and unity in the church reveal Christ’s manner and grace more than any sermon or argument.

Is the advanced truth we have received producing in our hearts the fruits of patience, faith, hope, and charity? Is it leaving a saving influence upon human minds, revealing that we are branches of the True Vine (Jesus Christ) because we bear the rich clusters of the Fruit of the Spirit?

Letter 6b, 1890.