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A VALUABLE SUGGESTION

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Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Tuesday, February 24, 1885

FromThe Review and Herald, Vol. 62, No. 8

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A VALUABLE SUGGESTION.

By J. M. Hopkins

I WISH to make a suggestion for the consideration of my brethren and sisters in present truth, which I know from experience is very good. It is that all carry with them constantly a pocket Bible. It matters not what our occupation may be, all have more or less time each day that can be most profitably devoted to the study of the Bible. As I finish reading in “Spirit of Prophecy,” Vol. IV., of the terrible things soon to come upon the earth through the agency of evil spirits, and that the word of God will be the only safeguard against those fearful deceptions, I feel moved to urge all to improve every moment possible in the study of God’s truth.
In the summer, when the farmer is resting his team for a few moments, or the tradesman rests his weary arm, he can open his Bible and read some precious promise, some reproof, exhortation, or command, that will serve as a shield in the hour of temptation, or a means of encouragement in the time of trial. The time used in this way will not be lost. Thus all may store the mind with heavenly wisdom. We shall not long be permitted to enjoy the privileges we now have. The time is coming when the word of the Lord will be precious. Amos 8:11, 12.
Another result accomplished by this practice is that we shall have Scripture testimony to present in support of our faith. It is our duty to speak of these things whenever we have opportunity. Nay, we should seek opportunity to do so. And if we have the Bible at hand to confirm our statements, they will have much more force than they otherwise would. We know this from observation and experience. The devotees of rum and tobacco think it no burden to carry the bottle, the pipe, or the box. The card player loves his “dec.” Why, then, should the Christian feel it a burden to carry a copy of the word of God.
A word of counsel may not be out of place. We would recommend a small, reference, flexible covered, tuck Bible. I think such Bibles are to be obtained at our tract depositories. Good ones are the cheapest in the end. Provide a case of suitable size, and so arranged as to securely cover the book and exclude all dampness and dust. The most convenient place for gentlemen to carry this while at work is in a pocket made for the purpose in some undergarment, and situated on the left side, or under the left arm just above the waist-band of the pants. There it will be quite out of the way, and yet easy of access. Be sure to get a Bible instead of the New Testament only; present truth is to be found all the way from Gen. 1 to Rev. 22. Try it for one year, and you will find it a source of blessing to yourself, and probably, if you are faithful, a benefit to your friends and neighbors. God has said, “Them that honor me I will honor.”
J. M. HOPKINS.