The great burden of the minister should be the winning of souls. All activities, whatever they maybe, should contribute to that end. He has no eight-hour-a-day responsibilities. He labors in season and out of season. Every minister who does his duty knows this to be true. But in connection with these responsibilities what part should the wife share? What attitude should she take toward her husband's work? If the wife takes care of her domestic affairs at home, is that all that she should be concerned about?
It is interesting to note that the Spirit of prophecy has given instructions on all topics which are for the advancement of the cause of Christ throughout the earth. We also have instructions regarding the work of the minister's wife and her responsibilities toward her husband's work.
Of course, we must remember that no hard and fast rule can be laid down for all minister's wives, for they carry different responsibilities. But there are general instructions coming from the pen of inspiration which should serve as a guide.
"A responsibility rests upon the minister's wife which she should not and cannot lightly throw off. God will require the talent lent her, with usury. She should work earnestly, faithfully, and unitedly with her husband to save souls." "If she possesses the spirit of self-sacrifice, and has a love for souls, she can with him do almost an equal amount of good. A sister-laborer in the cause of truth can understand and reach some cases, especially among the sisters, that the minister cannot."—Testimonies, vol. I, P. 452.
My wife accompanies me every afternoon and evening in my work. Thus we get into homes where it would be impossible for me to gain entrance alone. I believe that half my usefulness in personal work would be lost if it were not for my wife's accompanying me.
You may say, "But how does your wife keep up with her domestic duties?" It is all in the planning and teamwork. If the wife takes time to accompany the husband, why should not he share with some of the responsibilities in the domestic work? Cooperation unites interests and brings success. Of course, it is hard work to keep forever on the job, but should we be looking for the easy way, or the successful way? The Spirit of prophecy gave this instruction years ago regarding the minister's wife:
"When it is possible, let the minister and his wife go forth together. The wife can often labor by the side of her husband, accomplishing a noble work. She can visit the homes of the people and help the women in these families in a way that her husband cannot." —Evangelism, p. 491.
We must remember that the instruction is, "When it is possible, let the minister and his wife go forth together." There are many consecrated women in our ranks who have families, and cannot always go with their husbands, but I wonder whether we could not all improve along this line?
Men of ordinary talents can accomplish more by personal labor from house to house than by placing themselves in popular places at great expense, or by entering halls and trying to call out the crowd. Personal influence is a power. The more direct our labor for our fellow men, the greater good will be accomplished. . . You must come close to those for whom you labor, that they may not only hear your voice, but shake your hand, learn your principles, and realize your sympathy.—Evangelism, pp. 438, 439.
