第50章 上帝的仆人
§1
第50章 上帝的仆人
§2
Chap. 50 - The Servants of God
§3
上帝拣选亚伯拉罕作祂的使者，藉着他将光传给世人。上帝的话临到他，并非提示在今生享受高薪厚禄、伟大声望与属世尊荣等等使人欣羡的期望。“你要离开本地、本族、父家，往我所要指示你的地去”（创12:1）。这就是临到亚伯拉罕的神圣信息。先祖顺从了，就“遵命出去，往将来要得为业的地方去；出去的时候，还不知往哪里去”（来11:8），作为上帝的擎光者，要在地上保存祂的圣名。他撇下了自己的本国、本家、亲族和他早年各种悦人心意的交际，而成了寄居的客旅。{4T 523.1}[1]
§4
God selected Abraham as His messenger through whom to communicate light to the world. The word of God came to him, not with the presentation of flattering prospects in this life of large salary, of great appreciation and worldly honor. Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy fathers house, unto a land that I will show thee, was the divine message to Abraham. The patriarch obeyed, and went out, not knowing whither he went, as Gods light bearer, to keep His name alive in the earth. He forsook his country, his home, his relatives, and all pleasant associations connected with his early life, to become a pilgrim and a stranger. {4T 523.1}[1]
§5
许多人往往没有充分认识到，那些要“替基督”（林后5:20）说话的人，在达到上帝能使他们受教育和训练并有资格做祂大工的地步之前，旧有的交往必须断绝。亲族和朋友们往往具有一种影响力，上帝认为这会大大妨碍祂要给祂仆人们的指教。那些与上天没有密切联络的人可能会提出种种建议，若是听从了，就会使那些应该作世上擎光者的人转离他们神圣的工作。{4T 523.2}[2]
§6
It is frequently more essential than many realize, that early associations should be broken up in order that those who are to speak in Christs stead may stand in a position where God can educate and qualify them for His great work. Kindred and friends often have an influence which God sees will greatly interfere with the instructions He designs to give His servants. Suggestions will be made by those who are not in close connection with heaven that will, if heeded, turn aside from their holy work those who should be light bearers to the world. {4T 523.2}[2]
§7
在被上帝使用之前，亚伯拉罕必须和他原先结交的人分开，以致不受人的影响力所左右，或信赖人的帮助。他既与上帝联系上了，从此就必须居住在陌生人中间。他的品格必须与全世界的人迥然有别。他甚至不能向他的朋友们解释自己的行动，好使他们理解，因他们都是拜偶像者。只有属灵的人才能看透属灵的事；所以他的动机和他的行为，都不是他的亲族和朋友们所能了解的。{4T 523.3}[3]
§8
Before God can use him, Abraham must be separated from his former associations, that he may not be controlled by human influence or rely upon human aid. Now that he has become connected with God, this man must henceforth dwell among strangers. His character must be peculiar, differing from all the world. He could not even explain his course of action so as to be understood by his friends, for they were idolaters. Spiritual things must be spiritually discerned; therefore his motives and his actions were beyond the comprehension of his kindred and friends. {4T 523.3}[3]
§9
亚伯拉罕毫无疑问的顺从，是圣经中所显示的一个信心与倚靠上帝的最感人的例证。单凭着关于他后裔将占有迦南地的应许，而全无其它可见的证据，他就跟从上帝到祂要领到之地，完全而且真诚地履行所有的条件，确信主必定守信不渝，成全祂的诺言。无论上帝指示先祖在何处有当尽的义务，他都应命前往；他经过旷野荒郊，心中毫无恐惧；他居住在拜偶像的国度里，只有一个想法：“上帝已经说了，我正在听从祂的声音，祂必定引导，祂必定保护我。”{4T 524.1}[4]
§10
Abrahams unquestioning obedience was one of the most striking instances of faith and reliance upon God to be found in the Sacred Record. With only the naked promise that his descendants should possess Canaan, without the least outward evidence, he followed on where God should lead, fully and sincerely complying with the conditions on his part, and confident that the Lord would faithfully perform His word. The patriarch went wherever God indicated his duty; he passed through wildernesses without terror; he went among idolatrous nations, with the one thought: God has spoken; I am obeying His voice; He will guide, He will protect me. {4T 524.1}[4]
§11
亚伯拉罕这样的信心和倚靠正是上帝今日的使者所需要的。但有许多主原可使用的人不肯前进，听从众声之上的那个声音。与亲友的关系，从前的习惯和交往，往往对上帝的仆人有极大的影响，以致祂给不了他们多少指示，向他们传达不了多少关于祂旨意的知识；往往在一段时间之后，祂就放弃他们，呼召别人代替他们，并以同样的方式试验那些代替他们的人。祂的仆人们若是将自己全然献给他，认为替祂服务的价值，远超越亲属的关系和其它属世的交谊，主就必为他们施行更多的大事。{4T 524.2}[5]
§12
Just such faith and confidence as Abraham had the messengers of God need today. But many whom the Lord could use will not move onward, hearing and obeying the one Voice above all others. The connection with kindred and friends, the former habits and associations, too often have so great an influence upon Gods servants that He can give them but little instruction, can communicate to them but little knowledge of His purposes; and often after a time He sets them aside and calls others in their place, whom He proves and tests in the same manner. The Lord would do much more for His servants if they were wholly consecrated to Him, esteeming His service above the ties of kindred and all other earthly associations. {4T 524.2}[5]
§13
福音传道人有一项神圣的工作。他们有一个严肃的警告要传给世界，一道要么会成为活的香气叫人活，要么会成为死的香气叫人死的信息。他们是上帝派往人间的使者，决不应忘记自己的使命或责任。他们与俗人不同，不可象他们一样。他们若愿忠于上帝，就必须保持自己分别为圣的品格。他们若停止与上天联络，就比别人处在更大的危险中，且会在错误的方向发挥有力的影响，因为撒但的眼睛一直盯着他们，等着他们的某个弱点暴露出来，好趁机成功出击。及至他取得了成功，他就多么得意啊；因为基督的一个使者若是离开了守望的岗位，那大仇敌就能藉着他得到许多人归他自己。{4T 524.3}[6]
§14
Ministers of the gospel have a sacred work. They have a solemn message of warning to bear to the world--a message which will be a savor of life unto life or of death unto death. They are Gods messengers to man, and they should never lose sight of their mission or of their responsibilities. They are not like worldlings; they cannot be like them. If they would be true to God they must maintain their separate, holy character. If they cease to connect with heaven they are in greater danger than others and can exert a stronger influence in the wrong direction, for Satan has his eye constantly upon them, waiting for some weakness to be developed whereby he may make a successful attack. And how he triumphs when he succeeds; for when one who is an ambassador for Christ is off his watch, through him the great adversary may secure many souls to himself. {4T 524.3}[6]
§15
与上帝紧密联系的人，在今世的事上不一定顺利，他们可能时常受到严厉的考验和折磨。约瑟由于保持自身的贞洁诚实，而受到诽谤和迫害。上帝所拣选的使者大卫，被凶恶的敌人如野兽般追捕；但以理因为坚贞不屈忠于上帝，而被扔在狮子坑中。约伯失去他世间的一切，并在肉体上备受痛苦，甚至为亲友所厌弃，然而却仍保持对上帝的忠诚。耶利米肯说上帝放在他口中的话。他直率的见证激怒了君王和贵胄，以致被投到满是淤泥的牢狱中。司提反因愿意宣讲基督和祂被钉十字架，而被石头打死。保罗作为把福音传给外邦人的忠心使者而被下在监里、被杖打、被石头打，最后至死。蒙爱的约翰“为上帝的道，并为给耶稣作的见证”（启1:9），而被流放到拔摩海岛。{4T 525.1}[7]
§16
Those who closely connect with God may not be prosperous in the things of this life; they may often be sorely tried and afflicted. Joseph was maligned and persecuted because he preserved his virtue and integrity. David, that chosen messenger of God, was hunted like a beast of prey by his wicked enemies. Daniel was cast into a den of lions because he was true and unyielding in his allegiance to God. Job was deprived of his worldly possessions and so afflicted in body that he was abhorred by his relatives and friends, yet he preserved his integrity and faithfulness to God. Jeremiah would speak the words which God had put into his mouth, and his plain testimony so enraged the king and princes that he was cast into a loathsome pit. Stephen was stoned because he would preach Christ and Him crucified. Paul was imprisoned, beaten with rods, stoned, and finally put to death because he was a faithful messenger to carry the gospel to the Gentiles. The beloved John was banished to the Isle of Patmos for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ. {4T 525.1}[7]
§17
这些人靠着神能坚定不移的榜样，向世界见证了上帝如何信守诺言──祂的同在和祂支持的恩典。当世界看着这些卑微的人时，并不能看出他们对上帝有多少道德上的价值。在最黑暗的时辰从容镇静地倚靠上帝，乃是信心的工作——无论有多么严重的试探和暴风雨，都感到我们的天父在掌舵。只有信心的眼睛，才能超越时间和感官来估计永生财富的价值。{4T 525.2}[8]
§18
These examples of human steadfastness, in the might of divine power, are a witness to the world of the faithfulness of Gods promises--of His abiding presence and sustaining grace. As the world looks upon these humble men, it cannot discern their moral value with God. It is a work of faith to calmly repose in God in the darkest hour-- however severely tried and tempest-tossed, to feel that our Father is at the helm. The eye of faith alone can look beyond the things of time and sense to estimate the worth of eternal riches. {4T 525.2}[8]
§19
伟大的军事统帅，征服了半个世界的国家，震憾了列国的军队，却在流放和失望中死去。哲学家探索了宇宙，到处跟踪追寻上帝大能的表现，并且为它们的协调一致感到高兴，却往往看不到那形成这一切奇迹的手。“人在尊贵中而不醒悟，就如死亡的畜类一样”（诗49:20）。没有光荣不朽的希望照亮上帝之仇敌的未来。但那些信心的英雄，却蒙应许承受比任何世间财富价值更大的产业，一份会使饥渴的心灵得到满足的产业。他们可能在世上鲜为人知，也不得到承认，却被天上的记录册登记为公民。上帝立为后嗣承受一切的人，必得到崇高伟大、永远持久的荣耀为最终的报偿。{4T 526.1}[9]
§20
The great military commander conquers nations and shakes the armies of half the world, but he dies of disappointment and in exile. The philosopher who ranges through the universe, everywhere tracing the manifestations of Gods power and delighting in their harmony, often fails to behold in these marvelous wonders the Hand that formed them all. Man that is in honor, and understandeth not, is like the beasts that perish. No hope of glorious immortality lights up the future of the enemies of God. But those heroes of faith have the promise of an inheritance of greater value than any earthly riches--an inheritance that will satisfy the longings of the soul. They may be unknown and unacknowledged of the world, but they are enrolled as citizens in the record books of heaven. An exalted greatness, an enduring, eternal weight of glory, will be the final reward of those whom God has made heirs of all things. {4T 526.1}[9]
§21
福音的传道人应该以上帝的真理为研究、默想和交谈的主题。凡是仔细思考上帝向人启示之旨意的人，必在真理上变得坚强。凡是抱着诚恳的愿望，为了寻求神圣亮光而研读圣经的人，不论是不是传道人，不久就会发现圣经里面存在的美好与和谐会吸引他们的注意力，提高他们的思想境界，给予他们灵感与辩才，有力量叫人认罪悔改。{4T 526.2}[10]
§22
Ministers of the gospel should make the truth of God the theme of study, of meditation, and of conversation. The mind that dwells much on the revealed will of God to man will become strong in the truth. Those who read and study with an earnest desire for divine light, whether they are ministers or not, will soon discover in the Scriptures a beauty and harmony which will captivate their attention, elevate their thoughts, and give them an inspiration and an energy of argument that will be powerful to convict and convert souls. {4T 526.2}[10]
§23
自称相信现代真理的传道人，存在心安理得于只提出理论，自己的心却感受不到真理成圣能力的危险。有些人心中没有上帝的爱软化塑造他们的生活，使之变得高尚。诗人提到义人说：“惟喜爱耶和华的律法，昼夜思想。”他又说到自己的经验，感叹道：“我何等爱慕祢的律法，终日不住的思想。”“我趁夜更未换将眼睁开，为要思想祢的话语”（诗1:2；119:97,148）。{4T 526.3}[11]
§24
There is danger that ministers who profess to believe present truth will rest satisfied with presenting the theory only, while their own souls do not feel its sanctifying power. Some have not the love of God in the heart, softening, molding, and ennobling their lives. The psalmist declares of the good man: His delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law doth he meditate day and night. He refers to his own experience, and exclaims: O how love I Thy law! it is my meditation all the day. Mine eyes prevent the night watches, that I might meditate in Thy word. {4T 526.3}[11]
§25
任何人若不认识上帝真理改变人心的感化力在他自己的心灵上运行，就没有资格站在神圣的讲台上。那时，也只有到那时，他才能言传身教地正确表现基督的生活。但是许多人在工作中高抬自己而不是崇扬他们的主，于是人们就归向了传道人而不是归向基督。{4T 526.4}[12]
§26
No man is qualified to stand in the sacred desk unless he has felt the transforming influence of the truth of God upon his own soul. Then, and not till then, can he by precept and example rightly represent the life of Christ. But many in their labors exalt themselves rather than their Master, and the people are converted to the minister instead of to Christ. {4T 526.4}[12]
§27
我知得如今有些传讲现代真理的人实际上并没有悔改归正，便感到痛苦。他们与上帝没有联络。他们有一种头脑里的宗教，内心却没有悔改；而这些人正是极其自信自足的人；这种自足自负会挡住他们的道路，使他们得不到成为主葡萄园中能干的工人所必需的经验。我希望能唤醒那些自称是锡安城墙上的守望者的人认识到他们的责任。他们应该醒来，为上帝采取更高的立场，因为生灵正在因他们的疏忽而灭亡。他们对上帝必须有那种真诚的献身，好使他们能看事情如上帝所看的，并且接受来自上帝的警告，向那些处在灭亡中的人敲响警钟。上帝不会向忠心的守望者隐藏祂的真理。那些遵行上帝旨意的人，必知道祂的道理。智慧人必明白，“但恶人仍必行恶，一切恶人都不明白”（但12:10）。{4T 527.1}[13]
§28
I am pained to know that some who preach the present truth today are really unconverted men. They are not connected with God. They have a head religion, but no conversion of the heart; and these are the very ones who are the most self-confident and self-sufficient; and this self-sufficiency will stand in the way of their gaining that experience which is essential to make them effective workers in the Lords vineyard. I wish I could arouse those who claim to be watchmen on the walls of Zion to realize their responsibility. They should awake and take a higher stand for God, for souls are perishing through their neglect. They must have that sincere devotion to God that will lead them to see as God sees and take the words of warning from Him and sound the alarm to those who are in peril. The Lord will not hide His truth from the faithful watchman. Those who do the will of God shall know of His doctrine. The wise shall understand; but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand. {4T 527.1}[13]
§29
耶稣对祂的门徒说：“我心里柔和谦卑，你们当……学我的样式”（太11:29）。我要恳请那些已经接受教师职位的人，首先要做谦卑的学生，而且要永远留在基督的学校里当一名学生，向主耶稣学习心里柔和谦卑的课程。谦卑的心灵加上诚恳的行动，会结出拯救生灵的果子。这些生灵是用基督宝血的重价买来的。传道人可能明白和相信真理的理论，也能向别人传讲真理；但对他的要求不止于此。“信心没有行为是死的”（雅2:26）。他需要那种生发仁爱和洁净心灵的信心。对基督活泼的信心会使人生的每一个行为和内心的每一个情绪都与上帝的真理和公义相协调。{4T 527.2}[14]
§30
Said Jesus to His disciples: Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart. I would plead with those who have accepted the position of teachers, to first become humble learners, and ever to remain as pupils in the school of Christ to receive from the Master lessons of meekness and lowliness of heart. Humility of spirit, combined with earnest activity, will result in the salvation of souls so dearly purchased by the blood of Christ. The minister may understand and believe the theory of truth, and be able to present it to others; but this is not all that is required of him. Faith without works is dead. He needs that faith that works by love and purifies the soul. A living faith in Christ will bring every action of the life and every emotion of the soul into harmony with Gods truth and righteousness. {4T 527.2}[14]
§31
必须克服烦躁、自高、骄傲、忿怒，以及其它种种和我们的圣洁典范不相符合的品格特性；然后谦卑、柔和，以及对耶稣伟大救恩的真诚感谢，就会从我们心里的纯洁泉源不断涌流出来。应该从出自祂使者口中的信息听到耶稣的声音。{4T 527.3}[15]
§32
Fretfulness, self-exaltation, pride, passion and every other trait of character unlike our holy Pattern must be overcome; and then humility, meekness, and sincere gratitude to Jesus for His great salvation will continually flow out from the pure fountain of the heart. The voice of Jesus should be heard in the message coming from the lips of His ambassador. {4T 527.3}[15]
§33
我们需要悔改的传道人。伴随着真悔改传道人的效率和能力，会使锡安的伪君子们战兢，使罪人惧怕。真理和圣洁的旗帜正被拖曳在尘埃。那些对现今发出严重警告的人，如果能够认识到他们对上帝的责任，就会看到热心祷告的需要。当每一个人回到了自己的家，人们都酣睡在午夜梦乡中的时候，我们的榜样基督，却往橄榄山去，在那参天的大树下，用整夜的时间祷告。丝毫没有被罪玷污，而身为福祉宝库的祂，夜里四更天在海上风浪中，向惊慌失措的门徒说天上祝福之话的祂，命令死人从坟墓里出来的祂，大声哀哭，流泪恳求（来5:7）。祂不是为自己祷告，而是为祂来到世上所要拯救的人祷告。祂既成了一个恳求者，从祂父的手中寻求新鲜的能力供应，并且得到振作和鼓舞做人类的替身，就将自己与受苦的人类视同一体，并且赐给他们一个必须祷告的榜样。{4T 528.1}[16]
§34
We must have a converted ministry. The efficiency and power attending a truly converted minister would make the hypocrites in Zion tremble and sinners afraid. The standard of truth and holiness is trailing in the dust. If those who sound the solemn notes of warning for this time could realize their accountability to God they would see the necessity for fervent prayer. When the cities were hushed in midnight slumber, when every man had gone to his own house, Christ, our Example, would repair to the Mount of Olives, and there, amid the overshadowing trees, would spend the entire night in prayer. He who was Himself without the taint of sin,--a treasure house of blessing; whose voice was heard in the fourth watch of the night by the terrified disciples upon the stormy sea, in heavenly benediction; and whose word could summon the dead from their graves,--He it was who made supplication with strong crying and tears. He prayed not for Himself, but for those whom He came to save. As He became a suppliant, seeking at the hand of His Father fresh supplies of strength, and coming forth refreshed and invigorated as mans substitute, He identified Himself with suffering humanity and gave them an example of the necessity of prayer. {4T 528.1}[16]
§35
祂的本性没有罪的污点。作为人子，祂向天父祷告，表明人性需要所能得到的神性一切的支持，以便预备好履行责任和经受考验。作为生命之君，祂与上帝共同掌权，并且为祂的子民而获胜。这位救主曾经为那些自己觉得不需要祷告的人祷告，为那些自己觉得不需要流泪的人哭泣；现在祂在父宝座前，接受祂曾为之祷告的世人的请求，转呈给祂的天父。我们要照基督的榜样去做。在我们拯救生灵的工作中，祷告是必需的。唯有上帝才能使我们所撒的种子生长。{4T 528.2}[17]
§36
His nature was without the taint of sin. As the Son of man, He prayed to the Father, showing that human nature requires all the divine support which man can obtain that he may be braced for duty and prepared for trial. As the Prince of life He had power with God and prevailed for His people. This Saviour, who prayed for those that felt no need of prayer, and wept for those that felt no need of tears, is now before the throne, to receive and present to His Father the petitions of those for whom He prayed on earth. The example of Christ is for us to follow. Prayer is a necessity in our labor for the salvation of souls. God alone can give the increase of the seed we sow. {4T 528.2}[17]
§37
我们失败过多次，因为我们没有认识到基督藉着祂的灵与我们同在，正如祂蒙羞受辱在世为人的日子与人同在一样。时光的流逝并没有使祂被接升天之前对使徒们的应许有丝毫改变：“我就常与你们同在，直到世界的末了”（太28:20）。祂规定应该不断有人从第一批真理的教师那里传承权柄，继续宣讲基督和祂被钉十字架。大教师已授权给祂的仆人们，就是“有宝贝放在瓦器里”（林后4:7）的人。如果他们等待基督的教训和指导，祂就必亲自指挥祂的使者们工作。{4T 529.1}[18]
§38
We fail many times because we do not realize that Christ is with us by His Spirit as truly as when, in the days of His humiliation, He moved visibly upon the earth. The lapse of time has wrought no change in His parting promise to His apostles as He was taken up from them into heaven: Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. He has ordained that there should be a succession of men who derive authority from the first teachers of the faith for the continual preaching of Christ and Him crucified. The Great Teacher has delegated power to His servants, who have this treasure in earthen vessels. Christ will superintend the work of His ambassadors if they wait for His instruction and guidance. {4T 529.1}[18]
§39
传道人若真是基督的代表，就必成为祈祷的人。他们以切心和百折不回的信心，祈求上帝坚固他们，加给他们力量去尽本分和受考验，又用从坛上取下来的红炭沾他们的口，使之圣洁，好向众人宣讲上帝的话。“主耶和华赐我受教者的舌头，使我知道怎样用言语扶助疲乏的人。主每早晨提醒，提醒我的耳朵，使我能听，像受教者一样”（赛50:4）。{4T 529.2}[19]
§40
Ministers who are truly Christs representatives will be men of prayer. With an earnestness and faith that will not be denied, they will plead with God that they may be strengthened and fortified for duty and for trial, and that their lips may be sanctified by a touch of the living coal from off the altar, to speak the words of God to the people. The Lord God hath given me the tongue of the learned, that I should know how to speak a word in season to him that is weary: He wakeneth morning by morning, He wakeneth mine ear to hear as the learned. {4T 529.2}[19]
§41
基督对彼得说：“西门，西门，撒但想要得着你们，好筛你们，像筛麦子一样。但我已经为你祈求，叫你不至于失了信心”（路22:31,32）。谁能估计世界的救赎主祷告的效果呢？当基督看到祂劳苦的功效，便心满意足时（赛53:11），那时我们才会看到和认识到祂在自己的神性被人性遮盖时恳切祈祷的价值。{4T 529.3}[20]
§42
Christ said to Peter: Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: but I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not. Who can estimate the result of the prayers of the worlds Redeemer? When Christ shall see of the travail of His soul and shall be satisfied, then will be seen and realized the value of His earnest prayers while His divinity was veiled with humanity. {4T 529.3}[20]
§43
耶稣不单是为一个门徒，而是为全体门徒祈求：“父啊，我在哪里，愿祢所赐给我的人也同我在那里”（约17:24）。祂的目光透过前途的黑幕，而看到亚当每一个子女的生活史。祂感觉到了每一个颠簸飘摇之人的重担与忧伤，祂恳切的祈祷包括了祂当时的门徒和直到末时的凡跟从祂的人。“我不但为这些人祈求，也为那些因他们的话信我的人祈求”（约17:20）。是的；基督的祈祷甚至包括了我们。我们应该得到安慰，因为想到我们在天上有一位伟大的代求者，在上帝面前献上我们的恳求。“若有人犯罪，在父那里我们有一位中保，就是那义者耶稣基督”（约壹2:1）。在最需要的时候，当灰心泄气要压倒心灵的时候，就是耶稣警醒的眼目看到我们需要祂帮助的时候。当人的支持失败时，耶稣就来帮助我们，祂的来临驱散黑暗，赶走忧愁。{4T 529.4}[21]
§44
Jesus pleaded, not for one only, but for all His disciples: Father, I will that they also whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am. His eye pierced the dark veil of the future and read the life history of every son and daughter of Adam. He felt the burdens and sorrows of every tempest-tossed soul, and that earnest prayer included with His living disciples all His followers to the close of time. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word. Yes; that prayer of Christ embraces even us. We should be comforted by the thought that we have a great intercessor in the heavens, presenting our petitions before God. If any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. In the hour of greatest need, when discouragement would overwhelm the soul, it is then that the watchful eye of Jesus sees that we need His help. The hour of mans necessity is the hour of Gods opportunity. When all human support fails, then Jesus comes to our aid, and His presence scatters the darkness and lifts the cloud of gloom. {4T 529.4}[21]
§45
门徒们在加利利海上的扁舟中，在暴风雨和黑暗中，努力摇橹要到岸边，却发现他们竭尽所能也无法成功。当他们在绝望的时候，却看见耶稣走在翻腾着的白浪上。他们起先竟没有认出耶稣的临格，便更加恐惧，直到听到祂说：“是我，不要害怕”（约6:20），这才驱散了他们的恐惧，给了他们希望和喜乐。疲惫可怜的门徒们就这样欣然停止自己的努力，转而完全信靠主。{4T 530.1}[22]
§46
In their little boat upon the Sea of Galilee, amid the storm and darkness, the disciples toiled hard to reach the shore, but found all their efforts unsuccessful. As despair seized them, Jesus was seen walking upon the foam-capped billows. Even the presence of Christ they did not at first discern, and their terror increased, until His voice, saying, It is I; be not afraid, dispelled their fears and gave them hope and joy. Then how willingly the poor, wearied disciples ceased their efforts and trusted all to the Master. {4T 530.1}[22]
§47
这个惊人的事件说明了跟从基督之人的经验。我们多么经常地努力摇橹啊，好像我们自己的力量和智慧足以担当似的，直到发现我们的努力毫无用处。于是，我们才用颤抖的手和衰弱的力量，把工作交给耶稣，承认我们做不了。我们满有慈悲的救赎主同情我们的软弱，且在应允我们出于信心的呼求时接过我们要祂去做的工作，祂完成那对我们来说似乎非常困难的工作是多么容易啊。{4T 530.2}[23]
§48
This striking incident illustrates the experience of the followers of Christ. How often do we tug at the oars, as though our own strength and wisdom were sufficient, until we find our efforts useless. Then, with trembling hands and failing strength, we give up the work to Jesus and confess we are unable to perform it. Our compassionate Redeemer pities our weakness; and when, in answer to the cry of faith, He takes up the work we ask Him to do, how easily He accomplishes that which seemed to us so difficult. {4T 530.2}[23]
§49
上帝古时子民的历史给我们提供了许多关于得胜的祷告的鼓舞人心的榜样。当亚玛力人来攻击在旷野中的以色列营时，摩西知道百姓没有准备好打遭遇战。他打发约书亚带一队兵去迎敌，他自己则与亚伦和户珥在山上就位，俯瞰战场。这位属上帝的人在那里把这事摆在主面前，惟有祂才能使他们得胜。摩西向天伸手，恳切地祈求上帝使以色列的众军得胜。人们看到他的手向上伸着时，以色列人就胜过仇敌；及至他的手因疲劳而下垂时，亚玛力人就得胜。亚伦和户珥便扶住摩西的手，直到以色列人充分而完全得胜并将他们的敌人赶出了战场。{4T 530.3}[24]
§50
The history of Gods ancient people furnishes us with many encouraging examples of prevailing prayer. When the Amalekites came to attack the camp of Israel in the wilderness, Moses knew that his people were not prepared for the encounter. He sent Joshua with a band of soldiers to meet the enemy, while he himself, with Aaron and Hur, took his position on a hill overlooking the battlefield. There the man of God laid the case before Him who alone was able to give them the victory. With hands outstretched toward heaven, Moses prayed earnestly for the success of the armies of Israel. It was observed that while his hands were reaching upward, Israel prevailed against the foe; but when through fatigue they were allowed to fall, Amalek prevailed. Aaron and Hur stayed up the hands of Moses until victory, full and complete, turned upon the side of Israel and their enemies were driven from the field. {4T 530.3}[24]
§51
这件事是要给直到末时全部的以色列人一个教训，即，上帝乃是祂子民的力量。当以色列人得胜时，摩西正在向天伸着手为他们代求；照样，当上帝全部的以色列人得胜时，是因为那大能者承担了他们的事，并且为他们作战。摩西并没有在以色列人无所事事的时候祈求或相信上帝会克胜他们的仇敌。他集结了兵力，并且给了他们所能得到的最好装备，派他们出去作战，然后才把整件事在祈祷中交给上帝。摩西在山上是在向上帝恳求，而约书亚则与他勇敢的部下在下面，尽力迎战和击退上帝和以色列共同的仇敌。{4T 531.1}[25]
§52
This instance was to be a lesson to all Israel to the close of time that God is the strength of His people. When Israel triumphed, Moses was reaching his hands toward heaven and interceding in their behalf; so when all the Israel of God prevail, it is because the Mighty One undertakes their case and fights their battles for them. Moses did not ask or believe that God would overcome their foes while Israel remained inactive. He marshals all his forces and sends them out as well prepared as their facilities can make them, and then he takes the whole matter to God in prayer. Moses on the mount is pleading with the Lord, while Joshua with his brave followers is below, doing his best to meet and repulse the enemies of Israel and of God. {4T 531.1}[25]
§53
出于信心的恳切祈祷所发的力量是大有功效的。上帝不一定照着我们的期望应允我们的祷告，因为我们所要求的可能对我们来说不是最好的；但祂会本着祂无限的仁爱和智慧赐给我们最需要东西。传道人在感到疲倦时，若有忠心的亚伦和户珥用信心和祷告扶住他的手，他就有福了。这样的扶持对基督仆人的工作是一个有力的帮助，常常会使真理的事业取得光荣的胜利。{4T 531.2}[26]
§54
That prayer which comes forth from an earnest, believing heart is the effectual, fervent prayer that availeth much. God does not always answer our prayers as we expect, for we may not ask what would be for our highest good; but in His infinite love and wisdom He will give us those things which we most need. Happy the minister who has a faithful Aaron and Hur to strengthen his hands when they become weary and to hold them up by faith and prayer. Such a support is a powerful aid to the servant of Christ in his work and will often make the cause of truth to triumph gloriously. {4T 531.2}[26]
§55
以色列民在铸金牛犊的事上犯罪之后，摩西再度到上帝面前去为百姓代求。他已对上帝托他照管的那些人有所认识；他知道人心的刚愎，也认识到必须要对付的麻烦。但他已从经验上得知：他若想要在百姓身上发挥什么感化力，自己就必须先从上帝那里得着力量。主洞悉祂仆人心中所怀的诚恳无私的意念，便纡尊降贵，与这软弱属肉体的世人面对面交往，好像人与朋友说话一般。摩西将他自己和他所负的重担完全交托给上帝，并在祂面前倾吐心意，主没有责备祂的仆人，反而垂听他的哀求。{4T 531.3}[27]
§56
After the transgression of Israel in making the golden calf, Moses again goes to plead with God in behalf of his people. He has some knowledge of those who have been placed under his care; he knows the perversity of the human heart and realizes the difficulties with which he must contend. But he has learned from experience that in order to have an influence with the people he must first have power with God. The Lord reads the sincerity and unselfish purpose of the heart of His servant and condescends to commune with this feeble mortal, face to face, as a man speaks with a friend. Moses casts himself and all his burdens fully upon God and freely pours out his soul before Him. The Lord does not reprove His servant, but stoops to listen to his supplications. {4T 531.3}[27]
§57
摩西深感自己的不配和自己不胜任上帝召他去做的大工。他极其恳切地求主与他同去。于是有回答说：“我必亲自和你同去，使你得安息”（出33:14）。然而摩西却不愿就此为止。他虽然已经得到很多，但仍切望更加亲近上帝，获得更坚强的有祂持久同在的保证。他已经肩负着以色列民的重担；也承担了似乎压倒一切的责任烦累；民众犯罪时，他也深感悔恨，似乎是他自己有罪一般；而现在他的心中深感上帝若任由以色列民心地刚硬不悔悟所必有的可怖后果。他们会毫不犹豫地杀害摩西，他们的轻率和刚愎会使他们很快沦为敌人的掠物，从而使上帝的名在外邦人面前受羞辱。摩西以如此的诚恳与热情坚持他的哀求，以致获得答应说：“你这所求的我也要行；因为你在我眼前蒙了恩，并且我按你的名认识你”（出33:17）。{4T 532.1}[28]
§58
Moses has a deep sense of his unworthiness and his unfitness for the great work to which God has called him. He pleads with intense earnestness that the Lord will go with him. The answer comes: My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest. But Moses does not feel that he can stop here. He has gained much, but he longs to come still nearer to God, to obtain a stronger assurance of His abiding presence. He has carried the burden of Israel; he has borne an overwhelming weight of responsibility; when the people sinned, he suffered keen remorse, as though he himself were guilty; and now there presses upon his soul a sense of the terrible results should God leave Israel to hardness and impenitence of heart. They would not hesitate to kill Moses, and through their own rashness and perversity they would soon fall a prey to their enemies and thus dishonor the name of God before the heathen. Moses presses his petition with such earnestness and fervency that the answer comes: I will do this thing also that thou hast spoken: for thou hast found grace in My sight, and I know thee by name. {4T 532.1}[28]
§59
我们确实以为这位先知会就此停止他的请求；但他没有这样做，反而因自己的成功而壮胆，居然以我们几乎无从了解的圣洁亲密，大无畏地更加就近上帝，提出世人从未发出过的请求：“求祢显出祢的荣耀给我看”（出33:18）。从有限而必死的人所发出的是何等的请求啊！然而他被拒绝了吗？上帝责备他僭越无礼吗？不；我们且听听这亲切的话语：“我要显我一切的恩慈，在你面前经过”（出33:19）。{4T 532.2}[29]
§60
Now, indeed, we would expect the prophet to cease pleading; but no, emboldened by his success, he ventures to come still nearer to God, with a holy familiarity which is almost beyond our comprehension. He now makes a request which no human being ever made before: I beseech Thee, show me Thy glory. What a petition to come from finite, mortal man! But is he repulsed? does God reprove him for presumption? No, we hear the gracious words: I will make all My goodness pass before thee. {4T 532.2}[29]
§61
上帝没有遮掩的荣耀是任何一个人若看见就不能存活的；摩西却得到保证，他将在目前必死的状态照他所能忍受的看到上帝的荣耀。那创造世界，稳住众山岭在其本位的手，将这用尘土造成的人，就是信心的勇士摩西，仁慈地放在磐石穴中，那时，上帝的荣耀和祂一切的恩慈便从他面前经过。我们还能惊讶于摩西的脸上反射出全能者的“极大荣光”（彼后1:17）是如此地耀眼，以致人们不敢观看吗？他身上有上帝的印记，使他看起来就像一位从宝座而来发光的天使。{4T 533.1}[30]
§62
The unveiled glory of God no man could look upon and live; but Moses is assured that he shall behold as much of the divine glory as he can bear in his present, mortal state. That Hand that made the world, that holds the mountains in their places, takes this man of dust--this man of mighty faith-- and mercifully covers him in a cleft of the rock, while the glory of God and all His goodness pass before him. Can we marvel that the excellent glory reflected from Omnipotence shone in Moses face with such brightness that the people could not look upon it? The impress of God was upon him, making him appear as one of the shining angels from the throne. {4T 533.1}[30]
§63
这个经验比其它的一切都使摩西确信上帝会垂听他的祷告，祂神圣的临格也会伴随着他，这在作领袖的摩西看来，比埃及一切的学问，或他在军事学上的一切成就更有价值。地上的权力，技能或学问，决不能代替上帝直接与他同在的福分。在摩西的历史中，我们可以看到人类享有与上帝何等亲密交通的特权。对于犯罪的人，落在永生上帝的手里真是可怕的；但是摩西单独站在那以可怕的威严在西奈山颁布律法的主面前，一点也不害怕；因为他的心是与造他之主的旨意和谐的。{4T 533.2}[31]
§64
This experience, above all else the assurance that God would hear his prayer and that the divine presence would attend him, was of more value to Moses as a leader than the learning of Egypt or all his attainments in military science. No earthly power or skill or learning can supply the place of Gods immediate presence. In the history of Moses we may see what intimate communion with God it is mans privilege to enjoy. To the transgressor it is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. But Moses was not afraid to be alone with the Author of that law which had been spoken with such awful grandeur from Mount Sinai, for his soul was in harmony with the will of his Maker. {4T 533.2}[31]
§65
祈祷是向上帝，象对朋友一般，敞开心怀。信心的眼目必能辨明上帝非常亲近，而且祈求者可以获致上帝对他慈爱和照顾的珍贵凭证。然而为何有那么多的祷告始终得不到应允呢？大卫说：“我曾用口求告祂；我的舌头也称祂为高。我若心里注重罪孽，主必不听”（诗66:17,18）。上帝藉另一位先知应许我们说：“你们寻求我，若专心寻求我，就必寻见”（耶29:13）。此外，祂也论到一些“并不诚心哀求”祂的人（何7:14）。这样的祈求无非是徒具形式的祷告，口头上的服务而已，是不蒙主悦纳的。{4T 533.3}[32]
§66
Prayer is the opening of the heart to God as to a friend. The eye of faith will discern God very near, and the suppliant may obtain precious evidence of the divine love and care for him. But why is it that so many prayers are never answered? Says David: I cried unto Him with my mouth, and He was extolled with my tongue. If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me. By another prophet the Lord gives us the promise: Ye shall seek Me, and find Me, when ye shall search for Me with all your heart. Again, he speaks of some who have not cried unto Me with their heart. Such petitions are prayers of form, lip service only, which the Lord does not accept. {4T 533.3}[32]
§67
拿但业在无花果树下献上的祷告发自一颗真诚的心，且蒙主垂听和应允。基督论到他说：“看哪，这是个真以色列人，他心里是没有诡诈的”（约1:47）！主懂得众人的心，明白他们的动机和意图。“正直人祈祷，为祂所喜悦”（箴15:8）。祂不会迟迟不听那些向祂敞开心门，不高抬自己，而是真诚地自觉极其软弱和不配的人。{4T 534.1}[33]
§68
The prayer which Nathanael offered while he was under the fig tree came from a sincere heart, and it was heard and answered by the Master. Christ said of him: Behold an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile! The Lord reads the hearts of all and understands their motives and purposes. The prayer of the upright is His delight. He will not be slow to hear those who open their hearts to Him, not exalting self, but sincerely feeling their great weakness and unworthiness. {4T 534.1}[33]
§69
需要祈祷——至为诚恳，热切，痛苦的祈祷——正象大卫所献上的祷告一般，他感叹说：“上帝啊！我的心切慕祢，如鹿切慕溪水。”“我羡慕祢的训词”；“我切慕祢的救恩。”“我羡慕渴望耶和华的院宇；我的心肠，我的肉体，向永生上帝呼喊。”“我时常切慕祢的典章，甚至心碎”（诗42:1；119:40,174；84:2；119:20）。这是角力般祷告的精神，象那作君王的诗人所具有的。{4T 534.2}[34]
§70
There is need of prayer,--most earnest, fervent, agonizing prayer,--such prayer as David offered when he exclaimed: As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after Thee, O God. I have longed after Thy precepts; I have longed for Thy salvation. My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the courts of the Lord: my heart and my flesh crieth out for the living God. My soul breaketh for the longing that it hath unto Thy judgments. This is the spirit of wrestling prayer, such as was possessed by the royal psalmist. {4T 534.2}[34]
§71
但以理向上帝祷告，不求高抬自己，也不自称有任何良善：“求主垂听，求主赦免，求主应允而行，为祢自己不要迟延”（但9:19）。这就是雅各所说大有功效的恳切祷告。有话论到基督说：“耶稣极其伤痛，祷告更加恳切”（路22:44）。天上至尊者的这种恳求，与那献给上帝的微弱无心的祷告，是何等的对比啊。许多人满足于口头上的服务，只有少数人有真诚，恳切，爱慕上帝的心意。{4T 534.3}[35]
§72
Daniel prayed to God, not exalting himself or claiming any goodness: O Lord, hear; O Lord, forgive; O Lord, hearken and do; defer not, for Thine own sake, O my God. This is what James calls the effectual, fervent prayer. Of Christ it is said: And being in an agony He prayed more earnestly. In what contrast to this intercession by the Majesty of heaven are the feeble, heartless prayers that are offered to God. Many are content with lip service, and but few have a sincere, earnest, affectionate longing after God. {4T 534.3}[35]
§73
与上帝相交赋予心灵关于祂旨意的深邃知识。但是许多自称信奉真道的人竟不知道何为真正的悔改。他们没有藉着耶稣基督与天父交通的经验，也从未感到神圣恩典圣化人心的能力。他们虽祈祷和歌唱，歌唱和祈祷，他们的生活却充满了恶意、欺骗、猜忌、嫉妒和爱自己的心。这等人的祷告对上帝来说是可憎的。真实的祷告使用心灵之力，影响整个的人生。凡如此在上帝的面前倾吐自己缺乏的人，也感悟到天下一切的虚空。大卫说：“主啊！我的心愿都在祢面前；我的叹息不向祢隐瞒。”“我的心渴想上帝，就是永生上帝；我几时得朝见上帝呢？”“我追想这些事，我的心极其悲伤”（诗38:9；42:2,4）。{4T 534.4}[36]
§74
Communion with God imparts to the soul an intimate knowledge of His will. But many who profess the faith know not what true conversion is. They have no experience in communion with the Father through Jesus Christ, and have never felt the power of divine grace to sanctify the heart. Praying and sinning, sinning and praying, their lives are full of malice, deceit, envy, jealousy, and self-love. The prayers of this class are an abomination to God. True prayer engages the energies of the soul and affects the life. He who thus pours out his wants before God feels the emptiness of everything else under heaven. All my desire is before Thee, said David, and my groaning is not hid from Thee. My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God? When I remember these things, I pour out my soul in me. {4T 534.4}[36]
§75
因为我们的人数在增长，必需制定更为广大的计划，好满足时代不断增长的需求；但我们却看不到热切的虔诚、基督的简朴和恳切的献身方面有什么特别的增长。教会似乎仅仅满足于悔改的最初几步。他们更愿意积极工作而不是谦卑祈祷，更乐于从事外表的宗教礼拜，而不是内心工夫。默想和祈祷因匆忙和炫耀而被忽略了。宗教必须开始于内心的倒空和净化，也必须藉每日的祷告来滋养。{4T 535.1}[37]
§76
As our numbers are increasing, broader plans must be laid to meet the increasing demands of the times; but we see no special increase of fervent piety, of Christian simplicity, and earnest devotion. The church seem content to take only the first steps in conversion. They are more ready for active labor than for humble devotion, more ready to engage in outward religious service than in the inner work of the heart. Meditation and prayer are neglected for bustle and show. Religion must begin with emptying and purifying the heart, and must be nurtured by daily prayer. {4T 535.1}[37]
§77
我们工作的稳定进展，和我们不断增加的设施，使我们许多人的心思意念充斥着自满和骄傲，我们担心这会在心中取代上帝的爱。甚至在上帝的工作中，忙碌而机械性的活动也会取代内心真正的良善、温柔和谦卑。或许会听到人们热心地呼喊说：“这些是耶和华的殿，是耶和华的殿。”“你和我同去，看我为耶和华怎样热心”（王下10:16）。然而挑担子的人在哪里呢？以色列中为父为母的人在哪里呢？那些心中对生灵有负担，密切同情自己的同胞，乐于置身任何位置以便救他们脱离永远灭亡的人在哪里呢？{4T 535.2}[38]
§78
The steady progress of our work, and our increased facilities, are filling the hearts and minds of many of our people with satisfaction and pride, which we fear will take the place of the love of God in the soul. Busy activity in the mechanical part of even the work of God may so occupy the mind that prayer shall be neglected, and self-importance and self-sufficiency, so ready to urge their way, shall take the place of true goodness, meekness, and lowliness of heart. The zealous cry may be heard: The temple of the Lord, The temple of the Lord, are these. Come with me, and see my zeal for the Lord. But where are the burden bearers? where are the fathers and mothers in Israel? Where are those who carry upon the heart the burden for souls and who come in close sympathy with their fellow men, ready to place themselves in any position to save them from eternal ruin? {4T 535.2}[38]
§79
“万军之耶和华说：不是倚靠势力，不是倚靠才能，乃是倚靠我的灵方能成事”（亚4:6）。基督说：“你们是世上的光”（太5:14）。这是怎样的责任啊！需要因我们衰退的热心和日渐衰弱的灵性禁食、蒙羞、祈祷。许多人的爱心正在渐渐冷淡。我们许多讲道人的没有付出应有的努力。当一些缺乏上帝的圣灵和能力的人进入新的园地时，他们开始公开指责其它宗派，以为自己能藉着摆列一般教会的矛盾重重来说服人们信从真理。在某些场合说这些事或许似乎有必要，但一般来说，这只会引起人们对我们工作的偏见，塞住许多否则原会听从真理之人的耳朵。这些教师若是与基督密切联络，原会有神圣的智慧，知道如何接近人。他们不会很快忘记使他们远离真理的黑暗和错谬，情欲和偏见。{4T 535.3}[39]
§80
Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts. Ye are, says Christ, the light of the world. What a responsibility! There is need of fasting, humiliation, and prayer over our decaying zeal and languishing spirituality. The love of many is waxing cold. The efforts of many of our preachers are not what they should be. When some who lack the Spirit and power of God enter a new field, they commence denouncing other denominations, thinking that they can convince the people of the truth by presenting the inconsistencies of the popular churches. It may seem necessary on some occasions to speak of these things, but in general it only creates prejudice against our work and closes the ears of many who might otherwise have listened to the truth. If these teachers were connected closely with Christ, they would have divine wisdom to know how to approach the people. They would not so soon forget the darkness and error, the passion and prejudice, which kept themselves from the truth. {4T 535.3}[39]
§81
这些教师若是愿意以主的精神作工，结果就会非常不同。他们就会谦卑而恒久忍耐地，温柔而仁爱却坚定恳切地设法把那些犯错的人指向一位被钉而又复活的救主。当这事成就时，我们就会看到上帝在人们的心中运行。大使徒说：“我们是与上帝同工的”（林前3:9）。这对可怜必死的人来说是怎样的工作啊！我们拥有属灵的武器，好“为真道打那美好的仗”（提前6:12）；但是有些人似乎只从天上的军械库选取了霹雳。这些缺陷要存在多久呢？{4T 536.1}[40]
§82
Would these teachers work with the spirit of the Master, very different results would follow. With meekness and long-suffering, gentleness and love, yet with decided earnestness, they would seek to direct those erring souls to a crucified and risen Saviour. When this is done, we shall see God moving upon the hearts of men. Says the great apostle: We are laborers together with God. What a work for poor mortals! We are provided with spiritual weapons to fight the good fight of faith; but some seem to have drawn from the armory of heaven only its thunderbolts. How long must these defects exist? {4T 536.1}[40]
§83
在人们对宗教感兴趣的时候，有些人忽视了最重要的那部分工作。他们没能探访和熟悉那些显出了兴趣，夜复一夜来听圣经讲解的人。适时与这些人交谈宗教题目，并与他们一起恳切祷告，会使许多人选择正确的方向。在这方面疏于尽本分的传道人不是羊群的真牧人。正当应该最积极地活动，去探访这些慕道的人，与他们交谈和一起祷告时，有些人却在不必要地给远方的人写长信。唉，我们在为主做什么呀！当宽容时期结束时，多少人会见到自己曾忽略的服务曾为他们舍命的亲爱的主的机会啊。甚至那些被认为最忠信的人，也会看到，要是他们没有因属世的环境分心，原可做成更多的事。{4T 536.2}[41]
§84
While in the midst of a religious interest, some neglect the most important part of the work. They fail to visit and become acquainted with those who have shown an interest to present themselves night after night to listen to the explanation of the Scriptures. Conversation upon religious subjects, and earnest prayer with such at the right time, might balance many souls in the right direction. Ministers who neglect their duty in this respect are not true shepherds of the flock. At the very time when they should be most active in visiting, conversing, and praying with these interested ones, some will be employed in writing unnecessarily long letters to persons at a distance. Oh, what are we doing for the Master! When probation shall end, how many will see the opportunities they have neglected to render service to their dear Lord who died for them. And even those who were accounted most faithful will see much more that they might have done, had not their minds been diverted by worldly surroundings. {4T 536.2}[41]
§85
我们劝告传扬基督福音的人切不可灰心，切不可看最硬心的罪人是上帝的恩典所不能感化的。这种人可能会因爱慕真理而接受真理，成为世上的盐。那能改变人心如改变河道的，可使最自私和最被罪恶硬化的人归向基督。在上帝岂有难成的事吗？祂说：“我口所出的话，……决不徒然返回，却要成就我所喜悦的，在我发他去成就的事上必然亨通”（赛55:11）。{4T 537.1}[42]
§86
We entreat the heralds of the gospel of Christ never to become discouraged in the work, never to consider the most hardened sinner beyond the reach of the grace of God. Such may accept the truth in the love of it and become the salt of the earth. He who turns the hearts of men as the rivers of water are turned can bring the most selfish, sin-hardened soul to surrender to Christ. Is aught too hard for God to do? My word, He says, shall not return unto Me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. {4T 537.1}[42]
§87
上帝不会祝福那些疏忽、自私、爱安逸的人——那些不愿在祂的圣工中挑担子的人。“做得好”的评价只会宣布给那些做得好的人。每一个人都要照所行的受报应（启22:12）。我们需要积极的传道事工——需要像雅各一样会与上帝较力的祈祷的人，说：“你不给我祝福，我就不容你去”（创32:26）。我们若要获得胜利者的冠冕，就必须尽心竭力。我们决不能在无所事事中得救。在主的葡萄园中作懒惰的人，就是放弃得到义人奖赏的一切资格。{4T 537.2}[43]
§88
God will not place His benediction upon those who are negligent, selfish, and ease-loving--who will not lift burdens in His cause. The Well done will be pronounced upon those only who have done well. Every man is to be rewarded according as his work shall be. We want an active ministry --men of prayer who will wrestle with God as did Jacob, saying: I will not let Thee go, except Thou bless me. If we obtain the victors crown we must stretch every nerve and exercise every power. We can never be saved in inactivity. To be an idler in the Lords vineyard is to relinquish all title to the reward of the righteous. {4T 537.2}[43]