I have been instructed in regard to the
importance of our ministers' keeping free from responsibilities
that should be largely borne by businessmen. In the night season
I was in an assembly consisting of a number of our brethren who
bear the burden of the work. They were deeply perplexed over
financial affairs and were consulting as to how the work could
be managed most successfully. Some thought that the number of
workers might be limited and yet all the results essential be
realized. One of the brethren occupying a position of responsibility
was explaining his plans and stating what he desired to see accomplished.
Several others presented matters for consideration. Then One
of dignity and authority arose, and proceeded to state principles
for our guidance.
To several ministers the Speaker said:
"Your work is not the management of financial matters. It
is not wise for you to undertake this. God has burdens for you
to bear, but if you carry lines of work for which you are not
adapted, your efforts in presenting the word will prove unsuccessful.
This will bring upon you discouragement that will disqualify
you for the very work you should
do, a work requiring careful discrimination and sound, unselfish
judgment."
Those who are employed to write and to
speak the word should attend fewer committee meetings. They should
entrust many minor matters to men of business ability and thus
avoid being kept on a constant strain that robs the mind of its
natural vigor. They should give far more attention to the preservation
of physical health, for vigor of mind depends largely upon vigor
of body. Proper periods of sleep and rest and an abundance of
physical exercise are essential to health of body and mind. To
rob nature of her hours for rest and recuperation by allowing
one man to do the work of four, or of three, or even of two,
will result in irreparable loss.