Asa minister's wife
I will not devote my time and strength to any pursuit
nor to one helpless mortal*
that would require constant attention,
thus voluntarily tying my hands.
Rather, I will
dedicate my time and strength to
engage in gospel-medical-missionary work
outside our home...
be a true helper to my husband
assisting him in his work:
educate others .
Help give the message ...
Visit those in need of help ...
Shed light into discouraged souls...
Lift up the bowed down...
pray with them and point them to Christ ...
I will
cultivate inclination and fitness for this work ...
Consecrate my powers to God as a Christian worker ...
Improve my intellect .. .
And be humble, consecrated, and dignified
by the grace of Christ.
—E. G. White
The Adventist Home, pages 169, 170*
*counsel to the childless pastor's wife who is considering adopting but whose interests and natural gifts qualify her for ministerial service