Extravagance and Influence

Among our ministers, physicians, teachers, and canvassers, there is need of an entire surrender of the mind, the heart, and the soul to God. All have their appointed work.1MR 79.3

Let not the careless, immature plans formed by Dr._____ be followed. Moving in the light of his own counsel, and following his own ideas and plans, he is inclined to incur unwise expenses, and to undertake enterprises that will absorb, but not produce. Before investing means, he should carefully count the cost. When he has a greater depth of true piety, he will not spend money so freely in an effort to appear great in the eyes of influential men of the world....1MR 80.1

Let no one suppose that braggadocio will give influence to God's workers. Neither dress, expensive homes, nor stylish living gives character to the work. But a meek and quiet spirit is in the sight of God of great value. Religion does not make a man coarse and rough. The true believer, realizing his own weakness will guard himself at every point, and place his whole confidence in God. True Christian godliness cannot be forced; it is the outflowing of an honest heart....1MR 80.2

God calls for minute men, praying men, practical men. Expensive, outward show does not elevate men and women in the eyes of sensible people. It is not right for a physician to make an extravagant outlay of means, and then charge exorbitant prices for performing small operations. God looks at all these matters in their true light.—Manuscript 34, 1904, 2, 3, 5. (“Instruction Regarding the Work of Doctor Caro,” March 13, 1900.)1MR 80.3