SOME GENERAL SUGGESTIONS

L. T. NICOLA

THIS year we have selected an earlier date than usual for the annual season of prayer, and have also made it shorter in time, — only four days. The reason for the change is, that the time selected is by many considered more favorable than a later date. By making the season shorter it was thought that all work could be laid aside, and our attention given wholly to seeking God.GCB October 1, 1896, page 778.2

Good readers should be selected, whether it be a brother or a sister. They should be appointed beforehand, so that they may have an opportunity to read over the article and become familiar with its contents; thus they will be prepared to read with intelligence and emphasis when they come before the meeting. Above all else, these readers should humble their hearts before God, and in earnest, persevering prayer seek that power which cometh from above. Self must be wholly lost sight of, and the one and only thought be to glorify God.GCB October 1, 1896, page 778.3

We have planned for two meetings daily. Others can be held where it is desirable, according to the arrangements of those who have these things in hand. The time of the meetings is also left for the brethren to arrange.GCB October 1, 1896, page 778.4

The readings have been made short, in order that there may be opportunity at each meeting for remarks from the minister, if one is present, or a prayer and social service. Do not for anything let the meeting drag. Brief, earnest prayers, testimonies short and right to the point, spirited singing from the heart, — this is pleasing to God.GCB October 1, 1896, page 778.5

Fasting. It is suggested that Sabbath and First-day be observed as fast days. This would not necessarily mean totally to abstain from food. Probably a light and simple meal toward the close of the day would be sufficient in most cases. But it is not for us to prescribe how each shall observe this fast. Those who are feeble cannot do as the strong and healthy. In any case, it should not be our idea that fasting is necessary in order to gain the favor of God. Rather this, that by abstaining from food wholly or in part, our minds may be clearer, and our spiritual discernment more keen, thus helping us to enter more fully into the spirit of the movement.GCB October 1, 1896, page 778.6

Preparatory work. Elders, deacons, and church-members generally should take a lively interest in those who, for some reason or other, labor under discouragement. Gather them all into the house of God, that the refreshing showers of the latter rain may fall on all alike. Let no one feel to ask, “Am I my brother’s keeper?” The Spirit of God will witness to our efforts in behalf of the backslidden. The Scriptural injunction is: “Comfort the feeble-minded, support the weak, be patient toward all men.”GCB October 1, 1896, page 778.7

Isolated Sabbath-keepers. We have taken pains to supply all such with readings so far as we have obtained their addresses. We trust that they will enter into the spirit of this effort with all their hearts. It seems as if it would be well for them to set apart a season for devotion every day, and take up the readings in their order. They need not feel that they are alone. Jesus has left his children the promise: “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.”GCB October 1, 1896, page 778.8

The Foreign Mission Offerings should be taken up, preferably, at the last meeting. Pains should be taken to secure a good attendance. Individuals who are detained by sickness or other cause, should be visited by the church-elder or librarian, and have the privilege of making their offering. The cause is greatly in need of funds. We have the confidence that our brethren everywhere will realize this, and come up nobly to the support of the work.GCB October 1, 1896, page 778.9

The contributions of our churches and companies should be forwarded to the secretary of the State tract society as soon as gathered. Those not meeting in companies should also send their contributions to the secretary of their State tract society when they are living within the bounds of organized conferences; otherwise they should send directly to W. H. Edwards, care of Review and Herald, Battle Creek, Mich.GCB October 1, 1896, page 778.10

O. A. OLSEN.
President General Conference.