Counsels for the Church - Ellen G. White

spiritual eyesight, they would at once discover that this deplorable condition
of things is the result of their own home influence, the offspring of their
jealousy and distrust. Thus many infidels are educated in the family circles
of professed Christians. There are many who find special enjoyment in
discoursing and dwelling upon the defects, whether real or imaginary, of
those who bear heavy responsibilities in connection with the institutions of
God's cause. They overlook the good that has been accomplished, the
benefits that have resulted from arduous labor and unflinching devotion to
the cause, and fasten their attention upon some apparent mistake, some
matter that, after it has been done and the consequences have followed, they
fancy could have been done in a better manner with fairer results, when the
truth is, had they been left to do the work, they would either have refused to
move at all under the attending discouragements of the case, or would have
managed more indiscreetly than those who did do the work, following the
opening of God's providence.
But these unruly talkers will fasten upon the more disagreeable features
of the work, even as the lichen clings to the roughness of the rock. These
persons are spiritually dwarfed by continually dwelling upon the failings and
faults of others. They are morally incapable of discerning good and noble
actions, unselfish endeavors, true heroism, and self-sacrifice. They are not
becoming nobler and loftier in their lives and hopes, more generous and
broad in their ideas and plans. They are not cultivating that charity that
should characterize the Christian's life. They are degenerating every day and
are becoming narrower in their prejudices and views. Littleness is their
element, and the atmosphere that surrounds them is poisonous to peace and
happiness.
Every institution will have to battle with difficulty. Trials are permitted
in order to test the hearts of God's people. When adversity befalls one of the
Lord's instrumentalities, it will be shown how much real faith we have in
God and in His work. At such a time let none view matters in the worst light
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