Signs of the Times, Book 1 - Ellen G. White

e conquered. They can never recover health, unless they shake off this
listless, dreamy condition of mind, and arouse themselves to action.
There is much deception practiced under the cover of religion. Passion
controls the minds of many who flatter themselves that they have reached
high spiritual attainments. Their experience consists of idle fancies and lovesick
sentimentalism, rather than of purity and true goodness.
The mind should be trained to look away from self, to dwell upon
themes which are elevated and ennobling. Let not the precious hours of life
be wasted in dreaming of some great work to be performed in the future,
while the little duties of the present are neglected.
The heart must be in the work or it will drag heavily; whatever it may
be. The Lord tests our ability by giving us small duties to perform. If we turn
from these with contempt or dissatisfaction, no more will be intrusted to us.
If we take hold of them with cheerfulness, and perform them well, greater
responsibilities will be committed to our trust.
Talents have been committed to us, not to be squandered, but to be put
out to the exchangers, that at the Master's coming he may receive his own
with usury. These talents have not been unjustly distributed. God has
dispensed his sacred trusts according to the known ability of his servants.
"To every man his work."
As he bestows his gifts upon each, he expects from each a corresponding
return. If we faithfully perform our duty, the amount intrusted to us will be
increased, be it large or small. All who thus prove their fidelity, will be
accounted as wise stewards, and will be intrusted with the true riches, even
the gift of everlasting life.
"No man liveth to himself." True happiness will not be found by those
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