[TSB 153.2] Doubts Upon Satan's Hooks. I showed you that your position as a minister of the gospel would make any such course as you had pursued a reproach to the cause of God, a matter of scandal, and your actions a savor of death rather than of life. When the standard-bearer falls, who will fight? When the cross is torn down by the ones who should point it out, whom will you believe? What can be more dreadful than a minister of Jesus Christ a commandment breaker? I see only one way for your escape--break with the temptations of Satan at once, and rush for the light! Even ministers who claim to believe the truth are only blind guides if the truth is not enthroned in the heart, and a thorough transition from darkness to light has ［not］ taken place. They are clouds without water. I urge upon you, if you care for your own eternal welfare, the positive necessity of having the truth enthroned in your heart, for then its principles will sanctify your character. . . . {TSB 153.2} [TSB 153.3] You have talked over matters as you viewed them, that the communications from Sister White are not all from the Lord, but a portion is her own mind, her own judgment, 154 which is no better than anybody else's judgment and ideas. This is one of Satan's hooks to hang your doubts upon to deceive your soul and the souls of others who will dare to draw the line in this matter and say, This portion which pleases me is from God, but that portion which points out and condemns my course of conduct is from Sister White alone, and bears not the holy signet. You have in this way virtually rejected the whole of the messages, which God in His tender, pitying love has sent to you to save you from moral ruin. {TSB 153.3} [TSB 154.1] The Truth Which Condemns. God presents to you His will and ways which are in marked contrast in just that way which your case requires, and you are hereby tested whether you will accept the reproof, fall on the Rock and be broken, or will you become vexed over plain statements that come close to your soul, because it ［the reproof］ is the truth and condemns you, and then you feel at enmity with me. Hebrews 4:12. There is One back of me which is the Lord who has prompted the message, which you now reject, and disregard, and dishonor. By tempting God you have unnerved yourself, and confusion and blindness of mind have been the result. A fierce determination has sprung up in your heart in a spirit of defiance to brave it through. . . . {TSB 154.1} [TSB 154.2] You have a work to do for your soul that no one else can do for you. Your course of error and wrong has been the means of helping others in the same direction. You were never alone. The same hand that traced the characters over against the wall of Belshazzar's palace was registering in the books of heaven the deeds and words that made Christ ashamed of you. You had no respectful courtesy for those whom you should have treated with respect and to whose wants you should have been attentive. These unholy things unfitted you to do the work of the Lord; but in your unholy 155 hands you took your Bible and led the worship, and as mouthpiece for God you were foremost to preach to the people. Where was your conscience? Where was your humility? Where was your fear of God? Where was your faithful work to keep the Health Retreat up to the highest standard?--Letter 16, 1888 (written April 30, 1888). {TSB 154.2} [TSB 155.1] The Lord Lives. We had a private meeting where humble confessions were made by Elder M and Brother and Sister N. . . . {TSB 155.1} [TSB 155.2] Well, the Lord lives. I have had a hard battle and some precious victories gained. Elder M is clothed and in his right mind, humble, tender, and broken before God. Humble as a child. I see no way but to keep bearing the plain testimony in love, in patience.--Letter 27, 1888 (written May 29, 1888). {TSB 155.2} [TSB 155.3] 23. A Would-Be Sanitarium Superintendent Separation From Family Not Wise. Brother O: I must say some things to you, for your course is worthy of censure. You know what has been the course of Elder M and others connected with the Health Institute, and how difficult it has been to remove the impression once made. You know the history of the past and the reproach and disgrace that still cling to the institution, and the people at St. Helena are not ignorant of the great curse which fell upon it in consequence of the moral conduct of some who have been connected with it. {TSB 155.3} [TSB 155.4] I cannot feel that it would be wisdom for you to act in the capacity of superintendent of the Health Institution, for you are not a wise man. You are here away from your wife and family when you should be with them; but if there are reasons to justify this separation, your course should be 156 altogether different than it has been. If you had the sanctifying influence of the grace of Christ in your heart, you would take heed to your own ways and abstain from every appearance of evil. {TSB 155.4} [TSB 156.1] Your work has been such as to open to many souls the door of temptation, and many will be lost in consequence. You may reform, you may see your mistakes, but you will never be able to remove the impression that has been made. {TSB 156.1} [TSB 156.2] Reproof for Familiarity With the Opposite Sex. Brother O, you are watched with critical eyes. Your attention to young ladies is not called for. You are out of place in giving so much attention to the P family. Mrs. P has done her work in ruining one good man. That matter was opened before me as an open book. I was told in the night season that you were not qualified to be entrusted with large or even limited responsibilities unless you repent and become a reformed man. God cannot be with you while you pursue this course. My guide told me to follow, and I was shown your boyish familiarity with girls, and your particular sympathy toward Mrs. P and her daughters. The mother keeps ［to］ the bed much of the time when she should be engaged in some useful employment in the care of her family. {TSB 156.2} [TSB 156.3] Your familiarities with the mother and daughters were opened before me. Your attentions and your gifts speak louder than even your flattering words. You are displeasing God, and Heaven looks upon you with reproof. . . . Had you a new heart, your motives, actions, and course of conduct would be such that both believers and unbelievers might have an example of a Christlike character. I have seen your case as God sees it, and I now present it to you. Better, far better, would it have been had you disconnected from the Health Retreat some months ago. {TSB 156.3} [TSB 156.4] This freedom and gallantry toward young ladies is not 157 the outgrowth of a tender, Christlike sympathy. . . . If you look upon these matters as unworthy of mention, you will repeat them. Investigate your past life, and let moral taste be created by a purification of the soul temple. Put away your excuses, for you have none. Your ideas need a moral renovation, and then you will see things in a different light. God calls for men to do this work who are pure in heart and undefiled in thought, having an eye single to His glory. . . . {TSB 156.4} [TSB 157.1] Religion Not a Mere Cloak. God sees the heart, the deeds, and the purposes of the mind. It should be written on the conscience as with a pen of iron upon a rock that the man who expects true success in violating the eternal principles of right as written in the books of heaven, is not only foolish but wicked. Can men forget, "Thou God seest me"? Will you, my brother, turn away from idols? Your moral sense is clouded. Pray to God to bring all things to your remembrance that you may see things in their true bearing. Wear not the religion of Christ as a cloak, but put on the Lord Jesus Christ. {TSB 157.1} [TSB 157.2] Tests of a True Christian. The conversation of the man who claims to believe the truth for this time should be in heaven, not common, earthly, cheap, sensual. Holy maxims must be adopted or that man will walk contrary to Christ, deceiving the world, betraying the truth. Why, oh, why do professed Christians keep so low a level when they have so pure and perfect a gospel? {TSB 157.2} [TSB 157.3] Watch your religion with a jealous care, and let the word of God dwell in you richly. Let the question be asked, Am I a Christian? Do I love my neighbor as myself? Do I observe the golden rule, to do unto others as I would that they do unto me? Can I be a Christian, and taint and pollute my soul with sinful, corrupting imaginings? It was sin that crucified the Redeemer of the world. Seemingly upright 158 men do strange things, utterly contrary to the oracles of God. Their righteousness is a pretense before Him who looks into the heart. We are not to study and plan for our own interest, but in keeping our souls pure give an example to the youth and to all with whom we associate.--Letter 5, 1890. {TSB 157.3} [TSB 158.1] 24. A Medical Doctor Wrong Ideas About the Marriage Relation. Dr. Q, your mind has not been healthfully exercised at all times, since you came to the Health Retreat. Your ideas in regard to the marriage relation have been erroneous. Nothing but the violation of the marriage bed can either break or annul the marriage vow. We are living in perilous times, when there is no assurance in anything, save in firm, unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. There is no heart that may not be estranged from God through the devices of Satan, if one does not watch unto prayer. {TSB 158.1} [TSB 158.2] Your health would have been in a far better condition had your mind been at peace and rest; but it became confused and unbalanced, and you reasoned incorrectly in regard to the matter of divorce. Your views cannot be sustained on the ground from which you reason. Men are not at liberty to make a standard of law for themselves to avoid God's law, and please their own inclination. They must come to God's great moral standard of righteousness. {TSB 158.2} [TSB 158.3] If the wife is an unbeliever and an opposer, the husband cannot, in view of the law of God, put her away on this ground alone. In order to be in harmony with the law of Jehovah, he must abide with her, unless she chooses of herself to depart. He may suffer opposition and be oppressed and annoyed in many ways; he will find his comfort and his strength and support from God, who is able to give grace 159 for every emergency. He should be a man of pure mind, of truly decided, firm principles, and God will give him wisdom in regard to the course which he should pursue. Impulse will not control his reason, but reason will hold the lines of control in her firm hand, that lust shall be held under bit and bridle. {TSB 158.3} [TSB 159.1] Marriage as Firm as the Sabbath. Men who are placed in important positions, as those at the Health Retreat, are made the special objects of Satan's attacks. They are brought necessarily into the society of men and women. Some of these have a coarse, passionate, sensual nature, who when under temptation would do anything, regardless of God, regardless of consequences. They would break down the barriers of the marriage relation, that they may form new connections. {TSB 159.1} [TSB 159.2] God gave only one cause why a wife should leave her husband, or the husband leave his wife, which was adultery. Let this ground be prayerfully considered. Marriage was from the creation constituted by God a divine ordinance. The marriage institution was made in Eden. The Sabbath of the fourth commandment was instituted in Eden, when the foundations of the world were laid, when the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy. Then let this, God's institution of marriage, stand before you as firm as the Sabbath of the fourth commandment. {TSB 159.2} [TSB 159.3] We inquire, What can be said or done to stop the moral declension that has been taking root in the Health Retreat? May God forgive those who have had the experience of years in connection with the cause and work of God, and yet will by practice bring in a state of things that will endanger virtue and modesty and self-respect of girls and women. I must urge upon you that which I know, from the light which God has been pleased to give me. I have been 160 shown that men and women enjoying the religion of Jesus Christ will not be uneasy, restless, discontented, changeable; the peace of Christ in the heart will give solidity to character. {TSB 159.3} [TSB 160.1] Sacredness of the Marriage Covenant. I was in the night season in my dreams brought in connection with the Health Retreat. I felt grieved to see you unhappy and much discouraged. . . . But while I was distressed over this revelation to me, there was One speaking with you, Dr. Q. His words reproved you, but were mingled with tender compassion. I cannot write the exact words as He spoke them. I will try my best to give you the import of them. He said: "You are nourishing despondency, but in this you are not wise; you will become weak and inefficient. This will give the enemy advantage over you. God would have you grow nearer and closer to Himself, to resemble the image and character of Christ. Your heart is the seat of many tumultuous feelings, which you do not strive vigorously to overcome. You do not put your full heart and will into the work of cleansing the soul temple. Your mind is unwisely exercised on the subject of divorce from your wife. God is not leading you in this. You are not keeping this matter bound within your own mind. You are telling your ideas and plans to others, and in thus doing you are preparing the way for Satan to affect the minds of others by your suggestions. "The matter of the marriage covenant does not stand sacred and elevated in your mind as it should, and you will be certainly in danger of pursuing a wrong course yourself, and endangering other souls by your suggestions. Your mind while stirred up on this subject cannot be prepared to do the best work, 161 and you cannot be an earnest seeker for the blessing of the Lord, unless you shall come up on higher ground. You have done positive injury to the hearts and minds of others. Close quickly the door of your heart that has been open to the enemy. Open wide the door of your heart and invite Jesus to come in. You will then have a balance wheel to your somewhat erratic nature, that you can put your whole being into your work, realizing its importance. Improve every opportunity to work your way upward, exerting a firm and healthful influence. Lose no time in this matter. If you would be a free and happy man, you must resist the enemy.". . . {TSB 160.1} [TSB 161.1] The Thoughts on a Higher Channel. Dr. Q, your mind is not in a healthful state. You center your mind upon things that do not bring to you physical or mental soundness. You must have a change of heart; then your thoughts will flow into a higher, purer channel. You enjoy the society of women and girls. This becomes to you a snare. In such an institution the physician's mind should be constantly uplifted to God for strength and wisdom. There is constant danger of the thoughts taking a low level. Unless the Lord is the center of attraction, unless He is a special defense against the temptations of the enemy, he ［Satan］ will gain power over your mind and separate you from God. {TSB 161.1} [TSB 161.2] Need of Heart Religion. In a dream on another occasion you were presented before me. Your head was bowed down upon a table. You were almost unconscious. Words were spoken to you with a firm, decided emphasis: "Put that out of your hand! You need not take that; your life is not your own; your medicine is not needed to bring you peace and rest. What you need is heart religion, a heart purified, refined, elevated from common things, taking hold upon the 162 divine. Be a man. Call your wife to your side, become better acquainted with the truth, be molded by the Spirit of God, and you will have peace. If you take the right course, if you are unwavering in the truth, if you keep your own soul in the love of God, you will be in the hands of the Lord the means of saving your wife, and in her turn, if she accepts the truth of heavenly origin, if she is a meek and humble follower of Christ, she will be the means in the hands of God of being a great blessing to you. . . . {TSB 161.2} [TSB 162.1] Now, Dr. Q, stand up in your God-given manhood! Lift the cross of Christ daily, uplift your thoughts into a higher, purer channel. Respect your marriage vows, and be God's own servant for the uplifting of the human race. If you are an overcomer, you will be among those who will have possession of all things; the eternal weight of glory will be yours. {TSB 162.1} [TSB 162.2] The Result of Undue Familiarity. There is an animal that strikes the arm with feebleness the moment it touches it. The muscles become as if paralyzed. In a similar way will it be with you spiritually, if your thoughts are allowed to run in a certain channel, and you give attention and preferences to young girls or married women. All this familiarity is death to spirituality. {TSB 162.2} [TSB 162.3] Let your affections and your sympathies entwine about God, else your impulses will become impure, your character will be defective, your heart estranged from God. Whoever touched or handled that which pollutes, and yet continued pure? The soul cannot remain pure breathing the atmosphere of that which taints and corrupts. These things steal the heart away from God. The soul withers and becomes deformed, because the tent is pitched too near Sodom to breathe the pure atmosphere of heaven. {TSB 162.3} [TSB 162.4] Our Only Safety. The violation of one of God's precepts does violence to your moral nature. For Christ's sake, I 163 implore you to reach a higher standard. Give yourself unreservedly to the Lord. You have lessons to learn that your only safety is to meet the requirements of God, to present your body "a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service." Then the Word of God will be found a pleasant and profitable guide, a light to your feet, and a lamp to your path. Then you can bear perplexities, and they will not overcome you; for you know that your soul is riveted to the eternal Rock, because you abide by the simple truth of God.--Letter 8, 1888. {TSB 162.4} [TSB 163.1] 25. A Literature Evangelist Counsel to a Woman Literature Evangelist. I have received two letters from you, and have a desire to relieve your mind if I can. Your position was a very remarkable one, and God gave me a decided message for you. I did not consider from the facts presented that your case was without hope; but your perception of what constituted right and wrong was so low in the scale that it was entirely unsafe for you to be traveling and be canvassing and giving Bible readings, and be exposed to temptations. ［You are］ one who could not distinguish in the Word of God what sin is, in giving your body to be polluted by a man, whatever may be his profession, and claim to be relieved ［forgiven］. This matter was shown to me to be a heinous sin in the sight of God, and yet your senses were so benumbed and demoralized that you would continue to canvass for our religious books and give Bible readings, and you committing fornication. {TSB 163.1} [TSB 163.2] Reproof From God. The law of God proclaimed upon Mount Sinai, "Thou shalt not commit adultery," and yet you who transgressed that law in so marked a manner were teaching others the Bible. God did not accept your labors. You ask if the Lord gave me that letter to give to you. I say 164 He did. The holy God of Israel will not serve with your sins. That message was given of God. If you have had, since that message was given, a new sense of what constitutes sin, if you have become truly converted, a child of God in place of being a transgressor of His law, there is no one who will be more pleased than myself. I could not present your sin before you in too strong language. {TSB 163.2} [TSB 164.1] So Little Sense of Sin. I had presented before me several, living in different States, who were engaged in the canvassing work who were unfit to have any connection with the work of God. They would dishonor God, and bring the truth into reproach. They would make light of sin. They were dishonoring their own bodies. But not one among the number was having so little sense of what sin was, as you. Anyone pursuing the course you did, and belied apparently to the criminality and degradation of such a course, was just terrible. You had not a sense of the aggravated character of sin. {TSB 164.1} [TSB 164.2] God's Patience With Sinners. The message was given Jonah to Nineveh, that in forty days it should be destroyed. Nineveh repented, and God spared the wicked city, because kings and nobles humbled themselves greatly before God, and the Lord gave Nineveh chance for repentance. If the Lord in His great mercy treats your case in a similar manner, oh, I shall be so thankful. If He grants you probation in which to manifest that repentance that needeth not to be repented of, because you see and sense the real nature of sin, that you abhor yourself because of your sin, and have an abhorrence likewise of the sin, the Lord is gracious, of pitying tenderness and loving kindness. "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" ［1 John 1:9］. {TSB 164.2} [TSB 164.3] I believe you have confessed your sin, and that God will pardon the sin as He has promised. The only drawback in 165 my mind is that the very same want of perception of what constituted sin, in the prostituting of your body, giving it up to the use of an adulterer, a whoremonger, and you connected with the work and cause of God giving Bible readings, as though the Lord would serve with your sins while you were engaged in His work and voluntarily seeking the embrace of an adulterer ［is still a weakness with you］. {TSB 164.3} [TSB 165.1] Divine Mercy to the City of Nineveh. I presented you with the matter as presented to me, and tell you that God abhors all such things. If your moral sensibilities are quickened, it is through the converting power of God. If you are transformed in character, the Lord knows all about that. And if you have through repentance been uplifted to reach a high and holy standard, I cannot myself say the Lord will not regard your case in the same light He regarded Nineveh. {TSB 165.1} [TSB 165.2] Said the king of Nineveh, "Let man and beast be covered with sackcloth, and cry mightily unto God: yea, let them turn every one from his evil way, and from the violence that is in their hands. Who can tell if God will turn and repent, and turn away from His fierce anger, that we perish not? And God saw their works, that they turned from their evil way; and God repented of the evil, that He had said that He would do unto them; and He did it not" ［Jonah 3:8-10］. Read this over carefully, and if the Lord ［should］ trust you with His work, I have not a word of objection. This is all I can say to you. {TSB 165.2} [TSB 165.3] Now, please take your case to the Lord, and if you are in communion with Him, He will hear your prayers, and will guide you in judgment. My heart pities you. The first time the sin was committed, it was done without so much time for meditation; the second sins were committed after time to meditate, after time to consider the matter in the light of the Word of God, in the face of the seventh commandment. 166 That you should voluntarily submit your body to the man who led you astray, and you engaged in seeking to enlighten other minds in regard to the commandments, is a most decided exhibition of depravity, and reveals a character as presented to me untrustworthy, and you were incapable of discerning why you should not go right on with the work as you had done. {TSB 165.3} [TSB 166.1] Public Confession Not Always Best. But I leave the matter where it is. I could say to you to go to trustworthy persons in the conference (not men, but women), and talk with them; but I am inclined to think that should you do this you would be giving publicity to those things which would cause all to be removed from you; and they would not encourage you or accept you to engage in any branch of the work, when they should understand the matter as it is. I must now leave this matter between you and your God, and please do not trouble me anymore with it. I have no disposition to expose you, but leave you to develop character. I pity you and hope that you will move in discretion, and become altogether that which God would have you.--Letter 95, 1893. {TSB 166.1} [TSB 166.2] 26. A Public Evangelist ［THE EVANGELIST TO WHOM THESE LETTERS WERE WRITTEN SOMETIMES CONDUCTED SEVERAL SERIES OF MEETINGS IN ONE AREA, THEN MOVED AWAY TO THE NEXT WHILE HIS WIFE REMAINED TO CARRY ON WITH THE INTEREST AND FOLLOW UP WITH BIBLE STUDIES. THIS SITUATION WAS FAR FROM IDEAL. HE FINALLY FELL INTO THE SIN OF ADULTERY AND EVEN REJECTED THE SPIRIT OF PROPHECY AND THE COUNSEL OF THE GENERAL CONFERENCE LEADERS. THE REVIEW AND HERALD ANNOUNCED THAT HIS CREDENTIALS WERE REVOKED. A FEW YEARS BEFORE HIS DEATH HE REPENTED AND RETURNED TO THE LORD.］ Strong to Move Crowds, Weak to Manage Self. You will see before this reaches you that the Lord has again visited 167 His people by giving me a testimony. In this view I was shown that you were not standing in the clear light and you are in danger of bringing a reproach upon the cause of God by moving as you happen to feel. It is Satan's intent to destroy you. He is seeking to keep your mind in a constant state of agitation, stirring it up that it may cast up mire and dirt instead of the peaceful fruits of righteousness. . . . {TSB 166.2} [TSB 167.1] But, Brother R, I was shown that you now should be very circumspect in your deportment and in your words. You are watched by enemies. You have great weaknesses for a man who is as strong as you are to move the crowd. As you are now separated from your wife there will be suspicion and jealousy, and falsehoods will be framed ［even］ if you give no occasion. But if you are not cautious, you will bring a reproach upon the cause of God which could not soon be wiped away. You may feel, as I saw you had felt, that if you were not going to live with your wife, you wished to be free from her. You are restless, uneasy, and unsettled. Satan is tempting you to make a foolish man of yourself. Now is the time for you to show yourself a man, to exhibit the grace of God by your patience, your fortitude, and courage. . . . {TSB 167.1} [TSB 167.2] Danger in Confidants. You need to consecrate yourself to God, and not dwell upon your troubles. Be careful how you are enticed to make women your confidants or to allow them to make you their confidant. Keep aloof from the society of women as much as you can. You will be in danger. Remember, we are living amid the perils of the last days. Almost everything is rotten and corrupt. {TSB 167.2} [TSB 167.3] Look to God, pray, oh, pray, as you never have before to be kept by the power of God through faith. In God you can stand untainted, without a stain or blemish. Fasten your hold upon God. Look to Him in faith that you may be a 168 partaker of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. God will bring you off victorious if you will live a humble life of prayer and dependent trust.--Letter 23, 1871. {TSB 167.3} [TSB 168.1] No Relish for God's Word. In the last vision given me your case was presented before me. I have been waiting to see if you had a tender, sensitive, or a seared, conscience. I have had the following written out for a long time but have thought I would wait till you made some move yourself. I was shown that you have not lived up to the light. You have departed far from the light. The Lord has been following you with reproofs and counsel to preserve you from ruining your own soul and bringing a reproach upon His cause. I was shown that you have been retrograding rather than advancing and growing in grace and the knowledge of truth. . . . {TSB 168.1} [TSB 168.2] You have made girls and women the theme of thought, rather than the Word of God. Your mind has been restless and dissatisfied if it could not be occupied with girls and women. You could not relish the study of the Word of God while your thoughts have been upon subjects which war against the soul. There is no excuse for your life of folly. {TSB 168.2} [TSB 168.3] A Double-minded Minister. From what has been shown me you are a transgressor of the seventh commandment. How then can your mind be in harmony with the precious Word of God, truths which cut you at every turn? If you had been betrayed into this folly unwittingly, it would be more excusable, but you have not. You have been warned. You have been reproved and counseled. You have apparently received the reproof, but not in heart sufficient to die to the carnal mind. You have not set to work to eradicate the evil. You have soon lost the smart of the chastening rod of the Lord, and rushed on in as great foolishness as ever, like a 169 fool to the correction of stocks. Your love for self-indulgence has become a warring lust. {TSB 168.3} [TSB 169.1] You love the society of girls and women. During a series of meetings you have allowed your mind to plan and contrive how you can get into the society of young girls or women and not betray your true feelings. You will run into temptation when you have not moral power to resist temptation. Your mind is constantly impure because the fountain is never cleansed. You have found no delight in diligent, careful searching of the Scriptures. . . . {TSB 169.1} [TSB 169.2] Unchastity of Thought and Action. God has erected the barriers of testimonies as a wall about you to guard you from falling under the specious wiles of the enemy, but you break all these down and press over everything to follow your inclination. Your sorrow for your sins is like that of those who anciently rent their garments to express their grief but did not afflict their souls. You have not a correct sense of what sin is. The aggravating character of unchastity of thought and actions you have not sensed. Your mind is carnal, and that almost continually. If you really were sorry for your sins, if you really had a true sense of your wrongs, you would exercise that repentance that needeth not to be repented of. {TSB 169.2} [TSB 169.3] More Harm Than Help to the Cause. I desire now to state facts. I have been shown that your life and your labors in the cause of God for some years have been a greater injury to the precious cause of present truth than a benefit. Had you had no part in this work and been separated entirely from it, you would have saved much heart sorrow to those who love the cause of God; and you would have saved them much hard labor which has been forced upon them to counteract your wrong influence. {TSB 169.3} [TSB 169.4] The labor that has been required to get you right and to 170 keep you from disgracing the cause, had it been spent on converting souls from error to truth--and had the laborers had nothing whatever to do in regard to you--the interest and strength of the cause of present truth would stand better today in California as well as in the East. {TSB 169.4} [TSB 170.1] Influence of an Erring Minister. Satan has made you his agent to carry out his mind. The great stir and great excitement you have made in discussions from time to time, and the apparent success you have had, has built you up in your own self-righteousness. Allowing you to labor as you have been permitted to labor when your heart was not right with God, has done you great injury. You have not searched your own heart and afflicted your soul before God. You have felt too lightly your terrible mistakes in the past. Everything has been done to save you from utter disgrace and ruin. You have been patiently borne with, and when wholly unfit for the sacred work, in order to save your soul you have been permitted to continue your labors while hearts have groaned and ached under the burden of your foolish, sinful course. {TSB 170.1} [TSB 170.2] Had you been left to yourself long ago, till you gave the evidence that God was indeed with you and that you were a thoroughly reformed man, you might now be of some use in this solemn work. But I saw that we were risking altogether too much in encouraging you to go out to labor to convert sinners to Christ when your way has been polluted before God, your heart all stained with sins. The true servants of God are judged to be like yourself. No longer should you mar the work of God with your corrupt, your carnal, heart, and thus miserably represent the cause of present truth. {TSB 170.2} [TSB 170.3] Some Success No Evidence of God's Acceptance. In order for you to do good you must live a new life that is in harmony with God. Your perverse nature has not been transformed. You are not at peace with God or with yourself. You 171 are in bondage to the great adversary of souls, in subjection to the old man of sin. You are not a free man in Christ. There is needed a spiritual change in you before God can work with you. You may argue that you have success as you labor. So do many who are at war with God have a measure of success. If some do embrace the truth while the arguments you use are so convincing, it is no evidence you are in a state of even acceptance with God. . . . {TSB 170.3} [TSB 171.1] A Life of Known Mental Sin. If it had only stopped there--but it did not. You felt for a little time the evil of your course, but not as fully as you should, how you had been deceived by Satan, infatuated; and your eyes never did have the mist fully removed from them. You humbled your heart before God, and He accepted your humiliation. You soon became careless again, and allowed your mind to become filled again with vain and impure imaginings. You were a little more cautious, but full of deception. Your mind was active to invent means to gain your object. . . . {TSB 171.1} [TSB 171.2] The power of great passion has been your apology for vice. Your life has been a shame--nothing in it of which you might glory. You have had great depression if you were not strained up to some excitement and not had some girl or woman to attract you and to listen to your troubles in regard to your wife. Shame, shame should cover you for your course.--Letter 52, 1876. {TSB 171.2} [TSB 171.3] Daily Conversion for a Sacred Work. God has shown me your case so fully I dare not let you go on in deception as to your true condition. I greatly fear that you will fail of everlasting life, that after you have preached to others upon the binding claims of God's law you will fail to carry out in your own life the holy principles of the law of God, and will make shipwreck of faith. 172 {TSB 171.3} [TSB 172.1] You are so much swallowed up in yourself that unless you are consecrated to God and have a living daily faith in God and obtain His grace and power, you will be a hindrance to the advancement of the truth. I cannot see the cause of God marred and suffer through your inefficiency or through your blind mistakes. You must be a daily converted man or you are unfit for the sacred work in which you are engaged. I know more of your peculiar temperament and your dangers than others can. {TSB 172.1} [TSB 172.2] Appeal to Women for Sympathy. Your trouble with the sisters has come in consequence of your drawing upon their sympathies. You relate your trials and enlist their pity for you whom they think a great sufferer. You then yield to your feelings, put on an appearance as though you were enduring almost martyrdom. You lead them out to give you care and attention which is not really proper, and bring yourself in a position where you are easily tempted. You should have learned by your trials in the past to shun anything which has the least appearance of familiarity with the sisters, married or unmarried. Let your affections center upon God. Rely upon Him for support rather than on human sympathy. {TSB 172.2} [TSB 172.3] You are very weak in this direction, but the cause of God must not be marred with your weakness and indiscretion. This is your danger, and you are overcome, and then a wound is brought upon the cause of God that can never be fully healed.--Letter 53, 1876. {TSB 172.3} [TSB 172.4] Attitude of the Evangelist After Loss of His Credentials. Dear Sir: I have been troubled exceedingly in regard to your case, and yet have not known what to say to you. I was very reluctant to say a word to discourage you, for I know what terrible sadness discouragement brings to the soul. I thought when your credentials were not renewed you would quietly 173 settle down and be willing to be retired, that you would know if it was among the possibilities consistent with reason and religion in the great need we are of laborers, you would have received credentials. I could not use my influence in favor of this. {TSB 172.4} [TSB 173.1] In the last vision given me, the great white throne was presented before me, with the Judge of all the earth to pass sentence upon the congregated multitude. The ledger of heaven was opened, and those about the throne were judged according to the deeds done in the body. {TSB 173.1} [TSB 173.2] Your name was registered as weighed in the balance and found wanting. Your name was registered as a transgressor of the commandments of God. {TSB 173.2} [TSB 173.3] Opportunity to Redeem the Past. God in His great mercy gave you opportunity to redeem the past. When you had shown repentance He pitied you. . . . You were placed in a good field of labor, and had you conducted yourself as a Christian should, you might then have had that repentance that needeth not to be repented of. {TSB 173.3} [TSB 173.4] You were, for a time, humble and thankful, but your heart had so long been given up to perversity and to self-indulgence, that you could not see and sense your past course as so very offensive to God. Like Peter, you had been faithfully warned of your danger and of your defection of character; but you were self-confident and became jealous and acted like a spoiled child. . . . {TSB 173.4} [TSB 173.5] God's Rejection of Ministerial Labor. After God had borne so long with your perversity, while you were professing to be a shepherd of the flock, you were granted another trial in answer to our sorrowful petitions in your behalf. The Lord opened the way before you. We felt very sad for you; and when we saw how the matter resulted, we felt worse than before. 174 {TSB 173.5} [TSB 174.1] I was shown that your labors as a minister would be no longer accepted of God. Your moral sense is in no way strengthened by your last test and trial. You did not take and keep the position of a penitent man, humbling yourself daily before God, under a sense of His great mercy and your sinfulness. God does not connect with you. {TSB 174.1} [TSB 174.2] Contrition and prayer should have been your attitude; and if you had preserved this penitential position you would not be where you now are, unfit to be entrusted with the solemn work of laboring for souls, jealous, surmising evil, selfish, and uncourteous. You and your wife are an offense to God. It was your privilege to place yourselves where God could have worked through you, but you did not do this. You had not a love for the study of the Word. You had no love for prayer. {TSB 174.2} [TSB 174.3] David's Hour of Adversity. You did not take a humble position, as did David in view of his sin. After the commission of that great crime of his life, his entire character deteriorated. That crime recoiled terribly upon him. He was bearing a conscious sense of guilt. He felt that he had forfeited the love and loyalty of his subjects. He was weakened physically and morally. He lost his own self-respect and self-confidence. He scarcely dared trust his old and formerly tried advisers. Humbled and mournful was the procession that took that precipitate flight from his throne across the mount. {TSB 174.3} [TSB 174.4] But David was never more worthy of admiration than in his hour of adversity. Never was this cedar of God truly greater than when wrestling with the storm and tempest. He was a man of the keenest temperament, which might have been raised to the strongest feelings of resentment. He was cut to the quick with the imputation of unmerited wrong. Reproach, he tells us, had broken his heart. 175 {TSB 174.4} [TSB 175.1] And it would not have been surprising if, stung to madness, he had given vent to his feelings of uncontrollable irritation, to bursts of vehement rage, and expressions of revenge. But there was nothing of this which would naturally be expected of a man with his stamp of character. With spirit broken and in tearful emotion, but without one expression of repining, he turns his back upon the scenes of his glory and also of his crime, and pursues his flight for his life. {TSB 175.1} [TSB 175.2] Shimei comes forth as David passes and, with a storm of curses, hurls against him invectives, throwing stones and dirt. Said one of David's faithful men, "Let me go over, I pray thee, and take off his head." David in his sorrow and humility says, "Let him curse, because the Lord hath said unto him, Curse David. . . . Behold, my son, which came forth of my bowels, seeketh my life" (2 Samuel 16:9-11). {TSB 175.2} [TSB 175.3] David's Refusal to Avenge Himself. In David is seen the saint of God. His fine and deep sense of feeling is not blunted. He senses his sin most keenly. . . . {TSB 175.3} [TSB 175.4] The faithful Nathan had pronounced the judgment of God. The sword was never to leave his ［David's］ house; that which he had sown he was also to reap. He had often had a gloomy presentiment of the present hour. He had long wondered why the merited judgment was so long delayed. The God he had offended by bringing so great sin upon Israel as their leader, was now showing him that He is not a God that will lie, and that by terrible things in righteousness would He show His hatred of sin. He did indeed realize, "Be sure your sin will find you out." {TSB 175.4} [TSB 175.5] But David showed the fine gold of his character under adversity and while suffering the retributive justice of God, in refusing to be avenged on Shimei, and in refusing to stoop to strategy or the arts of base expediency to gain his honor and his kingdom. . . . 176 {TSB 175.5} [TSB 176.1] He recalled how ofttimes God had worked for him, and thought, "If He accepts my repentance He may yet give me His favor and turn my mourning to joy. He may remove my sackcloth and give me the garment of goodness. On the other hand, if He has no delight in me, if He has forgotten me, if He will leave me to exile or to perish, I will not murmur. I deserve His judgments and will submit to it all. I will bear the indignation of the Lord, because I have sinned against Him, until He plead my cause and execute judgment for me." {TSB 176.1} [TSB 176.2] Oh, what a wonderful change for David! From his throne and kingdom he is fleeing into a barren dry land with no water. {TSB 176.2} [TSB 176.3] A Contrast With David's Case. I bring before you this lesson that you may see the contrast between your course under the reproof and displeasure of God and the course pursued by David. You have ever been ready to charge your discomfiture to somebody prejudiced against you. Instead of seeing that no one can have too strong feelings against a man professing to be a shepherd of the flock, who will corrupt the minds of the unsuspecting, you act as though you were a martyr suffering unjustly--a persecuted man who deserves the sympathy of the people. You have not a proper sense of sin. You are not right before God in motive or spirit. . . . {TSB 176.3} [TSB 176.4] Confession, But No Real Penitence. After you changed your location to Texas and had shown by confessing some things that you were sorry for your sins, your course was not what the course of a penitent man should be. You felt aggrieved that you were assailed and your name reproached. You sympathized with yourself in this matter, and then settled back in a state of helpless backsliding. Your example and your influence were not those of a penitent man. {TSB 176.4} [TSB 176.5] Meanwhile we felt sad indeed on your account and that 177 of your wife. Both of you have had great light and great privileges, and both gave yourselves into the enemy's hands while in the midst of light and opportunities and privileges. But we felt deep sorrow for you. We placed ourselves in your place and made the case our own. To have once taken an active part in the cause and then be set aside, having no part in it, seemed so terrible. We thought you had repented. We prayed for you very earnestly, and in a dream your case was presented before me. {TSB 176.5} [TSB 177.1] A Second Trial, Although Unworthy. I dreamed that although you were wholly unworthy, God would give you another trial. At once we made what efforts we could to get you to Colorado. We knew we were doing this in direct opposition to leading brethren who knew your case. We took the responsibility upon ourselves. We told you this. When the vision was given me two years ago, some things were shown me in regard to your dangers, which I faithfully wrote to you, informing you what course you must pursue. {TSB 177.1} [TSB 177.2] At the same time I pled most earnestly with you not to make a failure this time, that now was your time, now your day of opportunity; if you failed here it would be disastrous to you. I wrote private letters, I urged upon you what you must do and the earnest efforts you must put forth. Read Testimony No. 28. ［See 4T 306-383.］ {TSB 177.2} [TSB 177.3] An Unheeded Warning. When in Colorado one year ago, your course grieved me, not from any personal difference, but I saw that you were not doing as God had told you you must do. My heart sank within me. I gave you a warning, but you did not heed it. I knew then, as I know now, that you were making a failure. I had your course marked out plainly in regard to the fruit we should see in you, if you would sense your state and improve this last trial. . . . 178 {TSB 177.3} [TSB 178.1] Character Demoralization by Vanity and Envy. When you went to Colorado you had an excellent field, an excellent home; and oh, so much better privileges than some of our brethren have. You were familiar with the truth which you presented to the people, and some responded to it. You were humble at first. . . . You continued to labor, but you began to think that you were really quite an acquisition to the cause, and resented everything that did not look as though your efforts were appreciated. Very early you began to complain and express your dissatisfaction. . . . {TSB 178.1} [TSB 178.2] When we tried to set things in order, you were not one to humble yourself as did David. Contrast your feelings and your sense of sin with his repentance and humiliation. Your influence was on the side of the enemy. You were as a man in a maze. You began to recount what great good you had done, to reckon up those who had embraced the truth since you came to Colorado, when had it not been for publications and other influences aside from yours, there would have been but very few that would have balanced on the side of truth as your sheaves. You claim too much. . . . {TSB 178.2} [TSB 178.3] There will be those who will solicit you to labor among them, and you may in your unsanctified heart flatter yourself that this is in your favor, and that you are of value. But do you suppose for a moment, if they could read your heart or have opened before them your past course of wickedness, they would be eager for your labors? It is because they have not a knowledge of your course and what long forbearance the people of God have exercised toward you. They know not how aggravating has been your case, how many testimonies of warning have been given you, all of which have been unheeded. Should they know the matters as they are, they would give no encouragement to your preaching. . . . 179 {TSB 178.3} [TSB 179.1] David's Well-learned Lessons. The fruits of repentance are seen in the example of David. He learned the lesson of resignation under affliction, patience under injuries, and of humble, childlike reliance upon God. In your discouraged, dark condition, you should have both commenced as young converts, seeking to have no will nor way of your own, no surmising nor judging of the motives of others, and leaving forever the long, fretting, complaining years of the past. Many who see not as God seeth, but view matters from man's standpoint, might reason that with David there might have been excuse for repining, and that the sincerity of his repentance years before might have excepted him from present judgment. {TSB 179.1} [TSB 179.2] David might have thought so himself. He might have said, I have for a long time been obedient, and this should offset against my disobedience. It is hard for me in my old age to meet this sweeping blast. My life generally has been a life of faithful discharge of duty as God's honored servant, the king of Israel, the singer of His church. It is hard now to hang my harp upon the willow and remain tuneless and become a wandering exile. "My own son seeketh my life." {TSB 179.2} [TSB 179.3] Excuses for Sin of No Value With God. But David makes no excuse. Justice points to the broken tablets of the broken law and draws her sword against the transgressor. All apologies or excuses for sin are of no value with God. The sentiment of the soul of David was, Who shall testify to lessen the guilt of the sinner when God testifies against him? God's verdict--guilty--has gone forth, and man cannot erase it. ［David knows the Scripture］: "Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them." David utters no complaint. The most eloquent psalm he ever sang was when he was 180 climbing Mount Olivet, weeping and barefooted, yet humbled in spirit, unselfish and generous, submissive and resigned. {TSB 179.3} [TSB 180.1] The royal fugitive does not render evil for evil or railing for railing. He does not harbor revengeful feelings in his heart, but amid his own woes he is kind, noble, and sympathetic. Oh, what a marked contrast has been your course. . . . {TSB 180.1} [TSB 180.2] Law of Sowing and Reaping. You have had every opportunity, every privilege, every advantage, but you have not improved them. When you came to Colorado, if you had both sought God like young converts, studied your Bibles, walked humbly with God, prayed earnestly, and watched thereunto, you would have shown that you prized the boon of eternal life. {TSB 180.2} [TSB 180.3] But you would not appreciate heaven. Although you have, on account of your sins, been most terribly threatened of God and warned for years of His punishment which is sure to come for transgression, yet all the time you have been grieving the Saviour. He has made you the object of His unwearied love and tender solicitude. He and all heaven have been ashamed of you and looked upon your course with loathing. {TSB 180.3} [TSB 180.4] When the husbandman sows corn, he reaps corn. If he sows wheat, he reaps wheat. If he sows poisonous seeds, he will have the same to harvest. Thus with yourself as a responsible agent. If you sow to the flesh, you will of the flesh reap corruption. If you sow licentiousness, you will reap that which you have sown. The seed sown produces its kind. . . . {TSB 180.4} [TSB 180.5] Possible Accomplishment of a Second Trial. God gave you another trial. Oh, that you could have appreciated it, and offered earnest, heartfelt prayer with true penitence and 181 living faith to grasp the precious promise. Had you with willing heart practiced self-denial, resisted temptation, there would have been increased strength with every effort to overcome self. Every new achievement of principle will smooth the way for achievements of the same kind, the fruit of every moral victory. This victory is the seed sown which produces its kind, placing the sower on higher ground for every triumph of righteousness gained. Every virtuous action strengthens the spiritual sinews for new virtue, and every vice repeated rivets the fetters of vice. There is a growing strength in habit, and by it every action makes way for repetition. . . . {TSB 180.5} [TSB 181.1] Retired Life After Loss of Credentials. If you can save your own soul by a humble, penitent life, that is the greatest work you can do. God is merciful, but you should not attempt to teach others. You have lost the power of God to teach. Your work is not acceptable to God. {TSB 181.1} [TSB 181.2] It is alarming how rapidly the sin of licentiousness is coming in among us. While writing out these individual, personal testimonies, your case was urged upon me with great power in the night season; and I cannot forbear writing to you. My soul is burdened day and night for the Israel of God. . . . {TSB 181.2} [TSB 181.3] Loss of the Power of God. I hoped that you would be of sufficient understanding to know when no credentials were given you that you should keep humbled and retired. You might have known that it was my words that had to be spoken in answer to questions put directly, that settled the matter in regard to your receiving credentials. {TSB 181.3} [TSB 181.4] But when I see your reports in the paper my heart is sad. No such reports should enter the columns of our paper. How do those whom you have sought to ruin look upon these reports? How do those in _____ regard them? It 182 is because the fine perception is dimmed in those in charge of the paper that any of your reports find access to its columns. The high standard of truth and purity is lowered. Your spirit of independence and self-esteem shown since the conference at Battle Creek is anything but the spirit you would have could you discern yourself and have a true sense of sin.--Letter 6, 1880. {TSB 181.4} [TSB 182.1] 27. An Honored Minister Loss of Influence and Reputation. Dear Brother H: I have somewhat to say unto thee. . . . {TSB 182.1} [TSB 182.2] My brother, you have had the respect of the church, old and young. But your course is condemned of God, and you have not had His Spirit, and you are not a free man. You have pursued a course that has caused your good to be evil spoken of. The very things that transpired at the Piedmont Sabbath school reunion, I would not have ［had］ occur for thousands of dollars. You, a gray-haired man, lying at full length with your head in the lap of Georgie S. Had I done my duty, I would have rebuked you there. Many saw this and made remarks about it. After such exhibitions as this, of what value would be your admonitions to them to be guarded against everything of this free and easy familiarity? You have yourself neutralized your efforts to elevate the young by your example. {TSB 182.2} [TSB 182.3] The course of intimacy with Sister S and her family has been a subject of remark. And how could you expect to have influence with the young as a father when such manifest want of judgment and such weakness has been exhibited by you? If you will only be a man in your old age instead of a sentimental lover; if you would only be guarded, God would not remove His wisdom from you as He has done. Your reputation would have been dearer to 183 you than your very life. Better, far better, go down to the grave with honor untarnished, than to live with a reproach upon your name. {TSB 182.3} [TSB 183.1] When the Lord Is Not Supreme. Now look, my brother, at the years you have been living in unlawful sympathy and love with another man's wife. And you have a daughter who would be glad to give you attention and sympathy and make a home for you, but you have been so completely infatuated that everything in this life that was sensible and proper has been distasteful and insipid to you. I do not feel that the charm is broken, that you are a free man. You have not broken the snare. The Lord is not supreme with you. {TSB 183.1} [TSB 183.2] Now, my brother, it would be folly for you to think that you have wisdom to discern spiritual things while you have been growing weaker and weaker for years in moral power, and separating from the God of wisdom. The letters written to your wife are harsh and unfeeling. The withdrawing of your support in a large degree is not wisdom or right on your part. And had she not a cause when she was at Oakland to be jealous of you? Did not she see in you the interest, sympathy, and love you gave to Sister S? {TSB 183.2} [TSB 183.3] Now, for Christ's sake, save your harsh condemnation of others, for this shows that you are not Christlike, that you have another spirit. I write thus plainly because I feel deeply that you need to make a more determined effort than you have done before you stand free in the sight of God. All your sharpness and overbearing comes from you with an ill grace. Do humble yourself under the hand of God. Do make sure of the favor of God, and put sin away from you. {TSB 183.3} [TSB 183.4] There are but few who know to what extent this intimacy has gone, and God forbid it shall be known and your influence lost to God's cause and your soul lost. I beg of you 184 not to take it upon you to pronounce judgment against anyone but yourself.--Letter 10, 1885. {TSB 183.4} [TSB 184.1] For the Good of the Cause. Dear Brother Butler: . . . I have spoken quite freely upon some things. I thought I had to do this. Am inclined to say I will hold my peace henceforth, but as I am not my own and as I am mightily wrought upon at times to write, I dare not say this. I have but one object in view--not only the present but future good of the cause and work of God. Should I resist these impressions to write, when I am so burdened? I cannot now promise. I must ponder these things in my heart. I must pray about them, and obey the movings of the Spirit of God or withdraw myself from having any connection with the work. {TSB 184.1} [TSB 184.2] The Lord knows I am not pleased with this kind of work. I love and respect my brethren, and would not in the slightest manner demerit them, cause them pain; but I have tried to move with an eye single to the glory of God. I feel a sadness now upon me and confusion that I cannot see clearly my duty. {TSB 184.2} [TSB 184.3] God's Answer to Prayer for Victory. I wrote some things to H. He wrote me that it was just as I had stated the matter. I was so burdened with a dream I had that I arose at three o'clock and wrote to Elder H that he had not kept his promise, that while he was engaged in teaching the commandments of God he was breaking them, that he was giving attentions to Sister S which should be bestowed only upon his wife. I wrote very pointedly to him. {TSB 184.3} [TSB 184.4] He admitted my statements, said he had prayed over the matter and felt that his course was wrong, but did not say he would cease this thing forever. He says, {TSB 184.4} [TSB 184.5] "Your strong condemnation of me is only just. That I know, and feel the difficulty with me was this: 185 it was so hard for me to realize the sinfulness of my course. My reason, my judgment, the testimony and the Scriptures, all combined to teach me that it was wrong. Yet it had such a hold of me that I failed to realize it as I should. I could not bring myself to feel the extent of my wrong, and gradually it proved a snare to me. But I had been making it a subject of special prayer some time before I received your last letter, that God would enable me to see it in its proper light and to feel over it as I should; and I have reason to believe that my prayer was answered. {TSB 184.5} [TSB 185.1] "If I know anything of the blessing of grace, I know that I was blessed in the effort. I greatly needed this blessing to enable me to do the work aright, which was put upon me here. It was expressed of all that I was helped of heaven to write the report on the matter of the arrest of our people for working on the Sunday and other important writings which it fell to me to do. But I am painfully conscious of my weakness and that my only safety is in constant watchfulness such as I did not exercise before. I see now that it is a question of life and death with me and shall strive to act accordingly."--Letter 73, 1886. {TSB 185.1} [TSB 185.2] Workings of an Unsanctified Heart. Dear Brother Butler. ［THIS LETTER WAS SENT TO ELDER GEORGE I. BUTLER, THE GENERAL CONFERENCE PRESIDENT, BUT ELLEN WHITE ALSO DIRECTLY ADDRESSES ELDER H, THE GUILTY MINISTER］I am troubled in regard to Elder H. He writes me nothing, and I feel deeply pained on his account. It seems sometimes to me that the Lord is testing us to see whether we will deal faithfully in regard to sin in one of our honored men. The time is close at hand when the General Conference 186 will have to decide the points whether or not to renew his credentials. {TSB 185.2} [TSB 186.1] If the Conference does this, they will be saying virtually, "We have confidence in you as a man whom God recognizes as His messenger; one to whom He has entrusted the sacred responsibilities of caring for the sheep of the Lord's pasture; one who will be in all things a faithful shepherd, a representative of Christ." But can we do this? Have we not seen the workings of an unsanctified heart? {TSB 186.1} [TSB 186.2] A Man Bewitched. The persistency in Elder H to accept and claim Mrs. S as his--what shall I call it--his affinity? What is this? Who can name it? Is Elder H one who has hated the light God has given him, showing that his preferences for Mrs. S's society, and his intimacy with her, was sinful as in the light of the Word of God? Or did he accept the message and act upon it? {TSB 186.2} [TSB 186.3] Notwithstanding, I went to Elder H with the testimony given me of God, yet he did not reform. His course has said, "I will do as I please in the matter; there is no sin in it." He promised before God what he would do, but he broke his promises made to Brother C. H. Jones, W. C. White, and myself, and his feelings did not decidedly change; but he seems to act like a man bewitched, under the spell of the devil, who had no power over his own inclinations. Notwithstanding all the light given, he has evidenced no real conviction or sense of sin; no repentance, no reformation. Hearts have ached sorely over this state of things, but they had no power to change his heart or his purposes. {TSB 186.3} [TSB 186.4] Perversion of God-given Powers. Now, we should be very grateful for the help of Elder H in England, and in Switzerland, but what can we decide upon? We must have evidence that he is clear before God. We do not want to make a light matter of sin, and say to the sinner, "It shall be 187 well with thee." We do not want to connect Elder H with the work here unless he has a connection with God. We do not want to have the drawback that would come by connecting a man with the work who has a blot on his garments. We cannot pass lightly over this matter. {TSB 186.4} [TSB 187.1] The plague of sin is upon Elder H, and pain and sorrow are upon the souls of all who are aware of this chapter in his experience. Christ is dishonored. A man blessed with superior light and knowledge, endowed with great capacity for good, that he may by a life of obedience and fidelity to God become equal with angels ［and］ his life measure with the life of God, has perverted his God-given powers to administer to lust, coveting the wife of another. God finds Elder H setting at naught the most costly lessons of experience, violating the most solemn admonitions of God, that he may continue in sin. {TSB 187.1} [TSB 187.2] I have hoped and prayed that he would restore reason to its right throne and break the fetters that for years Satan has been weaving about him, soul and body, and that the clouds that have shadowed his pathway be removed, and Christ come to his soul to revive and bless it. Christ will lift the heavy burden from weary shoulders, and give rest and peace to those who will wear His yoke and lift His burdens. {TSB 187.2} [TSB 187.3] Appeal to a Leading Worker. I will say, Elder H, What can be the character of your experience when in the face of many warnings and reproofs you continue to pursue a course condemned of God? Can you think well of yourself? Just think of Jesus, crowned with thorns and nailed to the cross for our sins, and let it humble--yes, let it break--your heart. Look at the meekness of Christ, His loveliness, and then bow in the dust with shame and humiliation. {TSB 187.3} [TSB 187.4] Will you please think what you would do in case one of our leading men should be found in the position you are in? 188 Could you, without any greater evidence on his part of the sense of his sin than you have given, advise that he have credentials as one of pure and holy purposes before God? Cannot you see you are placing your fellow laborers in a very unpleasant and unenviable position? Will they venture to become responsible for your character and your influence in the future in the work and cause of God? {TSB 187.4} [TSB 188.1] Responsibility of Greater Light. Your case has been shown me to be worse than that of Elder R, because you had greater light, capacity, and influence; and his course is a beacon to warn you off from following in his steps. Elder R's credentials were taken away from him; he is a deeply repentant man, humbled in the dust. {TSB 188.1} [TSB 188.2] Supposing David should, after being reproved by Nathan, have repeated the same offense, would the Lord then have had compassion upon him? But he repented bitterly; he declared his transgression was ever before him. Hear his humiliating confession, and listen to his despairing cries. {TSB 188.2} [TSB 188.3] Cleansing of the Camp. We must as a people arouse and cleanse the camp of Israel. Licentiousness, unlawful intimacy, and unholy practices are coming in among us in a large degree; and ministers who are handling sacred things are guilty of sin in this respect. They are coveting their neighbors' wives, and the seventh commandment is broken. We are in danger of becoming a sister to fallen Babylon, of allowing our churches to become corrupted, and filled with every foul spirit, a cage for every unclean and hateful bird; and will we be clear unless we make decided movements to cure the existing evil? {TSB 188.3} [TSB 188.4] Will you have others follow your example? Will you wish them to pass over the ground you have traveled, and feel that they have done no great wrong? Without repentance 189 and conversion, you are a ruined man. {TSB 188.4} [TSB 189.1] I hear you ［Elder H］ are taking treatment at the sanitarium, acting as chaplain, speaking in the Tabernacle. Now, this does not look right for you to take such positions, until you have done all in your power to correct past evils. {TSB 189.1} [TSB 189.2] Self-righteousness and Inward Corruption. I have felt, for your sake, restrained from opening the matter of Mrs. S's infidelity to her husband, but I fear I have neglected my duty. If we had dealt with this matter as if it had been the case of a lay member of the church, I believe God would have then sent you repentance that needed not to be repented of. {TSB 189.2} [TSB 189.3] Our pity, our love, to save you from reproach, has hurt you. My heart is so sad and agonized at times for you, I can only weep. I say, "Must he be lost? Must he, after suffering for the truth's sake, after standing in its defense until he is old and gray-headed, become an idolater, as did Solomon? Will he, for the love of a woman, trample down the law of God and look about him as much as to say, I do no sin; I am all right?" {TSB 189.3} [TSB 189.4] Need of Heart Change, Not Change of Location. Will we be clear to let such things be concealed and sins hidden, with no real evidence of repentance or reform? Your leaving California does not give you a new heart. You are out of sight of the infatuating influence of your "adorable charmer," but this does not change the affections or impulses of the heart. Elder W might have finished his course with joy had it not been for sensual practices, but he was led away of his own lusts and enticed. The days and years which might have been his very best were his worst. {TSB 189.4} [TSB 189.5] We see in the character of Solomon intellectual greatness combined with moral degradation. He might have gone forward from strength to strength, but instead of this he 190 went backward from weakness to weakness. After a life of promise, his history was one of deterioration. {TSB 189.5} [TSB 190.1] The Very Brink of the Precipice. My brother, my heart yearns toward you for Christ's sake. You have been attempting what other ministers have attempted--to harmonize light with darkness, Christ with Belial, purity with impurity, good with evil. The result will be moral ruin, unless you can be aroused to see that you are standing upon the very brink of the precipice. There are many such cases that I have to write about. {TSB 190.1} [TSB 190.2] It alarms me to see how the sin of licentiousness is coming in upon us. I felt this when I wrote to Elder Butler upon this point at the last General Conference, begging him to do all that he could to fence against what was coming in upon us. We must elevate the standard and build up barriers about the soul so that nothing shall mar its simplicity and purity, and thus defile the religious character. God has given man intellect, and let every soul beware how this great gift is prostituted to the soul's eternal ruin. {TSB 190.2} [TSB 190.3] Repentance and Rebaptism. There is no more hope of you than of any common sinner, nor as much, unless you greatly humble your soul before God, repent, and are converted. Take the first steps in the way to life--repentance, faith, and baptism. You have tampered with the divine safeguards of your peace. If you refuse to listen to the voice of reproof, if you choose your own course, if you will not allow the grace of Christ to transform you, your guilt will be as much greater than that of the common sinner as your advantages of light and influence have been greater. {TSB 190.3} [TSB 190.4] Great care should be exercised in companionship and friendship lest the soul be imperiled, lest there be even an appearance of evil which in the eyes of others would lower 191 the standard of religious principle and sap the foundation of religious belief. {TSB 190.4} [TSB 191.1] The Sad Example of Solomon. How many, even in the ranks of Sabbathkeepers, are forming unsanctified connections. Men who have wives, and women who have husbands, are showing affection and giving undue attention to ［those of the opposite sex］. How many men of promise there are in our ranks who no longer have pure faith and holy trust in God, because they have betrayed sacred trusts. Noble aspirations are quenched. Their steps are retrograding because they covet another man's wife or are unduly familiar with unmarried women. Their frivolous conduct leads them to break the seventh commandment. {TSB 191.1} [TSB 191.2] Of Solomon, the inspired record says, "His wives turned away his heart after other gods: and his heart was not perfect with the Lord his God" (1 Kings 11:4). {TSB 191.2} [TSB 191.3] Perpetuating Power of Evil Influence. This is no theme to be treated with a smile. The heart that loves Jesus will not desire the unlawful affections of another. Every want is supplied in Christ. This superficial affection is of the same character as that exalted enjoyment which Satan promised Eve. It is coveting that which God has forbidden. {TSB 191.3} [TSB 191.4] When it is too late, hundreds can warn others not to venture upon the precipice. Intellect, position, wealth can never, never take the place of moral qualities. The Lord esteems clean hands, a pure heart, and noble, earnest devotion to God and the truth above the golden wedge of Ophir. An evil influence has a perpetuating power. I wish I could set this matter before God's commandment-keeping people just as it has been shown me. Let the sad memory of Solomon's apostasy warn every soul to shun the same precipice. His weakness and sin are handed down from generation to generation. {TSB 191.4} [TSB 191.5] The greatest king that ever wielded a scepter, of whom it 192 had been said that he was the beloved of God, through misplaced affection became contaminated and was miserably forsaken of his God. The mightiest ruler of the earth had failed to rule his own passions. Solomon may have been saved "as by fire," yet his repentance could not efface those high places, nor demolish those stones, which remained as evidences of his crimes. He dishonored God, choosing rather to be controlled by lust than to be a partaker of the divine nature. {TSB 191.5} [TSB 192.1] What a legacy Solomon's life has committed to those who would use his example to cover their own base actions! We must either transmit a heritage of good or evil. Shall our lives and our example be a blessing or a curse? Shall people look at our graves and say, He ruined me, or, He saved me? . . . {TSB 192.1} [TSB 192.2] Ministers Subjects of Satan's Temptations. Satan's special efforts are now directed toward the people who have great light. He would lead them to become earthly and sensual. There are men who minister in sacred things whose hearts are defiled with impure thoughts and unholy desires. Married men who have children are not satisfied. They place themselves where they invite temptation. They take liberties that should only be taken with their lawful wives. Thus they fall under the rebuke of God, and in the books of heaven "adultery" is written opposite their names. {TSB 192.2} [TSB 192.3] There should be no approach to danger. If the thoughts were where they should be, if they were stayed upon God, and the meditations of the soul were upon the truth and the precious promises of God and the heavenly reward that awaits the faithful, they would be guarded against Satan's temptations. But, by many, vile thoughts are entertained almost constantly. They are carried into the house of God and even into the sacred desk. 193 {TSB 192.3} [TSB 193.1] Discipline of Erring Ministers. I tell you the truth, Elder Butler, that unless there is a cleansing of the soul temple on the part of many who claim to believe and to preach the truth, God's judgments, long deferred, will come. These debasing sins have not been handled with firmness and decision. There is corruption in the soul, and, unless it is cleansed by the blood of Christ, there will be apostasies among us that will startle you. {TSB 193.1} [TSB 193.2] I ask myself the question, "How is it possible for men who are opening the Scriptures to others--men who have abundance of light--men who have good ability--men who are living in the face of the judgment, upon the very borders of the eternal world--to give their thoughts and bodies to unholy practices? Well may the words of the apostle be repeated with emphasis: "Cleanse your hands, ye sinners: and purify your hearts, ye double minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He shall lift you up" (James 4:8-10).-- Letter 51, 1886. {TSB 193.2} [TSB 193.3] 28. An Influential Minister A Minister on a Downward Course. Elder T, my brother and fellow laborer: For two nights I have not been able to sleep many hours. About 2:00 a.m. I have been awakened greatly burdened, and after devoting some time to prayer, have attempted to write. {TSB 193.3} [TSB 193.4] Your case with many others has been before me. Several years ago I was shown that your danger was very great on account of your attentions to other women besides your wife. You have indulged your own inclinations in this direction, and you stand guilty before God. The root of the whole matter is unchaste thoughts ［that］ are entertained 194 which lead to improper attentions and advances, then to improper actions. All this is bad enough in men who have only a common work to do, but it is a hundredfold worse in those who have accepted sacred positions of trust. {TSB 193.4} [TSB 194.1] I have in your presence dwelt particularly upon the importance of abstaining from the very appearance of evil. I have presented in your hearing the special temptations of the enemy, thinking to arouse your consciousness, that you would barricade your soul against the temptations of the enemy. I have written especially upon the dangers of young men and also of married men showing special attention to young ladies and to other men's wives. When crossing the ocean on my way to Europe, I was mightily stirred and wrote out special warnings. This was in your behalf as well as for others. It was to stop your downward course, that you should in the strength of Israel's God arise and be a man, not a plaything for the devil. {TSB 194.1} [TSB 194.2] Dwarfing of Spiritual Growth by Sensual Thoughts. I was shown that in consequence of temptations you could not lift up holy hands without wrath and doubting. Your thoughts and actions crippled your endeavors; your earthliness and sensual thoughts dwarfed your spiritual growth. You are far from being the man God would have you to be, and you fail to qualify yourself for the work you might do, because your thoughts are not pure, but tainted and corrupt. Some things were shown me that are open to the eye that never slumbers nor sleeps. {TSB 194.2} [TSB 194.3] This is written in the books of heaven, and in a little time your case will be decided, whether your name shall be blotted out from the Book of Life or not. It certainly will be unless you are a converted man, and humble your soul before God, and confess your sins, and turn unto the Lord with your whole heart, and purge from you every impure 195 thought and corrupt action. Says the True Witness, "I know thy works." Do not attempt to teach the people until you are a changed man, until you have in humble penitence sought the Lord with true contrition of soul, and have a new heart. {TSB 194.3} [TSB 195.1] Satan's Strong Attempts to Corrupt Ministers. I was shown that Satan would make his temptations strong to corrupt the ministers who are teaching the binding claims of the law of God. If he can tarnish the virtue, confuse the sense of purity and holiness, if he can insinuate himself into their thoughts, suggest and plan for them to sin in thought and deed against God, then their defense is gone. They have separated themselves from God; they have not the power and Spirit of God with them, and the sacred message of truth they bear to the people is not blessed of God; the seed is not watered, and the increase is not realized. {TSB 195.1} [TSB 195.2] Lust as a Hindrance to the Teaching of Truth. What you need, my brother, is a pure and holy heart. Cease at once from attempting to teach the truth until you know that in the strength of God you can overcome lust. If your mind had been, in the years you have professed to be a child of God, educated and taxed to dwell upon Jesus, to pray when traveling on the cars, when walking in the streets, and wherever you were, and had you been binding about your thoughts and teaching them to dwell upon pure and holy things, I should not have to address you as I do today. The Lord must be in all your thoughts, but this work is strangely neglected. {TSB 195.2} [TSB 195.3] A Minister's Work Not Like Common Business. There are some of our ministers who are engaged in active service who have some sense of the importance of the work, but there is a large number who are handling sacred truth about as they would engage in any common business. They have 196 not been refined, ennobled, sanctified by the truth. They have not advanced step by step, growing in grace and the knowledge of Jesus Christ. They have not real, genuine faith in taking God at His word. They have not gone on from strength to a greater strength. {TSB 195.3} [TSB 196.1] They have not increased in ability, but kept up the same low tone of efficiency. They have not become able men in the Scriptures, mighty men in God, and yet every privilege has been within their reach. The cause of God has not been glorified by their tame, Spiritless, Christless work. These have done great injury to the truth, and why? Because the heart is not cleansed. They have not a new, clean heart, but a heart that is open to the temptations of Satan. Such can never lead the people to the true, pure fountain of living waters. They may make others acquainted with the reasons of our faith, but it will be impossible for them to do the work which a true shepherd of the flock will do, to "feed the flock of God.". . . {TSB 196.1} [TSB 196.2] Ministry of the Word Better Than Arguments. We must awaken to our God-given responsibilities. Your adversary the devil is intensely active, represented as a roaring lion, and we must be wide-awake and not ignorant of his devices. We shall surely be overcome by Satan's devices unless our hearts, our minds, our wills, are in complete subjection to the will of Christ. We shall surely fail our salvation unless the natural elements in our character, the discordant elements, are brought daily and hourly into unity with Christ's character. Unruly, debasing tendencies and passions cannot reign in the heart controlled by the Spirit of Christ. There are many who have never submitted their will and way fully, without any reserve, to Jesus Christ. {TSB 196.2} [TSB 196.3] There need to be far more lessons in the ministry of the word of true conversion than of the arguments of the 197 doctrines; for it is far easier and more natural for the heart that is not under the control of the Spirit of Christ to choose doctrinal subjects rather than the practical. There are many Christless discourses given ［that are］ no more acceptable to God than was the offering of Cain. They are not in harmony with God. {TSB 196.3} [TSB 197.1] Taint of Spiritual Malaria. The Lord calls upon you, my brother, to step down from the work, leave the walls of Zion, or be a converted man. When your own heart is sanctified through the truth, there will be in it no moral defilement. It will now require a most desperate resistance to unholy suggestions upon your part, because your soul is tainted with spiritual malaria. You have breathed a satanic atmosphere. You have not been a man in the sight of God. When your mind should have been growing, your ideas elevated, and your plans and labors broadened, you have been growing less and less efficient as a worker, because God is not blessing your efforts. {TSB 197.1} [TSB 197.2] A Crime in God's Sight. The perversion of our gifts, or their degradation to unworthy ends, is a crime in the sight of God; and yet this is constantly prevailing. The man who has capabilities for usefulness, and employs all that is winning and attractive to destroy others, to lead them astray, to bring them to a brackish, poison fountain to quench their thirst, rather than bringing them to Christ, is doing the devil's work. There are many who profess to believe the truth who are corrupt in morals and who tarnish the purity in thoughts and impulses of others, who ruin souls under the pretense of saving souls, who utter words to the unwary, Satan speaking through them, as he spoke through the serpent when he tempted Eve. {TSB 197.2} [TSB 197.3] For all such there is a terrible retribution. They will reap that which they have sown. It is a terrible thing to use God's 198 entrusted gifts, lent to bless the world, and perverted in their use, leaving a blight, a woe, a curse, instead of a blessing. But I have written largely upon this, as you have seen, in different forms. {TSB 197.3} [TSB 198.1] Total Life Control Possible. And again I say, "Seek ye the Lord while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is near: Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts, and let him return unto the Lord, and He will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon" (Isaiah 55:6, 7). Go to work and confess your sins before God; seek God, for you know but very little of this kind of work. Put your thoughts to work upon pure, holy subjects; tax your powers; send your supplications to heaven in earnest contrition of soul; let your conversation, your thoughts, your deportment, be in harmony with the holy faith you claim to be defending. {TSB 198.1} [TSB 198.2] And when all like yourself shall repent and find the pardoning love of God, we shall see that God will work in a wonderful manner with His people. Sinners will be converted; backsliders will be reclaimed. {TSB 198.2} [TSB 198.3] The Necessity for a Cleansing of Moral Defilement. I leave these lines with you. I had hoped that the great light shining from the Word of God would have been accepted, brought into your religious life, and ［that］ you ［would］ become a true, sincere Christian, doing the will of God from the heart. But I have been urged by the Spirit of the Lord to write you. The work must go forward. Everything impure must become pure and holy, or be purged from our hands; for all that is earthly, sensual, devilish, is a stumbling block to others and a curse to the cause of God. {TSB 198.3} [TSB 198.4] The sooner the ranks are purged from this class, the more surely shall we see the salvation of God and the power of the truth in our midst. It is because we are loaded 199 down with those who have not been partakers of the divine nature, who have failed to escape the corruption that is in the world through lust, that we have so much weakness and feebleness in our midst. We must arouse. We must cleanse the camp of Israel of its moral defilement.--Letter 5, 1886. {TSB 198.4} [TSB 199.1] Public Exposure Not Always Necessary. I do not want, unless necessary, that the case of T shall be made public. I have a response from him which acknowledges the testimony, but I do not want, for the sake of his wife and children, to make ［it］ public. I pity the man sincerely, and if I could do anything to recover either of these men from the snare of the devil, I would do so. T takes a far better position than Canright. Although both of these men have made many falsehoods against me and our people, I am not embittered against them and do not wish to injure ［them］, for I bear in mind that there is a judgment when every man's work will be brought in review before God, and every man will receive of the great Judge according to his works.-- Letter 59, 1889. {TSB 199.1} [TSB 199.2] 29. Four Unholy Ministers Satan's Devices. ［WRITTEN TO A MINISTER WHO WAS FANTASIZING REGARDING A WOMAN NOT HIS WIFE, WITH WHOM HE WAS SENTIMENTALLY INVOLVED. HE THOUGHT OF LIVING WITH THIS WOMAN AND HAVING CHILDREN BY HER IN HEAVEN.］ I have much to say to you. You have been represented to me as being in great peril. Satan is on your track, and at times he has whispered to you pleasing fables, and has shown you charming pictures of one whom he represents as a more suitable companion for you than the wife of your youth, the mother of your children. {TSB 199.2} [TSB 199.3] Satan is working stealthily, untiringly, to effect your 200 downfall through his specious temptations. He is determined to become your teacher, and you need now to place yourself where you can get strength to resist him. He hopes to lead you into the maze of spiritualism. He hopes to wean your affections from your wife, and to fix them upon another woman. He desires that you shall allow your mind to dwell upon this woman until through unholy affection she becomes your god. {TSB 199.3} [TSB 200.1] Fantasy About Families in Heaven. The enemy of souls has gained much when he can lead the imagination of one of Jehovah's chosen watchmen to dwell upon the possibilities of association in the world to come, with some woman whom he loves, and of there raising up a family. We need no such pleasing pictures. All such views originate in the mind of the tempter. {TSB 200.1} [TSB 200.2] We have the plain assurance of Christ that in the world to come, the redeemed "neither marry, nor are given in marriage, neither can they die any more; for they are equal unto the angels; and are the children of God, being the children of the resurrection" (Luke 20:35, 36). {TSB 200.2} [TSB 200.3] It is presented to me that spiritual fables are taking many captive. Their minds are sensual, and, unless a change comes, this will prove their ruin. To all who are indulging in these unholy fancies I would say, Stop, for Christ's sake, stop right where you are. You are on forbidden ground. Repent, I entreat of you, and be converted. {TSB 200.3} [TSB 200.4] First Place in a Husband's Affections. To married men I am instructed to say, "It is to your wives, the mothers of your children, that your respect and affection are due. Your attentions are to be given to them, and your thoughts are to dwell upon plans for their happiness. . . ." {TSB 200.4} [TSB 200.5] My brother U, remember that the woman who receives the least manifestation of affection from a man who is the 201 husband of another woman, shows herself to be in need of repentance and conversion. And the man who allows his wife to occupy the second place in his affections is dishonoring himself and his God. This thing is one of the signs of the last days. But surely you do not desire to fulfill this sign. This is the part that the wicked are to act. Christ will take charge of the affections of those who love and honor God, causing them to center upon proper objects. {TSB 200.5} [TSB 201.1] My brother, your wife has her faults, but so have you. She is your wife still. She is the mother of your children, and you are to respect, cherish, and love her. Guard yourself carefully, that impurity may not abide in mind or heart. . . . {TSB 201.1} [TSB 201.2] True as Steel to the Marriage Vow. Brother U, your case was presented to me some time ago, but I have delayed writing, thinking that I might see you and talk with you. You are being imprisoned with a dangerous sentimentalism, and this has nearly spoiled you and the one also who has permitted you to make her your favorite. You need not ask God to bless you in pursuing this course. In this matter your mind has been worked by the enemy who stands ready to control those who give place to spiritualistic affection. {TSB 201.2} [TSB 201.3] You have a wife, and you are bound to her by the law of God. "Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery: but I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart. . . . It hath been said, Whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement: but I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery" (Matthew 5:27-32). {TSB 201.3} [TSB 201.4] May the Lord help you is my prayer. Now is the time to 202 fight the good fight of faith. Now is the time to wrestle against the prompting of the natural heart. Now is your time to be as true as steel to your marriage vows, refusing, in thought, word, or deed, to spoil your record as a man who fears God and obeys His commandments. You have been imbibing spiritualistic ideas. But if you will now turn wholly to God, the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ will be imparted to you, and truth will triumph in your life.--Letter 231, 1903. {TSB 201.4} [TSB 202.1] A Public Reproof. ［WRITTEN TO A YOUNG UNMARRIED MINISTER.］ We have some hard labor to do here. There was a spirit of lightness ［on the ground］. The young men were mating ［pairing］ up ［with］ the young girls, and when reproved, were, some of them, defiant, hardhearted, reckless. We had to get this cleared away before we could get the spirit of freedom into our meeting. But Sabbath everything seemed to break away. Elder Y, who has been preaching, has been running after the girls, married women, and widows, and this seemed to be his inclination out of the desk from State to State. Sunday morning I called him out by name and told him and all present we had no use for any such men, for they would only make the work of the burden-bearing laborers double what it is now. {TSB 202.1} [TSB 202.2] If they would only take themselves out of the way and act out just what was in their heart, without doing this evil work under a pretense of godliness, the cause would be relieved. He has made no confession yet. Do not know as he will do so. But light came into our meetings, and the young who had been following his example came out decidedly and confessed their wrong course of action. When will those who profess Christ be wise?--Letter 53, 1884. 203 {TSB 202.2} [TSB 203.1] Invitation to Work in Another Country. ［A LETTER WRITTEN TO A REPENTANT MINISTER WHO HAD BROKEN THE SEVENTH COMMANDMENT.］ Dear Brother V: I have this morning received and read your letter, and if I do not answer at once I fear it will pass from my mind. . . . {TSB 203.1} [TSB 203.2] In regard to your changing your location, I would mention to you England. There is a large field and but few workers, plenty of work to be done in which all may act a part--all of your family, if they desire to give themselves to the Lord and act a part in His cause. You will find room enough to work, and if you go forth to labor in meekness and humility, redeeming the past errors of your life, God will accept you. There is need of laborers in England, and the advantage of that country over other parts of Europe is that our American brethren do not have to work through an interpreter. . . . {TSB 203.2} [TSB 203.3] Should you come to England you will certainly find work enough to do, and God is merciful; He pities our weakness; He forgives our transgressions; and, if we will only live humble and penitent, if we will cease from evil and do well, the Lord will approve. May the Lord teach you and work for you. {TSB 203.3} [TSB 203.4] I wish that there were many more men who would give themselves to the missionary work in England. That kingdom has but few workers. We want missionaries whom God can work with and bless. We want men who will feel the burden of souls, men who will work as Christ worked, zealously, disinterestedly, to save sinners and enlighten those in darkness. I write this short letter to you, thinking it is as well as more that might be written. Your sister in Christ.--Letter 41, 1886. 204 {TSB 203.4} [TSB 204.1] Impure Thoughts and Imaginings. ［WRITTEN TO AN UNREPENTANT MINISTER.］ Elder Z, I have much distress of soul for you. I fear, yes, greatly fear, you will never enter into the kingdom of God. I have much pain at heart as I consider your case, standing in the light of the delegated servant of Jesus Christ, yet so clouded with defilement that holy angels cannot come near you. It is no new thing that your thoughts are corrupted by impure desires and imaginings. You have not dismissed unlawful desires and lustful thoughts. When you met me in Healdsburg and told me that you had gained the victory, you told me a falsehood, for you knew this was not the truth. {TSB 204.1} [TSB 204.2] The Fly in the Spider's Web. Your past life had been presented before me as one who had no internal strength to resist evil if it put on an inviting aspect. You have obtained the confidence of women in you as a man of piety and righteousness, then you have taken advantage of this confidence to take liberties with them--kissing them, and going just as far with them in seductive, lustful practices as they would allow you to go, not only with Sister X but with others. And I am pained to the heart when I consider that you have tainted and polluted more than one or two or three or four with your insinuations and your fawning and caressing which have led souls to dissipation and vice. And you a watchman, you a shepherd! . . . {TSB 204.2} [TSB 204.3] You have made evil and lustful practices appear harmless, and some have been led away with their own lust and enticed because they had not moral courage to rebuke you, a minister, for your iniquitous practices. There have been not a few who have sacrificed conscience, peace of mind, and the favor of God, because a man whom the people have 205 set as a watchman on the walls of Zion has been their tempter--a wolf in sheep's clothing. {TSB 204.3} [TSB 205.1] And these who had been uncorrupted fall into the snare ［which］ Satan, through the bad shepherd, has set for them under different pretenses and excuses. You have hid your evil heart of deadly opposition to purity and holiness. The fly enticed into the spider's web, the fish which is lured on by the bait on the hook, has been ensnared and taken. {TSB 205.1} [TSB 205.2] Erroneous Approach to Marriage Counseling. You have by your course of action debased sacred things to the level of the common. Many have come near being ruined who have, as it were, been plucked as a brand from the burning; but the performance of yours to break down the barriers which preserve the sanctity of the family relation between husband and wife, the arranged plans to make the wife communicate to you the secrets of her married life, induce those who are yielding in disposition, who have become captivated with you, to open their heart to you as to a Catholic confessor; and you encourage in them the thought that they have made a mistake in the married life. {TSB 205.2} [TSB 205.3] In every family there are at times misunderstandings. There are thoughts and feelings expressed that Satan takes advantage of, but if both husband and wife will resist the devil and humble their hearts before God, then the difficulties soon will be healed without leaving ugly scars. But you have done a work to encourage alienation in the place of healing the difficulties; and peace of mind, harmony, and the usefulness not only of women but of men has been destroyed, and the seeds of licentious practices that you have sown have produced a bitter, bitter harvest. The wanderings from God in this way are common, but the fact is, so few return. {TSB 205.3} [TSB 205.4] Sacred Interwoven With the Impure. The coy, complying 206 disposition of women or girls to the advances and familiarity of men, married men, leads them to be easily entrapped. The man who should watch for souls in order to save them, watches for opportunities and occasions to ruin them. There are so many who have little fixedness of principle, who come into contact with the men who preach the truth; and some of these educate and refine iniquity before them, clothing it in angel robes, and as their own hearts are not garrisoned with fixed, unswerving principles, the work of ruin is speedily accomplished. {TSB 205.4} [TSB 206.1] The sacred is brought down and so interwoven with lust and impure, unholy practices that the victim is confused, and the soul temple becomes a sink of iniquity. At first the unsuspecting only listen; they receive the liberties of preference shown them; then the education goes on until "as an ox goeth to the slaughter, or as a fool to the correction of the stocks" (Proverbs 7:22), they follow in the steps of the tempter and go fully as far as he would lead them.-- Letter 82, 1886. {TSB 206.1} [TSB 206.2] 30. Ellen White's Assistants To W. F. C., September 6, 1895. ［BOTH BROTHER W. F. C. AND FANNIE Y WERE EMPLOYEES OF ELLEN WHITE, FIRST AT MELBOURNE, AND LATER AT COORANBONG, NEW SOUTH WALES. IN 1895 MRS. WHITE AND HER STAFF WERE LIVING AND WORKING IN TENTS WHILE SUNNYSIDE, THE PERMANENT RESIDENCE, WAS BEING BUILT.］ This morning as I came from the school ground I saw your horse fastened to a tree before the tent occupied by Fannie Y. After a while I went to the tent. A lady from Newcastle and Jessie Israel were visiting Fannie. You were sitting down, writing on the typewriter. Why did you not take the typewriter at once into the dining tent? What impression can such a course make 207 upon the mind of the young girl visiting at the school? It made an impression that was anything but favorable. {TSB 206.2} [TSB 207.1] Your freedom with young women is improper, but it is so natural and common to you that you think nothing of it. The Word of God has told you that you are to abstain from the very appearance of evil; but do you? You are a married man, with a wife and two boys, whom you have left in America, and this fact should be sufficient, without any further prompting, to lead you to cultivate sobriety and carefulness in your association with others. . . . I write these things to you because you are deceiving Fannie, and she is apparently totally blind and infatuated. . . . {TSB 207.1} [TSB 207.2] Placing yourself in the society of Fannie as much as you did while at Melbourne had not only the appearance of evil, but was evil. You enjoyed it, but you should have had discernment to understand that by your course of action you were encouraging others in the same path. {TSB 207.2} [TSB 207.3] I am now going to Tasmania, and you and Fannie will remain at Avondale. After my absence, you will feel inclined to associate together more freely, because I am not present to hold the fort. I fear you will dishonor the truth by your familiarity. I decidedly protest against this. Keep yourself out of Fannie's tent, or else a scandal will be created.-- Letter 17, 1895. {TSB 207.3} [TSB 207.4] To W. F. C., c. September 1895. I have had very little help from Fannie for many months, not because she cannot work, but her association with you has caused her to have an experience which has unfitted her to do anything in my work. . . . {TSB 207.4} [TSB 207.5] I feel deeply over another matter, and that is your visiting Fannie in her tent. I have already decided that you two cannot work together. You are a married man, father 208 of two children. If your wife has obtained a divorce from you, that does not leave you free to marry again, as I read my Bible. . . . {TSB 207.5} [TSB 208.1] Before leaving I must lay down some rules. There is no call for W. F. C. to visit Fannie's tent. Fannie has not been in working order for some time. Her association with you is largely the cause of this. I know this to be so, and therefore I say, Keep away from her tent. When I am away you will feel that you have a fine opportunity to get into her society whenever you can; and I cannot go without warning you and charging you to keep yourself to yourself. I want no reproach brought upon me nor upon this community by imprudent, careless habits or practices.--Letter 19, 1896. {TSB 208.1} [TSB 208.2] To Fannie Y, November 23, 1895. I have been considering your case in connection with W. F. C., and I have no other counsel to give than I have given. I consider that you have no moral right to marry W. F. C.; he has no moral right to marry you. He left his wife after giving her great provocation. He left her whom he had vowed before God to love and cherish while both should live. Before ever she obtained her divorce, when she was his lawful wife, he left her for three years, and then left her in heart, and expressed his love to you. The matter has been negotiated largely between you and a married man, while he was legally bound to the wife he married, who has had two children by him. {TSB 208.2} [TSB 208.3] I see not a particle of leniency in the Scriptures given either of you to contract marriage, although his wife is divorced. From the provocation he has given her, it was largely his own course of action that has brought this result, and I cannot see in any more favorable light his having a legal right to link his interest with yours or you to link your interest with his. One thing is settled. I could not connect 209 with either of you if this step is taken, for I see this matter in a light that the Scriptures would condemn your connection. Therefore, I wish you both to understand that from the light God has given me regarding the past and the present, I could not think of employing either of you if you take this step. {TSB 208.3} [TSB 209.1] I am astonished that you should for a moment give thought to such a thing, and place your affections on a married man who had left his wife and children under such circumstances. I advise you to lay your thoughts and plans regarding this matter just as they are before our responsible brethren, that you may receive their counsel, and let them show you from the law of God the error into which you have fallen. You have both broken the law even in thinking that you might unite in marriage. You should have repelled the thought at its first suggestion.--Letter 14, 1895. {TSB 209.1} [TSB 209.2] To James Edson White, December 9, 1895. . . . But oh, the heartache, for other things were developing and being made manifest which had been a fearful strain on me. It was the intimacy between W. F. C. and ［Fannie］. I had presented before them all the dangers, but they denied it. But at the meeting at Melbourne Fannie acknowledged she loved W. F. C. and he loved her. I tried to present the matter before them in its true bearing. W. F. C. had a wife living. Recently she obtained a divorce. He had left her and been gone three years. But Fannie told me she had been praying that if it was right she should marry W. F. C. that his wife might obtain a divorce. What blindness will come to those who begin to depart from a straightforward course! These two had thought they could unite in marriage and they could both unite in carrying on my work. The management of all my business would be supposed to be in his hands. Not much, I told them. Such a step would cut them 210 off from me forever, both of them, because W. F. C. had no moral right to ［marry］.--Letter 123a, 1895. {TSB 209.2} [TSB 210.1] To W. F. C., April 9, 1896. I am greatly distressed as I review the past, and as matters are brought to my notice by the Spirit of God. I have a decided message to bear to you, Brother C. Special light in regard to you and your family was not given me until about two years ago. I was then shown that the attitude you manifested in your home life was unchristian. You began your married life by accepting a false sabbath, and by sailing under false colors. But a wife that was obtained by selling principles of truth could not bring peace or happiness to the purchaser. God was dishonored by your action in this matter, and His truth was trampled in the dust. {TSB 210.1} [TSB 210.2] When you gave up the Sabbath for your wife, she rejoiced that she had gained a victory, and Satan also rejoiced. But when she accepted a man who was willing to sell his Lord for her, she could not look up to him and honor him as a wife should honor her husband. When she married you under these circumstances, she did not distinguish between a heaven-born love and an earthly love, not of divine origin. A man who will sacrifice his love for his heavenly Father for a wife will also sell his wife for another woman. This quality of love is base; it is of this earth, and will never bear the test of trial. {TSB 210.2} [TSB 210.3] The Lord does not revise the laws of His government, the laws which control His subjects both in this world and in the heavenly universe. Natural laws must be obeyed. But you were so determined to obtain your wife that you broke down every barrier, and broke God's law by yielding up the Sabbath; and you have been reaping only that which you have sown. 211 {TSB 210.3} [TSB 211.1] After marrying your wife, you again accepted the Sabbath. This was the right move to make if you made it in sincerity and in the fear of God. Said Christ ［John 14:21, 23, quoted］. {TSB 211.1} [TSB 211.2] But you secured your wife under a promise which you afterwards broke. You paid a dear price for her, and by breaking your word you have given her every reason to be tempted. Thus Satan has had every opportunity to deceive her, and he has presented this matter to her in his own light. You sacrificed the truth and sold your allegiance to God to obtain a wife, and after you again commenced keeping the Sabbath, your course toward your wife should have been entirely different from what it has been. You should have shown her all the tenderness, forbearance, and love which you manifested toward her before your marriage. But this was not done. You did not pursue a course which would keep her love. I myself cannot put confidence in you as a Christian, and under present developments, I could not give my consent for you to become a member of any church. {TSB 211.2} [TSB 211.3] You thought that when you were once married you could do as you pleased. This has embittered your married life, and your wife has had every reason for refusing to leave her home and come to you to this country. Your acceptance of fanatical views was nothing in your favor, and gave your wife an opportunity to strengthen herself against the principles of truth. {TSB 211.3} [TSB 211.4] For years you have been away from your home. Leaving as you did was a wrong against your family. You have told me that you would never humiliate yourself by going back, never. But the Lord has presented this matter before me. I know that you cannot be clear in the sight of God until you do all in your power to be reconciled to your wife. You have a work to do in your family which cannot be left 212 undone. This I stated to you last September. Whatever position your wife has taken, whatever course of recklessness and levity she has pursued, this does not excuse you from acting a father's part to your children. You ought to go back to your home and do all in your power to heal the breach, which you, a professed believer in the truth, have done more than your wife to make. {TSB 211.4} [TSB 212.1] When you placed your love upon another woman, even though your wife had obtained a divorce, you transgressed the seventh commandment. But you have done worse than this. You loved another woman before your wife obtained a divorce, and you have said to one, "How hard it is to be bound to a woman I do not love, when there is one I love, yes, the very ground she walks on." {TSB 212.1} [TSB 212.2] Your course while in my family was not open and frank. The transactions between you and the one upon whom you placed your affections were carried on under falsehood and deception. In the guise of false pretension, secret plans were carried out. The Lord opened these matters before me, and I tried to change the order of things, but the burden of soul was to you and others accounted a thing of naught. At this time you were giving Bible readings, and taking a prominent part in church work. My advice and counsel was not asked in regard to this important decision. Had I been, I should have been spared much pain that followed. {TSB 212.2} [TSB 212.3] When I talked with you in regard to your freedom in the company of young ladies, and told you that I could not have you in my family while I went to Tasmania, your answer was that you had always been sociable with young women, and had never thought that there was any harm in it. I told you that I knew there was harm in this freedom and that I could not feel justified in leaving you in my family while I was absent. 213 {TSB 212.3} [TSB 213.1] When I told you that you could not remain in my family, you said that after settling your accounts, which would take about a week, you could go. But this matter dragged along, or was neglected, till about two weeks before our return from Tasmania, and then in July we went to Cooranbong. {TSB 213.1} [TSB 213.2] This matter cannot rest here. I cannot be looked upon as keeping you from your home and family. It was a mistake, I think, to bring you into my family at all. I did this to help you, but I cannot let it be represented to others that we consider you a man worthy to engage in the sacred work which the Lord has given me. I cannot have this matter appear thus, for it places me in a wrong light. {TSB 213.2} [TSB 213.3] I cannot appear to justify your course of action in your married life. Leaving your wife and family is an offense to God, and I must present this matter as it is, before the president of your conference, Elder Williams. I had hoped that when you saw your delusion you would feel that repentance for your course of action that needeth not to be repented of. But my experience at Armadale, and the burden brought upon me there, made me a great sufferer; and matters in regard to your past life have been more fully opened before me. . . .You have thought that you would receive the credentials of a minister of the gospel, but had these been given you, reproach would have been brought upon the cause of God. You have represented yourself as being a wronged man, but it is your wife who has been most wronged. She should never have been treated as you have treated her. You pursued such a course toward your little ones that your wife could not but be estranged from you. Her heart was wounded, bruised, and she was almost distracted by your overbearing, masterly government in discipline of your children. {TSB 213.3} [TSB 213.4] After giving up Fannie you placed your affections upon 214 another. This shows just what you would do if opportunities presented themselves. You show young girls attention and thus win their love, for if you choose, your manner can be very gracious and attractive. As these things have passed before me, I have felt indignant. I cannot, will not, keep silent on these matters. I determined that you should be unveiled as an unprincipled man. Your ideas of what a Christian should be are so much unlike the principles laid down in the Word of God that no responsibility in connection with the cause of God should be given you.--Letter 18, 1896. {TSB 213.4} [TSB 214.1] To Elder I. N. Williams, President of the Pennsylvania Conference ［W.F.C.'s home conference］, April 12, 1896. We have had great trouble of mind in regard to Brother W.F.C., who expects to return to America by this month's boat. He has shown a fondness for the society of young girls, and has been full of gaiety, conducting himself like a boy. About a year ago, at the suggestion of my son, W. C. White, I employed him to run the typewriter for Fannie Y, as she read the manuscript to him. But soon I became burdened. Warnings were given to me again and again. I talked with him by himself in regard to his freedom and enjoyment in the society of young women and his frivolous conduct, but he said he had always been sociable with young ladies and thought it no harm. {TSB 214.1} [TSB 214.2] We wanted to help him, for he had no money and but very poor clothing. He has good ability, and might have developed into a competent helper for W. C. ［White］ or a worker for me. But I dared not have him remain a member of my family. {TSB 214.2} [TSB 214.3] He became attached to Fannie Y and the matter was carried on under a deception before he learned that his wife 215 had obtained a divorce. When he heard this he seemed greatly relieved, for his heart was fully weaned from her. But the Lord gave me light in regard to the matter. I consider that he is far more to blame than his wife in view of the fact that he claims to believe sacred truth, and she makes no such profession. He has not been a kind, tender husband; he has not been patient and forbearing, but very critical and overbearing if his wife displeased him in any way. I cannot see how his wife, in contact with his temperament and disposition, could feel drawn toward the truth. She has opposed him and has made it hard for him, but not a whit harder than he has made it for her by his course of action. He has not taken opposition patiently, or as a Christian should. He did wrong when he left his home and his wife and children. A few months ago I learned that he had done nothing for their support. {TSB 214.3} [TSB 215.1] As matters were unfolded to me, it was a most serious matter for him to allow his affections to center upon another woman when he had a wife living, whom he had promised to love and cherish as long as they both should live. Why he should leave his home so long has been a mystery to us all, until recently I have had divine enlightenment. {TSB 215.1} [TSB 215.2] He can appear very attractive, and win the confidence and favor of the girls, but when crossed he has such a temper and disposition that, unless he is changed, no woman, believer or unbeliever, could live peaceably with him. He would pursue a course that would make any woman miserable. He is an intemperate eater, and this is why he has so little patience. {TSB 215.2} [TSB 215.3] I felt that the time had come when I should no longer employ him to transact my business, for warnings kept coming to me from the Lord concerning his course of action. 216 {TSB 215.3} [TSB 216.1] I will write further in regard to this if necessary. Please write to me, stating facts concerning the family there, as far as you know. Help W.F.C., if you can, to set things right and remove this reproach from the cause of God. Even if his wife is already married, it may be there is something he can do for his children.--Letter 104, 1896. {TSB 216.1} [TSB 216.2] To Brother and Sister G. C. Tenney, July 1, 1897. The work between Fannie Y and Brother W.F.C. was begun at the Melbourne camp meeting ［January, 1894］. There she became enamored of a married man, with two children. She utterly denied that there was any affection between her and Brother C. She stood before me in my tent and declared that there was nothing to the reports. For one year after this she was good for nothing to me, only a dead, heavy load. . . . {TSB 216.2} [TSB 216.3] We had the affair between Fannie and W. F. C. all through the Armadale camp meeting. I talked with them both separately, and told them that the Lord had a controversy with them both. They denied that there was anything like particular attachment between them. I knew better; but the Lord helped me to work through the meeting. Just before the meeting closed, Fannie came to me and said, "Oh, Sister White, I have come to you as to a mother. I do love Brother C with all my heart, and my heart is just broken. Three times has this cup of bliss been presented to me, and then been snatched away." Then the girl said, "I prayed that if it was right for us to get married, his wife might get a divorce from him, and it was not many weeks before she did get a divorce. Now don't you think the Lord heard my prayer?" I dared not talk with her, for I had to speak that day before a large congregation. If Sister Prescott is in Battle Creek, she will be able to tell you the particulars. 217 {TSB 216.3} [TSB 217.1] Well, from that time I cut loose from Fannie, never, as I thought, to connect with her again. But a little while after this, Fannie was in Sydney and wrote me another confession. I thought that I could not take her back, but the Spirit of the Lord rested upon me, and said, "Give her another trial." So I decided that I would see Fannie and tell her that I would take her back. This I did, and she remained with me several weeks, but was not able to do any work; then she decided that she wanted to go home to her mother, and I told her that she might feel free to do so.--Letter 114, 1897. {TSB 217.1} [TSB 218.1] Section VIII - Unscriptural Marriages 31. Respect for Unbiblical Marriages Separation Not Recommended. Dear Brother ［C. H. Bliss］: Your letter has been received and read. I have had acquaintance with several such cases and have found those who felt conscientious to do something in similar cases to the one you mention. After having stirred things up generally, and torn things to pieces, they had no wisdom to put things together to make matters better. I found that those who were so zealous to tear things down did nothing to build them up in right order. They had the faculty to confuse, distress, and create a most deplorable condition of things, but not the faculty to make them better. {TSB 218.1} [TSB 218.2] You have asked my counsel in regard to this case. I would say that unless those who are burdened in reference to the matter have carefully studied a better arrangement, and can find places for these where they can be comfortable, they better not carry out their ideas of a separation. I hope to learn that this matter is not pressed, and that sympathy will not be withdrawn from the two whose interests have been united. {TSB 218.2} [TSB 218.3] No Hasty Movements. I write this because I have seen so many cases of the kind, and persons would have great burden till everything was unsettled and uprooted, and then their interest and burden went no further. We should individually know that we have a zeal that is according to 219 knowledge. We should not move hastily in such matters, but look on every side of the question. We should move very cautiously and with pitying tenderness, because we do not know all the circumstances which led to this course of action. {TSB 218.3} [TSB 219.1] I advise that these unfortunate ones be left to God and their own consciences, and that the church shall not treat them as sinners until they have evidence that they are such in the sight of the holy God. He reads hearts as an open book. He will not judge as man judgeth.--Letter 5, 1891. ［JUST TWENTY YEARS LATER W. C. WHITE WROTE ANOTHER CORRESPONDENT: "MOTHER HAS RECEIVED DURING THE LAST TWENTY YEARS MANY LETTERS MAKING INQUIRY REGARDING THE MATTERS ABOUT WHICH YOU WRITE, AND SHE HAS MANY TIMES WRITTEN IN REPLY THAT SHE HAD NO ADVICE TO GIVE DIFFERENT FROM THAT OF THE APOSTLE PAUL. RECENTLY SHE HAS REFUSED TO DEAL WITH LETTERS OF THIS CHARACTER, AND TELLS US NOT TO BRING THEM TO HER ATTENTION. "MY OWN VIEWS REGARDING THIS MATTER, WHICH I BELIEVE TO BE IN HARMONY WITH THE COUNSEL THAT I HAVE HEARD MOTHER GIVE TO INDIVIDUALS YEARS AGO, AND WHICH I BELIEVE TO BE IN HARMONY WITH VIEWS OF THE LEADING BRETHREN AND WITH THE TEACHING OF THE SCRIPTURE, IS THAT THERE IS NO BLESSING TO COME BY OUR BREAKING UP FAMILIES WHO MAY HAVE SINNED OR BEEN SINNED AGAINST BEFORE OR SINCE THEY EMBRACED PRESENT TRUTH."--W. C. WHITE LETTER TO ELDER G. W. ANGLEBARGER, OCTOBER 6, 1911.］ {TSB 219.1} [TSB 219.2] 32. Brother G ［W. C. WHITE STATEMENT: "REGARDING BROTHER G, I CAN SPEAK QUITE FREELY. ABOUT 1875 HE MARRIED A VERY BRILLIANT SCHOOLTEACHER. . . . SHE WAS VERY TALENTED, BUT AFTER A NUMBER OF YEARS SHE BECAME QUARRELSOME AND MADE HIS LIFE MISERABLE. AT THAT TIME HE WAS ASSOCIATED WITH A VERY BRILLIANT YOUNG WOMAN WHO WAS AN ACCOUNTANT AT X COLLEGE, AND FORMED A FONDNESS 220 FOR HER. SISTER WHITE WROTE HIM A VERY PLAIN WARNING, WHICH HE PROMISED TO HEED. SHORTLY AFTER SISTER WHITE HAD GONE TO EUROPE, BROTHER G RESIGNED HIS POSITION AT X COLLEGE, WENT TO MICHIGAN TO VISIT HIS SISTER, AND OFFERED NO OBSTRUCTION TO HIS WIFE IN GETTING A DIVORCE. {TSB 219.2} [TSB 220.1] "THUS FAR, THOSE WHO KNEW THE CASE APPROVED, BUT SHORTLY AFTER THIS HE MARRIED THE BOOKKEEPER BEFORE MENTIONED; THEN ALL HIS FRIENDS WERE GREATLY GRIEVED. HE TAUGHT A WHILE AT , THEN SETTLED NEAR , AND FOR MANY YEARS WORKED VERY HARD, HIS WIFE HELPING HIM TO MAKE A LIVING ON A LITTLE FRUIT AND VEGETABLE FARM. THEY CAME TO SEE THE WICKEDNESS OF THE COURSE THEY HAD TAKEN. THEY REPENTED OF IT VERY BITTERLY, AND THEIR BRETHREN AND SISTERS WERE SATISFIED THAT THEIR REPENTANCE WAS GENUINE. THEY HAD THREE BEAUTIFUL CHILDREN GROWING UP, AND NO ONE, AS FAR AS I KNOW, ENCOURAGED THEM TO SEPARATE. WHEN THE MATTER WAS PUT BEFORE SISTER WHITE, SHE DID NOT ENCOURAGE A SEPARATION, NOR COULD SHE ENCOURAGE ANY MOVEMENT TO EXCLUDE HIM FROM PARTICIPATION IN THE WORK OF THE THIRD ANGEL'S MESSAGE. IN HIS LATER LIFE HE LABORED IN A HUMBLE WAY IN SELF-SUPPORTING WORK IN THE SOUTH. {TSB 220.1} [TSB 220.2] "IF PERSONS LIVING IN THE LIGHT OF THE THIRD ANGEL'S MESSAGE PURPOSE TO LEAVE ONE COMPANION FOR THE SAKE OF UNITING WITH SOMEONE ELSE, IT IS OUR DUTY TO WARN AND REPROVE AND DISCIPLINE. {TSB 220.2} [TSB 220.3] "IF PERSONS BEFORE EMBRACING THE MESSAGE HAVE ENTANGLED THEMSELVES, AND AFTERWARD HAVE REPENTED, CONFESSED THEIR SINS, RECEIVED FORGIVENESS OF GOD, AND WON THE CONFIDENCE OF THEIR BRETHREN, IT IS BETTER FOR BOTH MINISTERS AND LAYMEN TO LEAVE THEM ALONE, ENJOYING THE FORGIVENESS AND JUSTIFICATION WHICH HAVE BEEN 221 WROUGHT THROUGH CHRIST, WITHOUT UNDERTAKING TO TEAR UP EXISTING RELATIONS."--FEBRUARY 21, 1927. {TSB 220.3} [TSB 221.1] ELDER WHITE LATER ADDED, "IT HAS BEEN MY BELIEF FOR A LONG TIME THAT OUR BRETHREN MAKE A SERIOUS MISTAKE IN THEIR EFFORTS TO BREAK UP FAMILIES BY ARGUING THAT IN THE FULFILLMENT OF THEIR VOWS, MADE UNWISELY IN MOST CASES, THAT THEY ARE CONTINUALLY, DAY BY DAY, COMMITTING ADULTERY."--W. C. WHITE LETTER, JANUARY 6, 1931. {TSB 221.1} [TSB 221.2] ELLEN WHITE'S ATTITUDE TOWARD BROTHER G IS REVEALED IN THE LETTERS THAT FOLLOW.］ {TSB 221.2} [TSB 221.3] Oh, for Wisdom From on High! Dear Brother Haskell: . . . We consider the opening ［of the Bible School at Melbourne］ was good. All are pleased with the buildings and location for the school. This is rather remarkable, for generally some have criticisms to make, but we have not heard one word of dissatisfaction expressed or even intimated. {TSB 221.3} [TSB 221.4] We had conversation after the meeting with Elder Starr. The question was in reference to a teacher of grammar for the advanced classes. There is no perplexity in regard to the first classes of grammar, but we need well-qualified teachers in all branches, and we hope Elder Olsen will find either a man or woman that can come to Australia as a thorough teacher. If only G had kept himself straight, he would be just the one to come. But the question is whether his record will not follow him. We scarcely dare venture the matter and run the risk. That the man has sincerely repented I have not a doubt, and I believe the Lord has forgiven him. But if obliged to make explanations it would not be an easy matter to do; so what shall we do with G? Leave him where he is, a prey to remorse, and to be useless the remainder of 222 his life? I cannot see what can be done. Oh, for wisdom from on high! Oh, for the counsel of One who reads the heart as an open book! How Satan watches for souls to bind them with his hellish cords that they become lost to the work and almost helpless in his hands. "Watch and pray, lest ye enter into temptation."--Letter 13, 1892. (Written five years after Brother G's unscriptural marriage.) {TSB 221.4} [TSB 222.1] Invitation to Another Country. Dear Brother G: I have had my mind drawn out for you time and again. Had I felt at liberty to exercise my judgment, I should have given my counsel a long time ago for you to change your location. I had hoped my brethren would have had wisdom from above to give counsel to you that you should not be where you are today. If you have anything to do, it must be soon. Were you in this country ［Australia］, I fully believe you would see doors opening where you could be at work to be a lightbearer to those who are in the darkness of error. {TSB 222.1} [TSB 222.2] How would it be should you come to this country? Like Abraham, going out not knowing whither he went, and humbly seeking guidance, I plead that you make a break. Come here to Australia, while we are here. Come on your own responsibility. You will have means, if you sell your farm, to bring you here. Then I believe the way will open for you to work, and may the Lord direct you, is my earnest wish and sincere prayer. . . . {TSB 222.2} [TSB 222.3] There is work in abundance for you to do in the great harvest field. Here are fields all ripe for the harvest, work to be entered upon in Sydney, of about a million people, and Melbourne numbering still more. There is Queensland to be entered. There are thirty Sabbathkeepers in one place in Queensland that have never seen nor heard the living preacher, and others are scattered all through that 223 region, waiting for the message of truth. {TSB 222.3} [TSB 223.1] Will you please consider this matter, and write us what you think? What are your finances? What are you thinking of doing? How is the Lord leading your mind? Please consider the matter, and may the Lord give you wisdom to move somewhere at once. In much love.--Letter 7a, 1894. {TSB 223.1} [TSB 223.2] Following the Lord's Leading. Dear Brother and Sister G: I am pleased to hear from you, and to learn that you are endeavoring to be of still greater service to the cause of God. It is your privilege to receive a rich blessing in helping others. You may be "diligent in business," and also "fervent in spirit, serving the Lord." You may help your associates in the exercise of your judgment, and by inculcating the principles of economy. We must spend money judiciously, and I believe that you will endeavor to do this. {TSB 223.2} [TSB 223.3] Be ever hopeful, and increase in the grace and wisdom of Christ. I am more than pleased that you can engage in school work and unite your influence with other workers in opening the Scriptures to those who do not understand the Word of God. I believe that the Lord has been leading you.--Letter 56, 1910. {TSB 223.3} [TSB 223.4] 33. Stephen Belden ［W. C. WHITE STATEMENT: "SISTER WHITE DID NOT SYMPATHIZE WITH THOSE WHO TOOK THE GROUND THAT A PERSON WHO HAD SEPARATED FROM A COMPANION ON OTHER THAN SCRIPTURAL GROUND, AND MARRIED AGAIN, THAT THIS SECOND MARRIAGE MUST BE BROKEN UP IF THEY WERE TO BE ACCEPTED OR RETAINED IN AN SDA CHURCH. {TSB 223.4} [TSB 223.5] "SISTER WHITE FULLY RECOGNIZED THAT THESE PEOPLE IN MOST CASES HAD SINNED, THAT SOME HAD SINNED 224 GRIEVOUSLY, AND THAT THEY SHOULD NOT BE ACCEPTED INTO FELLOWSHIP OF OUR CHURCHES UNLESS THAT SIN WAS REPENTED OF. SISTER WHITE DID NOT ACCEPT THE CONTENTION THAT SUCH REPENTANCE COULD NOT BE GENUINE WITHOUT BREAKING THE NEW BOND, AND MAKING AN EARNEST EFFORT TO RETURN TO FORMER COMPANIONS. SHE RECOGNIZED THE FACT THAT IN MOST INSTANCES A REUNION WITH THE PARTIES FORMERLY CONNECTED WITH IN MARRIAGE WOULD BE EITHER IMPOSSIBLE OR EXCEEDINGLY UNPROFITABLE. SHE ALSO RECOGNIZED THAT THE VOWS ENTERED INTO IN THE SECOND MARRIAGE CALLED FOR SUCH AN ACTION AS WAS MOST MERCIFUL AND KIND TO THE CONTRACTING PARTIES. {TSB 223.5} [TSB 224.1] "SHE SOMETIMES REFERRED TO THE TEACHING OF PAUL, WHO HAVING REACHED A CERTAIN POINT IN HIS EXPERIENCE, SAID, 'BUT I SPARE YOU.' HE KNEW THERE WERE EXISTING CONDITIONS THAT PEOPLE WERE LIVING IN RELATIONS RESULTING FROM SIN. HE ALSO KNEW THAT CHRIST WOULD ACCEPT THEIR GENUINE REPENTANCE, AND THAT IN MANY CASES IT WOULD MAKE MATTERS WORSE IF EXISTING RELATIONS WERE TORN UP TO PREPARE A WAY FOR A REUNION WITH THE PARTIES WHO WERE INCOMPANIONABLE, SO SISTER WHITE USED TO SAY, 'BUT I SPARE YOU.' {TSB 224.1} [TSB 224.2] "SISTER WHITE'S NEXT OLDER SISTER, SARAH HARMON, WAS MARRIED TO STEPHEN BELDEN AND BECAME THE MOTHER OF FIVE CHILDREN. AFTER HER DEATH, IN PITY FOR HIS CHILDREN, HE MARRIED A WOMAN WHO HAD MANY YEARS BEEN A FAITHFUL SERVANT IN HIS HOUSEHOLD. SHORTLY AFTER THIS, THE MEASLES VISITED THE VICINITY, AND SHE WITH OTHERS HAD THE MEASLES IN A SEVERE FORM. THE MEASLES WENT TO HER BRAIN, AND SHE BECAME INSANE, AND HAD TO BE TAKEN TO THE ASYLUM. BROTHER BELDEN STRUGGLED ALONG FOR SOME TIME, TRYING TO CARE FOR HIS FIVE CHILDREN, 225 THEN FOR THEIR SAKE MARRIED A VERY GOOD, EFFICIENT WOMAN. SHE HELPED HIM MAKE A HOME AND BRING UP HIS CHILDREN, AND WAS WITH HIM IN NORFOLK ISLAND WHEN HE DIED. AT VARIOUS TIMES, INDIVIDUALS WHERE BROTHER BELDEN LIVED UNDERTOOK TO SECURE HIS EXCLUSION FROM THE CHURCH BECAUSE HE HAD MARRIED WITHOUT SEPARATION FROM HIS WIFE ON THE CHARGE OF ADULTERY. WHEN APPEALED TO IN REGARD TO THIS MATTER, SISTER WHITE SAID, 'LET THEM ALONE.'"--W. C. WHITE LETTER, FEBRUARY 21, 1927.］ {TSB 224.2} [TSB 225.1] 34. William E (Part I) ［WILLIAM E. WAS BORN IN MELBORN, QUEBEC, IN 1856. AFTER ATTENDING BATTLE CREEK COLLEGE HE LABORED AS A MINISTER OR COLPORTEUR IN MICHIGAN, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, TENNESSEE, AND ALABAMA. {TSB 225.1} [TSB 225.2] HIS FIRST MARRIAGE ENDED IN DIVORCE, AFTER WHICH HE FATHERED A CHILD BY A SECOND WOMAN WITHOUT MARRYING HER. THEN, ON AUGUST 5, 1892, HE MARRIED A THIRD WOMAN, WHO WAS STILL HIS COMPANION WHEN HE DIED IN 1934. {TSB 225.2} [TSB 225.3] IN 1901 WILLIAM E'S FATHER AND BROTHER INSISTED THAT HE SHOULD DIVORCE HIS WIFE AND RETURN TO AN EARLIER COMPANION. HIS FIRST WIFE HAD REMARRIED BUT THE SECOND WOMAN, WHO WAS THE MOTHER OF HIS ILLEGITIMATE DAUGHTER, WAS ANXIOUS TO MARRY HIM. {TSB 225.3} [TSB 225.4] EDSON WHITE WROTE HIS MOTHER ON OCTOBER 30, 1901, AND ASKED IF IT WAS NECESSARY FOR BROTHER E TO LEAVE HIS CURRENT WIFE IN ORDER TO GET RIGHT WITH GOD. ELLEN WHITE'S RESPONSE FOLLOWS.］ {TSB 225.4} [TSB 225.5] I have just read your letter concerning Will E. I regard the matter in the same light that you do, and think it a cruel, 226 wicked thing that the father of Will E should take the course that he is taking, but I have not dared to answer his letters. If anything can come from me through you to him, I would say that his case cannot be improved by leaving the present wife. It would not better the case to go to the other woman in the question. . . . {TSB 225.5} [TSB 226.1] I have not written to Will E, but know that if the father would repent before God and do his first works, and cease to consider himself as one that can help his son, he would ask himself the question, "Is my name written there, on the page white and fair?" He might well begin to humble himself before God, and leave Will E with God. {TSB 226.1} [TSB 226.2] Let the father and brother make diligent work for themselves. They both need the converting power of God. May the Lord help these poor souls to remove spot and stain from their own characters, and repent of their wrongs, and leave Will E with the Lord. {TSB 226.2} [TSB 226.3] I am so sorry for the man, for his course is in such a shape that it will not answer to be meddled with, for there are difficulties upon difficulties. I would say that the Lord understands the situation, and if Will E will seek Him with all his heart, He will be found of him. If he will do his best, God will pardon and receive him. {TSB 226.3} [TSB 226.4] Oh, how precious it is to know that we have One who does know and understand, and will help the ones who are most helpless. But the rebuke of God is upon the father and the brother who would drive to destruction and perdition one who stands in the sight of God under no worse condemnation than themselves, and yet they will so use their gifts of speech as to dishearten, discourage, and drive Will E to despair. {TSB 226.4} [TSB 226.5] Will E may hope in God and do the best he can to serve God in all humility of mind, casting his helpless soul upon 227 the great Sin Bearer. I have not written a word to either father or son. I would gladly do something to help poor Will E to make things right, but this cannot be done as matters are now situated, without someone's being wronged. {TSB 226.5} [TSB 227.1] I understand perfectly the situation between Will E and his first wife . . . and I knew how the case would terminate, for Will E cannot endure to be a slave, his identity lost in a wife who made herself his judge in conscience, in his duty, and in his work generally.--Letter 175, 1901. {TSB 227.1} [TSB 228.1] Section IX - Counsels to Church Administrators 35. William E (Part II) ［ON AUGUST 15, 1911, ELDER C. F. MCVAGH, PRESIDENT OF THE SOUTHERN UNION CONFERENCE, WROTE W. C. WHITE: {TSB 228.1} [TSB 228.2] "DEAR BROTHER: IN ALABAMA THE CONFERENCE OFFICERS ARE MUCH PERPLEXED ABOUT THE CASE OF WILLIAM E, AND I HAVE BEEN ASKED TO WRITE FOR A COPY OF WHAT HAS BEEN WRITTEN ［BY ELLEN WHITE］ BEARING UPON HIS PUBLIC LABOR AS A MINISTER, AND ALSO FOR PRESENT ADVICE, OR INSTRUCTION FROM THE LORD. YOU ARE ACQUAINTED WITH HIS PAST. HIS LIFE HAS BEEN STRAIGHT SO FAR AS IS KNOWN FOR SEVERAL YEARS, AND HE HAS SOLD BOOKS AND BIBLES. BUT HE FEELS A BURDEN TO PREACH AND WHEREVER HE GOES HE SOON HAS OPPORTUNITY TO PREACH. HE HAS WONDERFUL ABILITY AND SOON THERE IS AN INTEREST. HE GIVES OUTWARD EVIDENCE OF DEEP CONSECRATION AND PEOPLE ACCEPT THE TRUTH UNDER HIS LABORS. {TSB 228.2} [TSB 228.3] "A LITTLE OVER A YEAR AGO HE MOVED TO BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA, AND SOON WAS TAKING AN ACTIVE PART IN CHURCH WORK. THE CHURCH AT THAT TIME WAS VERY MUCH RUN DOWN. HE BECAME ELDER, AND SOON HAD SOME WORK STARTED AND SEVERAL FAMILIES INTERESTED. THE INTEREST GREW AND DURING THE WINTER HE HELD SUNDAY NIGHT MEETINGS IN A THEATER WITH A LARGE ATTENDANCE, AND 229 SOME ACCEPTED THE TRUTH. HE HAD THE CONFIDENCE OF THE CHURCH MEMBERS WHO WERE NATURALLY MUCH ENCOURAGED, AND SO, AS HE HAD TO DEVOTE MUCH OF HIS TIME TO TAKING CARE OF THE INTEREST (HE IS AN INDEFATIGABLE WORKER), THE CONFERENCE COMMITTEE VOTED HIM $8 A WEEK TO ASSIST HIM. OF COURSE HE CANNOT LIVE ON THAT, AND HE THINKS THE INTEREST DEMANDS FULL TIME, AND HE IS REALLY LOOKING TO THE RESTORATION OF HIS CREDENTIALS AND COMPLETE RECOGNITION AS A MINISTER OF THE CONFERENCE. HIS PRESENT EXPERIENCE NO ONE DOUBTS, BUT THE PAST HAS MARKED HIM AND HIS FAMILY. {TSB 228.3} [TSB 229.1] "HIS WIFE IS A NERVOUS WRECK AND HER CONFIDENCE HAS BEEN SO SHAKEN THAT WHILE SHE WANTS HIM TO PREACH, THERE IS CONSTANT DANGER THAT AS HE BECOMES POPULAR AND MINGLES WITH THE PEOPLE THAT SHE WILL BECOME JEALOUS, WHETHER ［THERE］ IS ANY CAUSE OR NOT, AND HERSELF BRING ON A SCANDAL BY TALKING AND TELLING OF THE PAST WHICH SHE IS PRONE TO DO WHEN SHE BECOMES SUSPICIOUS OF HIM. ALL WOULD BE GREATLY RELIEVED IF THERE IS ANY DEFINITE COUNSEL FROM THE LORD. I FEEL SURE THAT ALL WOULD ACCEPT IT, INCLUDING BROTHER AND SISTER E. {TSB 229.1} [TSB 229.2] "PERSONALLY, I FEEL VERY SORRY FOR THEM BOTH AND HAVE CONFIDENCE THAT THEY ARE TRYING TO LIVE RIGHT, AND I WISH TO ENCOURAGE THEM IN EVERY WAY THAT IS RIGHT. HIS PAST IS SO CHECKERED AND SO WIDELY KNOWN THAT WE FEAR TO ADVISE HIM TO LABOR IN THE MINISTRY, BUT THE FACT IS HE IS DOING IT, AND THE LORD APPARENTLY BLESSES HIS EFFORTS. SHALL WE ADVISE HIM TO QUIT PREACHING, OR SHALL THE CONFERENCE ACCEPT HIS LABOR AND PAY HIM FOR IT? IF HE LABORS HE MUST BE PAID AND THEN WHAT ABOUT HIS CREDENTIALS? SINCERELY (SIGNED) C. F. MCVAGH 230 {TSB 229.2} [TSB 230.1] "WRITTEN AT THE REQUEST OF THE ALABAMA CONFERENCE COMMITTEE." {TSB 230.1} [TSB 230.2] ON SEPTEMBER 14, ELDER WHITE PLACED THIS LETTER IN MRS. WHITE'S HANDS, AND ON SEPTEMBER 15, ELDER WHITE CONVEYED MRS. WHITE'S COUNSEL IN THE CASE TO ELDER MCVAGH. W. C. WHITE'S LETTER IS AS FOLLOWS: {TSB 230.2} [TSB 230.3] "DEAR BROTHER MCVAGH: IT IS TWO OR THREE WEEKS SINCE I RECEIVED YOUR LETTER OF AUGUST 15, REGARDING THE PERPLEXITY WHICH HAS ARISEN IN THE ALABAMA CONFERENCE OVER THE CASE OF WILLIAM E. {TSB 230.3} [TSB 230.4] "SINCE OUR RETURN FROM SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, MOTHER HAS BEEN WEAK AND WEARY, AND I DID NOT PLACE THIS LETTER IN HER HANDS UNTIL YESTERDAY. THEN SHE READ IT ALL THROUGH, AND WHEN SHE RECALLED THE SAD EXPERIENCES THROUGH WHICH BROTHER E HAS PASSED, SHE FELT VERY SORRY FOR HIM AND FOR OUR BRETHREN WHOSE HEARTS HAVE BEEN MADE SAD THROUGH THE PAST YEARS BY HIS WEAK AND WICKED COURSE. {TSB 230.4} [TSB 230.5] "MOTHER SAYS THAT THOSE WHO HAVE DEALT WITH THE PERPLEXITIES ARISING FROM HIS MANY TRANSGRESSIONS IN THE PAST SHOULD TAKE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF ADVISING REGARDING OUR PRESENT DUTY TOWARD HIM. MOTHER DOES NOT WISH TO TAKE LARGE RESPONSIBILITY IN THIS MATTER, BUT SHE SAYS REGARDING ELDER E AS SHE HAS SAID REGARDING OTHER MEN IN A SOMEWHAT SIMILAR POSITION, IF THEY HAVE THOROUGHLY REPENTED, IF THEY ARE LIVING SUCH LIVES AS CONVINCE THEIR BRETHREN THAT THEY ARE THOROUGHLY IN EARNEST, DO NOT CUT THEM OFF FROM FELLOWSHIP, DO NOT FORBID THEIR WORKING FOR CHRIST IN A HUMBLE CAPACITY, BUT DO NOT ELEVATE THEM TO POSITIONS OF RESPONSIBILITY. {TSB 230.5} [TSB 230.6] "FROM THIS I WOULD UNDERSTAND THAT IT WOULD BE 231 UNWISE TO RENEW HIS CREDENTIALS AND SEND HIM FROM PLACE TO PLACE AMONG THE PEOPLE, BUT IF HE HAS BY A FAITHFUL CHRISTIAN LIFE WON THE CONFIDENCE OF THE CHURCH WHERE HE LIVES, DO NOT STAND IN THE WAY OF HIS DOING SUCH WORK AS THAT CHURCH MAY BE RESPONSIBLE FOR. IN FACT, IT MAY BE THE DUTY OF HIS BRETHREN TO GO FARTHER AND TO PAY HIM FOR FAITHFUL LABOR. IN FACT, I DO NOT SEE HOW YOU COULD WITHHOLD FROM HIM A PROPER REMUNERATION FOR FAITHFUL AND JUDICIOUS LABOR. BUT THIS WOULD NOT BE PLACING BEFORE HIM THE SAME TEMPTATION AS TO GIVE HIM CREDENTIALS AND SEND HIM FORTH IN THE CONFERENCE AS A TRAVELING MINISTER. {TSB 230.6} [TSB 231.1] "AGAIN I WOULD SAY, AS MOTHER HAS SAID, THIS IS A QUESTION WHICH SHOULD BE SUBMITTED TO THOSE WHO HAVE HAD TO DEAL WITH HIS CASE IN THE PAST. PLEASE CONSIDER THE OPINIONS I HAVE EXPRESSED ONLY AS SUGGESTIVE." {TSB 231.1} [TSB 231.2] AT THE CLOSE OF THIS LETTER ELLEN WHITE PERSONALLY INSCRIBED THE FOLLOWING WORDS OF ENDORSEMENT: "THIS IS CORRECT ADVICE IN SUCH CASES. LET HIM WALK HUMBLY BEFORE GOD. I SEE NO LIGHT IN GIVING HIM RESPONSIBILITIES." {TSB 231.2} [TSB 231.3] NO MORE WAS HEARD OF THE MATTER UNTIL EARLY IN 1913, WHEN A LETTER ADDRESSED TO MRS. WHITE, DATED JANUARY 8, 1913, WAS RECEIVED FROM A. L. MILLER, THE NEWLY-ELECTED PRESIDENT OF THE ALABAMA CONFERENCE. HE WROTE: {TSB 231.3} [TSB 231.4] "DEAR SISTER WHITE: IT BECOMES MY PAINFUL DUTY TO WRITE TO YOU CONCERNING THE CASE OF BROTHER WILLIAM E. OF HIS PAST HISTORY AND LIFE, IT IS NOT NECESSARY TO 232 WRITE, AS YOU ARE SUFFICIENTLY ACQUAINTED WITH THE FACTS, SINCE HIS CASE WAS BROUGHT BEFORE YOU BY A LETTER FROM ELDER C. F. MCVAGH, DATED AUGUST 15, 1911. I AM SORRY IT BECOMES NECESSARY TO BRING THIS CASE BEFORE YOU AGAIN. {TSB 231.4} [TSB 232.1] "ELDER MCVAGH'S LETTER WAS RELATIVE TO BROTHER E RECEIVING CREDENTIALS AND BECOMING A CONFERENCE LABORER. {TSB 232.1} [TSB 232.2] "THE PRESENT DIFFICULTY IS AS TO WHETHER OR NOT BROTHER E SHOULD BE MADE ELDER OF THE BIRMINGHAM CHURCH, THE LARGEST, AND NOW THE MOST INFLUENTIAL CHURCH IN THE CONFERENCE, AS THE CONFERENCE HEADQUARTERS ARE LOCATED IN BIRMINGHAM. THE CHURCH IS DISAGREED UPON THE POINT IN QUESTION, AND IT IS HAVING A BAD INFLUENCE UPON THE WORK IN THE CITY AND A MORE OR LESS DELETERIOUS EFFECT THROUGHOUT THE CONFERENCE. THE MAJORITY THINK, BECAUSE OF HIS CAPABILITIES AND HIS LATE WORK IN THE CITY (AS STATED IN ELDER MCVAGH'S LETTER, A COPY OF WHICH IS HEREIN ENCLOSED), THAT HE SHOULD BE MADE ELDER OF THE CHURCH AND ACT AS ITS PASTOR, OR LEADER, WHILE OTHERS DO NOT FAVOR IT BECAUSE OF HIS LIFE RECORD, AND ALSO THINK THAT THOSE WHO HAVE DEALT WITH HIM IN THE PAST SHOULD GIVE COUNSEL, AND ADVISE AS TO HIS BECOMING ELDER OF THE CHURCH. {TSB 232.2} [TSB 232.3] "THE COUNSEL GIVEN BY BRETHREN ACQUAINTED WITH HIM, AND BY A RECENT ACTION OF THE SOUTHERN UNION CONFERENCE COMMITTEE, IS THAT HE BE NOT MADE ELDER OF THE CHURCH. {TSB 232.3} [TSB 232.4] "ON DECEMBER 28, ELDER S. E. WIGHT ［NEW PRESIDENT OF THE SOUTHERN UNION CONFERENCE］ HELD A MEETING WITH THE CHURCH, AT WHICH THE QUESTION WAS QUITE FREELY DISCUSSED. ELDER WIGHT DEALT VERY CAREFULLY AND CAUTIOUSLY WITH THE CASE AND SPOKE OF BROTHER E'S 233 GOOD TRAITS AND QUALIFICATIONS, BUT LET THE CHURCH KNOW THAT NEITHER HE NOR I COULD FEEL FREE TO ORDAIN HIM BECAUSE OF THE ADVICE GIVEN BY THOSE WHO KNOW HIM. {TSB 232.4} [TSB 233.1] "THE ONLY POINT UPON WHICH WE ALL COULD AGREE WAS TO PLACE HIS CASE BEFORE THE SERVANT OF THE LORD, AND WHATEVER THE LORD SAYS, WE HAVE ALL AGREED TO STAND BY. {TSB 233.1} [TSB 233.2] "PERSONALLY, NONE OF US HAVE AUGHT TO SAY AGAINST BROTHER E, BUT LOVE AND FELLOWSHIP HIM AS A BROTHER IN THE CHURCH AND SO REGARD HIM. THE CHURCH, WITH ELDER WIGHT AS CHAIRMAN, ASKED THAT I PLACE THIS MATTER BEFORE YOU AND SEE WHAT INSTRUCTION THE LORD HAS FOR US. {TSB 233.2} [TSB 233.3] "AWAITING AN EARLY REPLY, I AM SINCERELY YOUR BROTHER IN CHRIST, (SIGNED) A. L. MILLER 1700 NORTH SEVENTH AVENUE BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA {TSB 233.3} [TSB 233.4] "P. S. THIS LETTER WAS READ TO THE CHURCH, AND ACCEPTED." {TSB 233.4} [TSB 233.5] FEELING THAT HIS PERSONAL APPEARANCE BEFORE MRS. WHITE MIGHT GAIN FAVORABLE CONSIDERATION OF HIS CASE, BROTHER E WENT TO ST. HELENA DURING THE SECOND WEEK IN JANUARY, BUT SISTER WHITE DID NOT FEEL FREE TO HAVE AN INTERVIEW WITH HIM. HE THEN PLACED IN WRITING THE CIRCUMSTANCES OF HIS CASE, WHICH WERE ADDRESSED TO SISTER WHITE UNDER DATE OF JANUARY 13, 1913. ON JANUARY 14, ELDER MILLER'S LETTER OF JANUARY 8, AS WELL AS BROTHER E'S LETTER OF JANUARY 13, WERE PLACED BEFORE SISTER WHITE. SHE MADE THE FOLLOWING STATEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH THEIR READING:］ 234 {TSB 233.5} [TSB 234.1] I do not think any such questions as that ought to be placed before me. I do not think it is my work to deal with any such things unless the case has been plainly opened before me. There should be brethren in the church who have wisdom who can speak decidedly regarding this case. I cannot understand such things. I do not believe that God wants me to take any such burden upon me. If they cannot settle such things among themselves by prayer and fasting, then let them continue ［in］ fasting and prayer till they can. {TSB 234.1} [TSB 234.2] Such things will arise. It will come--that is, they will have these difficult questions, and they have got to learn how to treat them. They have got to have an experience. They must bring these things to the Lord, and believe the Lord will hear their prayer, and give them a sound experience in all these things, but they are not to bring them to me. {TSB 234.2} [TSB 234.3] ［Elder W. C. White read portions of Elder McVagh's letter of August 15, 1911, after which Sister White said further:］ {TSB 234.3} [TSB 234.4] I have had no particular light in regard to his case, therefore I dare not speak positively in regard to it. {TSB 234.4} [TSB 234.5] He has to show the evidence that God accepts him and to give that evidence so that our brethren can have something tangible to build upon. Let them say, We will give you a chance. We will see whether God accepts your labors or not. {TSB 234.5} [TSB 234.6] But it is not wise for me to take the responsibility of this case. I cannot take the least responsibility. Those who see his actions day by day should know whether he has proved himself, whether God accepts him. {TSB 234.6} [TSB 234.7] ［After reading the letter of William E, written January 13, 1913, Ellen White said:］ 235 {TSB 234.7} [TSB 235.1] I cannot take responsibility in such matters. The burden of doing so is too great. It might cost me my life. Let those appointed of God to bear the responsibility deal with it in accordance with Christian principles.--Ms 2, 1913. {TSB 235.1} [TSB 235.2] ［IN CONNECTION WITH THE QUESTION AS TO WHAT WAS INVOLVED IN HIS STATEMENT OF SEPTEMBER 15, 1911, RELATIVE TO THE HOLDING OF RESPONSIBLE POSITIONS BY THOSE WHO HAVE PASSED THROUGH SUCH SAD EXPERIENCES, ELDER W. C. WHITE, EARLY IN 1913, WROTE AS FOLLOWS: {TSB 235.2} [TSB 235.3] "IT NOW APPEARS THAT THERE IS A QUESTION IN THE MINDS OF THE BRETHREN AS TO WHAT WAS MEANT BY THE WORDS, 'DO NOT CUT THEM OFF FROM FELLOWSHIP; DO NOT FORBID THEIR WORKING FOR CHRIST IN A HUMBLE CAPACITY, BUT DO NOT ELEVATE THEM TO POSITIONS OF RESPONSIBILITY.' {TSB 235.3} [TSB 235.4] "MY UNDERSTANDING OF THIS AT THE TIME IT WAS WRITTEN AND MY UNDERSTANDING OF IT TODAY IS THAT THE WORDS, 'DO NOT ELEVATE THEM TO POSITIONS OF RESPONSIBILITY' REFERRED TO SUCH RESPONSIBILITY AND ELEVATION AS WAS IN THE MINDS OF THE BRETHREN WHEN THEY ASKED FOR A RESTORATION OF CREDENTIALS AND COMPLETE RECOGNITION AS A MINISTER OF THE CONFERENCE. IT DID NOT OCCUR TO ME THAT THIS COULD APPLY TO THE LEADERSHIP OF THE CHURCH. THE QUESTION OF THE LEADERSHIP WAS NOT THEN UNDER CONSIDERATION."］ {TSB 235.4} [TSB 235.5] 36. Appeal to Ministers Clean Hands and Pure Hearts. We are nearing the judgment, and those who bear the message of warning to the world must have clean hands and pure hearts. They must have a living connection with God. The thoughts must be pure and holy, the soul untainted, the body, soul, 236 and spirit be a pure, clean offering to God, or He will not accept it. . . . {TSB 235.5} [TSB 236.1] The youth, for misdemeanors of a comparatively light character, are treated with much severity. But when men and women of large experience, who have been considered patterns of piety, are revealed in their true character --unsanctified, unholy, impure in thought, debased in conduct--then it is time for such to be dealt with in a decided manner. The greater forbearance that is exercised toward them has only had, as far as my knowledge extends, the influence to cause them to regard their fornication and adultery as a very light matter; and all their pretense has proved to be like morning dew when the sun shines upon it. {TSB 236.1} [TSB 236.2] False Shepherds of the Flock. No sooner are they placed in temptation than they reveal their moral defects--that they are not partakers of the divine nature, neither have they escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust, but that they are earthly, sensual, devilish. Satan finds in them something that he can work up into marked iniquity, and he improves his opportunity. And the result is ［that］ those who claim to be shepherds of the flock are carnally minded, leading the sheep of their care, whose purity, modesty, and virtue they should strictly guard, into licentiousness and lewdness. {TSB 236.2} [TSB 236.3] Accursed Thing in the Camp. Angels of heaven are looking on with shame and grief and disgust. How can the pure angels of heaven minister unto this class? How can they bring heavenly light into the assemblies where such ministers are advocating the law of God, but breaking that law whenever a favorable opportunity presents itself, living a lie, pursuing an underhanded course, working in secret, nursing their polluted thoughts and inflaming their passions, 237 and then taking advantage of women or men who are tempted, like themselves, to break down all barriers and debase their bodies and pollute their souls? How can they do this thing? How can they have any fear of God before them? How can they have any love for God in their souls? Of what value is their faith in the truth? {TSB 236.3} [TSB 237.1] Cleanse the camp of this moral corruption, if it takes the highest men in the highest positions. God will not be trifled with. Fornication is in our ranks. I know it, for it has been shown me to be strengthening and extending its pollutions. There is much we will never know, but that which is revealed makes the church responsible and guilty unless they show a determined effort to eradicate the evil. Cleanse the camp, for there is an accursed thing in it. {TSB 237.1} [TSB 237.2] The words of God to Joshua are: "Neither will I be with you anymore, except ye destroy the accursed from among you. Up, sanctify the people, and say, Sanctify yourselves against tomorrow: for thus saith the Lord God of Israel, There is an accursed thing in the midst of thee, O Israel: thou canst not stand before thine enemies, until ye take away the accursed thing from among you" ［Joshua 7:12, 13］. These things are written for our benefit, upon whom the ends of the world are come. {TSB 237.2} [TSB 237.3] No Real Ground of Hope. I have no real ground of hope for those who have stood as shepherds to the flock, and have for years been borne with by the merciful God, following them with reproof, with warnings, with entreaties, but who have hid their evil ways, and continued in them, thus defying the laws of the God of heaven by practicing fornication. We may leave them to work out their own salvation with fear and trembling, after all has been done to reform them, but in no case entrust to them the guardianship of souls. False shepherds! Oh, can it be that the men who 238 have been engaged in this work for a long time will corrupt their ways before the Lord after great experience and special light?--TM 426-428. {TSB 237.3} [TSB 238.1] Adulterous Ministers More Guilty than Belshazzar. It is a truth which should make every one of us weep that those living in these last days, upon whom the ends of the world are come, are far more guilty than was Belshazzar. This is possible in many ways. {TSB 238.1} [TSB 238.2] When men have taken upon themselves the vows of consecration, to devote all their powers to the sacred service of God; when they occupy the position of expositors of Bible truth, and have received the solemn charge; when God and angels are summoned as witnesses to the solemn dedication of soul, body, and spirit to God's service--then shall these men who minister in a most holy office desecrate their God-given powers to unholy purposes? Shall the sacred vessel, whom God is to use for a high and holy work, be dragged from its lofty, controlling sphere to administer to debasing lust? {TSB 238.2} [TSB 238.3] Definition of a Harlot. Is not this idol worship of the most degrading kind?--the lips uttering praises and adoring a sinful human being, pouring forth expressions of ravishing tenderness and adulation which belong alone to God--the powers given to God in solemn consecration administering to a harlot, for any woman who will allow the addresses of another man than her husband, who will listen to his advances, and whose ears will be pleased with the outpouring of lavish words of affection, of adoration, of endearment, is an adulteress and a harlot.-- TM 434, 435. {TSB 238.3} [TSB 238.4] Right Example by Ministers. Ministers of the gospel would be powerful men if they set the Lord always before 239 them and devoted their time to the study of His adorable character. If they did this, there would be no apostasies, there would be none separated from the conference because they have, by their licentious practices, disgraced the cause of God and put Jesus to an open shame. The powers of every minister of the gospel should be employed to educate the believing churches to receive Christ by faith as their personal Saviour, to take Him into their very lives and make Him their Pattern, to learn of Jesus, believe in Jesus, and exalt Jesus. The minister should himself dwell on the character of Christ. He should ponder the truth, and meditate upon the mysteries of redemption, especially the mediatorial work of Christ for this time.--3SM 187. {TSB 238.4} [TSB 239.1] 37. Counsel to a General Conference President Unwise Management of a Difficult Case. ［EXTRACTS FROM A LETTER WRITTEN FROM EUROPE TO ELDER GEORGE I. BUTLER CONCERNING SEVERAL MINISTERS IN THE UNITED STATES WHO HAD TRANSGRESSED THE SEVENTH COMMANDMENT.］ Dear Brother: Your last letter is received, and the questions asked in reference to T and Brother V, I cannot answer further than I have done. I am inclined to the same opinion that I had when I wrote John V. The counsel that I gave him I think was safe, and if my good brethren had acted in concert with that counsel, that he should go to England to labor, I think they would have done that which was pleasing to the Lord. I think matters have now come in bad shape for him. He has been entrusted with responsibilities which will have a tendency to elevate him. And it may be that he is not in as good a condition to go forth to labor in some far-off field as he was months ago. 240 {TSB 239.1} [TSB 240.1] I have not changed my mind in his case. I do not think that it has been managed wisely, taking his soul into consideration. He proposed to prove himself, on his own responsibility, without expense to the conference, and he should have had his chance. {TSB 240.1} [TSB 240.2] Ellen White's Encouraging Dream. In regard to Brother H, I do not think your management the wisest. I think he should have a chance for his life. If the man is willing and desirous of coming to Europe on his own responsibility, perhaps that would be wisdom. He will never recover himself where he is under present circumstances. I did have a dream many months ago, which showed him restored with the blessing of God resting upon him, but he was not brought to this position by the help of yourself or Elder Haskell, but would have as far as you both were concerned, the attitude you assumed toward him, ever remained in the dark, and his light would have gone out in darkness. {TSB 240.2} [TSB 240.3] That dream prompted the letter that W. C. White wrote him asking him in reference to coming to Europe, which your conference had voted one year ago that he should do, and made a mistake in sending him to Oakland instead of Europe. He should have come here at once. {TSB 240.3} [TSB 240.4] A Decision in Regard to Counseling. We shall not urge anything more in his case, but shall do the uttermost in our power to save his soul from death, and hide a multitude of sins. I am in great perplexity at times, and have about come to the conclusion when a case of error and grievous sin is presented before me, to say nothing to my ministering brethren if they do not know the matter themselves, but labor earnestly for the erring one, and encourage him to hope in God's mercy and cling to the merits of a crucified and risen Saviour, look to the Lamb of God in repentance and contrition, and live in His strength. "Come now, and let 241 us reason together; . . . though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool" ［Isaiah 1:18］. {TSB 240.4} [TSB 241.1] There is not the mingling of the elements of character that brings justice and mercy and the love of God into beautiful harmony. There is altogether too much talking, too many strong words and feelings that the Lord has nothing to do with, and these strong feelings influence our good brethren. {TSB 241.1} [TSB 241.2] Compassion and Sympathy, But Also Plain Dealing. I am compelled to deal plainly and rebuke sin, and then I have it in my heart, placed there by the Spirit of Christ, to labor in faith, in tender sympathy and compassion for the erring. I will not let them alone; I will not leave them to become the sport of Satan's temptations. I will not myself act the part of the adversary of souls, as is represented by Joshua and the Angel. Souls cost the price of my Redeemer's blood. {TSB 241.2} [TSB 241.3] When men, themselves liable to temptation, erring mortals, shall be free to pronounce upon another's case, who is humbled in the dust, and shall take it on themselves to decide by their own feelings or the feelings of their brethren, just how much feeling the erring one should manifest to be pardoned, ［they are］ taking on themselves that which God has not required of them. When I know that there are those who have fallen into great sin, but we have labored with and for them, and God has afterwards accepted their labors, when these have pleaded for me to let them go and not to burden myself for them, I have said, "I will not give you up; you must gather strength to overcome." These men are now in active service. . . . {TSB 241.3} [TSB 241.4] No Sanction of Sin, But the Winning of Sinners. My mind is greatly perplexed over these things, because I cannot 242 harmonize them with the course that is being pursued. I am fearful to sanction sin, and I am fearful to let go of the sinner and make no effort to restore him. I think that if our hearts were more fully imbued with the Spirit of Christ, we should have His melting love, and should work with spiritual power to restore the erring and not leave them under Satan's control. {TSB 241.4} [TSB 242.1] Need of Good Heart Religion. We need good heart religion, that we shall not only reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine, but we shall take the erring in our arms of faith and bear them to the cross of Christ. We must bring them in contact with the sin-pardoning Saviour. {TSB 242.1} [TSB 242.2] I am more pained than I can express to see so little aptitude and skill to save souls that are ensnared by Satan. I see such a cold Phariseeism, holding off at arm's length the one who has been deluded by the adversary of souls, and then I think: What if Jesus treated us in this way? Is this spirit to grow among us? If so, my brethren must excuse me; I cannot labor with them. I will not be a party to this kind of labor. {TSB 242.2} [TSB 242.3] Hearts of Flesh, Not Hearts of Iron. I call to mind the shepherd hunting the lost sheep and the prodigal son. I want those parables to have their influence upon my heart and my mind. I think of Jesus, what love and tenderness He manifested for erring, fallen man, and then I think of the severe judgment one pronounces upon his brother who has failed under temptation, and my heart becomes sick. I see the iron in hearts, and think we should pray for hearts of flesh. . . . {TSB 242.3} [TSB 242.4] I wish that we had much more of the Spirit of Christ and a great deal less self, and less of human opinions. If we err, let it be on the side of mercy rather than on the side of condemnation and harsh dealing.--Letter 16, 1887. 243 {TSB 242.4} [TSB 243.1] 38. Counsels to City Mission and Institutional Leaders Conduct of City Mission Leaders. ［THIS COUNSEL WAS GIVEN IN 1893, WHEN "CITY MISSION " WAS A NAME FOR A PARTICULAR FORM OF EVANGELISTIC ENDEAVOR. IT CONSISTED OF A TEAM COMPOSED OF MINISTERS, COLPORTEURS, NURSES, AND OTHERS. TODAY IT IS SOMETIMES CALLED A "FIELD SCHOOL."］ Missions are essential as the foundation of missionary effort in our cities; but unless those standing at the head of these missions make strenuous efforts to guard every post, so that Satan shall not control, losses will be sustained. . . . {TSB 243.1} [TSB 243.2] There should be connected with the mission, married persons who will conduct themselves with the strictest propriety. But the danger is not alone from youth, but from married men and women; workers must build up the walls of modesty and virtue about themselves so that women will not allure men, and men will not allure women from strict propriety. Abstain from even the very appearance of evil. {TSB 243.2} [TSB 243.3] Love-sick sentimentalism prevails. Married men receive attention from married or unmarried women; women also appear to be charmed, and lose reason and spiritual discernment and good common sense; they do the very things that the Word of God condemns. . . . Warnings and reproofs are before them in clear lines, yet they go over the same path that others have traveled before them. It is like an infatuating game which they are playing. Satan leads them on to ruin themselves, to imperil the cause of God, to crucify the Son of God afresh, and put Him to an open shame. {TSB 243.3} [TSB 243.4] There is no safety for any man, young or old, unless he feels the necessity of seeking counsel of God at every step. Those only who maintain a close communion with God will learn to place His estimate upon men, to reverence the pure, the good, the humble, the meek. The heart must be 244 garrisoned as was that of Joseph. Then temptations to depart from integrity will be met with decision. "How can I do this great wickedness and sin against God?" The strongest temptation is no excuse for sin. No matter how severe the pressure brought to bear upon you, sin is your own act. The seat of the difficulty is the unrenewed heart. {TSB 243.4} [TSB 244.1] The Worst Kind of Traitor. A man who claims to have believed present truth for years, and is counted worthy by his brethren to fill positions of trust in missions or in our institutions, may become careless when a change of circumstances brings him into temptations, and in time he may tempt others. His case is sad indeed, for he reveals the workings of a corrupt heart, a want of that principle which every Christian should possess. {TSB 244.1} [TSB 244.2] When one who is entrusted with great responsibilities betrays his sacred trust and gives himself into the hands of Satan as an instrument of unrighteousness to sow the seeds of evil, corrupting the hearts and minds of others, he is a traitor of the worst type. From one such tainted, polluted mind the youth often receive the first impure thoughts that lead to a life of shame and defilement. {TSB 244.2} [TSB 244.3] Workers Lacking in Firm Principle. If men placed at the head of a mission have not firmness of principle that will preserve them from every vestige of commonness and unbecoming familiarity with young girls and women, after the light which has been so plainly given, let them be discharged without a second trial. There is a depravity of the soul which leads to these careless habits and practices, which will far overbalance all the good such persons can do. We are living in an age of moral debasement; the world is as a second Sodom. Those who look for the coming of the Son of man, those who know that they are right upon the borders of the eternal world, should set an example in 245 harmony with their faith. Those who do not maintain purity and holiness are not accepted of God. The true children of God have deep-rooted principles which will not be moved by temptations, because Christ is abiding in their hearts by faith. {TSB 244.3} [TSB 245.1] A Second Trial Useless. A second trial would be of no avail to those whose moral sense is so perverted that they cannot see their danger. If after they have long held the truth, ［if］ its sanctifying power has not established the character in piety, virtue, and purity, let them be disconnected from the missions without delay, for through these Satan will insinuate the same lax sentiments in the minds of those who ought to have an example of virtue and moral dignity. Anything that approaches love-sick sentimentalism, any imitation of commonness, should be decidedly rebuked.--GCB 1893, p. 162. {TSB 245.1} [TSB 245.2] No Time for Corrupt Impulses. Our probation is short at best. We have no time to spend in indulging corrupt impulses. The familiarity of married men with married women and young girls is disgusting in the sight of God and holy angels. The forwardness of young girls in placing themselves in the company of young men, hanging around where they are at work, entering into conversation with them, talking common, idle talk, is belittling to womanhood. It lowers them, even in the estimation of those who themselves do such things. {TSB 245.2} [TSB 245.3] There is a positive necessity for reform in all our institutions. All frivolity, all undue attention of men and women, must be condemned and discontinued. Some, even married men, who have indulged in this trifling familiarity, have endeavored to excuse themselves and escape censure by claiming that they have done no moral wrong. Was it no 246 moral wrong to jest, joke, and pay flattering attentions to young women? Are you not starting in their minds a train of thought which it is impossible for you to change? Do you not by your levity and coquetry, sanction such conduct? {TSB 245.3} [TSB 246.1] You who hold positions of trust, and claim to be Christians, do you not give countenance to a familiarity which leads to sin? What record is made in the books of heaven by the divine Watcher? Was there no moral wrong done to the souls of those with whom you were so familiar? Indeed there was. Impressions were made that will be enduring. These girls are confirmed in coquetry and flirting. Every such indulgence tends to make them coarse and bold. They become more and more infatuated with the society of men and women who are trifling and frivolous, whose conversation is anything but holy, pure, and ennobling. {TSB 246.1} [TSB 246.2] Definition of Moral Wrong. "No moral wrong." This has been the excuse made by everyone reproved for similar conduct. What is moral wrong? Have your spiritual senses become so blinded that you cannot discern the truth? Do you not know that grapevines will not bear thorns, nor a bramble bush grapes? If the truth is brought into the inner sanctuary of the soul, it will create a pure moral taste. Then all these objectionable, demoralizing practices will be seen to be a positive denial of Christ, a sin which will pollute the soul. . . . All trifling, jesting, joking, and flattery spoken to young girls or women, boys or men, are thornberries, and that which produces them is a thornbush, for the tree is known by its fruits. {TSB 246.2} [TSB 246.3] Let not those who profess the religion of Christ descend to trifling conversation, to unbecoming familiarity with women of any class, married or single. They should keep their proper places with all dignity. At the same time they may be sociable, kind, and courteous to all. 247 {TSB 246.3} [TSB 247.1] Young ladies should be reserved and modest. When they walk out, if in health, they do not need the supporting arm of any man. They should give no occasion for their good to be evil spoken of. {TSB 247.1} [TSB 247.2] Every Health Institution a Missionary Field. Men should be chosen to stand at the head of our institutions who have not only good, sound judgment, but who have a high moral tone, who will be circumspect in their deportment, pure in speech, remembering their high and holy calling and that there is a Watcher, a true witness to every word and act. If men in our institutions exhibit a low grade of thought, if their conversation tends to corrupt rather than elevate, let them be removed at once from any connection with the institution, for they will surely demoralize others. The well-being of the entire institution is to be maintained. Ever bear in mind that each of our health institutions is a missionary field. God's eye is upon it day and night. No one should feel at liberty to allow even the appearance of evil.--SpT Series B, No. 16, pp. 6, 7. {TSB 247.2} [TSB 247.3] 39. The Adulterer and Church Membership An Early Ellen White Statement. The Lord gave us labor of spirit last first day ［Sunday, February 5, 1854］, and while we were engaged in earnest prayer I was taken off in vision and saw the state of some of the professed Israel of God. I saw the situation of many at our meeting in Oswego. I saw that they were standing in the way of the work of God, especially those at Caughdenoy. I saw that God's frown was upon them, also upon some in Roosevelt. {TSB 247.3} [TSB 247.4] Said the angel, "The ax has not been laid at the root of the tree." Those who have indulged in the wicked passions of the heart have been fellowshiped. If God had made Brother Roosevelt an overseer of the flock, he would have 248 seen the evil and corruption among the people. The ax has not been laid at the root of the tree. God has not altered nor changed. He is a jealous God, and will not look upon sin now with any more allowance than He did among ancient Israel. Sin is sin. Sins have not been held forth in their sinfulness, but it has been made to appear as though sins have been lightly regarded by God. {TSB 247.4} [TSB 248.1] An Enormous Sin. I saw that the seventh commandment has been violated by some who are now held in fellowship by the church. This has brought God's frown upon them. This sin is awful in these last days, but the church ［members］ have brought God's frown and curse upon them by regarding the sin so lightly. I saw it was an enormous sin and there have not been as vigilant efforts made as there should have been to satisfy the displeasure of God and remove His frown by taking a strict, thorough course with the offender. {TSB 248.1} [TSB 248.2] It has had an awful, corrupting influence upon the young. They see how lightly the sin of breaking the seventh commandment is regarded, and the one who commits this horrid sin thinks that all he has to do is to confess that he was wrong and is sorry, and he is then to have all the privileges of the house of God and be held in ［the］ embrace or fellowship of the church. {TSB 248.2} [TSB 248.3] They have thought it was not so great a sin, but have lightly esteemed the breaking of the seventh commandment. This has been sufficient to remove the ark of God from the camp, if there were no other sins to cause the ark to be taken away and weaken Israel. {TSB 248.3} [TSB 248.4] Suspension From the Church for Adulterers. Those who break the seventh commandment should be suspended from the church, and not have its fellowship nor the privileges of the house of God. Said the angel, "This is not a sin of ignorance. 249 It is a knowing sin and will receive the awful visitation of God, whether he who commits it be old or young." {TSB 248.4} [TSB 249.1] High-handed, Deliberate Sinning. Never was this sin regarded by God as being so exceedingly sinful as at the present time. Why? Because God is purifying unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. It is at the very time when God is purifying this peculiar people unto Himself that ［unsanctified］ individuals step in among us. Notwithstanding the straight truths they have heard--the terrors of the Word of God set before them, and all the blazing truth for these last days calculated to arouse Israel--they sin with a high hand, give way to all the loose passions of the carnal heart, gratify their animal propensities, disgrace the cause of God, and then confess they have sinned and are sorry! {TSB 249.1} [TSB 249.2] And the church receives them and says "Amen" to their prayers and exhortations, which are a stink in the nostrils of God, and cause His wrath to come upon the camp. He will not dwell in their assemblies. Those who move on thus heedlessly, plastering over these sins, will be left to their own ways, to be filled with their own doings. {TSB 249.2} [TSB 249.3] Those who anciently committed these sins were taken without the camp and stoned to death. Temporal and eternal death was their doom; and because the penalty of stoning to death is abolished, this sin is indulged in beyond measure and is thought to be a small offense.--Ms 3, 1854. {TSB 249.3} [TSB 249.4] No Help for This Man. ［THE WHITE ESTATE HAS NO FIRM DOCUMENTATION ON THE NATURE OF E'S TRANSGRESSION, BUT ARTHUR L. WHITE RECALLS HEARING HIS FATHER, W. C. WHITE, REFER TO IT AS A PARTICULARLY REVOLTING CASE OF INCEST.］ It is impossible for E to be fellowshiped by the church of God. He has placed himself 250 where he cannot be helped by the church, where he can have no communion with, nor voice in, the church. He has placed himself there in the face of light and truth. He has stubbornly chosen his own course, and refused to listen to reproof. He has followed the inclinations of his corrupt heart, has violated the holy law of God, and has disgraced the cause of present truth. {TSB 249.4} [TSB 250.1] If he repents ever so heartily, the church must let his case alone. If he goes to heaven, it must be alone, without the fellowship of the church. A standing rebuke from God and the church must ever rest upon him that the standard of morality be not lowered to the very dust.--1T 215. {TSB 250.1} [TSB 250.2] 40. A Statement by Ellen and James White ［INASMUCH AS THIS STATEMENT WAS ISSUED JOINTLY BY JAMES AND ELLEN WHITE, IT SEEMS CLEAR THAT THE VIEWS EXPRESSED HAD THE FULL SANCTION OF ELLEN WHITE.］ Possibility of Restoration. In regard to the case of the injured Sister A. G., we would say in reply to the questions of J. H. W., that it is a feature in the cases of most who have been overtaken in sin, as her husband has, that they have no real sense of their villainy. Some, however, do, and are restored to the church, but not till they have merited the confidence of the people of God by unqualified confessions, and a period of sincere repentance. This case presents difficulties not found in some, and we would add only the following: {TSB 250.2} [TSB 250.3] 1. In cases of the violation of the seventh commandment, where the guilty party does not manifest true repentance, if the injured party can obtain a divorce without making their own cases and that of their children, if they have them, worse by so doing, they should be free. 251 {TSB 250.3} [TSB 251.1] 2. If they would be liable to place themselves and their children in worse condition by a divorce, we know of no scripture that would make the innocent party guilty by remaining. {TSB 251.1} [TSB 251.2] 3. Time, and labor, and prayer, and patience, and faith, and a godly life, might work a reform. To live with one who has broken the marriage vows, and is covered all over with the disgrace and shame of guilty love, and realizes it not, is an eating canker to the soul; and yet, a divorce is a lifelong, heartfelt sore. God pity the innocent party. Marriage should be considered well before contracted. {TSB 251.2} [TSB 251.3] 4. Why! oh Why! will men and women who might be respectable, and good, and reach heaven at last, sell themselves to the devil so cheap, wound their bosom friends, disgrace their families, bring a reproach upon the cause, and go to hell at last? God have mercy. Why will not those who are overtaken in crime manifest repentance proportionate to the enormity of their crime, and fly to Christ for mercy, and heal, as far as possible, the wounds they have made? {TSB 251.3} [TSB 251.4] 5. But, if they will not do as they should, and if the innocent have forfeited the legal right to a divorce by living with the guilty after his guilt is known, we do not see that sin rests upon the innocent in remaining, and her moral right in departing seems questionable if her health and life be not greatly endangered in so remaining. {TSB 251.4} [TSB 251.5] 6. As in the days of Noah, one of the signs of these times is a passion for injudicious and hasty marriages. Satan is in this. If Paul could remain single, and recommend the same to others, that he and they might be wholly the Lord's, why not those who would be wholly His, and wish to make a sure thing of avoiding the cares, trials, and bitter anguish so frequent in the experiences of those who choose the married life, remain as he was? And more, if he chose to remain so, 252 and could recommend it to others, eighteen centuries since, would not to remain as he was be a commendable course for those who are waiting for the coming of the Son of man, unless evidences were unquestionable that they were bettering their condition, and making heaven more sure by so doing? When so much is at stake, why not be on the sure side every time?--RH March 24, 1868. {TSB 251.5} [TSB 253.1] Section X - Love for the Erring and Tempted 41. God's Love for the Sinner Heaven and the Heart of Man. While Christ opens heaven to man, the life which He imparts opens the heart of man to heaven. Sin not only shuts us away from God, but destroys in the human soul the desire and the capacity for knowing Him. All this work of evil it is Christ's mission to undo. The faculties of the soul, paralyzed by sin, the darkened mind, the perverted will, He has power to invigorate and to restore. He opens to us the riches of the universe, and by Him the power to discern and to appropriate these treasures is imparted.--Ed 28, 29. {TSB 253.1} [TSB 253.2] Each Individual Known by Jesus. Jesus knows us individually, and is touched with the feeling of our infirmities. He knows us all by name. He knows the very house in which we live, the name of each occupant. He has at times given directions to His servants to go to a certain street in a certain city, to such a house, to find one of His sheep. {TSB 253.2} [TSB 253.3] Every soul is as fully known to Jesus as if he were the only one for whom the Saviour died. The distress of every one touches His heart. The cry for aid reaches His ear. He came to draw all men unto Himself. He bids them, "Follow Me," and His Spirit moves upon their hearts to draw them to come to Him. Many refuse to be drawn. Jesus knows 254 who they are. He also knows who gladly hear His call, and are ready to come under His pastoral care. He says, "My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me." He cares for each one as if there were not another on the face of the earth.--DA 479, 480. {TSB 253.3} [TSB 254.1] Rebuke of Devil Possession Seven Times. Mary had been looked upon as a great sinner, but Christ knew the circumstances that had shaped her life. He might have extinguished every spark of hope in her soul, but He did not. It was He who had lifted her from despair and ruin. Seven times she had heard His rebuke of the demons that controlled her heart and mind. She had heard His strong cries to the Father in her behalf. She knew how offensive is sin to His unsullied purity, and in His strength she had overcome. {TSB 254.1} [TSB 254.2] The Transformation of Mary. When to human eyes her case appeared hopeless, Christ saw in Mary capabilities for good. He saw the better traits of her character. The plan of redemption has invested humanity with great possibilities, and in Mary these possibilities were to be realized. Through His grace she became a partaker of the divine nature. The one who had fallen, and whose mind had been a habitation of demons, was brought very near to the Saviour in fellowship and ministry. {TSB 254.2} [TSB 254.3] It was Mary who sat at His feet and learned of Him. It was Mary who poured upon His head the precious anointing oil, and bathed His feet with her tears. Mary stood beside the cross, and followed Him to the sepulcher. Mary was first at the tomb after His resurrection. It was Mary who first proclaimed a risen Saviour. {TSB 254.3} [TSB 254.4] The Greater the Sin, the Greater the Need for Jesus. Jesus knows the circumstances of every soul. You may say, I am sinful, very sinful. You may be, but the worse you are, 255 the more you need Jesus. He turns no weeping, contrite one away. He does not tell to any all that He might reveal, but He bids every trembling soul take courage. Freely will He pardon all who come to Him for forgiveness and restoration. {TSB 254.4} [TSB 255.1] Christ might commission the angels of heaven to pour out the vials of His wrath on our world, to destroy those who are filled with hatred of God. He might wipe this dark spot from His universe, but He does not do this. He is today standing at the altar of incense, presenting before God the prayers of those who desire His help. {TSB 255.1} [TSB 255.2] The souls that turn to Him for refuge, Jesus lifts above the accusing and the strife of tongues. No man or evil angel can impeach these souls. Christ unites them to His own divine-human nature. They stand beside the great Sin Bearer in the light proceeding from the throne of God. "Who shall lay anything to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth. Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us" ［Romans 8:33, 34］.--DA 568. {TSB 255.2} [TSB 255.3] A Never-failing Helper. The soul that has given himself to Christ is more precious in His sight than the whole world. The Saviour would have passed through the agony of Calvary that one might be saved in His kingdom. He will never abandon one for whom He has died. Unless His followers choose to leave Him, He will hold them fast. {TSB 255.3} [TSB 255.4] Through all our trials we have a never-failing Helper. He does not leave us alone to struggle with temptation, to battle with evil, and be finally crushed with burdens and sorrow. Though now He is hidden from mortal sight, the ear of faith can hear His voice saying, Fear not; I am with you. "I 256 am He that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive forevermore" ［Revelation 1:18］. I have endured your sorrows, experienced your struggles, encountered your temptations. I know your tears; I also have wept. The griefs that lie too deep to be breathed into any human ear, I know. Think not that you are desolate and forsaken. Though your pain touch no responsive chord in any heart on earth, look unto Me, and live. "The mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but My kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of My peace be removed, saith the Lord that hath mercy on thee" (Isaiah 54:10).--DA 483. {TSB 255.4} [TSB 256.1] Hatred of Sin, Love for Sinners. Jesus arose, and looking at the woman said, "Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee? She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more." {TSB 256.1} [TSB 256.2] The woman had stood before Jesus, cowering with fear. His words, "He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone," had come to her as a death sentence. She dared not lift her eyes to the Saviour's face, but silently awaited her doom. In astonishment she saw her accusers depart speechless and confounded; then those words of hope fell upon her ear, "Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more." Her heart was melted, and she cast herself at the feet of Jesus, sobbing out her grateful love, and with bitter tears confessing her sins. {TSB 256.2} [TSB 256.3] Beginning of a New Life. This was to her the beginning of a new life, a life of purity and peace, devoted to the service of God. In the uplifting of this fallen soul, Jesus performed a greater miracle than in healing the most grievous physical disease; He cured the spiritual malady which is unto death everlasting. This penitent woman 257 became one of His most steadfast followers. With self-sacrificing love and devotion she repaid His forgiving mercy. {TSB 256.3} [TSB 257.1] In His act of pardoning this woman and encouraging her to live a better life, the character of Jesus shines forth in the beauty of perfect righteousness. While He does not palliate sin, nor lessen the sense of guilt, He seeks not to condemn, but to save. The world had for this erring woman only contempt and scorn, but Jesus speaks words of comfort and hope. The Sinless One pities the weakness of the sinner and reaches to her a helping hand. While the hypocritical Pharisees denounce, Jesus bids her, "Go, and sin no more." {TSB 257.1} [TSB 257.2] Christian Love Slow to Censure. It is not Christ's follower that, with averted eyes, turns from the erring, leaving them unhindered to pursue their downward course. Those who are forward in accusing others, and zealous in bringing them to justice, are often in their own lives more guilty than they. Men hate the sinner, while they love the sin. Christ hates the sin, but loves the sinner. This will be the spirit of all who follow Him. Christian love is slow to censure, quick to discern penitence, ready to forgive, to encourage, to set the wanderer in the path of holiness, and to stay his feet therein.--DA 461, 462. {TSB 257.2} [TSB 257.3] Jesus, Friend of Sinners. I would call your attention to the precious promises in the Word of God. Not all who are children of God have the same powers, the same temperaments, the same confidence and boldness. I am glad indeed that our feelings are no evidence that we are not children of God. The enemy will tempt you to think that you have done things that have separated you from God and that He no longer loves you, but our Lord loves us still, and we may know by the words He has placed on record for just such 258 cases as yours. "If any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous" ［1 John 2:1］. "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" ［1 John 1:9］. {TSB 257.3} [TSB 258.1] Now, my dear sister, I have evidence that God loves you; and the precious Saviour, who gave Himself for you, will not thrust you from Him because you are tempted, and in your weakness may have been overcome. He loves you still. {TSB 258.1} [TSB 258.2] Peter denied his Lord in the hour of trial, but Jesus did not forsake His poor disciple. Although Peter hated himself, the Lord loved him, and after His resurrection He called him by name and sent him a loving message. Oh, what a kind, loving, compassionate Saviour we have! And He loves us though we err. {TSB 258.2} [TSB 258.3] Sweet Promises of God. Now, do not worry yourself out of the arms of the dear Saviour, but rest trustingly in faith. He loves you; He cares for you. He is blessing you, and will give you His peace and grace. He is saying to you, "Thy sins be forgiven thee" ［Matthew 9:2］. You may be depressed with bodily infirmities, but that is not evidence that the Lord is not working in your behalf every day. He will pardon you, and that abundantly. Gather to your soul the sweet promises of God. Jesus is our constant, unfailing Friend, and He wants you to trust in Him. {TSB 258.3} [TSB 258.4] God is at work, and Satan also is at work. Satan would have our minds drawn away from the mighty Helper, to ponder over our degradation of soul, and feel that all its powers are being wasted and God dishonored. Look away from yourself to the perfection of Christ. {TSB 258.4} [TSB 258.5] Christ's Righteousness for Us. We cannot manufacture a righteousness for ourselves. Christ has in His hands the 259 pure robes of righteousness, and He will put them upon us. He will speak sweet words of forgiveness and promise. He presents to our thirsty souls fountains of living water whereby we may be refreshed. He bids us come unto Him with all our burdens, all our griefs, and He says we shall find rest. Therefore, if we come to Him, we must believe that He speaks pardon, and we must show our faith by resting in His love. The heart is moved by all that is tender and pure and lofty--high ambition, holy joys, ennobling motives, endearing sympathies, and needful help. {TSB 258.5} [TSB 259.1] Offer of Free Pardon. Jesus sees the guilt of the past, and speaks pardon, and we must not dishonor Him by doubting His love. This feeling of guiltiness must be laid at the foot of the cross of Calvary. The sense of sinfulness has poisoned the springs of life and of true happiness. Now Jesus says, "Lay it all on Me. I will take your sins. I will give you peace. Banish no longer your self-respect, for I have bought you with the price of My own blood. You are Mine. Your weakened will I will strengthen; your remorse for sin I will remove." {TSB 259.1} [TSB 259.2] Then turn your grateful heart, trembling with uncertainty, to Him and lay hold on the hope set before you. God accepts your broken, contrite heart, and extends to you free pardon. He offers to adopt you into His family, with His grace to help your weakness. And the dear Saviour will lead you on step by step, you placing your hand in His, and letting Him guide you. {TSB 259.2} [TSB 259.3] Search for the precious promises of God. If Satan thrusts threatenings before your mind, turn from them, and cling to the promises, and let your soul be comforted by their brightness. The cloud is dark in itself, but when filled with the light, it is turned to the brightness of gold, for the glory of God is upon it. 260 {TSB 259.3} [TSB 260.1] May the Lord bless to your soul these few words He has prompted me to write.--Letter 99, 1896. {TSB 260.1} [TSB 260.2] Objects of God's Loving Interest. The Lord God through Jesus Christ holds out His hand all the day long in invitation to the sinful and fallen. He will receive all. He welcomes all. It is His glory to pardon the chief of sinners. He will take the prey from the mighty, He will deliver the captive, He will pluck the brand from the burning. He will lower the golden chain of His mercy to the lowest depth of human wretchedness, and lift up the debased soul contaminated with sin. {TSB 260.2} [TSB 260.3] Every human being is the object of loving interest to Him who gave His life that He might bring men back to God. Souls guilty and helpless, liable to be destroyed by the arts and snares of Satan, are cared for as a shepherd cares for the sheep of his flock.--MH 161, 162. {TSB 260.3} [TSB 260.4] 42. Understanding Others Heart Trials of One With Remorse. When one at fault becomes conscious of his error, be careful not to destroy his self-respect. Do not discourage him by indifference or distrust. Do not say, "Before giving him my confidence, I will wait to see whether he will hold out." Often this very distrust causes the tempted one to stumble. {TSB 260.4} [TSB 260.5] We should strive to understand the weakness of others. We know little of the heart trials of those who have been bound in chains of darkness and who lack resolution and moral power. Most pitiable is the condition of him who is suffering under remorse; he is as one stunned, staggering, sinking into the dust. He can see nothing clearly. The mind is beclouded, he knows not what steps to take. Many a poor soul is misunderstood, unappreciated, full of distress and 261 agony--a lost, straying sheep. He cannot find God, yet he has an intense longing for pardon and peace. {TSB 260.5} [TSB 261.1] Powerful Influences Toward Evil. Oh, let no word be spoken to cause deeper pain! To the soul weary of a life of sin, but knowing not where to find relief, present the compassionate Saviour. Take him by the hand, lift him up, speak to him words of courage and hope. Help him to grasp the hand of the Saviour. . . . We need to put ourselves in the place of the tempted ones. Consider the power of heredity, the influence of evil associations and surroundings, the power of wrong habits. Can we wonder that under such influences many become degraded? Can we wonder that they should be slow to respond to efforts for their uplifting?-- MH 167, 168. {TSB 261.1} [TSB 261.2] Tender Sympathy. Wondrous love, that God, the infinite God, has made it our privilege to approach Him by the endearing name of "Father"! No earthly parent could plead more earnestly with an erring child than He who has made us pleads with the transgressor. No human interest has ever followed the impenitent with such tender invitations. {TSB 261.2} [TSB 261.3] Then with what tender sympathy should we labor for those who are erring and sinful, who are perishing around us. We must work in the spirit in which Christ worked, in the compassionate tenderness that He manifested. When we shall, by living faith, claim the promises of God, when we shall live by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God, we place ourselves on the side of Christ, and we have His Spirit and His grace to work with our efforts to bring souls to a knowledge of the divine will.--Ms 35, 1886. {TSB 261.3} [TSB 261.4] Compassion for the Guilty. How little do we enter into sympathy with Christ on that which should be the strongest 262 bond of union between us and Him--compassion for depraved, guilty, suffering souls, dead in trespasses and sins! The inhumanity of man toward man is our greatest sin. Many think that they are representing the justice of God while they wholly fail of representing His tenderness and His great love. Often the ones whom they meet with sternness and severity are under the stress of temptation. Satan is wrestling with these souls, and harsh, unsympathetic words discourage them and cause them to fall a prey to the tempter's power. {TSB 261.4} [TSB 262.1] It is a delicate matter to deal with minds. Only He who reads the heart knows how to bring men to repentance. Only His wisdom can give us success in reaching the lost. You may stand up stiffly, feeling, "I am holier than thou," and it matters not how correct your reasoning or how true your words; they will never touch hearts. The love of Christ, manifested in word and act, will win its way to the soul, when the reiteration of precept or argument would accomplish nothing. {TSB 262.1} [TSB 262.2] We need more of Christlike sympathy, not merely sympathy for those who appear to us to be faultless, but sympathy for poor, suffering, struggling souls, who are often overtaken in fault, sinning and repenting, tempted and discouraged. We are to go to our fellow men, touched, like our merciful High Priest, with the feeling of their infirmities.-- MH 163, 164. {TSB 262.2} [TSB 262.3] Result of Coldness and Neglect. But there has been among us as a people a lack of deep, earnest, soul-touching sympathy and love for the tempted and the erring. Many have manifested great coldness and sinful neglect, represented by Christ as passing by on the other side, keeping as far as possible from those who most need help. The newly 263 converted soul often has fierce conflicts with established habits or with some special form of temptation, and, being overcome by some master passion or tendency, he is guilty of indiscretion or actual wrong. It is then that energy, tact, and wisdom are required of his brethren, that he may be restored to spiritual health. In such cases the instructions of God's Word apply: "Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted." "We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves." {TSB 262.3} [TSB 263.1] But how little of the pitying tenderness of Christ is manifested by His professed followers! When one errs, others too often feel at liberty to make the case appear as bad as possible. Those who perhaps are guilty of fully as great sins in some other direction, will treat their brother with cruel severity. Errors committed through ignorance, thoughtlessness, or weakness are exaggerated into willful, premeditated sin. As they see souls going astray, some fold their hands and say, "I told you so. I knew there was no dependence to be placed upon them." Thus they place themselves in the attitude of Satan, exulting in spirit that their evil surmisings have proved to be correct.--5T 604, 605. {TSB 263.1} [TSB 263.2] Love for the Erring. We are not all organized alike, and many have not been educated aright. Their education has been deficient. Some have had a quick temper transmitted to them, and their education in childhood has not taught them self-control. With this fiery temper, envy and jealousy are frequently united. Others are faulty in other respects. Some are dishonest in deal, overreaching in trade. Others are arbitrary in their families, loving to rule. Their lives are far from being correct. Their education was 264 all wrong. They were not told the sin of yielding to the control of these evil traits; therefore sin does not appear to them so exceedingly sinful. Others, whose education has not been so faulty, who have had better training, have developed a much less objectionable character. The Christian life of all is very much affected for good or for evil by their previous education. {TSB 263.2} [TSB 264.1] Jesus, our Advocate, is acquainted with all the circumstances with which we are surrounded and deals with us according to the light we have had and the circumstances in which we are placed. Some have a much better organization than others. While some are continually harassed, afflicted, and in trouble because of their unhappy traits of character, having to war with internal foes and the corruption of their nature, others have not half so much to battle against. They pass along almost free from the difficulties which their brethren and sisters who are not so favorably organized are laboring under.--2T 74. {TSB 264.1} [TSB 264.2] Welcome for the Repentant. "And of some have compassion, making a difference" ［Jude 22］. Those who are wise in the wisdom born of God will see souls in need of help, souls who have been overcome, and who, though they have sincerely repented, would scarcely dare, without encouragement, to lay hold of hope. The Lord will put it into the hearts of those who are stewards of His grace to welcome these trembling, repentant souls to their loving fellowship. His true followers will not treat sinners as if they were beyond forgiveness. They will have compassion on those whose circumstances have been unfavorable, and who have allowed Satan to lead them in forbidden paths. {TSB 264.2} [TSB 264.3] These souls have sinned against God, but if they repent and show the genuineness of their repentance by earnest 265 efforts to serve the Lord, who shall dare forbid them? Encourage them. Give them an opportunity to regain what they have lost. Pride, covetousness, sensuality, may have been their besetting sins. Point out their errors, but not in a way that will drive them from Christ. By words of loving compassion draw them to Him. However low they may have fallen, do not destroy their hope of pardon. Labor for them, pray with them, point them to the Redeemer. . . . {TSB 264.3} [TSB 265.1] No Condemnation of Others. By earnest, Christlike efforts, men will be convicted and converted, and God will speak pardon to them. Let no one turn away a soul who leaves the service of Satan and asks Jesus for pardon. "Of some have compassion, making a difference." When they give evidence that the Spirit of God is striving with them, present to them every encouragement for entering the Lord's service. Do not discourage them by indifference, by drawing away from them with an air of, "I am holier than thou" ［Isaiah 65:5］. {TSB 265.1} [TSB 265.2] Those who act as Pharisees may not be guilty of exactly the same sins they condemn in others, but they may be guilty of sins much greater in the sight of God. Each will be rewarded according to his work. Let those who condemn others take heed to themselves, lest they be condemned by God for Phariseeism.--Ms 37, 1902. {TSB 265.2} [TSB 265.3] People With Love, Not Like Chestnut Burs. We must expect to meet and bear with great imperfections in those who are young and inexperienced. Christ has bidden us seek to restore such in the spirit of meekness, and He holds us responsible for pursuing a course which will drive them to discouragement, despair, and ruin. Unless we daily cultivate the precious plant of love we are in danger of 266 becoming narrow, unsympathetic, bigoted, and critical, esteeming ourselves righteous when we are far from being approved of God. Some are uncourteous, abrupt, and harsh. They are like chestnut burs--they prick whenever touched. These do incalculable harm by misrepresenting our loving Saviour. {TSB 265.3} [TSB 266.1] We must come up to a higher standard, or we are unworthy of the Christian name. We should cultivate the spirit with which Christ labored to save the erring. They are as dear to Him as we are. They are equally capable of being trophies of His grace and heirs of the kingdom. But they are exposed to the snares of a wily foe, exposed to danger and defilement, and without the saving grace of Christ, to certain ruin. Did we view this matter in the right light, how would our zeal be quickened and our earnest, self-sacrificing efforts be multiplied, that we might come close to those who need our help, our prayers, our sympathy, and our love!--5T 605, 606. {TSB 266.1} [TSB 266.2] Jesus, Our Example. It was the outcast, the publican and sinner, the despised of the nations, that Christ called and by His loving-kindness compelled to come unto Him. The one class that He would never countenance was those who stood apart in their self-esteem and looked down upon others. . . . {TSB 266.2} [TSB 266.3] Even those who had fallen the lowest He treated with respect. It was continual pain to Christ to be brought into contact with enmity, depravity, and impurity; but never did He utter one expression to show that His sensibilities were shocked or His refined tastes offended. Whatever the evil habits, the strong prejudices, or the overbearing passions of human beings, He met them all with pitying tenderness. As we partake of His Spirit, we shall regard all men as 267 brethren, with similar temptations and trials, often falling and struggling to rise again, battling with discouragements and difficulties, craving sympathy and help. Then we shall meet them in such a way as not to discourage or repel them, but to awaken hope in their hearts.--MH 164, 165. {TSB 266.3} [TSB 268.1] APPENDIX A MASTURBATION AND INSANITY IN HIS SCHOLARLY STUDY ON "MASTURBATORY INSANITY; THE HISTORY OF AN IDEA," (JOURNAL OF MENTAL SCIENCE 108:1, JAN., 1962), E. H. HARE REFERS TO A STUDY OF 500 PATIENTS ADMITTED CONSECUTIVELY TO THE IOWA STATE PSYCHOPATHIC HOSPITAL. HE STATES THAT THE AUTHORS OF THE STUDY (MALAMUD, W., AND PALMER, G., "THE ROLE PLAYED BY MASTURBATION IN THE CAUSATION OF MENTAL DISTURBANCES, JOURNAL OF NERVOUS AND MENTAL DISORDERS, 76:220, 1932) FOUND THAT IN TWENTY-TWO CASES MASTURBATION WAS "APPARENTLY THE MOST IMPORTANT CAUSE OF DISORDER." {TSB 268.1} [TSB 268.2] HE THEN CONTINUES: "THE AUTHORS CONCLUDED THAT IT WAS THE MENTAL CONFLICT ENGENDERED BY MASTURBATION RATHER THAN THE HABIT ITSELF WHICH LED TO THE ILLNESS, AND THEY BELIEVED THIS CONCLUSION TO BE SUPPORTED BY THE EFFICACY OF PSYCHOTHERAPY DIRECTED TOWARDS READJUSTING THE PATIENT'S IDEAS ABOUT MASTURBATION. YET THE FACT THAT FIFTEEN OF THE TWENTY-TWO PATIENTS SUFFERED FROM DEPRESSION MUST RAISE DOUBTS ABOUT THE VALIDITY EVEN OF THIS TEMPERATE CONCLUSION, FOR THE DEPRESSED PATIENT IS NOT ONLY PRONE TO BLAME HIMSELF FOR NEGLECT OF WHAT HE BELIEVES TO BE THE RULES OF HEALTH, BUT ALSO TENDS TO RECOVER FROM HIS ILLNESS WHETHER TREATED BY PSYCHOTHERAPY OR NOT."--P. 22. 269 {TSB 268.2} [TSB 269.1] THUS HARE QUESTIONS THE CONCLUSIONS OF MALAMUD AND PALMER, BUT SAYS, SIGNIFICANTLY, THAT THEIR STUDY IS "ONE OF THE VERY FEW ATTEMPTS (INDEED, AS FAR AS MY READING GOES, THE ONLY REAL ATTEMPT) AT A SCIENTIFIC STUDY OF THE MASTURBATORY HYPOTHESIS ［THE HYPOTHESIS THAT MASTURBATION CAN CAUSE INSANITY］." {TSB 269.1} [TSB 269.2] AFTER ACKNOWLEDGING THAT "THERE IS NO WAY OF DISPROVING THE MASTURBATORY HYPOTHESIS," HARE OFFERS HIS FINAL CONCLUSION: "ALL WE CAN SAY, FROM THE EVIDENCE, IS THAT THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN MASTURBATION AND MENTAL DISORDER IS WEAK AND INCONSTANT AND THAT THEREFORE, IF MASTURBATION IS A CAUSAL FACTOR, IT IS PROBABLY NOT A VERY IMPORTANT ONE" (IBID. P. 19). {TSB 269.2} [TSB 269.3] SO, ALTHOUGH THIS AUTHORITY MINIMIZES THE POSSIBILITY THAT MASTURBATION AND INSANITY MIGHT BE LINKED, HE DOES NOT DISMISS IT ALTOGETHER. EVEN MORE SIGNIFICANTLY, HE HAS DISCOVERED THAT THERE HAS BEEN ONLY ONE REAL ATTEMPT TO TEST THE HYPOTHESIS SCIENTIFICALLY. {TSB 269.3} [TSB 269.4] WRITING OF MASTURBATION IN THEIR ADOLESCENT DEVELOPMENT AND ADJUSTMENT (MCGRAW-HILL BOOK COMPANY, 1965), LESTER C. AND ALICE CROW CONCLUDE: "THE EFFECTS OF THIS FORM OF SEX PERVERSION ARE NOT YET FULLY KNOWN." {TSB 269.4} [TSB 269.5] DR. DAVID HORROBIN, AN M.D. AND PH.D. FROM OXFORD UNIVERSITY, STATES: "THE AMOUNT OF ZINC IN SEMEN IS SUCH THAT ONE EJACULATION MAY GET RID OF ALL THE ZINC THAT CAN BE ABSORBED FROM THE INTESTINES IN ONE DAY. THIS HAS A NUMBER OF CONSEQUENCES. UNLESS THE AMOUNT LOST IS REPLACED BY AN INCREASED DIETARY INTAKE, REPEATED EJACULATION MAY LEAD TO A REAL ZINC DEFICIENCY WITH VARIOUS PROBLEMS DEVELOPING, INCLUDING IMPOTENCE. "IT IS EVEN POSSIBLE, GIVEN THE IMPORTANCE OF ZINC 270 FOR THE BRAIN, THAT 19TH CENTURY MORALISTS WERE CORRECT WHEN THEY SAID THAT REPEATED MASTURBATION COULD MAKE ONE MAD!"--ZINC (VITABOOKS: ST. ALBANS, VERMONT, 1981), P. 8. {TSB 269.5} [TSB 270.1] THIS STATEMENT IS SIMILAR TO THAT MADE BY CARL C. PFEIFFER, PH.D., M.D., IN HIS BOOK ON ZINC. HE DECLARES: "WE HATE TO SAY IT, BUT IN A ZINC-DEFICIENT ADOLESCENT, SEXUAL EXCITEMENT AND EXCESSIVE MASTURBATION MIGHT PRECIPITATE INSANITY."--ZINC AND OTHER MICRO-NUTRIENTS (KEATS: NEW CANAAN, CONN., 1978), P. 45. {TSB 270.1} [TSB 270.2] NOT ALL MEDICAL AUTHORITIES WOULD AGREE WITH THESE CONCLUSIONS, YET IT IS SIGNIFICANT THAT THERE ARE SOME WHOSE STUDY AND RESEARCH HAVE LED THEM TO OPINIONS WHICH ARE COMPATIBLE WITH THE TEACHINGS OF ELLEN WHITE. {TSB 270.2} [TSB 270.3] SEE CHILD GUIDANCE, PP. 439-456, FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON THIS SUBJECT. {TSB 270.3} [TSB 271.1] APPENDIX B AN EARLY CHURCH PROBLEM THE FIRST SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST DELEGATED STATE CONFERENCE SESSION, HELD AT MONTEREY, MICHIGAN, OCTOBER 4-6, 1862, HAD BEFORE IT FOUR QUESTIONS, THE FIRST OF WHICH WAS: "HOW SHALL WE TREAT DIVORCED MARRIAGES?" {TSB 271.1} [TSB 271.2] THE TERM "DIVORCED MARRIAGES" WAS DEFINED AS MARRIAGES OF SPOUSES "WHO HAVE BEEN DIVORCED FROM THEIR FORMER HUSBANDS OR WIVES FOR OTHER CAUSES THAN THAT MENTIONED IN MATTHEW 19, AND UNDER THAT DIVORCE HAVE MARRIED AGAIN. SHALL SUCH PERSONS SUBSEQUENTLY EMBRACING PRESENT TRUTH BE RECEIVED AMONG US?" (RH OCT. 14, 1862.) {TSB 271.2} [TSB 271.3] THE MATTER WAS REFERRED TO THE CONFERENCE COMMITTEE. NO RECORD CAN BE FOUND OF ANY SUBSEQUENT RECOMMENDATION OR ACTION. {TSB 271.3} [RY 0.1] RY - The Retirement Years (1990) A Compilation From the Writings of Ellen G. White Table of Contents The How and Why of This Book ......................................... 7 1. Adventist Pioneers ....................................... 13 2. Usefulness of Older Workers .............................. 31 3. Association of Young With Old ............................ 44 4. Obligation of Children to Aged Parents ................... 52 5. Care of the Aged ......................................... 57 6. Cautions for Aging Persons ............................... 67 7. Stewardship While Living ................................. 83 8. Importance of Wills ...................................... 100 9. Remarriage in Old Age .................................... 111 10. Conserving Life's Energies ............................... 123 11. Fortitude in Affliction .................................. 135 12. Assurance and Comfort for Those Facing Death ............. 146 13. The Hour of Bereavement .................................. 158 14. Lessons From Bible Characters ............................ 166 Appendix A: Helpful Bible Texts for Seniors ........................ 185 Appendix B: Ellen White's Activities After Age 65 .................. 191 Appendix C: G.B. Starr's Comments at Ellen White's Elmshaven Funeral Service ...................................... 216 Appendix D: J.N. Loughborough Letter to Lida Scott ................. 223 {RY 0.1} [RY 0.2] THE HOW AND WHY OF THIS BOOK EVENTUALLY ALL OF US REACH THE AGE WHEN WE MUST SLOW DOWN A BIT AND TURN OVER OUR WORK TO YOUNGER HANDS AND HEARTS. WHEN THAT TIME COMES, BECAUSE OF CHANGING EMOTIONAL, PHYSICAL, AND SPIRITUAL NEEDS, SOME OF US MAY NEED TO SECURE HELP AND COUNSEL FROM EXPERIENCED CLERGY, MEDICAL PRACTITIONERS, AND GERONTOLOGISTS. FORTUNATELY, SUCH HELP IS ABUNDANT IN THE WORLD TODAY. HUNDREDS OF HELPFUL BOOKS, MAGAZINES, AND LECTURE SERIES ARE AVAILABLE FOR PEOPLE FIFTY AND ABOVE, AND FOR RETIREMENT CLUBS NOW SPRINGING UP AROUND THE WORLD. THE PRESSES OF THE SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH HAVE PREPARED SEVERAL VOLUMES AIMED AT SENIOR READERSHIP, AND ALL OF THEM ARE GOOD, BUT NEVER BEFORE HAVE THE RESOURCES AND HELP CONTAINED IN THE WRITINGS OF ELLEN G. WHITE BEEN BROUGHT TOGETHER IN A BOOK AIMED ESPECIALLY AT THE NEEDS OF SENIOR CITIZENS. IN THE PRESENT VOLUME ELLEN WHITE OFFERS MANY INSPIRED AND INSPIRING ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS RAISED BY GOLDEN-AGERS. THESE GEMS OF THOUGHT HAVE BEEN GLEANED FROM HER LETTERS, MANUSCRIPTS, BOOKS, AND PERIODICAL ARTICLES, MANY OF WHICH WERE WRITTEN AFTER SHE WAS 65 - -THE 23 YEARS FROM 1892-1915. ELLEN WHITE LIVED LIFE TO THE FULL UNTIL SHE WAS 87. AT THE AGE OF 64, WHEN MOST PEOPLE ARE APPROACHING RETIREMENT, SHE WAS SERVING IN AUSTRALIA AS COUNSELOR AND MISSIONARY, ALONG WITH OTHER STALWART PIONEERS OF THE 8 CHURCH, TO HELP GAIN A FOOTHOLD FOR THE LORD'S WORK ON THAT ISLAND CONTINENT. IN HER NEWLY BUILT HOME ON THE CAMPUS OF THE SCHOOL FOR CHRISTIAN WORKERS (NOW AVONDALE COLLEGE) SHE WROTE HER ABSORBING BIOGRAPHY OF JESUS' LIFE ON EARTH, THE DESIRE OF AGES. WHEN SHE WAS NOT WRITING, SHE WAS PREACHING IN THE CHURCHES, MEETING WITH CONFERENCE COMMITTEES, AND OFFERING COUNSEL. WHEN SHE URGED, "BUILD A COLLEGE AFTER THE LORD'S PATTERN," AUSTRALASIAN MISSIONARY COLLEGE AROSE. AGAIN, WHEN SHE COUNSELED, BRING TO BIRTH A REPRESENTATIVE SANITARIUM IN THE SUBURBS OF SYDNEY," A MEDICAL INSTITUTION WAS BUILT. IN THE CREATION OF THESE INSTITUTIONS, CHURCH LEADERS REVEALED THEIR FAITH IN THE INSPIRED DIRECTIONS OF THE PROPHETIC GIFT. AT THE SAME TIME THERE POURED FORTH FROM HER FACILE PEN A STEADY STREAM OF INSPIRATIONAL ARTICLES AND LETTERS OF COUNSEL THAT FOUND THEIR WAY TO CHURCH EDITORS, LEADERS, AND LAYMEN, NOT ONLY IN AUSTRALIA BUT IN NORTH AMERICA, EUROPE, AND SOUTH AMERICA. DURING THE LAST FIFTEEN YEARS OF HER LIFE (1900-1915) MRS. WHITE WAS BACK IN THE UNITED STATES, LIVING IN HER NEWLY-ACQUIRED "ELMSHAVEN" HOME NEAR ST. HELENA, CALIFORNIA. WHILE THERE SHE ARDENTLY HOPED TO ENJOY A LITTLE OF THE EASE AND RESPITE OF RETIREMENT. BUT ALAS, THE UNIQUE PLACE THAT SHE OCCUPIED IN THE CHURCH AS THE LORD'S SPECIAL MESSENGER MADE HER THE FREQUENT AND UNRELENTING OBJECT OF DEMANDS FROM GOD'S PEOPLE FOR COUNSEL AND DIRECTION. THE SERVANT OF THE LORD FOUND IT DIFFICULT TO REFUSE THESE INVITATIONS, WHICH INCLUDED PREACHING APPOINTMENTS AT CAMP MEETINGS, CONFERENCE SESSIONS, AND LOCAL 9 CHURCHES. SHE JOURNEYED EASTWARD ACROSS THE NORTH AMERICAN CONTINENT TO SPEAK AT THE 1909 GENERAL CONFERENCE SESSION IN TAKOMA PARK WHEN SHE WAS 82 YEARS OLD. AND DURING THE "ELMSHAVEN" YEARS NEARLY A DOZEN OF HER BEST BOOKS WERE PUBLISHED--EDUCATION, THE MINISTRY OF HEALING; VOLUMES 6, 7, 8, AND 9 OF THE TESTIMONIES; THE ACTS OF THE APOSTLES, COUNSELS TO TEACHERS, PARENTS, AND STUDENTS, GOSPEL WORKERS, LIFE SKETCHES; AND FINALLY (POSTHUMOUSLY), PROPHETS AND KINGS. ELLEN WHITE DID NOT BELIEVE IN "RETIREMENT BY RUST." TO HER, RETIREMENT WAS "BY WEAR AND TEAR." BUT SHE WAS NOT A HARD TASKMASTER; RATHER, A MENTOR GRACED WITH AN UNDERSTANDING HEART AND THE MERCIFUL ATTITUDES THAT SHE HAD GAINED BY INTIMATE ACQUAINTANCE WITH A KIND HEAVENLY FATHER AND HIS SON, JESUS CHRIST. FOR EXAMPLE, SHE COUNSELED A WORKAHOLIC PREACHER IN HIS SUNSET YEARS TO BE TEMPERATE IN HIS LABORS, FOR HE WAS KILLING HIMSELF BY OVERWORK. SHE ENCOURAGED HIM TO GRASP THE THOUGHT THAT HE HAD EARNED THE PRIVILEGE TO RELAX, TO RIPEN FOR HEAVEN, AND TO ENJOY SOME OF THE RESTFUL AND PEACEFUL MOMENTS OF A HAPPY RETIREMENT. AS TRUSTEES IT IS OUR PRAYER THAT THIS COLLECTION OF LETTERS, ARTICLES, AND MESSAGES FROM THE PEN OF GOD'S DEVOTED SERVANT WILL BE A PRACTICAL AND CHERISHED SOURCE OF WISDOM AND GUIDANCE TO PEOPLE OF RETIREMENT YEARS, AS WELL AS TO THOSE OF PRERETIREMENT TIMES WHO WISH TO GRASP MORE FULLY THE STATEMENT OF CHRIST: "I AM COME THAT THEY MIGHT HAVE LIFE, AND THAT THEY MIGHT HAVE IT MORE ABUNDANTLY" (JOHN 10:10). BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE ELLEN G. WHITE ESTATE {RY 0.2} [RY 13.1] Chap. 1 - Adventist Pioneers Respect the Aged Pioneers To the aged pioneer laborers who have been connected with the work of the third angel's message almost from its beginning, whose experiences in it date nearly from the passing of the time in 1844, the Lord says: "Your help is needed. Do not take upon yourselves loads that others who are younger can carry. It is your duty to be careful in your habits of life. You are to be wise in the use of your physical, mental, and spiritual strength. You who have passed through so many and such varied experiences are to do all that it is possible for you to do to preserve your powers, that you may labor for the Lord as long as He permits you to stand in your lot and place to help to advance His work."... {RY 13.1} [RY 13.2] The cause needs the help of the old hands, the aged workers, who have had years of experience in the cause of God; who have watched the development and the progress of the message in its various lines; who have seen many go into fanaticism, cherishing the delusion of false theories, resisting all the efforts made to let the light of truth reveal the superstitions that were coming in to confuse minds and to make of none effect the message which in these last days must be given in its purity to God's remnant people. {RY 13.2} [RY 13.3] Many of the tried servants of God have fallen asleep in Jesus. Let the help of those who are left alive to this day be appreciated. Let their testimony be valued. The good hand of the Lord has been with these faithful 14 workers. He will uphold them by His strong arm, saying: "Lean on Me. I will be your strength and your exceeding great reward." Those who were in the message at its beginning, who fought bravely when the battle went hard, must not lose their hold now. {RY 13.3} [RY 14.1] The most tender interest should be cherished toward those whose life interest is bound up with the work of God. Notwithstanding their many infirmities, these workers still possess talents that qualify them to stand in their lot and place. God desires them to occupy leading positions in His work. They have stood faithful amidst storm and trial, and are among our most valuable counselors. How thankful we should be that they can still use their gifts in the Lord's service! {RY 14.1} [RY 14.2] Let not the fact be lost sight of that in the past these earnest wrestlers sacrificed everything to advance the work. The fact that they have grown old and gray in the service of God is no reason why they should cease to exert an influence superior to the influence of men who have far less knowledge of the work and far less experience in divine things. Though worn and unable to bear the heavier burdens that younger men can and should carry, their value as counselors is of the highest order. They have made mistakes, but they have learned wisdom from their failures; they have learned to avoid errors and dangers, and are they not then competent to give wise counsel? They have borne test and trial, and, though they have lost some of their vigor, they are not to be pushed aside by less-experienced workers, who know very little about the labor and self-sacrifice of these pioneers. The Lord does not thus lay them aside. 15 He gives them special grace and knowledge.... {RY 14.2} [RY 15.1] As those who have spent their lives in the service of God draw near the close of their earthly history, they will be impressed by the Holy Spirit to recount the experiences they have had in connection with His work. The record of His wonderful dealings with His people, of His great goodness in delivering them from trial, should be repeated to those newly come to the faith. The trials also that have been brought on the servants of God by the apostasy of some once united with them in labor, and the working of the Holy Spirit to make of none effect the falsehoods told against those who were holding the beginning of their confidence firm unto the end, should be related. {RY 15.1} [RY 15.2] The old standard-bearers who are still living should not be put in hard places. Those who served their Master when the work went hard, who endured poverty and remained faithful to the truth when our numbers were small, are ever to be honored and respected. I am instructed to say: Let every believer respect the aged pioneers who have borne trials and hardships and many privations. They are God's workmen and have acted a prominent part in the building up of His work. {RY 15.2} [RY 15.3] The Lord desires the younger laborers to gain wisdom, strength, and maturity by association with the aged laborers who have been spared to the cause. Let the younger men realize that, in having such laborers among them, they are highly favored. Let them show great respect for the men of gray hairs, who have had long experience in the development of the work. Let them give them an honored place in their councils. 16 God desires those who have come into the truth in later years to take heed to these words. {RY 15.3} [RY 16.1] May the Lord bless and sustain our old and tried laborers. May He help them to be wise in regard to the preservation of their physical, mental, and spiritual powers. I have been instructed by the Lord to say to those who bore their testimony in the early days of the message: "God has endowed you with the power of reason, and He desires you to understand and obey the laws that have to do with the health of the being. Do not be imprudent. Do not overwork. Take time to rest. God desires you to stand in your lot and place, doing your part to save men and women from being swept downward by the mighty current of evil. He desires you to keep the armor on till He bids you lay it off. Not long hence you will receive your reward." -- 7T 286-289. {RY 16.1} [RY 16.2] Vivid Memories of the Past We arrived on the campground at Syracuse, New York, August 20. The next day, Thursday, we were glad to greet Elder U. Smith and wife. Here we met Elder Wheeler, with whom we became acquainted in New Hampshire thirty years ago. Here was Elder Cottrell, whom we have known for thirty years; Elder Taylor, for more than twenty-five years; Brother Robinson, for thirty-five years. My heart was touched as I looked upon these brethren who had long stood in defense of the faith. {RY 16.2} [RY 16.3] More than a score of years have passed into eternity with their burden of record since these men became soldiers of the cross; but their experience in the early 17 history of the cause of God has never grown dim. As their thoughts linger about the past, the fires of love and faith kindle anew in their hearts. They can say with John, "That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; ... that which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us." {RY 16.3} [RY 17.1] Others were present whom we highly esteem, tried friends of the cause, whom we have known many years. We saw their countenances light up with fresh assurance as they listened to the presentation of the truth which has kept their hearts warm all these years. These brethren and sisters have an accurate, personal knowledge of events that occurred a score or more years ago. Some of them have witnessed remarkable manifestations of the power of God in times of our greatest trial and need, when our numbers were few, when opposition was strong, and unreasonable objections had to be met. While things that occurred a week ago may be forgotten, these scenes of thrilling interest still live in the memory. {RY 17.1} [RY 17.2] Whatever may be said of the later stages of their life-history, their earlier experience in this work has left traces which can never be erased. We cannot afford to let these aged sentinels drop out of sight. To many, by pen and voice, they have spoken precious words of truth; and they should still be encouraged to do all they can with their influence, their counsel, and their experience in the cause of God. More youthful workers are 18 taking their place in active service, and this is right; but let these younger men keep a warm place in their hearts, and room in their councils, for those whose heads have grown gray in the service of Christ. We want to see these men keep on the armor, and press the battle to the gates. We want to see them share with younger soldiers the triumphs of the final victory. It will be joy indeed to see them, when the conflict is ended, crowned and honored among the victorious ones. -- RH Oct. 28, 1884. {RY 17.2} [RY 18.1] The Dead Still Speak At half past two o'clock P.M. I spoke to a full house ［at Adams Center, N.Y.］.... We were gratified to meet the aged servants of God on this occasion. We have been acquainted from the rise of the third angel's message with Elder ［Frederick］ Wheeler, who is now nearing eighty years. We have been acquainted with Elders ［H. H.］ Wilcox and ［Chas. O.］ Taylor for the last forty years. Age is telling on these old standard-bearers, as well as upon me. If we are faithful to the end the Lord will give us a crown of life that fadeth not away. {RY 18.1} [RY 18.2] The aged standard-bearers are far from being useless and laid aside. They have a part to act in the work similar to that of John. They can say, ［1 John 1:1-7 quoted］. {RY 18.2} [RY 18.3] This was the spirit and life of the message that John bore to all in his old age, when he was nearly one hundred years old. The standard-bearers are holding fast their banners. They are not loosening their hands on the banner of truth until they lay off the armor. One 19 by one the old warriors' voices become silent. Their place is vacant. We see them no more, but they being dead yet speak, for their works do follow them. Let us treat very tenderly the few aged pilgrims remaining, esteeming them highly for their works' sake. As their powers are becoming worn and enfeebled, what they do say is of value. As precious testimony let their words be treasured. Let not the young men and the new workers discard or in any respect show indifference to the men of hoary hairs, but let them rise up and call them blessed. They should consider that they have themselves entered into these men's labors. We wish that there was much more of the love of Christ in the hearts of our believers for those who were first in the proclamation of the message. -- 2SM 223,224. {RY 18.3} [RY 19.1] Deep Appreciation for the First Burden-bearers While you are anxious to do all that you possibly can, remember, Elder Haskell, that it is only by the great mercy and grace of God that you have been spared these many years to bear your testimony. Do not take upon yourself loads that others who are younger can carry.... {RY 19.1} [RY 19.2] Many of the tried servants of God have fallen asleep in Jesus. We greatly appreciate the help of those who are left alive to this day. We value their testimony. Read the first chapter of First John, and then praise the Lord that notwithstanding your many infirmities you can still bear witness for Him.... {RY 19.2} [RY 19.3] We can easily count the first burden-bearers now alive ［1902］. Elder ［Uriah］ Smith was connected with 20 us at the beginning of the publishing work. He labored in connection with my husband. We hope always to see his name in the Review and Herald at the head of the list of editors; for thus it should be. Those who began the work, who fought bravely when the battle went so hard, must not lose their hold now. They are to be honored by those who entered the work after the hardest privation had been borne. {RY 19.3} [RY 20.1] I feel very tender toward Elder Smith. My life interest in the publishing work is bound up with his. He came to us as a young man, possessing talents that qualified him to stand in his lot and place as an editor. How I rejoice as I read his articles in the Review--so excellent, so full of spiritual truth. I thank God for them. I feel a strong sympathy for Elder Smith, and I believe that his name should always appear in the Review as the name of the leading editor. Thus God would have it. When, some years ago, his name was placed second, I felt hurt. When it was again placed first, I wept, and said, "Thank God." May it always be there, as God designs it shall be, while Elder Smith's right hand can hold a pen. And when the power of his hand fails, let his sons write at his dictation. {RY 20.1} [RY 20.2] I am thankful that Elder ［J. N.］ Loughborough can still use his abilities and his gifts in God's work. He has stood faithful amid storm and trial. With Elder Smith, my husband, Brother Butler, who joined us at a later period, and yourself ［S. N. Haskell］, he can say, "That which was from the beginning, . . . that which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with 21 the Father, and with His son Jesus Christ" (1 John 1:1-3). -- 2SM 224-226. {RY 20.2} [RY 21.1] Reprint Articles of Pioneers The messages that we have received from heaven are true and faithful. When one man strives to bring in new theories, which are not the truth, the ministers of God should bear clear warning against these theories, pointing out where, if received, they would lead the people of God. Those who have received the light of present truth should not be easily deceived, and readily led from the true path into strange paths. The watchmen are to be wide-awake to discern the outcome of all specious reasoning; for serious errors will be brought in to lead the people of God astray.... {RY 21.1} [RY 21.2] When men come in who would move one pin or pillar from the foundation which God has established by His Holy Spirit, let the aged men who were pioneers in our work speak plainly, and let those who are dead speak also, by the reprinting of their articles in our periodicals. Gather up the rays of divine light that God has given as He has led His people on step by step in the way of truth. This truth will stand the test of time and trial. -- Ms 62, 1905. {RY 21.2} [RY 21.3] G. I. Butler a Most Valuable Laborer ［ELDER BUTLER RETIRED IN 1888 AND BOUGHT A FARM IN FLORIDA, WHERE HE PLANTED AN ORANGE GROVE. BECAUSE HIS WIFE BECAME AN INVALID THE NEXT YEAR, HE STAYED ON IN RETIREMENT 12 YEARS LONGER. AFTER HER DEATH IN 1901 HE WAS ELECTED PRESIDENT OF THE FLORIDA CONFERENCE. THE NEXT YEAR, AT THE AGE OF 68, HE WAS ELECTED PRESIDENT OF THE SOUTHERN UNION CONFERENCE, AN OFFICE HE HELD FOR FIVE YEARS.］ It is with feelings of satisfaction and of gratitude to God that we see Elder ［G. I.］ Butler again in active 22 service. His gray hairs testify that he understands what trials are. We welcome him into our ranks once more, and regard him as one of our most valuable laborers. {RY 21.3} [RY 22.1] May the Lord help the brethren who have borne their testimony in the early days of the message, to be wise in regard to the preservation of their physical, mental, and spiritual powers. I have been instructed by the Lord to say that He has endowed you with the power of reason, and He desires you to understand the laws that affect the health of the being, and to resolve to obey them. These laws are God's laws. He desires every pioneer worker to stand in his lot and place, that he may do his part in saving the people from being swept downward to destruction by the mighty current of evil--of physical, mental, and spiritual declension. My brethren, He desires you to keep your armor on to the very close of the conflict. Do not be imprudent; do not overwork. Take periods of rest. {RY 22.1} [RY 22.2] The church militant is not the church triumphant. The Lord desires His tried servants, as long as they live, to advocate temperance reform. Unfurl the temperance banner. Teach the people to practice strict temperance in all things, and to be champions in favor of obedience to physical laws. Stand firmly for God's truth. Exalt before the people the banner bearing the inscription, "Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus" (Revelation 14:12).... {RY 22.2} [RY 22.3] A few of the old standard-bearers are still living. I 23 am intensely desirous that our brethren and sisters shall respect and honor these pioneers. We present them before you as men who know what trials are. I am instructed to say, Let every believer respect the men who acted a prominent part during the early days of the message, and who have borne trials and hardships and many privations. These men have grown gray in service. Not long hence they will receive their reward.... {RY 22.3} [RY 23.1] The Lord desires His servants who have grown gray in the advocacy of truth to stand faithful and true, bearing their testimony in favor of the law. {RY 23.1} [RY 23.2] God's tried servants must not be put in hard places. Those who served their Master when the work went hard, those who endured poverty and remained faithful in the love of the truth when our numbers were small, are ever to be honored and respected. Let those who have come into the truth in later years take heed to these words. God desires all to heed this caution. -- 2SM 226, 227 (Letter 47, 1902). {RY 23.2} [RY 23.3] Grow Old Gracefully Brother Butler, let us -- you and Brother Haskell and I -- grow old gracefully. He desires you to stand for Him as a light-bearer. Let us encourage one another. I am given messages to bear to the erring, but because of this, I do not lose my interest in the one reproved, but continue to encourage him. {RY 23.3} [RY 23.4] Love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous." We need now, just now, the impartation of the Holy Spirit. The Lord Jesus has much to bear in dealing with us. He 24 is hurt when we hurt one another. "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren," He says, "ye have done it unto Me." . . . {RY 23.4} [RY 24.1] The aged ministers are to be carefully and tenderly treated. We cannot spare one of them. The Lord would have them help one another and rejoice in Him. These tried warriors are to strengthen the faith of the people of God by relating their experience in connection with the building up of His work. -- Letter 111a, 1904. {RY 24.1} [RY 24.2] Growing Older but Continuing to Testify Dear Brother ［G. I.］ Butler: ... I greatly desire that the old soldiers, grown gray in the Master's service, shall continue to bear their testimony right to the point, that those younger in the faith may understand that the messages which the Lord gave us in the past are very important at this stage of the earth's history. Our past experience has not lost one jot of its force. I thank the Lord for every jot and tittle of the Sacred Word. I would not draw back from the hard parts of our experience. {RY 24.2} [RY 24.3] You must not work beyond your strength. I suppose that in the future our experience will be varied; but I think that you and I, in growing old in the service of Christ, in doing His will, are obtaining an experience of the highest value and most intense interest. {RY 24.3} [RY 24.4] The judgments of the Lord are in the land. We must work with wholehearted fidelity, putting the whole being into what we do to help others move forward and upward. Let us press the battle to the gates. Let us be ever ready to speak words of encouragement to the 25 halting and the weary. We can walk safely only as we walk with Christ. Let nothing dampen your courage. Help those with whom you come in contact to work with fidelity. {RY 24.4} [RY 25.1] I hope that in the future I may meet you at some of our gatherings. You and I are among the oldest of those living who have long kept the faith. If we should not live to see our Lord's appearing, yet, having done our appointed work, we shall lay off our armor with sanctified dignity. Let us do our best, and let us do it in faith and hope. My heart is filled with gratitude to the Lord for sparing my life for so long. My right hand can still trace subjects of Bible truth without trembling. Tell all that Sister White's hand still traces words of instruction for the people. I am completing another book on Old Testament history ［Prophets and Kings］. {RY 25.1} [RY 25.2] May the Lord bless you and keep you in hope and courage. -- 2SM 229,230 (Letter 130, 1910). {RY 25.2} [RY 25.3] Guard Memory of Pioneers As those who took up the work at the beginning of the message have advanced by self-denial and self-sacrifice, God has given them His blessing. They have had much to learn, they have made mistakes, they have needed continual guidance and counsel; but they have had reason for constant gratitude, because the work has gone forward in spite of poverty and a lack of facilities. They strained every nerve to make the work a success, to establish those buildings which were necessary for the proper development of the work; and under all circumstances the Lord guided them. 26 {RY 25.3} [RY 26.1] Those who enter the work later, to find things ready to their hand, should at least attempt to pay the debt they owe the Lord and the workers who went before them, by carrying the truth into new territories, until it has gone to every nation, kindred, tongue, and people. In every country men and women are to be raised up to carry forward the very work begun by those who have been laid away to rest. The memory of those pioneer workers is to be guarded, and from their treasure of experience the workers of today are to learn to pass from one line of advanced work to another, following the methods declared by the Holy Spirit to be in the order of God, asserting the principles enjoined in the Word, carrying the aggressive warfare into new fields. -- GCB Third quarter, 1900, p. 164. {RY 26.1} [RY 26.2] Avoid Criticism of the Pioneers I saw that God is displeased with the disposition that some have to murmur against those who have fought the heaviest battles for them and who endured so much in the commencement of the message, when the work went hard. {RY 26.2} [RY 26.3] The experienced laborers, those who toiled under the weight and the oppressive burdens when there were but few to help bear them, God regards; and He has a jealous care for those who have proved faithful. He is displeased with those who are ready to find fault with and reproach those servants of God who have grown gray in building up the cause of present truth. -- 3T 320, 321. {RY 26.3} [RY 26.4] Let no one depreciate those who have been chosen 27 of God, who fought manfully the battles of the Lord, who have woven heart and soul and life into the cause and work of God, who have died in faith, and who are partakers of the great salvation purchased for us through our precious sin-bearing, sin-pardoning Saviour. God has inspired no man to reproduce their mistakes, and to present their errors to a world that is lying in wickedness, and to a church composed of many who are weak in faith. {RY 26.4} [RY 27.1] The Lord has not laid the burden upon men to revive the mistakes and errors of the living or the dead. He would have His laborers present the truth for this time. Speak not of the errors of your brethren who are living, and be silent as to the mistakes of the dead. Let their mistakes and errors remain where God has put them -- cast into the depths of the sea. The less that is said by those who profess to believe present truth in regard to the past mistakes and errors of the servants of God, the better it will be for their own souls, and for the souls of those whom Christ has purchased with His own blood. -- RH Nov. 30, 1897. {RY 27.1} [RY 27.2] Let Us Encourage One Another ［DRAWN FROM ELLEN WHITE'S SECOND MESSAGE TO THE GENERAL CONFERENCE SESSION OF 1913.］ I greatly desire that the old soldiers of the cross, those grown gray in the Master's service, shall continue to bear their testimony right to the point, in order that those younger in the faith may understand that the messages which the Lord gave us in the past are very important at this stage of the earth's history. Our past experience has not lost one jot of its force. 28 {RY 27.2} [RY 28.1] Let all be careful not to discourage the pioneers, or cause them to feel that there is little they can do. Their influence may still be mightily exerted in the work of the Lord. The testimony of the aged ministers will ever be a help and a blessing to the church. God will watch over His tried and faithful standard-bearers, night and day, until the time comes for them to lay off their armor. Let them be assured that they are under the protecting care of Him who never slumbers or sleeps; that they are watched over by unwearied sentinels. Knowing this, and realizing that they are abiding in Christ, they may rest trustfully in the providences of God. {RY 28.1} [RY 28.2] I pray earnestly that the work we do at this time shall impress itself deeply on heart and mind and soul. Perplexities will increase; but let us, as believers in God, encourage one another. Let us not lower the standard, but keep it lifted high, looking to Him who is the Author and Finisher of our faith. When in the night season I am unable to sleep, I lift my heart in prayer to God, and He strengthens me and gives me the assurance that He is with His ministering servants in the home field and in distant lands. I am encouraged and blessed as I realize that the God of Israel is still guiding His people, and that He will continue to be with them, even to the end. {RY 28.2} [RY 28.3] I am instructed to say to our ministering brethren, Let the messages that come from your lips be charged with the power of the Spirit of God. If ever there was a time when we needed the special guidance of the Holy Spirit, it is now. We need a thorough consecration. It is 29 fully time that we gave to the world a demonstration of the power of God in our own lives and in our ministry. {RY 28.3} [RY 29.1] The Lord desires to see the work of proclaiming the third angel's message carried forward with increasing efficiency. As He has worked in all ages to give victories to His people, so in this age He longs to carry to a triumphant fulfillment His purposes for His church. He bids His believing saints to advance unitedly, going from strength to greater strength, from faith to increased assurance and confidence in the truth and righteousness of His cause. {RY 29.1} [RY 29.2] We are to stand firm as a rock to the principles of the Word of God, remembering that God is with us to give us strength to meet each new experience. Let us ever maintain in our lives the principles of righteousness, that we may go forward from strength to strength in the name of the Lord. We are to hold as very sacred the faith that has been substantiated by the instruction and approval of the Spirit of God from our earliest experience until the present time. We are to cherish as very precious the work that the Lord has been carrying forward through His commandment-keeping people, and which, through the power of His grace, will grow stronger and more efficient as time advances. The enemy is seeking to becloud the discernment of God's people, and to weaken their efficiency, but if they will labor as the Spirit of God shall direct, He will open doors of opportunity before them for the work of building up the old waste places. Their experience will be one of constant growth, until the Lord shall descend from heaven with power and great glory to set His seal 30 of final triumph upon His faithful ones. {RY 29.2} [RY 30.1] The work that lies before us is one that will put to the stretch every power of the human being. It will call for the exercise of strong faith and constant vigilance. At times the difficulties that we shall meet will be most disheartening. The very greatness of the task will appall us. And yet, with God's help, His servants will finally triumph. "Wherefore," my brethren, "I desire that ye faint not" (Ephesians 3:13) because of the trying experiences that are before you. Jesus will be with you; He will go before you by His Holy Spirit, preparing the way; and He will be your helper in every emergency. -- 2SM 406-408. {RY 30.1} [RY 31.1] Chap. 2 - Usefulness of Older Workers Aged Workers Not Released From Service I hope that none of those who have been long in the work will think that because they are growing old, they are incapacitated for service. I hope that they will stand up to bear their message as long as they have the evidence that the Lord is helping them. Edson ［Ellen White's second son］, encourage the men who have long borne burdens in our work. Even though in their old age their memory may fail somewhat, yet respect them, and the Lord will surely bless you. And let no aged worker, although he is old and gray, think that he is released from service. Let the work be carried on in simplicity. Surely we have the Lord on whom to depend. -- Letter 102, 1910. {RY 31.1} [RY 31.2] Older Workers Needed in Crises God never leaves the world without men who can discern between good and evil, righteousness and unrighteousness. God has men whom He has appointed to stand in the forefront of the battle in times of emergency. In a crisis, He will raise up men as He did in ancient times. Young men will be bidden to link up with the aged standard-bearers, that they may be strengthened and taught by the experience of these faithful ones, who have passed through so many conflicts, and to whom, through the testimonies of His Spirit, God has so often spoken, pointing out the right 32 way and condemning the wrong way. When perils arise, which try the faith of God's people, these pioneer workers are to recount the experiences of the past, when just such crises came, when the truth was questioned, when strange sentiments, proceeding not from God, were brought in. {RY 31.2} [RY 32.1] The experience of those aged workers is needed now; for Satan is watching every opportunity to make of no account the old waymarks--the monuments that have been raised up along the way. We need the experience of the men who through evil report as well as through good report have been steadfast to the truth; men who have not built their house upon the sand, but upon the solid rock. -- RH Nov. 19, 1903. {RY 32.1} [RY 32.2] They Know How to Help Others The aged standard-bearers in the cause of God are far from being useless. The men who have held the beginning of their confidence steadfast unto the end are not to be accounted second or third in the work of God. They are not to be cast aside as having outlived their usefulness. God has an important part for them to act in His work. By learning of Christ they have obtained a rich experience. When they have made false steps, they did not refuse to be corrected. When they wandered from the path that Christ trod, they allowed Him to lead them once more into it. Thus they have learned to help others. -- Ms 92, 1903. {RY 32.2} [RY 32.3] Those who have grown old and gray in the service of God are not to be pushed aside by less experienced workers, who know very little about the labor and 33 self-sacrifice of these pioneers.... Those who have such laborers among them are highly favored. Those who are commissioned by the Lord to do a large and important work, a work that will leave an impress for good or for ill on the world, according to the way in which it is done, need to seek counsel from those who have been instructed by the Lord. -- Ms 117a, 1901. {RY 32.3} [RY 33.1] Aged Workers Give Wise Counsel The most tender regard should be cherished for those whose life interest has been bound up with the work of God. These aged workers have stood faithful amid storm and trial. They may have infirmities, but they still possess talents that qualify them to stand in their place in God's cause. Though worn, and unable to bear the heavier burdens that younger men can and should carry, the counsel they can give is of the highest value. {RY 33.1} [RY 33.2] They may have made mistakes, but from their failures they have learned to avoid errors and dangers, and are they not therefore competent to give wise counsel? They have borne test and trial, and though they have lost some of their vigor, the Lord does not lay them aside. He gives them special grace and wisdom. {RY 33.2} [RY 33.3] Those who have served their Master when the work went hard, who endured poverty and remained faithful when there were few to stand for truth, are to be honored and respected. The Lord desires the younger laborers to gain wisdom, strength, and maturity by association with these faithful men. Let the younger men realize that in having such workers among them they 34 are highly favored. Let them give them an honored place in their councils. {RY 33.3} [RY 34.1] As those who have spent their lives in the service of Christ draw near to the close of their earthly ministry, they will be impressed by the Holy Spirit to recount the experiences they have had in connection with the work of God. The record of His wonderful dealings with His people, of His great goodness in delivering them from trial, should be repeated to those newly come to the faith. God desires the old and tried laborers to stand in their place, doing their part to save men and women from being swept downward by the mighty current of evil. He desires them to keep the armor on till He bids them lay it down. -- AA 573, 574. {RY 34.1} [RY 34.2] Special Grace and Knowledge The Lord gives special grace and knowledge to the aged men who have had an experience in the work from its earliest history, and have watched it develop in its various lines of progress. Let these men be appreciated and respected. Let not the fact he lost sight of that in the past they have sacrificed everything to advance the work. Because they are growing old is no reason why they should cease to exert an influence superior to the influence of the men who have had far less study of the Word, far less experience in divine things, far less knowledge of the communications of Christ to His people. {RY 34.2} [RY 34.3] I have been instructed that no indifference or disrespect is to be shown to these burden-bearing pioneers in the work. They are God's workmen, and have acted 35 a prominent part in building up the work which today ought to bear the similitude of the pattern shown them in the mount. -- MS 34, 1901. {RY 34.3} [RY 35.1] Older Ministers to Speak at Camp Meetings In 1890 I was given the following message to bear to our people: {RY 35.1} [RY 35.2] "A mistake has been made in putting young men forward to speak at our camp meetings, before large congregations, when they had not the vital truths to present that were appropriate for the occasion. Precious time has been occupied by those who did not themselves know the true message for this time. Pioneers in the cause -- men who had the bread of life to give to the people, men whose hearts and minds were filled with the vital truths needed by the hundreds and thousands of people assembled -- have sat and listened to young preachers who could not do justice to the occasion. Not even half work was done in the presentation of the gospel message." {RY 35.2} [RY 35.3] I am now called upon to present a similar message to our churches. Our aged ministering brethren are not to be over-taxed, but when they are at any of our churches, those in the church should remember that it is always courteous to ask them to speak. It is only showing these brethren the respect due them to say, "Brethren, you are older in the faith than we are. Have you not the word of the Lord for us at this time?" {RY 35.3} [RY 35.4] The time of these workers is precious. They have words to speak that the people need. When they come among you, give them all the time that they can possibly 36 fill. Make arrangements that will enable you to obtain all the help possible from them during their stay. {RY 35.4} [RY 36.1] At our camp meetings, when large congregations assemble, the time given to public speaking should be occupied, as far as possible, by old, experienced workers, who have the word of the gospel to present. Do not place before the large congregation a young man who has not been proved. He may do his best, but his words will not have the weight of the words of men of gray hairs, who have been long in active service, and who, understanding the deep things of God, can present them with clearness and power. {RY 36.1} [RY 36.2] It would be doing a young man a great wrong to place him before a large congregation before he had been proved. It would not leave the best impression on the minds of the hearers. {RY 36.2} [RY 36.3] In our camp meetings call to the front men of long experience and of the very best talent -- men who can impress hearts by bringing forth clearly the strong reasons of our faith; men who obey the words, "Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; and your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." {RY 36.3} [RY 36.4] Our camp meetings are not held for the purpose of putting men on exhibition, of showing off their capabilities. The people come together to receive spiritual good. There are among them those who are thirsting for 37 the water of life. Give them opportunity to drink until their thirst is quenched. Let them hear a message fraught with the love of God. Let them have opportunity of listening to men of ripe talent, men whom God has been educating and training. The minds of these men are filled with truth that the people need. Do not bring in men who have not been proved, while men sit by in silence who have the word of God burning in their souls, and who may never again have opportunity to bear the message given them. Give these tried warriors all the opportunities to speak that they can improve without overtaxing themselves; for they can present the truths that are the very pillars of our faith. {RY 36.4} [RY 37.1] The younger ministers are not to think, because they are not called to speak to the large congregation, that there is nothing for them to do. There is work for all to do. Let them hold meetings in the smaller tents. Let the occupants of several tents meet in one tent for prayer and social meeting. In such meetings as these the younger ministers can do good service. Let them speak a few words right to the point, and then give those present an opportunity to speak. All our people should learn to bear witness for God in social meeting. {RY 37.1} [RY 37.2] Let the younger ministers work for the children and youth, holding special meetings for them, and also putting forth personal efforts for them. {RY 37.2} [RY 37.3] Let the old standard-bearers go from place to place, from meeting to meeting. Let our people have the benefit of their long experience. Let them speak the truth in all its force, but let them be sure that their feet are shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace. Let 38 them present the truth, not in a way that will arouse the worst feelings of the human heart, but in love and tenderness and compassion. "If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, ... fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves." {RY 37.3} [RY 38.1] To our people as a whole, and to our younger and less experienced workers, I am instructed to say, "Let it be plainly seen that you respect and honor our aged workers, the men of gray hairs, who have seen long and faithful service in the cause of God, and who are recognized and honored in the courts of heaven as laborers together with God. -- Letter 152, 1903. {RY 38.1} [RY 38.2] Experienced Workers Needed in the Home Field Dear Brother and Sister Haskell: . . . Today I had an interview with Elder Loughborough ［ELDER J. N. LOUGHBOROUGH WAS 69 YEARS OLD WHEN THIS LETTER WAS WRITTEN］ in regard to his going to Australia. I told him that it appeared to me that we were sending too many from the home field. I told him that the churches needed the work that he could do. I advised him to delay his journey, and work for a while in the churches, encouraging and comforting them, and setting things in order. We see the need of the help of old, experienced laborers, who have been connected with the work almost from its beginning, whose experience in it dates nearly from the passing of the time in 1844. We need the help of men who can testify as did John, 39 "That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you." -- Letter 195, 1901. {RY 38.2} [RY 39.1] We cannot afford to deprive our home mission of the influence of middle-aged and aged ministers to send them into distant fields, to engage in a work for which they are not qualified, and to which no amount of training will enable them to adapt themselves. The men thus sent out leave vacancies which inexperienced laborers cannot supply. -- RH July 17, 1883. {RY 39.1} [RY 39.2] Old Age More Productive Than Youth The true minister of Christ should make continual improvement. The afternoon sun of his life may be more mellow and productive of fruit than the morning sun. It may continue to increase in size and brightness until it drops behind the western hills. My brethren in the ministry, it is better, far better, to die of hard work in some home or foreign mission field, than to rust out with inaction. Be not dismayed at difficulties; be not content to settle down without studying and without making improvement. Search the Word of God diligently for subjects that will instruct the ignorant and feed the flock of God. Become so full of the matter that you will be able to bring forth from the treasure house of His Word things new and old. {RY 39.2} [RY 39.3] Your experience should not be ten, twenty, or thirty years old, but you should have a daily, living experience, that you may be able to give to each his portion of meat in due season. Look forward, not backward. 40 Never be obliged to tug at your memory in order to relate some past experience. What does that amount to today to you or to others? While you treasure all that is good in your past experience, you want a brighter, fresher experience as you pass along. Do not boast of what you have done in the past, but show what you can do now. Let your works and not your words praise you. Prove the promise of God that "those that be planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bring forth fruit in old age; they shall be fat and flourishing; to shew that the Lord is upright: he is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in him" (Psalm 92:13-15). Keep your heart and mind young by continuous exercise. -- 2SM 221, 222. {RY 39.3} [RY 40.1] Efficiency May Constantly Increase Our ministers who have reached the age of forty or fifty years should not feel that their labor is less efficient than formerly. Men of years and experience are just the ones to put forth strong and well-directed efforts. They are specially needed at this time; the churches cannot afford to part with them. Such ones should not talk of physical and mental feebleness nor feel that their day of usefulness is over. {RY 40.1} [RY 40.2] Many of them have suffered from severe mental taxation, unrelieved by physical exercise. The result is a deterioration of their powers and a tendency to shirk responsibilities. What they need is more active labor. This is not alone confined to those whose heads are white with the frost of time, but men young in years 41 have fallen into the same state and have become mentally feeble. They have a list of set discourses, but if they get beyond the boundaries of these they lose their soundings. {RY 40.2} [RY 41.1] The old-fashioned pastor, who traveled on horseback and spent much time in visiting his flock, enjoyed much better health, notwithstanding his hardships and exposures, than our ministers of today, who avoid all physical exertion as far as possible and confine themselves to their books. {RY 41.1} [RY 41.2] Ministers of age and experience should feel it their duty, as God's hired servants, to go forward, progressing every day, continually becoming more efficient in their work, and constantly gathering fresh matter to set before the people. Each effort to expound the gospel should be an improvement upon that which preceded it. Each year they should develop a deeper piety, a tenderer spirit, a greater spirituality, and a more thorough knowledge of Bible truth. The greater their age and experience, the nearer should they be able to approach the hearts of the people, having a more perfect knowledge of them. {RY 41.2} [RY 41.3] Men are needed for this time who are not afraid to lift their voices for the right, whoever may oppose them. They should be of strong integrity and tried courage. The church calls for them, and God will work with their efforts to uphold all branches of the gospel ministry. -- 4T 269, 270. 42 {RY 41.3} [RY 42.1] Last Days May Be the Best ［WRITTEN TO A 68-YEAR OLD PHYSICIAN WHO WAS LEADING OUT IN THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A MEDICAL INSTITUTION IN AUSTRALIA.］ Do not speak words that will irritate or offend. The Lord desires you to guard every point in your character. You can be a blessing in communicating to others your knowledge of the truth and of health reform.... {RY 42.1} [RY 42.2] The Lord loves you, and He desires you to do with power the work given you. When speaking to the people, do not seek to present something original and new. Give short talks, right to the point, on practical subjects. Thus you can feed starving souls. {RY 42.2} [RY 42.3] I feel anxious that in our old age we who have known the truth for so long shall become mellow in spirit and in our methods of labor; that we shall understand the simple, yet important and comprehensive truths of the third angel's message; and that we shall receive these truths in the love of God, and impart them to others. {RY 42.3} [RY 42.4] My brother, you need not feel that you are too old to train your voice. You talk in too low a tone. Open your mouth and use your abdominal muscles in sending forth the sound. Just now you are excellently situated for learning to talk clearly and distinctly. When talking to the workmen, take in deep inspirations, and let your tones be full and round. Thus you will gain in health. Your delivery will improve, and your efforts to help the people will be crowned with success.... {RY 42.4} [RY 42.5] The Lord has not forsaken you. He desires you to grow in grace, to increase in ability to help the people. But if you interest them, you must speak right to the 43 point, and you must stop before you think you are half through. {RY 42.5} [RY 43.1] I cannot endure the thought of any of our aged believers decreasing in influence and efficiency. The Lord wants you to cooperate with Him in making all you can of yourself. If you will unite willingly with Him in this work, your last days will be your brightest and best. Heed the cautions that I have given you. Keep close to the clear lines of truth, and do not let your voice sink so low that the hearers can scarcely catch the sound. You will be much benefited healthwise if you will put forth determined effort to make your voice heard. It is a God-given duty to improve in speech, and this you can do if you will try with determination. -- Letter 11, 1901. {RY 43.1} [RY 44.1] Chap. 3 - Association of Young With Old Laborers Together With God Children should be so educated that they will sympathize with the aged and afflicted and will seek to alleviate the sufferings of the poor and distressed. They should be taught to be diligent in missionary work; and from their earliest years self-denial and sacrifice for the good of others and the advancement of Christ's cause should be inculcated, that they may be laborers together with God. -- 6T 429. {RY 44.1} [RY 44.2] Many youth who have but little experience push themselves forward, manifest no reverence for age or office, and take offense if counseled or reproved. We have already more of these self-important ones than we want. God calls for modest, quiet, sober-minded youth, and men of mature age, who are well-balanced with principle, who can pray as well as talk, who will rise up before the aged, and treat gray hairs with respect. -- RH Nov. 13, 1883. {RY 44.2} [RY 44.3] God has especially enjoined tender respect toward the aged. He says, "The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness (Proverbs 16:31). It tells of battles fought, and victories gained; of burdens borne, and temptations resisted. It tells of weary feet nearing their rest, of places soon to be vacant. Help the children to think of this, and they will smooth the path of the aged by their courtesy and respect, and will bring grace and beauty into their 45 young lives as they heed the command to "rise up before the hoary head, and honor the face of the old man" (Leviticus 19:32). -- Ed 244. {RY 44.3} [RY 45.1] Older Ministers Should Educate Younger Workers God calls upon His aged servants to act as counselors, to teach the young men what to do in cases of emergency. Aged workers are to bear, as did John, a living testimony of real experience. And when these faithful workers are laid away to rest, with the words, "Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord" (Revelation 14:13), there should be found in our schools men and women who can take the standard and raise it in new places. {RY 45.1} [RY 45.2] While the aged standard-bearers are in the field, let those who have been benefited by their labors care for and respect them. Do not load them down with burdens. Appreciate their advice, their words of counsel. Treat them as fathers and mothers who have borne the burden of the work. The workers who have in the past anticipated the needs of the cause do a noble work when, in the place of carrying all the burdens themselves, they lay them upon the shoulders of younger men and women, and educate them as Elijah educated Elisha. {RY 45.2} [RY 45.3] David offered to God a tribute of gratitude for the divine teaching and guidance he had received. "O God, Thou hast taught me from my youth" (Psalm 71:17), he declared. Those who in the history of the message have borne the burden and heat of the day, are to remember that the same Lord who taught them from 46 their youth, inviting them, "Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me" (Matthew 11:29), and giving them the light of truth, is just as willing to teach young men and women today as He was to teach them. {RY 45.3} [RY 46.1] It is wisdom for those who have borne heavy loads to come apart and rest awhile. These faithful workers should be relieved of every taxing burden. The work they can do as educators should be appreciated. The Lord Himself will cooperate with them in their efforts to teach others. They should leave the wrestling to those who are younger; the future work must be done by strong young men. The work is under the control of the Author and Finisher of our faith. He can and will give fitness to men of opportunity. He will raise up those who can fight His battles. He never leaves His work to chance. This work is a great and solemn one, and it is to go forward. {RY 46.1} [RY 46.2] It is not God's will that the fathers in His cause should use up their remaining vitality in bearing heavy loads. Let the young men shoulder every responsibility they can, and fight manfully the good fight of faith. The Lord knows better whom to select to do His work than do the wisest men, however interested they may be. It is God who implants His Spirit in the hearts of young men, leading them to fight for Him against great odds. Thus He inspired Paul of Tarsus, who fought with all his entrusted capabilities for Heaven's revealed truth, against apostates who ought to have upheld him. God's servants will have today to meet the same difficulties that Paul met. This experience some have had who are now raising the banner of truth. It is such men who can 47 stand in defense of the truth. If they continue to be learners, God can use them to vindicate His law. {RY 46.2} [RY 47.1] Let not the aged workers think that they must carry all the responsibilities, all the loads. New fields of labor are constantly opening before us. Let the young men unite with experienced laborers who understand the Scriptures, who have long been doers of the Word, who have brought the truth into the practical life, relying upon Christ day by day, who seek the Lord as Daniel did. Three times a day Daniel offered his petitions to God. He knew that One mighty in counsel was the source of wisdom and power. The truth as it is in Jesus--the sword of the Spirit, which cuts both ways--was his weapon of warfare. {RY 47.1} [RY 47.2] In word, in spirit, in principle, the men who have made God their trust are an example to the youth connected with them. These faithful servants of God are to link up with young men, drawing them with the cords of love because they are themselves drawn to them by the cords of Christ's love. -- 2SM 227-229. {RY 47.2} [RY 47.3] Older Workers Encourage the Younger Ones The Lord desires His people to make constant advancement. He rejoices when young men become imbued with His spirit, and gird on the armor, to engage in aggressive warfare. Let us always encourage young men and young women to make the most of their capabilities, to improve their talents to the utmost, remembering the words, "Let no man despise thy youth." We do not expect that they will never err in word or action, but if they will heed the reproofs of the Lord, and 48 correct every mistake, they will make advancement. {RY 47.3} [RY 48.1] As we see God raising up young men for His work, we rejoice to see them increasing in the fear of the Lord in proportion as they increase in the knowledge of the truth. Such ones will cultivate a reverence for God and for His sacred service. {RY 48.1} [RY 48.2] Let the older workers encourage the younger ones, never speaking lightly or disparagingly of them. {RY 48.2} [RY 48.3] Day by day the young student teacher is storing away a fresh supply of knowledge. His understanding is enlightened. He can say, "God has opened my eyes to behold wondrous things out of His Word." A sense of God's mercy and greatness makes him childlike in his submissiveness and his willingness to serve. {RY 48.3} [RY 48.4] These teachers do not feel the repression they would feel in the presence of older teachers. Their hearts glow with the love of God. The students catch the spirit, the windows of the heart are opened heavenward, and songs of gratitude ascend from hearts that burn with the love of God. As the teachers and students seek to learn their duty, with an unfeigned desire to be conformed to the image of God, they gain power to conquer the stubbornness of a selfish will. {RY 48.4} [RY 48.5] Oh, I can see wisdom in thoroughly converted young men and young women engaging in the work of teaching. As they give themselves fully to God, they will learn more and more of Him.... {RY 48.5} [RY 48.6] We do not in any way underrate the older teachers. No; we would encourage older and younger teachers to labor for God. But I am seeking to show you that schools may be managed, and managed successfully, by 49 men who are not the most advanced in years and experience. {RY 48.6} [RY 49.1] God can work through young, humble men. Let none forbid them. Let the young, devoted followers of Christ say, "The love of Christ constraineth me." Moving upon minds with the force of the grace of Christ, this love casts aside all hindrances and barriers, exerting upon souls a compelling influence that leads them to give themselves to God in unreserved consecration. {RY 49.1} [RY 49.2] My brother, let nothing you do or say weaken the hands of men who are doing their best, and who have succeeded in gaining success. -- Letter 102, 1902. {RY 49.2} [RY 49.3] Warm Friendship Between Eli and Samuel The life of Samuel from early childhood had been a life of piety and devotion. He had been placed under the care of Eli in his youth, and the loveliness of his character drew forth the warm affection of the aged priest. He was kind, generous, diligent, obedient, and respectful. The contrast between the course of the youth Samuel and that of the priest's own sons was very marked, and Eli found rest and comfort and blessing in the presence of his charge. It was a singular thing that between Eli, the chief magistrate of the nation, and the simple child so warm a friendship should exist. Samuel was helpful and affectionate, and no father ever loved his child more tenderly than did Eli this youth. As the infirmities of age came upon Eli, he felt more keenly the disheartening, reckless, profligate course of his own sons, and he turned to Samuel for comfort and support. {RY 49.3} [RY 49.4] How touching to see youth and old age relying one 50 upon the other, the youth looking up to the aged for counsel and wisdom, the aged looking to the youth for help and sympathy. This is as it should be. God would have the young possess such qualifications of character that they shall find delight in the friendship of the old, that they may be united in the endearing bonds of affection to those who are approaching the borders of the grave. -- ST Oct. 19, 1888. {RY 49.4} [RY 50.1] Paul Trained Timothy and Titus Paul made it a part of his work to educate young men for the gospel ministry. He took them with him on his missionary journeys, and thus they gained an experience that later enabled them to fill positions of responsibility. When separated from them, he still kept in touch with their work, and his letters to Timothy and Titus are an evidence of how deep was his desire for their success. "The things that thou hast heard," he wrote, "commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also." {RY 50.1} [RY 50.2] This feature of Paul's work teaches an important lesson to ministers today. Experienced laborers do a noble work when, instead of trying to carry all the burdens themselves, they train younger men, and place burdens on their shoulders. It is God's desire that those who have gained an experience in His cause, shall train young men for His service. {RY 50.2} [RY 50.3] The younger worker must not become so wrapped up in the ideas and opinions of the one in whose charge he is placed, that he will forfeit his individuality. He must not lose his identity in the one who is instructing 51 him, so that he dare not exercise his own judgment, but does what he is told, irrespective of his own understanding of what is right and wrong. It is his privilege to learn for himself of the great Teacher. If the one with whom he is working pursues a course which is not in harmony with a "Thus saith the Lord," let him not go to some outside party, but let him go to his superior in office, and lay the matter before him, freely expressing his mind. Thus the learner may be a blessing to the teacher. -- GW 102, 103. {RY 50.3} [RY 52.1] Chap. 4 - Obligation of Children to Aged Parents Obligation Never Ceases The obligation resting upon children to honor their parents is of lifelong duration. If the parents are feeble and old, the affection and attention of the children should be bestowed in proportion to the need of father and mother. Nobly, decidedly, the children should shape their course of action even if it requires self-denial, so that every thought of anxiety and perplexity may be removed from the minds of the parents. ... {RY 52.1} [RY 52.2] Children should be educated to love and care tenderly for father and mother. Care for them, children, yourselves; for no other hand can do the little acts of kindness with the acceptance that you can do them. Improve your precious opportunity to scatter seeds of kindness. -- AH 360. {RY 52.2} [RY 52.3] Show Kindness Even to Unjust Parents If children think that they were treated with severity in their childhood, will it help them to grow in grace and in the knowledge of Christ, will it make them reflect His image, to cherish a spirit of retaliation and revenge against their parents, especially when they are old and feeble? Will not the very helplessness of the parents plead for the children's love? Will not the necessities of the aged father and mother call forth the noble feelings of the heart, and through the grace of 53 Christ, shall not the parents be treated with kind attention and respect by their offspring? Oh, let not the heart be made as adamant as steel against father and mother! How can a daughter professing the name of Christ cherish hatred against her mother, especially if that mother is sick and old? Let kindness and love, the sweetest fruits of Christian life, find a place in the heart of children toward their parents.... {RY 52.3} [RY 53.1] Especially dreadful is the thought of a child turning in hatred upon a mother who has become old and feeble, upon whom has come those infirmities of disposition attendant upon second childhood. How patiently, how tenderly, should children bear with such a mother! Tender words which will not irritate the spirit should be spoken. A true Christian will never be unkind, never under any circumstances be neglectful of his father or mother, but will heed the command, "Honor thy father and thy mother." God has said, "Thou shalt rise up before the hoary head, and honor the face of the old man." ... {RY 53.1} [RY 53.2] Children, let your parents, infirm and unable to care for themselves, find their last days filled with contentment, peace, and love. For Christ's sake let them go down to the grave receiving from you only words of kindness, love, mercy, and forgiveness. -- AH 362, 363. {RY 53.2} [RY 53.3] Caring for Aged Parents Is a Privilege The best way to educate children to respect their father and mother is to give them the opportunity of seeing the father offering kindly attentions to the 54 mother, and the mother rendering respect and reverence to the father. It is by beholding love in their parents, that children are fed to obey the fifth commandment. {RY 53.3} [RY 54.1] After children grow to years of maturity, some of them think their duty is done in providing an abode for their parents. While giving them food and shelter, they give them no love or sympathy. In their parents' old age, when they long for expression of affection and sympathy, children heartlessly deprive them of their attention. There is no time when children should withhold respect and love from their father and mother. While the parents live, it should be the children's joy to honor and respect them. They should bring all the cheerfulness and sunshine into the life of the aged parents that they possibly can. They should smooth their pathway to the grave. There is no better recommendation in this world than that a child has honored his parents, no better record in the books of heaven than that he has loved and honored father and mother. {RY 54.1} [RY 54.2] Let children carefully remember that at the best the aged parents have but little joy and comfort. What can bring greater sorrow to their hearts than manifest neglect on the part of their children? What sin can be worse in children than to bring grief to an aged, helpless father or mother? Those who grieve their aged parents are written in the books of heaven as commandment breakers, as those who do not reverence the God of heaven, and unless they repent and forsake their evil ways, they will not be found worthy of a place in the saints' inheritance.... 55 {RY 54.2} [RY 55.1] The thought that children have ministered to the comfort of their parents is a thought of satisfaction all through the life, and will especially bring them joy when they themselves are in need of sympathy and love. Those whose hearts are filled with love will regard the privilege of smoothing the passage to the grave for their parents an inestimable privilege. They will rejoice that they had a part in bringing comfort and peace to the last days of their loved parents. To do otherwise than this, to deny to the helpless aged ones the kindly ministrations of sons and daughters, would fill the soul with remorse, the days with regret, if our hearts were not hardened and cold as a stone. {RY 55.1} [RY 55.2] Our obligation to our parents never ceases. Our love for them, and theirs for us, is not measured by years or distance, and our responsibility can never be set aside. -- RH Nov. 15, 1892. {RY 55.2} [RY 55.3] A Matter of Vital Importance I was shown that you do not possess that filial love which you should. The evil in your nature is exercised in a most unnatural way. You are not tender and respectful to your parents. Whatever may be their faults, you have no excuse for the course you have pursued toward them. It has been most unfeeling and disrespectful. Angels turned from you in sadness, repeating these words: "That which ye sow ye shall also reap." Should time continue, you would receive from your children the same treatment which your parents have received from you. You have not studied how you could best make your parents happy, and then sacrificed your 56 wishes and your pleasure to this end. Their days upon earth are few at most, and will be full of care and trouble even if you do all you can to smooth their passage to the grave. {RY 55.3} [RY 56.1] "Honor thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee." This is the first commandment with promise. It is binding upon childhood and youth, upon the middle-aged and the aged. There is no period in life when children are excused from honoring their parents. This solemn obligation is binding upon every son and daughter, and is one of the conditions to their prolonging their lives upon the land which the Lord will give the faithful. This is not a subject unworthy of notice, but a matter of vital importance. The promise is upon condition of obedience. If you obey, you shall live long in the land which the Lord your God gives you. If you disobey, you shall not prolong your life in that land. -- 2T 80,81. {RY 56.1} [RY 57.1] Chap. 5 - Care of the Aged Institutions Not the Best Plan Men should not be employed to give their time and talents to the work of bringing the aged or the orphans together into a company to be fed and clothed. This is not the best way to manage these cases.... {RY 57.1} [RY 57.2] Nor is it best to erect buildings for old men and old women, that they may be in a company together. Let them be helped in the very places where they can be helped. Let relations take care of their own poor relations, and let the church take care of its own needy members. This is the very work God would have the church do, and they will obtain a blessing in doing it. -- WM 238. {RY 57.2} [RY 57.3] The matter of caring for our aged brethren and sisters who have no homes is constantly being urged. What can be done for them? The light which the Lord has given me has been repeated: It is not best to establish institutions for the care of the aged, that they may be in a company together. Nor should they be sent away from home to receive care. Let the members of every family minister to their own relatives. When this is not possible the work belongs to the church, and it should be accepted both as a duty and as a privilege. -- 6T 272. {RY 57.3} [RY 57.4] At nine o'clock we meet in the large tent with a few of the brethren to talk over the matter which is constantly urged upon us--that of the aged people who have no homes. What will be done with them? {RY 57.4} [RY 57.5] The light that the Lord has given me was repeated: 58 Let every family take care of its own relatives, making suitable provision for them. If this is not possible, then the church should bear the burden. The Lord will bless His church in exercising benevolence. They are God's poor, and are not to be left unhappy and destitute. {RY 57.5} [RY 58.1] If the church cannot do this, then the conference must take it up and make provision for the Lord's needy ones. -- 2SM 331. {RY 58.1} [RY 58.2] Should Remain Among Friends The aged also need the helpful influences of the family. In the home of brethren and sisters in Christ can most nearly be made up to them the loss of their own home. If encouraged to share in the interests and occupations of the household, it will help them to feel that their usefulness is not at an end. Make them feel that their help is valued, that there is something yet for them to do in ministering to others, and it will cheer their hearts and give interest to their lives. {RY 58.2} [RY 58.3] So far as possible let those whose whitening heads and failing steps show that they are drawing near to the grave remain among friends and familiar associations. Let them worship among those whom they have known and loved. Let them be cared for by loving and tender hands. {RY 58.3} [RY 58.4] Whenever they are able to do so, it should be the privilege of the members of every family to minister to their own kindred. When this cannot be, the work belongs to the church, and it should be accepted both as a privilege and as a duty. All who possess Christ's spirit will have a tender regard for the feeble and the aged. 59 {RY 58.4} [RY 59.1] The presence in our homes of one of these helpless ones is a precious opportunity to cooperate with Christ in His ministry of mercy and to develop traits of character like His. There is a blessing in the association of the old and the young. The young may bring sunshine into the hearts and lives of the aged. Those whose hold on life is weakening need the benefit of contact with the hopefulness and buoyancy of youth. And the young may be helped by the wisdom and experience of the old. Above all, they need to learn the lesson of unselfish ministry. The presence of one in need of sympathy and forbearance and self-sacrificing love would be to many a household a priceless blessing. It would sweeten and refine the home life, and call forth in old and young those Christlike graces that would make them beautiful with a divine beauty and rich in heaven's imperishable treasure. -- MH 204,205. {RY 59.1} [RY 59.2] Ellen White's Care for Her Parents ［ROBERT AND EUNICE HARMON, ELLEN WHITE'S PARENTS, LIVED FOR A TIME WITH JAMES AND ELLEN WHITE IN THEIR HOME ON WOOD STREET IN BATTLE CREEK, MICHIGAN. LATER, THEY OCCUPIED THE HOUSE NEXT DOOR. ACROSS THE STREET WAS THE HOME OF JAMES WHITE'S PARENTS, DEACON JOHN WHITE AND HIS WIFE. JAMES AND ELLEN WERE MOST ATTENTIVE TO THE NEEDS OF THESE GODLY PEOPLE, ALL FOUR OF WHOM ACCEPTED THE ADVENTIST FAITH.］ My children are as well as usual. Father and Mother are living with us, and they seem so contented and happy. They take care of their room, but eat with us. You don't know what a weight of care is removed from me, since I can watch over these two aged children. Mother does just as I wish her to, follows every suggestion I make. I dress her up neat as wax, comb her hair, and she looks like a nice, venerable old lady. Father also 60 tries to please us in every way. We fix him up and he looks real nice. {RY 59.2} [RY 60.1] I would give my love to all your family, especially your parents. Let us hear from you often. Don't sink down in despondency and doubt. Look up, be of good cheer, and God will lead us on to victory. --Letter 27, 1861 (To Lucinda Hall). {RY 60.1} [RY 60.2] Help for a Former Brother-in-law Dear Brother and Sister ［Stephen］ Belden: ［STEPHEN BELDEN MARRIED SARAH HARMON, ELLEN WHITE'S SISTER. FRANK E. BELDEN, THE WELL-KNOWN HYMN WRITER, WAS THEIR SON. SARAH DIED IN 1868. STEPHEN WAS LIVING WITH HIS THIRD WIFE ON NORFOLK ISLAND, NORTHEAST OF AUSTRALIA, WHEN THESE LETTERS WERE WRITTEN.］ Be assured that I do not forget you. I pray for you, that the Lord will open up ways whereby you will be enabled to do good on Norfolk Island. I shall try to send you some money now and then. All that I have sent you since coming to this country has been hired on interest, but while I live, I will care for you. May the Lord give you peace and comfort. He is our only Hope and our only Helper. I shall be glad to hear from you as often as you can write, and I will write to you as often as I can. When it is not possible for me to write I will communicate to you through others. In this mail I will send you copies of letters I have written to the brethren in Australia. -Letter 146, 1902. {RY 60.2} [RY 60.3] I gave Stephen Belden several hundred dollars. I could not let him and his wife suffer for food and clothing. I paid their expenses to and from Norfolk Island. -- Letter 258, 1903 (To Lucinda Hall). {RY 60.3} [RY 60.4] I am sending you with this copies of letters in which 61 you may be interested. I wish I could talk with you both. I wish to ask you, Do you receive the two dollars a week that I arranged to have sent you by the Australian Union Conference? Please tell me in regard to this. Brother Hindson says that generally the money has been placed to your credit on the Office books, and that you have sent to the Office orders for goods, which have been filled. Would you prefer to have the money sent you? If so, please let this be known, and it will be done. {RY 60.4} [RY 61.1] I made the arrangement before leaving Australia that you were to receive a certain sum each week. The brethren gave me their word that they would do as I had requested. Please let me know your circumstances, and if the arrangement that I made has not been carried out, I will write again about it. I do not want you to suffer for want of food and clothing. {RY 61.1} [RY 61.2] It is not right that Frank does not write to you often. I am very sorry that he does not do this, and that he does not give you any financial help. Be assured that you shall not want while I live, if you will keep me acquainted with your circumstances. If your children neglect their duty, I will try to supply the lack, though I am paying interest on twenty thousand dollars. {RY 61.2} [RY 61.3] Please write to me every mail. In the last mail I sent a response to your question regarding your coming to America. I dare not take the responsibility of deciding this matter. You can do as you think best, and as your friends shall decide. I dare not at my age take any more responsibility. I have very heavy burdens to bear in connection with the cause of God. Morning after morning I rise at one and two o'clock, to write out 62 important matters. -- Letter 41, 1905. (To Brother and Sister Stephen Belden). {RY 61.3} [RY 62.1] In every mail that goes to Australia I send a letter to Stephen Belden, with copies of letters that I have written to others. If I happen to miss a mail, he feels this deeply. Just now I am sending him all that I can; for I fear that each mail that goes will be the last in which I can send him anything. Poor man, he is dying of cancer, and I am so far away that I cannot be near to help him. But I can write to him, and I can pray for him. -- Letter 348, 1906. {RY 62.1} [RY 62.2] Comfort for Stephen Belden's Widow I know that poor Stephen must have suffered severely, but let us be thankful that the end came quietly. Of him the words apply: "Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus. And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors: and their works do follow them. And I looked, and behold a white cloud, and upon the cloud one sat like unto the Son of man, having on His head a golden crown, and in His hand a sharp sickle. And another angel came out of the temple, crying with a loud voice to Him that sat on the cloud, Thrust in Thy sickle, and reap: for the time is come for Thee to reap; for the harvest of the earth is ripe" (Revelation 14:12-15). {RY 62.2} [RY 62.3] These scenes will soon transpire, and then we shall 63 better understand the words, "Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord." {RY 62.3} [RY 63.1] You may now rejoice in the thought that Stephen is free from all pain. There need be no more worry or anxiety on his account. {RY 63.1} [RY 63.2] I am glad to know that our brethren in Australia do not forget you, that they have promised that you shall be cared for, whether you remain on the island, or whether you go to friends elsewhere. May the Lord bless and strengthen you and help you to recover from the long strain that has been upon you. Please continue to write to me by every mail that leaves Norfolk Island. -- Letter 393, 1906 (To Mrs. Vina Belden, Dec. 16, 1906). {RY 63.2} [RY 63.3] Fund for the Older Workers ［IN 1911, NINE YEARS AFTER THIS COUNSEL WAS PUBLISHED, A FUND WAS CREATED TO CARE FOR THE AGED, SICK, AND INFIRM MINISTERS. THIS PENSION PROGRAM HAS EXPANDED THROUGH THE YEARS TO INCLUDE FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO A BROAD SPECTRUM OF RETIRED CHURCH EMPLOYEES.］ Some provision should be made for the care of ministers and others of God's faithful servants who through exposure or overwork in His cause have become ill and need rest and restoration, or who through age or loss of health are no longer able to bear the burden and heat of the day. Ministers are often appointed to a field of labor that they know will be detrimental to their health; but, unwilling to shun trying places, they venture, hoping to be a help and a blessing to the people. After a time they find their health failing. A change of climate and of work is tried, without bringing relief; and then what are they to do? {RY 63.3} [RY 63.4] These faithful laborers, who for Christ's sake have 64 given up worldly prospects, choosing poverty rather than pleasure or riches; who, forgetful of self, have labored earnestly to win souls to Christ; who have given liberally to advance various enterprises in the cause of God, and have then sunk down in the battle, wearied and ill, and with no means of support, must not be left to struggle on in poverty and suffering, or to feel that they are paupers. When sickness or infirmity comes upon them, let not our workers be burdened with the anxious query: "What will become of my wife and little ones, now that I can no longer labor and supply their necessities?" It is but just that provision be made to meet the needs of these faithful laborers and the needs of those who are dependent on them. {RY 63.4} [RY 64.1] Generous provision is made for veterans who have fought for their country. These men bear the scars and lifelong infirmities that tell of their perilous conflicts, their forced marches, their exposure to storms, their suffering in prison. All these evidences of their loyalty and self-sacrifice give them a just claim upon the nation they have helped to save -- a claim that is recognized and honored. But what provision have Seventh-day Adventists made for the soldiers of Christ? {RY 64.1} [RY 64.2] Our people have not felt as they should the necessity of this matter, and it has therefore been neglected. The churches have been thoughtless, and, though the light of the word of God has been shining upon their pathway, they have neglected this most sacred duty. The Lord is greatly displeased with this neglect of His faithful servants. Our people should be as willing to assist these persons when in adverse circumstances as 65 they have been willing to accept their means and services when in health. {RY 64.2} [RY 65.1] God has laid upon us the obligation of giving special attention to the poor among us. But these ministers and workers are not to be ranked with the poor. They have laid up for themselves a treasure in the heavens that faileth not. They have served the conference in its necessity, and now the conference is to serve them. When cases of this kind come before us, we are not to pass by on the other side. We are not to say, "Be ye warmed and filled" (James 2:16), and then take no active measures to supply their necessities. This has been done in the past, and thus in some cases Seventh-day Adventists have dishonored their profession of faith and have given the world opportunity to reproach the cause of God. {RY 65.1} [RY 65.2] It is now the duty of God's people to roll back this reproach by providing these servants of God with comfortable homes, with a few acres of land on which they can raise their own produce and feel that they are not dependent on the charities of their brethren. With what pleasure and peace would these worn laborers look to a quiet little home where their just claims to its rest would be recognized! {RY 65.2} [RY 65.3] The duty we owe to these persons has been referred to again and again, but no decided action has been taken in reference to it. As a people we should feel our responsibility in this matter. Every church member should feel an interest in all that concerns the human brotherhood and the brotherhood in Christ. We are members one of another; if one member suffers, all the 66 members suffer with him. Something must be done, and the conference should have spiritual discernment, that they may understand the privileges and comforts that these worn-out workers need and deserve. -- 7T 290-292. {RY 65.3} [RY 67.1] Chap. 6 - Cautions for Aging Persons Age No Excuse for Relaxing Self-Discipline I have heard those who have been in the faith for years, say that they used to be able to endure trial and difficulty, but since the infirmities of age began to press upon them, they had been greatly distressed when brought under discipline. What does this mean? Does it mean that Jesus has ceased to be your Saviour? Does it mean that when you are old and gray-headed, you are privileged to display unholy passion? Think of this. You should use your reasoning powers in this matter, as you do in temporal things. You should deny self, and make your service to God the first business of your life. You must not permit anything to disturb your peace. There is no need of it; there must be a constant growth, a constant progress in the divine life. {RY 67.1} [RY 67.2] Christ is the ladder that Jacob saw, whose base rests upon the earth, and whose topmost round reaches into the highest heaven; and round after round, you must mount this ladder until you reach the everlasting kingdom. There is no excuse for becoming more like Satan, more like human nature. God has set before us the height of the Christian's privilege, and it is "to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, 68 that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God" (Ephesians 3:16-19). -- 2SM 222,223. {RY 67.2} [RY 68.1] Be Content Where You Are Dear Brother and Sister ［Sawyer］: In the night I seemed to be conversing with you, and saying, The lesson you need to learn is to be restful in the Lord. If you encourage a spirit of uneasiness and discontent, you will mar your religious experience. {RY 68.1} [RY 68.2] You are neither of you fitted to engage in missionary work in some far off field, for you have not the endurance to overcome the difficulties you would meet in such circumstances. If you cannot find missionary work to do where you are, you will not be making the right move to go to a place where you are not known in order to do it. You will spend all the little money you have, and then not be able to earn more. {RY 68.2} [RY 68.3] I wish to say to you, Be content where you are. Gain the mastery over your own minds. The uneasiness that you allow yourselves to have disqualifies you to be a blessing where you are. You have a home where you are; enjoy your home, and thank the Lord that both your lives are spared. Be thankful for the health you have. North Carolina is not so good a place for you as California. You are engaging in missionary work by doing the home work in a peaceable, contented spirit, in keeping your clothing neat and presentable, and in cultivating tidiness, holding yourself in readiness, when opportunity offers, to speak words of cheer to those who need encouragement and help. {RY 68.3} [RY 68.4] You will certainly be disappointed if you carry out 69 the plans you have in mind. You cherish the idea that you are not appreciated where you are. I ask you to put away this impression. Lay off this supposed responsibility to do missionary work in another field. You have reason to be thankful for the health and strength that is given you; but if you permit yourselves to be unhappy, you disqualify yourselves for the missionary work that you might do at home. You can be a blessing to each other and to those about you. Be cheerful and happy right where you are; cultivate the peace of God in your hearts. Do not be discouraged, but let your words be such as to inspire hope and good cheer, and your influence be of a character to uplift. May the Lord bless you and guide you, is my prayer. {RY 68.4} [RY 69.1] Your age is sufficient reason why you should be contented where you are. Let the young men and women fill the hard places: it is your privilege to make your life as easy and comfortable as possible, while you prepare to move to a better country, even a heavenly. If the Lord sees that it is best that you work in the cause, He will open ways for you in California. Wait until the Lord makes your way clear. He would not have you left dependent on strangers in a far country. Be contented to sustain yourselves where you are, doing what you can for the cause of God. Help where you can with the word of your testimony, but do not feel that it is your duty to use up what little means you have in going to a new field. {RY 69.1} [RY 69.2] I have written you my mind about this matter. I sincerely hope that you will be contented to stay where you are and enjoy your little home in peace and happiness. 70 There is no reason why you should not enjoy the peace of Christ and His precious grace every day. I ask you not to place yourselves where your trials will be tenfold heavier than they now are. I have a special interest in your case, and pray that you will let the Lord mold and fashion you for the future, immortal life. -- Letter 326, 1908. {RY 69.2} [RY 70.1] Maintaining Personal Tidiness Dear Brother Robert and Sister Hannah ［Sawyer］: I have received your letter, and will now reply. Lest I may have been misunderstood, I will say that I never intended that any counsel I have given you in the past should influence you against making any move that would be for your best interests. I have nothing to say to hinder your investing your means in any place where you could have better accommodations or advantages than you have where you now are. {RY 70.1} [RY 70.2] But do not, I beg of you, move blindly. Do not place yourselves where you might be left destitute of means among strangers. For you to move to North Carolina I would consider ill-advised and inconsistent. I believe that no one who understands your circumstances would advise such a move. You need to act wisely and carefully. The Lord will not leave you, if you commit your case fully to Him. {RY 70.2} [RY 70.3] I have words of counsel for Brother Robert. There is need of a reformation in your habits of dress and appearance. Untidiness in dress brings a reproach against the truth we profess to believe. You should consider that you are a representative of the Lord Jesus Christ. Let the 71 whole life be in harmony with Bible truth. ［Matthew 5:13-16, quoted.］ {RY 70.3} [RY 71.1] Neglect of your apparel has been a decidedly objectionable feature of your character. The impression you have made upon the minds both of believers and of unbelievers has not met the mind of the Spirit of God. Because of your slackness in this matter, our people have not felt free to advise you to take up work in selling literature, a work in which you might have accomplished much good. There is a useful work in which you might engage, visiting from house to house and speaking the right words, but your untidy influence works counter to the precious influence you might otherwise exert. {RY 71.1} [RY 71.2] Remember that you can do an acceptable work for the Lord, but your personal appearance must be such as will recommend you as one who is letting his light shine for the Master. Will you not now take hold of this matter, and seek to effect a reformation in dress and appearance? If you should be entrusted with public work in our religious gatherings, with your lax ideas as to proper dress, you would not have the best influence over those whom you were trying to help. {RY 71.2} [RY 71.3] This is not a matter of but little consequence, for it affects your influence over others for time and for eternity. You cannot expect the Lord to give you the fullest success in winning souls for Him unless your whole manner and appearance is of a nature that will win respect. The truth is magnified even by the impression of neatness in dress, and I know that you desire to use every jot of your influence on the side of the Master. 72 {RY 71.3} [RY 72.1] I have dwelt upon this matter because this is a decided defect in your character. The Lord has not been glorified by your laxness in dress. It may seem to be but a small matter, but it is against the honor and glory of God. Men and women who are rich in grace and the influence of holiness will be circumspect in every matter that helps to give them influence. Your present and future usefulness in the service of the Master depends in a measure upon how you relate yourself to this matter. We are nearing the close of time, and we must do all in our power to win souls for Christ's kingdom. -- Letter 336, 1908. {RY 72.1} [RY 72.2] Shun Overwork and Distrust of Brethren Now, Brother Haskell, I suppose that you are in California and that you will find much work to do. I hope that health will be granted to you, but be careful not to overwork. You know that your head will not bear much perplexity, therefore shun this, and do not load down with responsibilities that others should carry. If your brethren seek to save you from overwork, do not mistrust their efforts. Do not think that it is because they have not confidence in you that they put some of the responsibilities upon others; for this will make you wretched. "Thinketh no evil," is one of the blessed attributes of Jesus Christ. {RY 72.2} [RY 72.3] Your case has been laid open before me, and I know from what has been presented, that you spend many hours of grief and despondency because you think your brethren simply tolerate you but do not put confidence in you and trust you. It would not be right for them to 73 act toward you as they have acted toward Elder Butler. Men have placed him where God should be placed, and by so doing have ruined their own religious experience and have also ruined Elder Butler, and the church was becoming strengthless, Christless because they glorified men when every jot of glory should be given to God. . . . Beware of Satan's devices. Nothing can weaken and unbalance the human mind like brooding over supposed wrongs, thinking that you are not appreciated.... {RY 72.3} [RY 73.1] I greatly desire that you shall have a trustful mind, that you shall not depend upon your past confidence in God, but have a present, fresh faith, and maintain your confidence without wavering. Your soul must daily be warmed and invigorated by the truth of the gospel, and you refreshed by a daily living and new experience. I want you to have comfort and hope and joy in the Holy Ghost. Never, never feel the slightest disturbance because the Lord is raising up youth to lift and carry the heavier burdens and proclaim the message of truth. -- Letter 14, 1891. {RY 73.1} [RY 73.2] "Be Not Accusers of the Brethren" I am bidden to say to my aged brethren, walk humbly with God. Be not accusers of the brethren. You are to do your appointed work under the direction of the God of Israel. The inclination to criticize is the greatest danger of many. The brethren whom you are tempted to criticize are called to bear responsibilities which you could not possibly carry; but you can be their helpers. You can do great service to the cause if you will, by 74 presenting your experience in the past in connection with the labors of others. The Lord has not given to any of you the work of correcting and censuring your brethren.... {RY 73.2} [RY 74.1] Follow on with your brethren to know the Lord. Sympathize with those who are bearing a heavy load, and encourage them wherever you can. Your voices are to be heard in unity, and not in dissension. -- Ev 106,107. {RY 74.1} [RY 74.2] Aged Not to Labor In Cities Feeble or aged men and women should not be sent to labor in unhealthful, crowded cities. Let them labor where their lives will not be needlessly sacrificed. Our brethren who bring the truth to the cities must not be obliged to imperil their health in the noise and bustle and confusion, if retired places can be secured. -- Ev 71,72. {RY 74.2} [RY 74.3] Avoid "Shut-in Religion" Dear afflicted brother: We assure you that we sympathize with you in your affliction and in your sufferings.... {RY 74.3} [RY 74.4] The old soldier on the field of battle frequently in his zeal exposes himself to danger and to death. He cannot do otherwise and have the assurance that he is doing his whole duty. This is found to be applicable in the service of the heavenly King. Wounds and bruises are received because Christ's soldiers, not willing to be in seclusion and inactivity, will not forsake their post of duty and be satisfied with a shut-in religion, ［saying］, "I 75 am saved," and leave the world, and sinners in the world, to perish.... {RY 74.4} [RY 75.1] My brother I do not feel to give you one word of censure, saying you were imprudent, overzealous. I would have done just as you did. Had you foreseen all, you might have saved yourself much suffering; but you did not see, and you acted out your zeal and devotion to the cause of truth, and some others may be responsible for not doing their duty. But I blame you not. -- Letter 5a, 1891. {RY 75.1} [RY 75.2] Childish Behavior in Senior Workers The eye of the Lord has been upon you. He has desired to open before you a way to do the work that you are capable of doing. Sister S, the Lord will give you the power of comprehending that in your own strength you cannot control yourself. You have the idea that everything must be done in your way. When you see others in active service, you are tempted to think that you are left out; and for this reason you easily become impatient. {RY 75.2} [RY 75.3] The love of Christ must be an abiding principle in the soul. At your age, after your life of toil, can anything be more desirable than quietude, love, peace, restfulness, and time in which to prepare to meet your Lord in peace when He shall come? You are worn, and do not view things aright. To ask you to remain in the position of a trainer of the youth would be to bring upon you too great a burden. It would be a mistake to place you, with tired nerves, in a position full of perplexity. In the management of children you often manifest a species of severity. 76 {RY 75.3} [RY 76.1] Can there be any power so great as the power of love? Love to God and love to your neighbor--this is the whole duty that God requires of you. Do not spoil the good work that you have done. Withdraw from the turmoil of battle, and seek rest and peace in following God's way. Doors of usefulness will open to you. Brother S, take up the work that God has given you as an evangelist. {RY 76.1} [RY 76.2] Brother and Sister S, the testing question now comes to you, Will you seek for rest and peace, cultivating all your powers for the future, immortal life? The Lord regards you with the greatest tenderness. Both of you need to have less responsibility in the school work. The Lord desires both of you to stand free from the burdens that you have hitherto carried.... {RY 76.2} [RY 76.3] Neither of you is to feel as if you were divorced from the work. As it progresses, you should feel an interest in it, and be thankful that there are others who can carry it forward successfully. One laborer is adapted to one line of work, and another laborer to another line; all are to move forward together, advancing the work harmoniously. A Paul may plant, an Apollos water, but God gives the increase. The Lord uses some men to plow the field and to sow the seed, and others to reap; and He causes both those who sow and those who reap to rejoice together in the time of harvest. This is the way the Lord has always worked. He has given to every man his work. Let us do our best. If the Lord is with us, we shall be prospered.... {RY 76.3} [RY 76.4] As you read this letter, I desire you to regard me as your best friend. I respect you both for your past faithfulness. 77 You have a work to do for the Lord. But you are to bear less responsibility than you have borne in the past. The reason for my speaking especially of Sister S's being released from the work of teaching, is that she may have opportunity constantly to cultivate sweetness of disposition. {RY 76.4} [RY 77.1] My sister, never cherish unhappy thoughts, or think that you are not treated right. You have become childish. You may not recognize this, nevertheless it is so. You need quietude and rest. You have strong likes and dislikes. Beware of hindering the work of God. Because I speak to you on these points, do not for a moment suppose that I wish to do you an injury. {RY 77.1} [RY 77.2] My son Edson has labored untiringly to have both of you sustain the right relation to the school interest. Let God work out His infinite plans. Cooperate with Him as His helping hand in working out these plans. Stand not as hindrances, for thus you would cause things to be said and done that would hinder the work that you have called in wise helpers to advance. {RY 77.2} [RY 77.3] My dear sister, I beseech you to put away all feelings of suspicion and jealousy. God's eye is over both of you. I am pained because I fear that this letter may possibly be misunderstood; but I am instructed to say to you, Know who your friends are, and appreciate them. When it is necessary for a work to be done in order to reform abuses that have crept into the church, thank the Lord that He has spoken. And when the Lord speaks to you, thank Him for saving you from future sorrow. {RY 77.3} [RY 77.4] I am instructed to warn you to be careful what 78 manner of spirit you manifest in regard to enlarging and perfecting the school work, for you are not to suppose that, unaided, you are equal to the task of carrying forward the increasing work that you have begun. Create no dissension by unadvised words of criticism in regard to the course of others, even if some things which displease you may seem to have been unnecessarily done. It makes me sad to think that you have become discontented over trivial matters. -- Letter 63, 1902. {RY 77.4} [RY 78.1] Danger of Accepting Infidel Sentiments Brother ［G. C.］ Tenney, you have been drawn away from the truth more than you have known, and your connection with men in Battle Creek has been to your great injury. The light of your past experience is going out. {RY 78.1} [RY 78.2] I have been surprised and made sad to read some of your articles in the Medical Missionary, and especially those on the sanctuary question. These articles show that you have been departing from the faith. You have helped in confusing the understanding of our people. The correct understanding of the ministration in the heavenly sanctuary is the foundation of our faith. {RY 78.2} [RY 78.3] If you had remained away from the seducing influences that Satan is exerting at the present time in Battle Creek, you might yet be standing on vantage ground. {RY 78.3} [RY 78.4] We are very sorry to see the result of gathering a large number to Battle Creek. Ministers who have been believers in the foundation truths that have made us what we are -- Seventh-day Adventists; ministers who 79 went to Battle Creek to teach and uphold the truths of the Bible, are now, when old and gray-headed, turning from the grand truths of the Bible, and accepting infidel sentiments. This means that the next step will be a denial of a personal God, pulling down the bulwarks of the faith that are plainly revealed in the Scriptures. In the Word is given the warning, "Some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils." -- Letter 208, 1906. {RY 78.4} [RY 79.1] Anxiety in Regard to Money It is frequently the case that aged persons are unwilling to realize and acknowledge that their mental strength is failing. They shorten their days by taking care which belongs to their children. Satan often plays upon their imagination and leads them to feel a continual anxiety in regard to their money. It is their idol, and they hoard it with miserly care. They will sometimes deprive themselves of many of the comforts of life, and labor beyond their strength, rather than use the means which they have. In this way they place themselves in continual want, through fear that sometime in the future they shall want. {RY 79.1} [RY 79.2] All these fears originate with Satan. He excites the organs which lead to slavish fears and jealousies which corrupt nobleness of soul and destroy elevated thoughts and feelings. Such persons are insane upon the subject of money. If they would take the position which God would have them, their last days might be their best and happiest. Those who have children in whose honesty and judicious management they have reason to confide, 80 should let their children make them happy. Unless they do this, Satan will take advantage of their lack of mental strength and will manage for them. They should lay aside anxiety and burdens, and occupy their time as happily as they can, and be ripening up for heaven. -- 1T 423, 424. {RY 79.2} [RY 80.1] Money Cannot Ransom Your Soul I regard you, my brother, as in great peril. Your treasure is laid up on the earth, and your heart is upon your treasure. But all the means you may accumulate, even though it should be millions, will not be sufficient to pay a ransom for your soul. Then do not remain in impenitence and unbelief, and in your case defeat the gracious purposes of God; do not force from His reluctant hand destruction of your property or affliction of your person. {RY 80.1} [RY 80.2] How many there are who are now taking a course which must erelong lead to just such visitations of judgment. They live on day by day, week by week, year by year, for their own selfish interest. Their influence and means, accumulated through God-given skill and tact, are used upon themselves and their families without thought of their gracious Benefactor. Nothing is allowed to flow back to the Giver. Indeed, they come to regard life and its entrusted talents as their own; and if they render back to God that portion which He justly claims, they think that they have placed their Creator under obligation to them. At last His patience with these unfaithful stewards is exhausted; and He brings all their selfish, worldly schemes to an abrupt termination, 81 showing them that as they have gathered for their own glory, He can scatter; and they are helpless to resist His power. {RY 80.2} [RY 81.1] Brother J, I address you today as a prisoner of hope. But will you consider that your sun passed its meridian some time ago and is now rapidly declining? The evening has come. Do you not discern the lengthening shadows? You have but a little time left in which to work for yourself, for humanity, and for your Master. There is a special work to be done for your own soul if you are ever to be numbered with the overcomers. {RY 81.1} [RY 81.2] How stands your life record? Is Jesus pleading in your behalf in vain? Shall He be disappointed in you? Some of your companions, who stood side by side with you, have already been summoned away. Eternity will reveal whether they were bankrupt in faith and failed to secure eternal life, or whether they were rich toward God and heirs of the "far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory." Will you not consider that the long forbearance of God toward you calls for repentance and humiliation of soul before Him? -- 5T 350, 351. {RY 81.2} [RY 81.3] Place Affections on the Better Land Our aged father T has his affections upon the things of this earth when they should be removed and he be ripening up for heaven. The life that he now lives he should live by faith in the Son of God; his affections should be on the better land. He should have less and less interest in the perishable treasures of earth, while eternal things, which are of the greatest consequence, should engage his whole interest. The days of his 82 probation are nearly ended. Oh, how little time remains to devote to God! His energies are worn, his mind broken, and at best his services must be weak; yet if given heartily and fully, they are wholly acceptable. With your age, Brother T, has come an increase of selfishness and a more firm, earnest love for the treasures of this poor world. {RY 81.3} [RY 82.1] Sister T loves this world. She is naturally selfish. She has suffered much with bodily infirmities. God permitted this affliction to come upon her, and yet would not permit Satan to take her life. God designed through the furnace of affliction to loosen her grasp upon earthly treasures. Through suffering alone could this be done. She is one of those whose systems have been poisoned by drugs. By taking these she has ignorantly made herself what she is; yet God did not suffer her life to be taken, but lengthened her years of probation and suffering that she might become sanctified through the truth, be purified, made white and tried, and, through the furnace of affliction, lose her dross, and become more precious than fine gold, even than the golden wedge of Ophir. -- 2T 184. {RY 82.1} [RY 83.1] Chap. 7 - Stewardship While Living The Work of Benevolence Twice Blessed Divine wisdom has appointed, in the plan of salvation, the law of action and reaction, making the work of benevolence, in all its branches, twice blessed. God could have accomplished His object in saving sinners without the help of man, but He knew that man could not be happy without acting a part in the great work of redemption. That man might not lose the blessed results of benevolence, our Redeemer formed the plan of enlisting him as His coworker. -- RH March 23, 1897. {RY 83.1} [RY 83.2] Would you make your property secure? Place it in the hand that bears the nailprint of the crucifixion. Retain it in your possession, and it will be to your eternal loss. Give it to God, and from that moment it bears His inscription. It is sealed with His immutability. Would you enjoy your substance? Then use it for the blessing of the suffering. -- 9T 50, 51. {RY 83.2} [RY 83.3] In order to be happy ourselves, we must live to make others happy. It is well for us to yield our possessions, our talents, and our affections in grateful devotion to Christ, and in that way find happiness here and immortal glory hereafter. -- 3T 251. {RY 83.3} [RY 83.4] Lay Up Treasures in Heaven Christ entreats, "Lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven." This work of transferring your possessions to the world above is worthy of all your best energies. It is 84 of the highest importance, and involves your eternal interests. That which you bestow in the cause of God is not lost. All that is given for the salvation of souls and the glory of God, is invested in the most successful enterprise in this life and in the life to come. Your talents of gold and silver, if given to the exchangers, are gaining continually in value, which will be registered to your account in the kingdom of heaven. You are to be the recipients of the eternal wealth that has increased in the hands of the exchangers. In giving to the work of God, you are laying up for yourselves treasures in heaven. All that you lay up above is secure from disaster and loss, and is increasing to an eternal, an enduring substance. -- RH Jan. 24, 1888. {RY 83.4} [RY 84.1] Stewardship a Personal Responsibility Parents should exercise the right that God has given them. He entrusted to them the talents He would have them use to His glory. The children were not to become responsible for the talents of the father. While they have sound minds and good judgment, parents should, with prayerful consideration, and with the help of proper counselors who have experience in the truth and a knowledge of the divine will, make disposition of their property. {RY 84.1} [RY 84.2] If they have children who are afflicted or are struggling in poverty, and who will make a judicious use of means, they should be considered. But if they have unbelieving children who have abundance of this world, and who are serving the world, they commit a sin against the Master who has made them His stewards, 85 by placing means in their hands merely because they are their children. God's claims are not to be lightly regarded. {RY 84.2} [RY 85.1] And it should be distinctly understood that because parents have made their will, this will not prevent them from giving means to the cause of God while they live. This they should do. They should have the satisfaction here, and the reward hereafter, of disposing of their surplus means while they live. They should do their part to advance the cause of God. They should use the means lent them by the Master to carry on the work which needs to be done in His vineyard. {RY 85.1} [RY 85.2] The love of money lies at the root of nearly all the crimes committed in the world. Fathers who selfishly retain their means to enrich their children, and who do not see the wants of the cause of God and relieve them, make a terrible mistake. The children whom they think to bless with their means are cursed with it. {RY 85.2} [RY 85.3] Money left to children frequently becomes a root of bitterness. They often quarrel over the property left them, and in case of a will, are seldom all satisfied with the disposition made by the father. And instead of the means left exciting gratitude and reverence for his memory, it creates dissatisfaction, murmuring, envy, and disrespect. Brothers and sisters who were at peace with one another are sometimes made at variance, and family dissensions are often the result of inherited means. Riches are desirable only as a means of supplying present wants, and of doing good to others. But inherited riches oftener become a snare to the possessor than a blessing. Parents should not seek to have their 86 children encounter the temptations to which they expose them in leaving them means which they themselves have made no effort to earn. {RY 85.3} [RY 86.1] I was shown that some children professing to believe the truth, would, in an indirect manner, influence the father to keep his means for his children, instead of appropriating it to the cause of God while he lives. Those who have influenced their father to shift his stewardship upon them, little know what they are doing. They are gathering upon themselves double responsibility, that of balancing the father's mind so that he did not fulfill the purpose of God in the disposition of the means lent him of God to be used to His glory, and the additional responsibility of becoming stewards of means that should have been put out to the exchangers by the father, that the Master could have received His own with usury. {RY 86.1} [RY 86.2] Many parents make a great mistake in placing their property out of their hands into the hands of their children while they are themselves responsible for the use or abuse of the talents lent them of God. Neither parents nor children are made happier by this transfer of property. And the parents, if they live a few years even, generally regret this action on their part. Parental love in their children is not increased by this course. The children do not feel increased gratitude and obligation to their parents for their liberality. A curse seems to lie at the root of the matter, which only crops out in selfishness on the part of the children, and unhappiness and miserable feelings of cramped dependence on the part of the parents. 87 {RY 86.2} [RY 87.1] If parents, while they live, would assist their children to help themselves, it would be better than to leave them a large amount at death. Children who are left to rely principally upon their own exertions, make better men and women, and are better fitted for practical life, than those children who have depended upon their father's estate. The children left to depend upon their own resources generally prize their abilities, improve their privileges, and cultivate and direct their faculties to accomplish a purpose in life. They frequently develop characters of industry, frugality, and moral worth, which lie at the foundation of success in the Christian life. Those children for whom parents do the most, frequently feel under the least obligation toward them. -- 3T 121-123. {RY 87.1} [RY 87.2] Shifting Responsibility to Others Those Sabbathkeeping brethren who shift the responsibility of their stewardship into the hands of their wives, while they themselves are capable of managing the same, are unwise, and in the transfer displease God. The stewardship of the husband cannot be transferred to the wife. Yet this is sometimes attempted, to the great injury of both. {RY 87.2} [RY 87.3] A believing husband has sometimes transferred his property to his unbelieving companion, hoping thereby to gratify her, disarm her opposition, and finally induce her to believe the truth. But this is no more nor less than an attempt to purchase peace, or to hire the wife to believe the truth. The means which God has lent to advance His cause the husband transfers to one who has 88 no sympathy for the truth; what account will such a steward render when the great Master requires His own with usury? {RY 87.3} [RY 88.1] Believing parents have frequently transferred their property to their unbelieving children, thus putting it out of their power to render to God the things that are His. By so doing, they lay off that responsibility which God has laid upon them, and place in the enemy's ranks means which God has entrusted to them to be returned to Him by being invested in His cause when He shall require it of them. {RY 88.1} [RY 88.2] It is not in God's order that parents who are capable of managing their own business, should give up the control of their property, even to children who are of the same faith. These seldom possess as much devotion to the cause as they should, and they have not been schooled in adversity and affliction, so as to place a high estimate upon the eternal treasure, and less upon the earthly. The means placed in the hands of such is the greatest evil. It is a temptation to them to place their affections upon the earthly, and trust to property, and feel that they need but little besides. When means which they have not acquired by their own exertion, comes into their possession, they seldom use it wisely. {RY 88.2} [RY 88.3] The husband who transfers his property to his wife, opens for her a wide door of temptation, whether she is a believer or an unbeliever. If she is a believer, and naturally penurious, inclined to selfishness and acquisitiveness, the battle will be much harder for her with her husband's stewardship and her own to manage. In order to be saved, she must overcome all those peculiar, 89 evil traits, and imitate the character of her divine Lord, seeking opportunity to do others good, loving others as Christ has loved us. She should cultivate the precious gift of love possessed so largely by our Saviour. His life was characterized by noble, disinterested benevolence. His whole life was not marred by one selfish act. -- 1T 528, 529. {RY 88.3} [RY 89.1] Dying Charity Versus Living Benevolence I saw that many withhold from the cause while they live, quieting their consciences that they will be charitable at death; they hardly dare exercise faith and trust in God to give anything while living. But this deathbed charity is not what Christ requires of His followers; it cannot excuse the selfishness of the living. Those who hold fast their property till the last moment, surrender it to death rather than to the cause. Losses are occurring continually. Banks fail, and property is consumed in very many ways. Many purpose to do something, but they delay the matter, and Satan works to prevent the means from coming into the treasury at all. It is lost before it is returned to God, and Satan exults that it is so. {RY 89.1} [RY 89.2] If you would do good with your means, do it at once lest Satan get it in his hands and thus hinder the work of God. Many times, when the Lord has opened the way for brethren to handle their means to advance His cause, the agents of Satan have presented some enterprise by which they were positive the brethren could double their means. They take the bait; their money is 90 invested, and the cause, and frequently themselves, never receive a dollar. {RY 89.2} [RY 90.1] Brethren, remember the cause; and when you have means at your command lay up for yourselves a good foundation against the time to come, that you may lay hold on eternal life. Jesus for your sakes became poor, that you through His poverty might be made rich in heavenly treasure. What will you give for Jesus, who has given all for you? {RY 90.1} [RY 90.2] It will not do for you to depend on making your charity gifts in testamentary bequests at death. You cannot calculate with the least degree of surety that the cause will ever be benefited by them. Satan works with acute skill to stir up the relatives, and every false position is taken to gain to the world that which was solemnly dedicated to the cause of God. Much less than the sum willed is always received. Satan even puts it into the hearts of men and women to protest against their relatives' doing what they wish in the bestowment of their property. They seem to regard everything given to the Lord as robbing the relatives of the deceased. If you want your means to go to the cause, appropriate it, or all that you do not really need for a support, while you live. A few of the brethren are doing this and enjoying the pleasure of being their own executors. Will the covetousness of men make it necessary that they shall be deprived of life in order that the property which God has lent them shall not be useless forever? Let none of you draw upon yourselves the doom of the unprofitable servant who hid his Lord's money on the earth. {RY 90.2} [RY 90.3] Dying charity is a poor substitute for living 91 benevolence. Many will to their friends and relatives all except a very small pittance of their property. This they leave for their supreme Friend, who became poor for their sakes, who suffered insult, mockery, and death, that they might become sons and daughters of God. And yet they expect when the righteous dead shall come forth to immortal life that this Friend will take them into His everlasting habitations. {RY 90.3} [RY 91.1] The cause of Christ is robbed, not by a mere passing thought, not by an unpremeditated act. No. By your own deliberate act you made your will, placing your property at the disposal of unbelievers. After having robbed God during your lifetime, you continue to rob Him after your death, and you do this with the full consent of all your powers of mind, in a document called your will. What do you think will be your Master's will toward you for thus appropriating His goods? What will you say when an account is demanded of your stewardship? {RY 91.1} [RY 91.2] Brethren, awake from your life of selfishness, and act like consistent Christians. The Lord requires you to economize your means and let every dollar not needed for your comfort flow into the treasury. Sisters, take that ten cents, that twenty cents, that dollar which you were about to spend for candies, for ruffles, or for ribbons, and donate it to God's cause. Many of our sisters earn good wages, but it is nearly all spent in gratifying their pride of dress. {RY 91.2} [RY 91.3] The wants of the cause will continually increase as we near the close of time. Means is needed to give young men a short course of study in our schools, to 92 prepare them for efficient work in the ministry and in different branches of the cause. We are not coming up to our privilege in this matter. All schools among us will soon be closed up. How much more might have been done had men obeyed the requirements of Christ in Christian beneficence! What an influence would this readiness to give all for Christ have had upon the world! It would have been one of the most convincing arguments in favor of the truth we profess to believe -- an argument which the world could not misunderstand nor gainsay.... {RY 91.3} [RY 92.1] Let us individually go to work to stimulate others by our example of disinterested benevolence. The work might have gone forward with far greater power had all done what they could to supply the treasury with means. -- 5T 154-157. {RY 92.1} [RY 92.2] Business Affairs at Loose Ends? Brother and Sister L should have confidence in the work for these last days, and should be perfecting Christian character, that they may receive the eternal reward when Jesus comes. Brother L is failing in physical and mental vigor. He is becoming incapable of bearing much responsibility. He should counsel with his brethren who are discreet and faithful. {RY 92.2} [RY 92.3] Brother L is a steward of God. He has been intrusted with means, and should be awake to his duty, and render to God the things that are God's. He should not fail to understand the claims that God has upon him. While he lives, and has his reasoning powers, he should improve the opportunity of appropriating the property 93 that God has intrusted to him, instead of leaving it for others to use and appropriate after the close of his life. {RY 92.3} [RY 93.1] Satan is ever ready to take advantage of the weaknesses and infirmities of men to suit his own purposes. He is a wily adversary, and has outgeneraled many whose purposes were good to benefit the cause of God with their means. Some have neglected the work that God has given them to do in appropriating their means. And while they are negligent in securing to the cause of God the means that he has lent them, Satan comes in and turns that means into his own ranks. {RY 93.1} [RY 93.2] Brother L should move more cautiously. Men who are not of our faith obtain means of him upon various pretenses. He trusts them, believing them to be honest. It will be impossible for him to get back all the means he has let slip out of his hands into the enemy's ranks. He could make a safe investment of his means by aiding the cause of God, and thus laying up for himself treasures in heaven. Frequently he is unable to help when he would, because he is crippled, and cannot command the means to do so. When the Lord calls for his means, it is frequently in the hands of those to whom he has lent it, some of whom never design to pay, and others feel no anxiety in the matter. {RY 93.2} [RY 93.3] Satan will accomplish his purpose as thoroughly through dishonest borrowers as in any other way. All that the adversary of truth and righteousness is working for, is to prevent the advancement of our Redeemer's kingdom. He works through agents to carry out his purposes. If he can prevent means from going into the treasury of God, he is successful in one branch of his 94 work. That means which should have been used to aid in the great plan of saving souls, he has retained in his ranks, to aid him in his work. {RY 93.3} [RY 94.1] Brother L should have his business all straight, and not left at loose ends. It is his privilege to be rich in good works, and to lay up for himself a good foundation against the time to come, that he may lay hold on eternal life. It is not safe for him to follow his failing judgment. He should counsel with experienced brethren, and seek wisdom of God, that he may do up his work well. He should now be really in earnest, providing himself "bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not." -- 2T 675, 676. {RY 94.1} [RY 94.2] Help Needed Now Many who are able to give liberally when the cause is in need, selfishly retain their means, and soothe their conscience with a plan for doing some great thing for the cause of God after their death. They make a will, giving a large sum to the church and its various interests, and then settle down with a feeling that they have done all that is required of them. Wherein have they denied self by this act? They have, on the contrary, revealed selfishness. When they have no further use for their money, they propose to give it to God. But they will retain it as long as they can, till they are compelled to relinquish it by a messenger that cannot be turned aside. {RY 94.2} [RY 94.3] God has made us all His stewards, and in no case has He authorized us to neglect our duty or leave it for others to do. The call for means to advance the cause of 95 truth will never be more urgent than now. Our money will never do a greater amount of good than at the present time. Every day of delay in rightly appropriating it is limiting the period in which it will do good in the saving of souls. If we leave others to accomplish that which God has left for us to do, we wrong ourselves and Him who gave us all we have. How can others do our work of benevolence any better than we can do it ourselves? So far as practicable, God would have every man an executor of his own will in this matter, during his lifetime. {RY 94.3} [RY 95.1] Adversity, accident, or intrigue may cut off forever intended acts of benevolence, when he who has accumulated a fortune is no longer by to guard it. It is sad that so many neglect the golden opportunity to do good in the present, but wait to be cast out of their stewardship before giving back to the Lord the means which He has lent them to be used for His glory. {RY 95.1} [RY 95.2] One marked feature in the teachings of Christ is the frequency and earnestness with which He rebuked the sin of covetousness, and pointed out the danger of worldly acquisitions and the inordinate love of gain. In the mansions of the rich, in the temple, and in the streets, He warned those who inquired after salvation: "Take heed, and beware of covetousness." "Ye cannot serve God and mammon." {RY 95.2} [RY 95.3] It is this increasing devotion to money-getting, the selfishness which the desire for gain begets, that deadens the spirituality of many in the church, and removes from them the favor of God. When the head and hands are constantly occupied with planning and toiling for 96 the accumulation of riches, the claims of God and humanity are forgotten. {RY 95.3} [RY 96.1] If God has blessed us with prosperity, it is not that our time and attention should be diverted from Him and given to that which He has lent us. The giver is greater than the gift. We have been bought with a price; we are not our own. Have we forgotten that infinite price paid for our redemption? Is gratitude dead in the heart? Does not the cross of Christ put to shame a life of selfish ease and indulgence? -- RH Nov. 15, 1906. {RY 96.1} [RY 96.2] New Fields That Must Be Worked Dear Brother Craw: I write you because you and I are getting old, and we need now to carefully examine ourselves. What are we doing with the talent of means lent us by the Master? What have you done during your life, my brother? Have you returned to the Lord that which is truly His. Do you feel that you have done all He requires of you to advance His work? While praying over the matter of our great need of money with which to enter new fields and lift up the standard in places where the truth has never been preached, you were presented to me. It was as though your name was spoken, and the Lord said, "He has My entrusted money, and it would be for his own eternal interest to place it in new missionary fields that must be worked. {RY 96.2} [RY 96.3] I decided to write to you, my brother. Cannot you send us a donation in our great need? If the Lord signifies to you that He wants the money you have to be used 97 in the advancement of His work, will you not send me money to invest? I have used everything of my own, and now I ask you to return to the Lord His own entrusted goods. We see so many fields opening in every direction. People are calling for us to come and hold meetings with them, and we dare not refuse. I have tried to mortgage my place, but the banks in Australia do not care to invest money in this way. The Lord has indicated plainly that you could relieve us by investing means in the good work. There is a great work to be done, and we wish to move in the opening providence of God. Considerable advancement has been made, and we cannot stop now. {RY 96.3} [RY 97.1] I address you definitely. Will you now give back a portion of your Lord's money, and relieve us in our pressing necessity? May the Lord make your heart willing, is my prayer. We wish to do everything that it is possible to do to save souls from perishing in their sins. One soul is of more value than the whole world. We realize that a good work is being done. About thirty-five souls have been baptized in Newcastle, and fifteen more are waiting for baptism. The whole place is aroused. The cities near Newcastle must be worked. Shall we be hindered for lack of money when it is in the hands of God's stewards and should come to us? {RY 97.1} [RY 97.2] In the parable we are shown that every one has received something from the Master. Each is to do his part in supplying the needs that occur in advancing the truth. Property is a talent. The Lord sends His message: "Sell that ye have, and give alms." All that we have is the Lord's, without any question. "The silver is Mine 98 and the gold is Mine," saith the Lord of hosts. Why should we not, when pressed financially, present our great need to whose whom God has signified hold His money in trust, to be used in advancing the work of saving souls ready to perish? We do not want you to sow sparingly, because then you will reap sparingly. We want you, my brother, to lay up treasure in heaven. They that sow bountifully shall reap also bountifully. The reaping will be proportionate to the sowing. Read the ninth chapter of Second Corinthians. {RY 97.2} [RY 98.1] Soon Christ will reward every man according to his works. Soon your money will pass out of your hands for another to handle. It will then not be the test of your stewardship. Now it is yours, by which the Lord desires to try you. While you are alive, be your own almoner and receive the blessings that will come to you in a faithful discharge of duty. Give back to God that which is His own. This is God's way. He always lends His talents to His stewards, to be used to spread the knowledge of the truth. This work cannot be done without the funds that are in the hands of God's servants. {RY 98.1} [RY 98.2] We now invite you to dispose of your property. This the Lord calls upon you to do. We have to build meetinghouses and hospitals for our sick. We want means to advance the work of God in this new world. Be liberal, that God may advance His cause. -- Letter 53, 1899. {RY 98.2} [RY 98.3] God Will Teach Us Our Duty There are poor men and women who are writing to me for advice as to whether they shall sell their homes, and give the proceeds to the cause. They say the appeals 99 for means stir their souls, and they want to do something for the Master who has done everything for them. I would say to such, "It may not be your duty to sell your little homes just now; but go to God for yourselves; the Lord will certainly hear your earnest prayers for wisdom to understand your duty." If there was more seeking God for heavenly wisdom, and less seeking wisdom from men, there would be far greater light from Heaven, and God would bless the humble seeker. {RY 98.3} [RY 99.1] But I can say to those to whom God has intrusted goods, who have lands and houses: "Commence your selling, and giving alms. Make no delay. God expects more of you than you have been willing to do." We call upon you who have means, to inquire with earnest prayer: What is the extent of the divine claim upon me and my property? There is work to be done now to make ready a people to stand in the day of the Lord. Means must be invested in the work of saving souls who, in turn, shall bring their offerings to the treasury, and win souls to the Lord. -- RH Extra, Dec. 11, 1888. {RY 99.1} [RY 100.1] Chap. 8 - Importance of Wills Executors of the Saviour's Will Christ loves the human race; and in every action of His life He has expressed this love. He calls upon men to love one another as He has loved them. His saving power and love are ever to be the theme of those who believe in God. {RY 100.1} [RY 100.2] Just before His ascension, He gave to His disciples the commission. "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world." {RY 100.2} [RY 100.3] Thus was given to the disciples a most precious trust. They were to be the executors of the will in which Christ has bequeathed to the world the treasure of eternal life. They realized the responsibility of their work. They knew that they held in their hands the bread of life for a famishing world, and they went everywhere preaching the word. The love of Christ constrained them, and they could not forbear breaking the bread of life to all who were in need. The last words of the Saviour were constantly sounding in their ears. {RY 100.3} [RY 100.4] In the trust given to the first disciples, each believer has a share. Each one is to be an executor of the Saviour's will. Each one has been given sacred truth to give to the earnest seeker. Every believer is to be a laborer together with God. -- RH Jan. 7, 1902. 101 {RY 100.4} [RY 101.1] Not to Be Postponed To the aged, who are losing their hold on this life, I appeal to make a right disposition of your Lord's goods before you fall asleep in Jesus. Remember that you are God's stewards. Give back to the Lord His own while you live. Do not fail of attending to this while you have your reason. As age comes upon us, it is our duty to make a disposition of our means to the instrumentalities that God has established. Satan is using every device to divert from the Lord's cause the means so much needed. Many are binding up their talent of means in worldly enterprises, when the cause of God needs every dollar to advance His truth and glorify His name. I ask: Shall we not lay up for ourselves treasure in heaven, in bags that wax not old? {RY 101.1} [RY 101.2] I would especially urge the aged who are soon to make a disposal of their means to remember those who have ministered faithfully in word and doctrine. Place your means where, should health, and life fail, they can be invested in the cause of God. Thus they will be put out to the exchangers and be constantly accumulating. -- 7T 295, 296. {RY 101.2} [RY 101.3] When Satan Controls Business Matters God is displeased with the slack, loose manner in which many of His professed people conduct their worldly business. They seem to have lost all sense of the fact that the property they are using belongs to God, and that they must render to Him an account of their stewardship. Some leave their worldly business in perfect 102 confusion. Satan has his eye on it all, and he strikes at a favorable opportunity, and by his management takes much means out of the ranks of Sabbath keepers. And this means goes into his ranks. {RY 101.3} [RY 102.1] Some who are aged are unwilling to make any settlement of their worldly business, and in an unexpected moment they sicken and die. Their children who have no interest in the truth, take the property. Satan has managed it as suited him. "If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches? And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man's, who shall give you that which is your own?" {RY 102.1} [RY 102.2] I was shown the awful fact that Satan and his angels have had more to do with the management of the property of God's professed people than the Lord has. Stewards of the last days are unwise. They suffer Satan to control their business matters, and get into his ranks what belongs to, and should be in, the cause of God. God takes notice of you, unfaithful stewards; He will call you to account. {RY 102.2} [RY 102.3] I saw that the stewards of God can by faithful, judicious management keep their business in this world square, exact, and straight. And it is especially the privilege and duty of the aged, the feeble, and those who have no children, to place their means where it can be used in the cause of God if they should be suddenly taken away. But I saw that Satan and his angels exult over their success in this matter. And those who should be wise heirs of salvation almost willingly let their Lord's money slip out of their hands 103 into the enemy's ranks. In this way they strengthen Satan's kingdom, and seem to feel very easy about it! -- 1T 199,200. {RY 102.3} [RY 103.1] When Legal Advice Is Important At the camp meeting in Vermont, in 1870, I felt urged by the Spirit of God to bear a plain testimony relative to the duty of aged and wealthy parents in the disposition of their property. I had been shown that some men who are shrewd, prudent, and sharp in regard to the transaction of business generally, men who are distinguished for promptness and thoroughness, manifest a want of foresight and promptness in regard to a proper disposal of their property while they are living. They know not how soon their probation may close; yet they pass on from year to year with their business unsettled, and frequently their lives finally close without their having the use of their reason. Or they may die suddenly, without a moment's warning, and their property be disposed of in a manner that they would not have approved. These are guilty of negligence; they are unfaithful stewards. {RY 103.1} [RY 103.2] Christians who believe the present truth should manifest wisdom and foresight. They should not neglect the disposition of their means, expecting a favorable opportunity to adjust their business during a long illness. They should have their business in such a shape that, were they called at any hour to leave it, and should they have no voice in its arrangement, it might be settled as they would have had it were they alive. Many families have been dishonestly robbed of all their 104 property, and have been subjected to poverty, because the work that might have been well done in an hour had been neglected. Those who make their wills should not spare pains or expense to obtain legal advice, and to have them drawn up in a manner to stand the test. {RY 103.2} [RY 104.1] I saw that those who profess to believe the truth should show their faith by their works. They should, with the unrighteous mammon, make friends, that they may finally be received into everlasting habitations. God has made men stewards of means. He has placed in their hands the money with which to carry forward the great work for the salvation of souls for whom Christ left His home, His riches, His glory, and became poor that He might, by His own humiliation and sacrifice, bring many sons and daughters of Adam to God. In His providence, the Lord has ordained that the work in His vineyard should be sustained by the means intrusted to the hands of His stewards. A neglect on their part to answer the calls of the cause of God in carrying forward His work, shows them to be unfaithful and slothful servants. -- 3T 116, 117. {RY 104.1} [RY 104.2] Wills Should Stand Test of Law Some wills are made in so loose a manner that they will not stand the test of the law, and thus thousands of dollars have been lost to the cause. Our brethren should feel that a responsibility rests upon them, as faithful servants in the cause of God, to exercise their intellect in regard to this matter, and secure to the Lord His own. {RY 104.2} [RY 104.3] Many manifest a needless delicacy on this point. They feel that they are stepping upon forbidden ground 105 when they introduce the subject of property to the aged or to invalids in order to learn what disposition they design to make of it. But this duty is just as sacred as the duty to preach the word to save souls. Here is a man with God's money or property in his hands. He is about to change his stewardship. Will he place the means which God has lent him to be used in His cause, in the hands of wicked men, just because they are his relatives? Should not Christian men feel interested and anxious for that man's future good as well as for the interest of God's cause, that he shall make a right disposition of his Lord's money, the talents lent him for wise improvement? Will his brethren stand by, and see him losing his hold on this life, and at the same time robbing the treasury of God? This would be a fearful loss to himself and to the cause, for, by placing his talent of means in the hands of those who have no regard for the truth of God, he would, to all intents and purposes, be wrapping it in a napkin and hiding it in the earth. {RY 104.3} [RY 105.1] The Lord would have His followers dispense their means while they can do it themselves. Some may inquire, "Must we actually dispossess ourselves of everything which we call our own?" We may not be required to do this now, but we must be willing to do so for Christ's sake. We must acknowledge that our possessions are absolutely His, by using of them freely whenever means is needed to advance His cause. Some close their ears to the calls made for money to be used in sending missionaries to foreign countries, and in publishing the truth and scattering it like autumn leaves all over the world. 106 {RY 105.1} [RY 106.1] Such excuse their covetousness by informing you that they have made arrangements to be charitable at death. They have considered the cause of God in their wills. Therefore they live a life of avarice, robbing God in tithes and in offerings, and in their wills return to God but a small portion of that which He has lent them, while a very large proportion is appropriated to relatives who have no interest in the truth. This is the worst kind of robbery. They rob God of His just dues, not only all through life, but also at death. {RY 106.1} [RY 106.2] It is utter folly to defer to make a preparation for the future life until nearly the last hour of the present life. It is also a great mistake to defer to answer the claims of God for liberality to His cause until the time comes when you are to shift your stewardship upon others. Those to whom you entrust your talents of means may not do as well with them as you have done. How dare rich men run so great risks? Those who wait till death before they make a disposition of their property, surrender it to death rather than to God. In so doing, many are acting directly contrary to the plan of God plainly stated in His Word. If they would do good, they must seize the present golden moments, and labor with all their might, as if fearful that they may lose the favorable opportunity. {RY 106.2} [RY 106.3] Those who neglect known duty by not answering to God's claims upon them in this life, and who soothe their consciences by calculating on making their bequests at death, will receive no words of commendation from the Master, nor will they receive a reward. They practiced no self-denial, but selfishly retained their 107 means as long as they could, yielding it up only when death claimed them. {RY 106.3} [RY 107.1] That which many propose to defer until they are about to die, if they were Christians indeed they would do while they have a strong hold on life. They would devote themselves and their property to God, and, while acting as His stewards, they would have the satisfaction of doing their duty. By becoming their own executors, they could meet the claims of God themselves, instead of shifting the responsibility upon others. {RY 107.1} [RY 107.2] We should regard ourselves as stewards of the Lord's property, and God as the supreme proprietor, to whom we are to render His own when He shall require it. When He shall come to receive His own with usury, the covetous will see that instead of multiplying the talents entrusted to them, they have brought upon themselves the doom pronounced upon the unprofitable servant. {RY 107.2} [RY 107.3] The Lord designs that the death of His servants shall be regarded as a loss, because of the influence for good which they exerted and the many willing offerings which they bestowed to replenish the treasury of God. Dying legacies are a miserable substitute for living benevolence. The servants of God should be making their wills every day, in good works and liberal offerings to God. They should not allow the amount given to God to be disproportionately small when compared with that appropriated to their own use. In making their wills daily, they will remember those objects and friends that hold the largest place in their affections. {RY 107.3} [RY 107.4] Their best friend is Jesus. He did not withhold His 108 own life from them, but for their sakes became poor, that through His poverty they might be made rich. He deserves the whole heart, the property, all that they have and are. But many professed Christians put off the claims of Jesus in life, and insult Him by giving Him a mere pittance at death. {RY 107.4} [RY 108.1] Let all of this class remember that this robbery of God is not an impulsive action, but a well-considered plan which they preface by saying, "Being in sound mind." After having defrauded the cause of God through life, they perpetuate the fraud after death. And this is with the full consent of all the powers of the mind. Such a will many are content to cherish for a dying pillow. Their will is a part of their preparation for death, and is prepared so that their possessions shall not disturb their dying hours. Can these dwell with pleasure upon the requirement that will be made of them to give an account of their stewardship? {RY 108.1} [RY 108.2] We must all be rich in good works in this life, if we would secure the future, immortal life. When the judgment shall sit, and the books shall be opened, every man will be rewarded according to his works. Many names are enrolled on the church book that have robbery recorded against them in the ledger of heaven. An unless these repent, and work for the Master with disinterested benevolence, they will certainly share in the doom of the unfaithful steward. {RY 108.2} [RY 108.3] It often happens that an active businessman is cut down without a moment's warning, and on examination his business is found to be in a most perplexing condition. In the effort to settle his estate, the lawyers' 109 fees eat up a large share, if not all, of the property, while his wife and children and the cause of Christ are robbed. Those who are faithful stewards of the Lord's means will know just how their business stands, and, like wise men, they will be prepared for any emergency. Should their probation close suddenly, they would not leave such great perplexity upon those who are called to settle their estate. {RY 108.3} [RY 109.1] Many are not exercised upon the subject of making their wills while they are in apparent health. But this precaution should be taken by our brethren. They should know their financial standing, and should not allow their business to become entangled. They should arrange their property in such a manner that they may leave it at any time. {RY 109.1} [RY 109.2] Wills should be made in a manner to stand the test of law. After they are drawn, they may remain for years, and do no harm, if donations continue to be made from time to time as the cause has need. Death will not come one day sooner, brethren, because you have made your will. In disposing of your property by will to your relatives, be sure that you do not forget God's cause. You are His agents, holding His property; and His claims should have your first consideration. Your wife and children, of course, should not be left destitute; provision should be made for them if they are needy. But do not, simply because it is customary, bring into your will a long line of relatives who are not needy. {RY 109.2} [RY 109.3] Let it ever be kept in mind that the present selfish system of disposing of property is not God's plan, but man's device. Christians should be reformers, and 110 break up this present system, giving an entirely new aspect to the formation of wills. Let the idea be ever present that it is the Lord's property which you are handling. The will of God in this matter is law. {RY 109.3} [RY 110.1] If man had made you the executor of his property, would you not closely study the will of the testator, that the smallest amount might not be misapplied? Your heavenly Friend has entrusted you with property, and given you His will as to how it should be used. If this will is studied with an unselfish heart, that which belongs to God will not be misapplied. The Lord's cause has been shamefully neglected, when He has provided men with sufficient means to meet every emergency, if they only had grateful, obedient hearts. {RY 110.1} [RY 110.2] Those who make their wills should not feel that when this is done they have no further duty, but they should be constantly at work using the talents entrusted to them, for the upbuilding of the Lord's cause. God has devised plans that all may work intelligently in the distribution of their means. He does not propose to sustain His work by miracles. He has a few faithful stewards, who are economizing and using their means to advance His cause. Instead of self-denial and benevolence being an exception, they should be the rule. The growing necessities of the cause of God require means. Calls are constantly coming in from men in our own and foreign countries for messengers to come to them with light and truth. This will necessitate more laborers and more means to support them. - 4T 479-483. {RY 110.2} [RY 111.1] Chap. 9 - Remarriage in Old Age Counsel to Joseph Hare, Sr. Dear Brother Hare: I will say in regard to your first letter received in the mail before the last, I have no special light upon this subject and cannot give you information upon the point that interests you. I advise you to consult with Wesley Hare and his wife, as they know the one you have in mind and would be the proper counselors. I know, as you say, that you must be lonely in your old age, and if there is one whom you could love, and who would reciprocate that love, I see no objection. But as I do not know the lady you have in mind, I cannot speak as could one who knows both parties. {RY 111.1} [RY 111.2] One thing is certain: You know that He whom you have served for many years will be to you a safe Counselor. Rest your case with Him who never makes a mistake. Our time now, both yours and mine, is short, and we need to be ripening for the future immortal life. Christ says, "Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also" ［John 14:1-3］. Let us rejoice in this, and take on just as few worries as possible. {RY 111.2} [RY 111.3] The invitation to old and young is, "Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give 112 you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls" ［Matthew 11:28-30］. Thank the Lord, with heart and soul and voice, that there is a haven of rest, sweet rest. It is your privilege, and it is my privilege, to accept the invitation, and rest. We want now that our remnant of life should be as free as possible from every perplexity and care, that we shall have repose in the life of Christ. "My yoke," He says, "is easy, and My burden is light." {RY 111.3} [RY 112.1] The Lord will not disappoint any who put their trust in Him. He will be first and last and best in everything to us. He will be a present help in every time of need. In these last days of service we shall ... be held, and led, and protected, by the power of Christ. May the Lord bless and strengthen you, that your last days may be your best days, fragrant with the softening, subduing influence of His love. The Lord bless and keep you and give you repose in His love, is my most earnest desire for you, my brother. - TSB 31-33 (Letter 70, 1898). {RY 112.1} [RY 112.2] Advice to J. N. Andrews I advised you to marry before you returned the last time to Europe for these reasons. First, you needed a wife to care for you and ［you］ should not have taken your family to Europe without a good companion to be a mother to your children, that these children might not in all things bear the stamp of your mind and be molded according to your ideas. Your mind is not equally balanced. You need another element brought into your labors that you do not possess and 113 that you do not understand is really essential.... {RY 112.2} [RY 113.1] Your ideas have been erroneous to preserve your life as a widower, but on this point I will say no more. The influence of a noble Christian woman of proper capabilities would have served to counteract the tendencies of your mind. The ability of concentrativeness, the intense light in which you view everything of a religious character connected with the cause and work of God, has brought upon you depression of spirits, a weight of anxiety that has weakened you physically and mentally. If you had been connected with one who would have opposite feelings, who would have ability to turn your thoughts away from gloomy subjects, who would not have yielded her individuality, but have preserved her identity and had a molding influence upon your mind, you would today have had physical strength and power to resist disease. -- TSB 34. {RY 113.1} [RY 113.2] You remember I wrote you from Texas to obtain a wife before you returned to Europe. Do you suppose I would have given you such advice if I had no light upon the matter? Be assured, no such counsel would have been given you without good reason. I was shown ［that］ you follow your own judgment and your own ideas altogether too tenaciously. If you were more willing to be counseled by those you should confide in, and trust less to your own feelings and impressions, the result for yourself and for the cause of God would be far better. {RY 113.2} [RY 113.3] I was shown that you made a mistake in starting to Europe without a companion. If you had, before starting, 114 selected you a godly woman who could have been a mother to your children, you would have done a wise thing, and your usefulness would have been tenfold to what it has been. -- TSB 34, 35. {RY 113.3} [RY 114.1] Remarriage of S. N. Haskell ［ELDER HASKELL'S FIRST WIFE DIED IN 1894. IN 1897, WHEN HE REMARRIED, HE WAS 64 AND HIS NEW WIFE, HETTIE HURD, WAS 40.］ We received Brother Haskell's letter the evening after the Sabbath. We were glad to hear from you that your interests are united as one. May the Lord bless this union, that you may be a strength and support to one another at all times. May the peace of God rest upon you, is my sincere desire and earnest prayer. "Go, stand and speak ... to the people all the words of this life" ［Acts 5:20］. {RY 114.1} [RY 114.2] I am pleased, Brother Haskell, that you have a helper ［Mrs. Haskell］. This is that which I have desired for some time. The work in which we are engaged has made us one in Christ Jesus to diffuse the knowledge of Jesus Christ. It is your privilege to have happiness in your new relation to each other, in ministering the gospel to those who are in darkness and error. We can sympathize and unite in the grand work that you and I love, and which is the one great object ever before us--the enlargement of the kingdom of Christ and the celebration of His glory. In everything which relates to this we are united in bonds of Christian fellowship, in companionship with heavenly intelligences.... {RY 114.2} [RY 114.3] Because of the light given me, I am fully possessed with the conviction that through your united agencies, 115 as sanctified instrumentalities, light shall be reflected to the salvation of many souls that are now in darkness and error. I know you have not lived unto yourselves but unto Him whom you love and whom you serve and worship. -- TSB 33, 34. {RY 114.3} [RY 115.1] George I. Butler's Desire to Remarry ［ELDER BUTLER'S FIRST WIFE DIED NOVEMBER 18, 1901, LEAVING HIM A WIDOWER AT THE AGE OF 67. EVEN THOUGH HE HAD ELLEN WHITE'S APPROVAL, OPPOSITION FROM MRS. KECK AND FROM HILAND BUTLER, ELDER BUTLER'S SON, KEPT HIM FROM GOING FORWARD WITH HIS INTENTION TO MARRY MRS. KECK'S SISTER IN 1902. IN 1907, AT THE AGE OF 73, HE FINALLY MARRIED AGAIN.］ May, 1902 Dear Brother and Sister Keck: My mind has been burdened during the night season. I have learned that Brother Butler has thought of marrying Sister Keck's sister. Some of the brethren, in talking with me about this matter, expressed their disapproval, saying that they thought that such a step would hurt Brother Butler's influence, especially should he marry so soon after his wife's death. At the time I gave the subject scarcely a thought, but in the night season I was talking with one in regard to the matter, and the subject assumed a different aspect. {RY 115.1} [RY 115.2] Then I seemed to be talking with someone else, of whom I was asking the question, "Why do you regard this attachment as so objectionable?" The answer was, "He is so much older than she is." "But," I said, "would it be proper or wise for him to marry a woman of his own age? What help could such a woman be to him in his ministry? At his age, Elder Butler should have the care that only a wife can give. If this young woman has a desire to give him this care, why should anyone forbid 116 her? She is, I understand, about thirty-five years old." {RY 115.2} [RY 116.1] Sister Haskell married Elder Haskell because she was convinced that he needed a helper in his work. The difference in their ages seemed to Elder Haskell to be a barrier against their union. He asked my opinion and advice. I said, "If her mind is drawn out in this direction, do not hesitate. You need the help of a spiritual-minded, intelligent woman, who can sustain and encourage you in your work." They were married, and the Lord has greatly blessed their union, making their lives doubly useful to His cause and work. {RY 116.1} [RY 116.2] May it not be possible that the hand of the Lord is in this attachment between Elder Butler and Sister Keck's sister? What others may think in regard to this matter is not to find any place in our reckoning. We are to ask, "Is this union the will of the Lord?" May it not be His plan for the increase of the helpfulness and usefulness of each? {RY 116.2} [RY 116.3] For many years, because of his invalid wife, Elder Butler has been shut away from the work, cut off from many privileges, prevented from doing the work he might have done. He has cared faithfully and tenderly for his wife, who was weak in mind and body, hampered by affliction and infirmity. When she died, he buried her in sorrow, yet not as a man who is without hope. {RY 116.3} [RY 116.4] After his wife's death, he began to plan for his sister, who has been living with him for a few years, to visit her friends, as she had desired. But the Lord saw fit to add another sorrow to his life. Very suddenly and unexpectedly Sister Lockwood ［Elder Butler's sister］ died. 117 {RY 116.4} [RY 117.1] Elder Butler is a man who needs the softening influence of a good, high-principled woman. The companionship of such a woman would indeed be a great blessing to him. Considering his experience for the last fifteen years, is it strange that he desires a younger person than himself to love, to converse with? {RY 117.1} [RY 117.2] You do not reason altogether correctly. Saith the Lord, "My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways.... For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts." The Lord surprises us by His manner of dealing. {RY 117.2} [RY 117.3] Elder Butler is strong in physical and spiritual health. The Lord has proved and tested and tried him, as He did Job, and as He did Moses. I see in Elder Butler one who has humbled his soul before God. He has another spirit than the Elder Butler of younger years. He has been learning his lesson at the feet of Jesus. After caring so long for his suffering, afflicted wife, he has come forth from the furnace fire refined and purified. I respect and love my brother as one of God's servants. {RY 117.3} [RY 117.4] I have no more to say, except that if your sister, being a Christian, is led and taught by God, leave her with God. Do not by human wisdom spoil the Lord's plan and hinder His work. Elder Butler needs the help of a strong, kind, intelligent woman, who can cooperate with him in his sphere of usefulness, encouraging him and holding up his hands, aiding him to do a good and acceptable work for the Master. If your sister is that 118 woman, she may feel honored in uniting with Elder Butler. {RY 117.4} [RY 118.1] At first I thought that such a step would hurt Brother Butler's influence. But I have had time to consider the matter, and I now see it in another light. I came to this decision before I had the pleasure of meeting Elder Butler at the time of his visit to my home. {RY 118.1} [RY 118.2] I wish you to understand that I have not had one word of conversation with Elder Butler in regard to this matter. He has not made the slightest reference to it. -- Letter 77, 1902. {RY 118.2} [RY 118.3] May 23, 1902 Dear Brother and Sister Keck: I wish to add a few lines to the letter I have already written you. We had a very profitable visit with Elder Butler. He left us last Wednesday morning for Healdsburg. W. C. White and his wife rode over with him in the carriage.... {RY 118.3} [RY 118.4] My brother and sister, I wish you to take to the Lord the matter of the union of your sister with Elder Butler. Prayerfully consider your objections; and then, in the light of the words I have written, if your sister is disposed to unite with Elder Butler in marriage, see if you cannot give up your objection, for the reason that this union may be the purpose of God. {RY 118.4} [RY 118.5] I see in Elder Butler a man of usefulness, a man of intelligence and Bible study. His ministry would be much more valuable were he united with a woman who could help him in his work. Think of how much more he could accomplish with the help of a discreet, intelligent 119 woman. He should not be left to live alone and to travel alone. The sooner he can find a good wife, the better it will be for his work. A wife could do for him those things that no male companion could do -- look after his clothes, see that they are free from dust, and that he is always prepared to appear before large congregations. {RY 118.5} [RY 119.1] Would it not be best for you to withdraw your opposition to this union? It is not best for you in any way to oppose that which the Lord may have ordained. It may be that the Lord sees that by this union your sister and Elder Butler could accomplish more for Him than they otherwise could. What people may say has nothing to do with this matter. If it is the Lord's purpose, let us not be found fighting against Him. - Letter 78, 1902. {RY 119.1} [RY 119.2] Unwise Counsel From a Son I beg of you not to reproach your father. You should not feel as you do, for your father has done nothing that God condemns. His condemnation exists only in the minds of men. He has in no wise dishonored his children. He is keeping the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment. The Lord is opening the way before him, that he may do a great and good work for His people. Christ is his Saviour, and in beholding Christ he will be changed into His image. {RY 119.2} [RY 119.3] Your father has been a kind, tender husband. For many years he served faithfully her whom he has always loved. Death separated him from the one who for so long has been his special charge. Then his sister was taken from him, and his home was broken up. Is it any 120 wonder that under these circumstances he should, after your mother's death, become attached to a woman in whose conversion to the truth he was instrumental? This woman is not young, but of an age to be a help to him in his work. Should your father's age have stood as a barrier to his happiness?... {RY 119.3} [RY 120.1] Had your father married this lady, I believe that the Lord would greatly have blessed them both. But I do not think, seeing that the matter has been treated as it has, it will go any further. Those who refused to sanction this union should remember that one day they must meet the result of their action. But I must leave this matter with those who have been acting a part in it. -- TSB 35, 36 (written July 28, 1902, to Hiland Butler, George I. Butler's son). {RY 120.1} [RY 120.2] Ellen White Chose Not to Remarry Since twenty-one years ago when I was deprived of my husband by death, I have not had the slightest idea of ever marrying again. Why? Not because God forbade it. No. But to stand alone was the best for me, that no one should suffer with me in carrying forward my work entrusted to me of God. And no one should have a right to influence me in any way in reference to my responsibility and my work in bearing my testimony of encouragement and reproof. {RY 120.2} [RY 120.3] My husband never stood in my way to do this, although I had help and encouragement from him, and oft his pity. His sympathy and prayers and tears I have missed so much, so very much. No one can understand this as myself. But my work has to be done. No human 121 power should give the least supposition that I would be influenced in the work God has given me to do in bearing my testimony to those for whom He has given me reproof or encouragement. {RY 120.3} [RY 121.1] I have been alone in this matter, severely alone, with all the difficulties and all the trials connected with the work. God alone could help me. The last work that is to be done by me in this world will soon be finished. I must express myself plainly, in a manner, if possible, not to be misunderstood. -- Ms 227, 1902. {RY 121.1} [RY 121.2] When Ages Widely Differ Another cause of the deficiency of the present generation in physical strength and moral worth, is, men and women uniting in marriage whose ages widely differ. It is frequently the case that old men choose to marry young wives. By thus doing, the life of the husband has often been prolonged, while the wife has had to feel the want of that vitality which she has imparted to her aged husband. It has not been the duty of any woman to sacrifice life and health, even if she did love one so much older than herself, and felt willing on her part to make such a sacrifice. She should have restrained her affections. She had considerations higher than her own interest to consult. She should consider, if children be born to them, what would be their condition? It is still worse for young men to marry women considerably older than themselves. The offspring of such unions in many cases, where ages widely differ, have not well-balanced minds. They have been deficient also in physical strength. In such families have 122 frequently been manifested varied, peculiar, and often painful, traits of character. They often die prematurely, and those who reach maturity, in many cases, are deficient in physical and mental strength, and moral worth. {RY 121.2} [RY 122.1] The father is seldom prepared, with his failing faculties, to properly bring up his young family. -- 2SM 423, 424. {RY 122.1} [RY 123.1] Chap. 10 - Conserving Life's Energies Short Discourses, Longer Life My dear brother ［George I. Butler］: We shall have trials. But I am instructed to say to you and to others, that laborers often bring upon themselves greater taxation than is required. The counsel given is, Cut the discourses short. Were a long discourse divided, and only one-half given, it would be better retained in the minds of the hearers than the whole of a long discourse. This counsel belongs to me as well as to you. Except when I have a special message to bear, I am determined to speak briefly because it is best. {RY 123.1} [RY 123.2] I am growing old, but I do not feel the weight of years. I have always been afflicted, ever since I was nine years old. And at seventy-eight I suffer less pain than I suffered in my earlier years. But I am now determined to take care of my strength, and I shall not weary others by long talking. I want you, as one of the old hands and the experienced workers, to live to be able to bear your testimony, as did John ［the Revelator］. {RY 123.2} [RY 123.1] We are personally under the training of God. Let us trust in God, for we need His help constantly. You do too much talking at one time, and so do I. It is not best to put this extra strain upon ourselves that is unnecessary. We need to hold more testimony meetings. Please consider the words I bear to you. Save your strength. I am afraid for so old a man to bear such heavy burdens. We do want you to have a clear testimony to bear just at 124 this period of the earth's history. We want you to have a clear mind, that you may counsel together with those of like precious faith. {RY 123.1} [RY 124.1] Let us do our best to bring about unity. I am in a position where I cannot change the past experience if I would; for the Lord has led me and has given me such evidence of His power in every advance movement of our work, that I have assurance, made doubly sure, as ［to］ every position we now hold as truth. We cannot distrust such manifestations of the Lord's power in defining what is truth. I am charged that we are to hold the beginning of our confidence firm unto the end. We now need clearly to define what is truth, and let not the enemy steal a march on us. {RY 124.1} [RY 124.2] We know, and Elder Haskell and Elder Loughborough know also, of the earlier history of this work. There are few now alive who passed through the experience of 1843 and 1844. Let us be careful of our life power. Do not work too hard. -- Letter 88, 1906. {RY 124.2} [RY 124.3] When Sleep Will Not Come, Pray June 23, 1892. Another night has passed. I slept only three hours. I was not in so much pain as usual, but was restless and nervous. After lying awake for some time, trying to sleep, I gave up the effort, and directed my whole attention to seeking the Lord. How precious to me was the promise, "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you" (Matthew 7:7). I prayed most earnestly to the Lord for comfort and peace, which the Lord Jesus alone 125 can give. I want the blessing of the Lord, so that, while suffering pain, I shall not lose self-control. I dare not trust in self for one moment. -- 2SM 235. {RY 124.3} [RY 125.1] A Rest Period in the Daytime Dear Brother ［S. N.］ Haskell: ［ELDER HASKELL WAS 73 AND ELLEN WHITE WAS 79 WHEN THIS LETTER WAS WRITTEN.］ I urge you not to work above that which you are able to do. You should have less constant, taxing labor, that you may be able to keep yourself in a rested condition. You should take a sleep in the daytime. You can then think more readily, and your thoughts will be more clear and your words more convincing. And be sure to bring your whole being into connection with God. Accept the Holy Spirit for your spiritual illumination, and under its guidance follow on to know the Lord. Go forth where the Lord directs, doing what He commands. Wait on the Lord, and He will renew your strength. {RY 125.1} [RY 125.2] But it is not required of you or of me to be on a continual strain. We should surrender continually what He requires of us, and He will show us His covenant. "The secret of the Lord is with them that fear Him" (Psalm 25:14). We shall be instructed more deeply in the mystery of God the Father and of Jesus Christ. We shall have visions of the King in His beauty, and before us will be opened the rest that remaineth for the people of God. We will soon enter the city whose builder and maker is God -- the city we have long talked of. -- 2SM 230, 231. 126 {RY 125.2} [RY 126.1] Adequate Diet and Rest Dear Brother Bates: ［WRITTEN TO JOSEPH BATES IN THE LAST YEAR OF HIS LIFE. HE DIED AT THE AGE OF EIGHTY.］ I have been informed that you have taken but one meal a day for a period of time; but I know it to be wrong in your case, for I have been shown that you needed a nutritious diet, and that you were in danger of being too abstemious. Your strength would not admit of your severe discipline. {RY 126.1} [RY 126.2] You should not carry the burden of leading the church in meetings. Younger hands should do this, and you should not bear the responsibility. You should not feel that you are required to hold meetings yourself, having the charge in different places, for your mind and your physical strength are not equal to the task. You are in danger of heaping responsibilities upon you and feeling that the Lord requires it of you, after He has released you from active, physical taxation. You should gracefully and honorably lay the burden down, and seek for quiet rest, fitting up for your last change. You feel much tried and grieved if your Advent brethren do not look to you to lead, when I have been shown it is wrong for them to let the leading of the church rest on you. {RY 126.2} [RY 126.3] I think that you have erred in fasting two days. God did not require it of you. I beg of you to be cautious and eat freely good, wholesome food twice a day. You will surely decrease in strength and your mind become unbalanced unless you change your course of abstemious diet. {RY 126.3} [RY 126.4] I have advised Brother Charles Jones not to encourage 127 or allow you to go into different churches to labor. You are not in a condition of body and mind to labor. You must stop and rest and be happy, and not worry your mind about the responsibilities of the work and cause of God. Be peaceful, calm, and happy, and trust yourself in the work and cause of God, feeling that you are now to soften, sweeten, ripen up for heaven. God loves you. But, with your advanced age and your strong peculiarities, you will certainly mar the work of God more than you can help it. {RY 126.4} [RY 127.1] You have simply to rest in the hands of God and feel that your work to preach the truth is done. Have no further responsibility in this direction. You can be free to bear your testimony to comfort yourself; this is your privilege; but to bear any church labor in word or doctrine, or to travel out among other churches to hold public meetings, God has released you. -- Letter 2, 1872. {RY 127.1} [RY 127.2] Overstrained Ideas of Health Reform Poor, half-decayed fruit and vegetables should never be placed upon the table because it is a savings of a few pennies. This kind of management is a loss, and the body that should be nourished as a temple of the Holy Ghost and be fitted to do the very best kind of work is neglected. Many speeches were made in regard to self-denial and self-sacrifice that were wholly inappropriate and uncalled for. {RY 127.2} [RY 127.3] Brother M was so reduced by poor food and by want of conveniences and proper, careful attention while absent from his family, that he had no strength to 128 withstand exposure and disease. He died a martyr to misconceived, crooked ideas of what constitutes health reform and self-denial. He always had little thought for his own convenience, and was left too much to himself, to care for himself. He was willing to do anything to save means. Such conscientious souls are the ones who are hurt by these overstrained ideas of what constitutes health reform. {RY 127.3} [RY 128.1] Sister R's family have been injured by the ideas she has entertained of health reform. Brother John has been a hard worker, and the food taken into his stomach has not nourished him; it has not supplied the wants of his system and has not made the best quality of blood. The weakness from which he is now suffering is caused by a poverty of the blood more than by any real disease. {RY 128.1} [RY 128.2] Why will not men and women to whom God has given reasoning powers exercise their reason? When they see their strength is failing, why do they not investigate their habits and their diet, and change to a different diet to see its effect? The sufferings that have been brought about by a so-called health reform have militated greatly against true reforms. These narrow ideas and this overstraining in the diet question have done great injury to physical, mental, and moral strength. {RY 128.2} [RY 128.3] Our missions should be conducted in a merciful way. It never pays to cheat the stomach of healthful, wholesome food; for it is robbing the blood of nourishment, and in consequence the whole system is deranged, the whole mind diseased, and God has lame, inefficient service in place of healthy, sound labor.... There are sufferers on every hand because people do not 129 think that the body needs special favors. -- Letter 12, 1887. {RY 128.3} [RY 129.1] Faithful in Health Reform ［PORTION OF MANUSCRIPT READ TO THE DELEGATES AT THE 1909 GENERAL CONFERENCE SESSION.］ The question of how to preserve the health is one of primary importance. When we study this question in the fear of God we shall learn that it is best, for both our physical and our spiritual advancement, to observe simplicity in diet. Let us patiently study this question. We need knowledge and judgment in order to move wisely in this matter. Nature's laws are not to be resisted, but obeyed. {RY 129.1} [RY 129.2] Those who have received instruction regarding the evils of the use of flesh foods, tea and coffee, and rich and unhealthful food preparations, and who are determined to make a covenant with God by sacrifice, will not continue to indulge their appetite for food that they know to be unhealthful. God demands that the appetites be cleansed, and that self-denial be practiced in regard to those things which are not good. This is a work that will have to be done before His people can stand before Him a perfected people.... {RY 129.2} [RY 129.3] There are some professed believers who accept certain portions of the Testimonies as the message of God, while they reject those portions that condemn their favorite indulgences. Such persons are working contrary to their own welfare and the welfare of the church. It is essential that we walk in the light while we have the light. Those who claim to believe in health reform, and yet work counter to its principles in the daily life practice, 130 are hurting their own souls and are leaving wrong impressions upon the minds of believers and unbelievers. -- 9T 153, 154. {RY 129.3} [RY 130.1] Healthful Building Locations So far as possible, all buildings intended for human habitation should be placed on high, well-drained ground. This will ensure a dry site.... This matter is often too lightly regarded. Continuous ill health, serious diseases, and many deaths result from the dampness and malaria of low-lying, ill-drained situations. {RY 130.1} [RY 130.2] In the building of houses it is especially important to secure thorough ventilation and plenty of sunlight. Let there be a current of air and an abundance of light in every room in the house. Sleeping rooms should be so arranged as to have a free circulation of air day and night. No room is fit to be occupied as a sleeping room unless it can be thrown open daily to the air and sunshine. In most countries bedrooms need to be supplied with conveniences for heating, that they may be thoroughly warmed and dried in cold or wet weather. {RY 130.2} [RY 130.3] The guestchamber should have equal care with the rooms intended for constant use. Like the other bedrooms, it should have air and sunshine and should be provided with some means of heating to dry out the dampness that always accumulates in a room not in constant use. Whoever sleeps in a sunless room or occupies a bed that has not been thoroughly dried and aired does so at the risk of health, and often of life.... {RY 130.3} [RY 130.4] Those who have the aged to provided for should remember that these especially need warm, comfortable 131 rooms. Vigor declines as years advance, leaving less vitality with which to resist unhealthful influences; hence the greater necessity for the aged to have plenty of sunlight and fresh, pure air. -- AH 148, 149. {RY 130.4} [RY 131.1] A Prescription for Healing When the gospel is received in its purity and power, it is a cure for the maladies that originated in sin. The Sun of Righteousness arises, "with healing in His wings" (Malachi 4:2). Not all that this world bestows can heal a broken heart, or impart peace of mind, or remove care, or banish disease. Fame, genius, talent -- all are powerless to gladden the sorrowful heart or to restore the wasted life. The life of God in the soul is man's only hope. {RY 131.1} [RY 131.2] The love which Christ diffuses through the whole being is a vitalizing power. Every vital part -- the brain, the heart, the nerves -- it touches with healing. By it the highest energies of the being are roused to activity. It frees the soul from the guilt and sorrow, the anxiety and care, that crush the life forces. With it come serenity and composure. It implants in the soul, joy that nothing earthly can destroy -- joy in the Holy Spirit -- health-giving, life-giving, joy. {RY 131.2} [RY 131.3] Our Saviour's words, "Come unto Me,...and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28), are a prescription for the healing of physical, mental, and spiritual ills. Though men have brought suffering upon themselves by their own wrongdoing, He regards them with pity. In Him they may find help. He will do great things for those who trust in Him. -- MH 115. 132 {RY 131.3} [RY 132.1] Jesus was the fountain of healing mercy for the world; and through all those secluded years at Nazareth, His life flowed out in currents of sympathy and tenderness. The aged, the sorrowing, and the sin-burdened, the children at play in their innocent joy, the little creatures of the groves, the patient beasts of burden -- all were happier for His presence. -- DA 74. {RY 132.1} [RY 132.2] The Importance of Exercise Inactivity is the greatest curse that could come upon most invalids. Light employment in useful labor, while it does not tax mind or body, has a happy influence upon both. It strengthens the muscles, improves the circulation, and gives the invalid the satisfaction of knowing that he is not wholly useless in this busy world. He may be able to do but little at first, but he will soon find his strength increasing, and the amount of work done can be increased accordingly. {RY 132.2} [RY 132.3] Exercise aids the dyspeptic by giving the digestive organs a healthy tone. To engage in severe study or violent physical exercise immediately after eating, hinders the work of digestion; but a short walk after a meal, with the head erect and the shoulders back, is a great benefit. {RY 132.3} [RY 132.4] Notwithstanding all that is said and written concerning its importance, there are still many who neglect physical exercise. Some grow corpulent because the system is clogged; others become thin and feeble because their vital powers are exhausted in disposing of an excess of food. The liver is burdened in its effort to cleanse the blood of impurities, and illness is the result. 133 {RY 132.4} [RY 133.1] Those whose habits are sedentary should, when the weather will permit, exercise in the open air every day, summer or winter. Walking is preferable to riding or driving, for it brings more of the muscles into exercise. The lungs are forced into healthy action, since it is impossible to walk briskly without inflating them. {RY 133.1} [RY 133.2] Such exercise would in many cases be better for the health than medicine. -- MH 240. {RY 133.2} [RY 133.3] No Exercise Can Take the Place of Walking Those who are feeble and indolent should not yield to their inclination to be inactive, thus depriving themselves of air and sunlight, but should practice exercising out of doors in walking or working in the garden. They will become very much fatigued, but this will not injure them. You, my sister, will experience weariness, yet it will not hurt you; your rest will be sweeter after it. Inaction weakens the organs that are not exercised. And when these organs are used, pain and weariness are experienced, because the muscles have become feeble. It is not good policy to give up the use of certain muscles because pain is felt when they are exercised. The pain is frequently caused by the effort of nature to give life and vigor to those parts that have become partially lifeless through inaction. The motion of these long-disused muscles will cause pain, because nature is awakening them to life. {RY 133.3} [RY 133.4] Walking, in all cases where it is possible, is the best remedy for diseased bodies, because in this exercise all the organs of the body are brought into use. Many who depend upon the movement cure could accomplish 134 more for themselves by muscular exercise than the movements can do for them. In some cases want of exercise causes the bowels and muscles to become enfeebled and shrunken, and these organs that have become enfeebled for want of use will be strengthened by exercise. There is no exercise that can take the place of walking. By it the circulation of the blood is greatly improved. -- 3T 78. {RY 133.4} [RY 135.1] Chap. 11 - Fortitude In Affliction ［LATE IN 1891, ELLEN G. WHITE, IN RESPONSE TO A REQUEST FROM THE GENERAL CONFERENCE, JOURNEYED TO AUSTRALIA TO ASSIST IN STRENGTHENING THE NEWLY ESTABLISHED WORK THERE. THE SOJOURN EXTENDED TO NINE YEARS. SOON AFTER HER ARRIVAL SHE WAS OVERTAKEN BY AN EXTENDED AND PAINFUL ILLNESS. THE CITATIONS IN THIS SECTION RECORD HER FORTITUDE IN THIS AFFLICTION. SEE 2SM 233-242.］ During Prolonged Illness Every mail has taken from one to two hundred pages from my hand, and most of it has been written either as I am now propped up on the bed by pillows, half lying or half sitting, or bolstered up sitting in an uncomfortable chair. {RY 135.1} [RY 135.2] It is very painful to my hip and to the lower part of my spine to sit up. If such easy chairs were to be found in this country ［Australia］ as you have at the sanitarium, one would be readily purchased by me, if it cost thirty dollars.... It is with great weariness that I can sit erect and hold up my head. I must rest it against the back of the chair on the pillows, half reclining. This is my condition just now. {RY 135.2} [RY 135.3] But I am not at all discouraged. I feel that I am sustained daily. In the long weary hours of the night, when sleep has been out of the question, I have devoted much time to prayer; and when every nerve seemed to be shrieking with pain, when if I considered myself, it seemed I should go frantic, the peace of Christ has come into my heart in such measure that I have been filled with gratitude and thanksgiving. I know that Jesus loves me, and I love Jesus. Some nights I have slept three hours, a few nights four hours, and much of the 136 time only two, and yet in these long Australian nights, in the darkness, all seems light about me, and I enjoy sweet communion with God. {RY 135.3} [RY 136.1] When I first found myself in a state of helplessness I deeply regretted having crossed the broad waters. Why was I not in America? Why at such expense was I in this country? Time and again I could have buried my face in the bed quilts and had a good cry. But I did not long indulge in the luxury of tears. {RY 136.1} [RY 136.2] I said to myself, "Ellen G. White, what do you mean? Have you not come to Australia because you felt that it was your duty to go where the conference judged it best for you to go? Has this not been your practice?" {RY 136.2} [RY 136.3] I said, "Yes." {RY 136.3} [RY 136.4] "Then why do you feel almost forsaken and discouraged? Is not this the enemy's work?" {RY 136.4} [RY 136.5] I said, "I believe it is." {RY 136.5} [RY 136.6] I dried my tears as quickly as possible and said, "It is enough; I will not look on the dark side any more. Live or die, I commit the keeping of my soul to Him who died for me." {RY 136.6} [RY 136.7] I then believed that the Lord would do all things well, and during this eight months of helplessness, I have not had any despondency or doubt. I now look at this matter as a part of the Lord's great plan, for the good of His people here in this country, and for those in America, and for my good. I cannot explain why or how, but I believe it. And I am happy in my affliction. I can trust my heavenly Father. I will not doubt His love. I have an ever-watchful guardian day and night, 137 and I will praise the Lord, for His praise is upon my lips because it comes from a heart full of gratitude. -- Letter 18a, 1892. {RY 136.7} [RY 137.1] Prayer and Anointing -- but Not Instantly Healed May 21, 1892. The trying, almost sleepless night is ended. Yesterday afternoon Elder ［A. G.］ Daniells and his wife, Elder ［G. C.］ Tenney and his wife, and Brethren Stockton and Smith came to our house at my request to pray that the Lord would heal me. We had a most earnest season of prayer, and we were all much blessed. I was relieved, but not restored. I have now done all that I can to follow the Bible directions, and I shall wait for the Lord to work, believing that in His own good time He will heal me. My faith takes hold of the promise, "Ask, and ye shall receive" (John 16:24). {RY 137.1} [RY 137.2] I believe that the Lord heard our prayers. I hoped that my captivity might be turned immediately, and to my finite judgment it seemed that thus God would be glorified. I was much blessed during our season of prayer, and I shall hold fast to the assurance then given me: "I am your Redeemer; I will heal you." -- Ms 19, 1892. {RY 137.2} [RY 137.3] Jesus Knows Our Griefs and Pains June 26, 1892. I am glad when the daylight comes, for the nights are long and wearisome. But when I cannot sleep, gratitude fills my heart as I think that One who never slumbers is watching over me for good. 138 What a wonderful thought it is that Jesus knows all about the pains and griefs we bear. In all our afflictions He was afflicted. Some among our friends know nothing of human woe or physical pain. They are never sick, and therefore they cannot enter fully into the feelings of those who are sick. But Jesus is touched with the feeling of our infirmity. He is the great medical missionary. He has taken humanity upon Himself, and has placed Himself at the head of a new dispensation, in order that He may reconcile justice and compassion. -- Ms 19, 1892. {RY 137.3} [RY 138.1] "Make Me a Healthy, Fruit-bearing Branch" June 29, 1892. My prayer on awaking is, Jesus, keep Thy child today. Take me under Thy guardianship. Make me a healthy, fruit-bearing branch of the living Vine. "Without Me," Christ says, "ye can do nothing" (John 15:5). In and through Christ we can do all things. {RY 138.1} [RY 138.2] He who was the adored of angels, who had listened to the music of the heavenly choir, was ever touched, while upon this earth, with the sorrows of children, ever ready to listen to the story of their childish woe. He often dried their tears, cheering them with the tender sympathy of His words, which seemed to hush their sorrows and make them forget their grief. The emblem in the form of a dove that hovered over Jesus at His baptism represents His gentleness of character. -- Ms 19, 1892. 139 {RY 138.2} [RY 139.1] "Let No Unkind Words Be Spoken by Me" June 30, 1892. Another night of great weariness is nearly passed. Although I continue to suffer much pain, I know that I am not forsaken by my Saviour. My prayer is, Help me, Jesus, that I may not dishonor Thee with my lips. Let no unkind words be spoken by me. -- Ms 19, 1892. {RY 139.1} [RY 139.2] "I Will Not Complain" July 6, 1892. I am so thankful that I can tell the Lord all my fears and perplexities. I feel that I am under the shield of His wings. An infidel once asked a God-fearing youth, "How great is the God you worship?" "So great," was the reply, "that He fills immensity, and yet so small that He dwells in every sanctified heart." {RY 139.2} [RY 139.3] O precious Saviour, I long for Thy salvation. "As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after Thee" (Psalm 42:1). I long for a clearer view of Jesus. I love to think of His spotless life, to meditate upon His lessons. How many times I repeat the words, "Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28). {RY 139.3} [RY 139.4] Much of the time my body is full of pain, but I will not by complaining become unworthy of the name of Christian. I am assured that this lesson of suffering will be to the glory of God, a means of warning others to avoid continuous labor under trying circumstances so unfavorable to health of the body. -- Ms 19, 1892. 140 {RY 139.4} [RY 140.1] "The Lord Strengthens Me" July 7, 1892. The Lord strengthens me by His grace to write important letters. The brethren frequently come to me for counsel. I feel a strong assurance that this tedious affliction is for the glory of the Lord. I will not murmur; for when I wake in the night, it seems that Jesus is looking upon me. The fifty-first chapter of Isaiah is exceedingly precious to me. He bears all our burdens. I read this chapter with assurance and hope. -- Ms 19, 1892. {RY 140.1} [RY 140.2] No Thought of Beating a Retreat July 10, 1892. I awoke Emily ［EMILY CAMPBELL, MRS. WHITE'S TRAVELING COMPANION AND SECRETARY.］ at five o'clock to build my fire and help me to dress. I thank the Lord that I had a better night's rest than usual. My wakeful hours I employ in prayer and meditation. The question forces itself upon me, Why do I not receive the blessing of restoration to health? Shall I interpret these long months of sickness as evidences of the displeasure of God because I came to Australia? I answer decidedly, No, I dare not do this. At times before leaving America I thought that the Lord did not require me to go to a country so far away, at my age and when I was prostrated by overwork. But I followed the voice of the ［General］ Conference, as I have ever tried to do at times when I had no clear light myself. I came to Australia, and found the believers here in a condition where they must have help. For weeks after reaching here I labored as earnestly as I have ever labored in my life. Words 141 were given me to speak in regard to the necessity of personal piety.... {RY 140.2} [RY 141.1] I am in Australia, and I believe that I am just where the Lord wants me to be. Because suffering is my portion, I have no thought of beating a retreat. The blessed assurance is given me that Jesus is mine and that I am His child. The darkness is dispelled by the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness. Who can understand the pain I suffer but the One who is afflicted in all our afflictions? To whom can I speak but to Him who is touched with the feeling of our infirmities, and who knows how to succor those who are tempted? {RY 141.1} [RY 141.2] When I pray earnestly for restoration, and it seems that the Lord does not answer, my spirit almost faints within me. Then it is that the dear Saviour makes me mindful of His presence. He says to me, Cannot you trust Him who has purchased you with His own blood? I have graven thee on the palms of My hands. Then my soul is nourished with the divine Presence. I am lifted out of myself, as it were, into the presence of God. -- Ms 19, 1892. {RY 141.2} [RY 141.3] God Knows What Is Best July 14, 1892. When the affliction under which I have been suffering for several months came upon me, I was surprised that it was not removed at once in answer to prayer. But the promise, "My grace is sufficient" (2 Corinthians 12:9), has been fulfilled in my case. There can be no doubt on my part. My hours of pain have been hours of prayer, for I have known to whom to take my sorrows. I have the privilege of reinforcing my feeble 142 strength by laying hold upon infinite power. By day and night I stand on the solid rock of God's promises. {RY 141.3} [RY 142.1] My heart goes out to Jesus in loving trust. He knows what is best for me. My nights would be lonely did I not claim the promise, "Call upon Me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify Me" (Psalm 50:15). -- Ms 19, 1892. {RY 142.1} [RY 142.2] Lessons From The Months Of Suffering I have been passing through great trial in pain and suffering and helplessness, but through it all I have obtained a precious experience more valuable to me than gold. When I was first convinced that I must give up my cherished plans to visit the churches in Australia and New Zealand, I felt to seriously question whether it was my duty to leave America and come to this far-off country. My sufferings were acute. Many sleepless hours of the nights I spent in going over and over our experience since we left Europe for America, and it has been a continual scene of anxiety, suffering, and burden bearing. Then I said, What does it all mean? {RY 142.2} [RY 142.3] I carefully reviewed the history of the past few years and the work the Lord gave me to do. Not once did He fail me, and often He manifested Himself to me in a marked manner, and I saw I had nothing of which to complain, but instead precious things running like threads of gold through all my experience. The Lord understood better than I the things that I needed, and I felt that He was drawing me very nigh to Himself, and I must be careful not to dictate to God as to what He should do with me. This unreconciliation was at the 143 beginning of my sufferings and helplessness, but it was not long until I felt that my affliction was a part of God's plan. I found that by partly lying and partly sitting I could place myself in position to use my crippled hands, and although suffering much pain I could do considerable writing. Since coming to this country I have written sixteen hundred pages of paper of this size. {RY 142.3} [RY 143.1] Many nights during the past nine months I was enabled to sleep but two hours a night, and then at times darkness would gather about me; but I prayed, and realized much sweet comfort in drawing nigh to God. The promises, "Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you" (James 4:8), "When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him" (Isaiah 59:19), were fulfilled to me. I was all light in the Lord. Jesus was sacredly near, and I found the grace given sufficient, for my soul was stayed upon God, and I was full of grateful praise to Him who loved me and gave Himself for me. I could say from a full heart, "I know whom I have believed" (2 Timothy 1:12). "God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it" (1 Corinthians 10:13). Through Jesus Christ I have come off more than conqueror, and held the vantage ground. {RY 143.1} [RY 143.2] I cannot read the purpose of God in my affliction, but He knows what is best, and I will commit my soul, body, and spirit to Him as unto my faithful Creator. "For I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have committed 144 unto Him against that day" (2 Timothy 1:12). -- Letter 7, 1892. {RY 143.2} [RY 144.1] Expect Short-Term Memory Problems He who has grown old in the service of God may find his mind a blank in regard to the things that are happening about him, and recent transactions may soon pass from his memory; but his mind is all awake to the scenes and transactions of his childhood. -- SD 78. {RY 144.1} [RY 144.2] Rest in His Love We honor God and our Lord Jesus Christ when we rest in His love. You are one of the Lord's witnesses, whom He will never leave nor forsake. I am instructed to say to you, He has pardoned all your sins, and put upon you the white robe of His righteousness. All He requires of you now is to rest in His love. He has you in His keeping. You have fought the battles of the Lord Jesus Christ, you have kept the faith, and henceforth there is laid up for you a crown of life, to be your reward in that day when life and immortality shall be given to all who have kept the faith and have not denied the Saviour's name. {RY 144.2} [RY 144.3] That your mind is clouded is no evidence that Christ is not your precious Saviour. Now that the childhood of age has come upon you, He regards you as no less His child. Your religious life bears its testimony now as in the past. You have believed the word of God, and in perplexities and trials have acted according to that word. Like the apostle you may say, "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the 145 faith: henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love His appearing" (2 Timothy 4:7, 8). -- Letter 299, 1904. {RY 144.3} [RY 146.1] Chap. 12 - Assurance and Comfort for Those Facing Death Messages of Sympathy and Hope to a Faithful Assistant ［MARIAN DAVIS, WHO JOINED MRS. WHITE'S STAFF IN 1879 AND WAS ASSOCIATED WITH HER IN THE WORK IN AMERICA, EUROPE, AND AUSTRALIA FOR TWENTY-FIVE YEARS, CONTRACTED TUBERCULOSIS IN 1903, AND A YEAR LATER CLOSED HER LIFEWORK. MISS DAVIS WAS A FAITHFUL AND TRUSTED LITERARY ASSISTANT, MUCH BELOVED BY MRS. WHITE. SEE 2SM 251-254.］ Melrose, Massachusetts August 17, 1904 Dear Sister Marian Davis: I would be pleased to be at home, but just what meetings I shall consent to attend is uncertain; therefore we will do the very best we can.... {RY 146.1} [RY 146.2] I am asking the Lord to strengthen you. We are hopeful that you are better. Do keep fast hold of the Lord, your hand in the hand of Christ.... {RY 146.2} [RY 146.3] Marian, you must not become discouraged. Your case is in the hands of the Lord, and you must now submit your case in regard to treatment to let the physicians, Dr. A and Dr. B, do those things for you that must be done. We have other books to put in your hands when you shall overcome the illness now upon you. Be sure to eat, even if it causes some pain. The longer you refrain from eating, the weaker you will become.... We may inquire, How can the Lord have need of us? Is not our God full of might? Will you not lay hold on His strength? No living being can help you as the Lord Jesus can. Trust in Him. He 147 will care for you. -- Letter 378, 1904. {RY 146.3} [RY 147.1] Melrose, Massachusetts August 24, 1904 Dear Sister Marian Davis: Let not one anxious thought come into your mind. I am sorry you are so ill, but do everything you can on your part for the recovery of your health. I will see that all bills of expense shall be settled. I am not well; not able to travel but a little distance in the carriage. I dare not commit myself to the lengthy journeys on the cars. As long as you and I shall live, my home is your home.... {RY 147.1} [RY 147.2] Marian, nearly the whole time I have been away I have not relished food, but I dare not cease to eat, for then I could do nothing. I have eaten when I could not relish food, in order that I might live. I have relished food since I came to this place. I put my trust in God and plead with Him for you and for myself. We are to have no anxieties or cares. Just put your trust in the Lord. All that is needed for you and me is to believe and trust in Him who is able to save to the uttermost all who come unto Him and will put their trust in Him. "Hold fast My hand," Jesus says to you and me. You are encouraged to think right thoughts upon Christ our Saviour -- your Saviour and my Saviour. You have rejoiced in every opportunity of doing what you could to promote His glory, and you will be led into the city of God when the last trump of God shall sound, and we shall be received with genuine joy. {RY 147.2} [RY 147.3] Marian, you have been united with me to bring 148 sound doctrine into actual contact with human souls, that they may catch the inspiration and produce sound practice. "The form of sound words" is to be prized above gold and silver and every earthly attraction. You have loved the truth. You have felt intensely over the great neglect our Lord and Saviour has been receiving. Oh, to be like-minded with God! This you have longed for. There is no genuine saving elevation for man apart from the truth of God. {RY 147.3} [RY 148.1] "Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name" (Psalm 103:1). Now please let you and me have a thanksgiving service every day. Is it not due Him who has spared your life these many years in answer to the prayer of faith? Give yourself into His hands in your weakness, and trust in Him fully. We will take the Word of God as the grand rule of our lives, the heavenly panacea in our hand. We have tried, you and I united, to bring before minds the true form of doctrine, mingling holiness, mercy, truth, and love. We have tried to present these in simplicity, so that souls shall grasp mingled love and holiness -- which is simply Christianity in the heart. We have done what we could do to present Christianity as the crown and glory of man's life here in this world, preparatory to entrance into the city of God to be His dear, precious redeemed ones in the mansions He has gone to prepare for us. Then praise the Lord. Let us praise Him. {RY 148.1} [RY 148.2] Please eat, Marian, because your earthly physician would have you eat, and the great Medical Missionary would have you eat; and Sister ［M.J.］ Nelson will get anything you ask for. No one can be more pleased than 149 I to have your life spared to continue to do the work; but if your or my time is come to fall asleep in Jesus, we must not shorten life by refusing the nourishment that the system must have. Now eat, my dear, whether you want to eat or not, and thus act your part toward recovery. Do your very best to recover, and then if it please the Lord to give you rest, you have done what you could. I appreciate your labors. Praise the Lord, Marian, that Jesus, the Great Physician, can heal you. In love. -- Letter 379, 1904. {RY 148.2} [RY 149.1] College View, Nebraska September 16, 1904 Dear Sister Marian: I keep your case before me, and I am grieved that you are troubled in mind. I would comfort you if it were in my power. Has not Jesus, the precious Saviour, been to you so many times a present help in times of need? Do not grieve the Holy Spirit, but cease worrying. This is what you have many times talked to others. Let the words of those who are not sick, as you are, comfort you, and may the Lord help you, is my prayer. {RY 149.1} [RY 149.2] If it is the Lord's will that you should die, you should feel that it is your privilege to commit your whole being, body, soul, and spirit, into the hands of a just and merciful God. He has no such feelings of condemnation as you imagine. I want you to stop thinking that the Lord does not love you. Cast yourself unreservedly upon the merciful provisions that He has made. He is 150 waiting for you to heed His invitation.... You need not think that you have done anything which would lead God to treat you with severity. I know better. Just believe in His love, and take Him at His word.... No suspicion or distrust is to take possession of our minds. No apprehension of the greatness of God is to confuse our faith. {RY 149.2} [RY 150.1] May God help us to humble ourselves in meekness and lowliness. Christ laid aside His royal robe and kingly crown, that He might associate with humanity, and show that human beings may be perfect. Clad in the garments of mercy He lived in our world a perfect life, to give us evidence of His love. He has done that which should make unbelief in Him impossible. From His high command in the heavenly courts He stooped to take human nature upon Him. His life is an example of what our lives may be. That no apprehension of God's greatness should come in to efface our belief in God's love, Christ became a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. The human heart, given up to Him, will become a sacred harp, sending forth sacred music. -- Letter 365, 1904. {RY 150.1} [RY 150.2] College View, Nebraska September 26, 1904 Dear Sister Marian: We pray your life may be preserved until we meet you once more -- but you may not die, but live.... {RY 150.2} [RY 150.3] Look to Jesus. Trust in Jesus, whether you live or 151 die. He is your Redeemer. He is our Life-giver. If you fall asleep in Jesus He will bring you forth from the grave to a glorious immortality. May He give you peace and comfort and hope and joy from henceforth. {RY 150.3} [RY 151.1] Put your entire trust in Jesus. He will never leave you nor forsake you. He says, I have graven you upon the palms of My hands. Marian, if you go before I do, we shall know each other there. We shall see as we are seen and know as we are known. Just let the peace of Christ come into your soul. Be true in your trust because He is true to His promise. Lay your poor, nervous hand in His firm hand and let Him hold you and strengthen you, cheer and comfort you. I will now get ready to leave this place. Oh, I wish I were with you this moment! In much love. -- Letter 382, 1904. {RY 151.1} [RY 151.2] Comfort to a Minister Dying of Cancer We do not forget you; we remember you in our prayers at the family altar. I lie awake nights pleading with God in your behalf. {RY 151.2} [RY 151.3] Oh, I feel so sorry for you. I will continue to pray that the blessing of God may rest upon you. He will not leave you comfortless. This world is of but little account, but, my dear brother and sister, Jesus says, "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you" (Matthew 7:7). I plead this promise in your behalf.... {RY 151.3} [RY 151.4] My brother, one night I seemed to be leaning over you, and saying: "Only a little longer, only a few more pangs of pain, a few more suffering hours, and then rest, blessed rest. In a special manner you will find peace. All 152 humanity must be tested and tried. All of us must drink the cup and be baptized with affliction. But Christ has tasted death for every man in its bitterest form. He knows how to pity, how to sympathize. Only rest in His arms; He loves you, and He has redeemed you with His everlasting love. Be thou faithful unto death, and thou shalt receive a crown of life. {RY 151.4} [RY 152.1] "All who live in our world from henceforth will know the meaning of trials. I know that God will give you grace, that He will not forsake you. Call to mind the promise of God: 'Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them' (Revelation 14:13). Be of good courage. I would be with you now if I could, but we shall meet in the morning of the resurrection."... {RY 152.1} [RY 152.2] I was also speaking words of comfort to Sister C. I was encouraging her, and the room seemed to be filled with angels of God. Let both of you be of good courage. The Lord will not leave nor forsake you. -- 2SM 256. {RY 152.2} [RY 152.3] Deeds Preserved Through Eternal Ages God's messengers are to hold aloft the standard of truth until the hand is palsied in death. When they sleep in death, the places that once knew them know them no more. The churches in which they preached, the places they visited to hold forth the word of life, still remain. The mountains, the hills, the things seen by mortal vision, are still there. All these things must at last pass away. The time is coming when the earth shall reel to and fro and shall be removed like a cottage. But 153 the thoughts, the purposes, the acts of God's workers, although now unseen, will appear at the great day of final retribution and reward. Things now forgotten will then appear as witnesses, either to approve or to condemn. {RY 152.3} [RY 153.1] Love, courtesy, self-sacrifice -- these are never lost. When God's chosen ones are changed from mortality to immortality, their words and deeds of goodness will be made manifest, and will be preserved through the eternal ages. No act of unselfish service, however small or simple, is ever lost. Through the merits of Christ's imputed righteousness, the fragrance of such words and deeds is forever preserved. -- RH March 10, 1904. {RY 153.1} [RY 153.2] Christ Will Lead Us Safely Home Was ever an instance known where a dying Christian gave to his watching friends the testimony that he had been deceived, that there is no God, no reality in the religion of Christ? But how many of those who have drawn about them the dark robes of atheism have let them fall before the grim messenger of death. We might cite many instances where learned men have gloried in their unbelief, and in parading their atheism. But when death claimed them, they have looked with horror into the starless future, and their dying words have been, "I have tried to believe that there is no God, no reward for the faithful, no punishment for the wicked. But how vain has been the attempt. I know now that I must meet the doom of the lost." {RY 153.2} [RY 153.3] Sir Thomas Scott in his last moments cried: "Until this moment I believed there was neither a God nor a 154 hell. Now I know and feel that there are both, and that I am doomed to perdition by the just judgment of God." {RY 153.3} [RY 154.1] Voltaire was at one time the lion of the hour. He lived in a splendid mansion, and was surrounded by every luxury that heart could wish. Kings honored him. The great men of the world sought his society. On one occasion men took his horses from his carriage, and drew him themselves in triumph around the city.... {RY 154.1} [RY 154.2] Go now to the death-bed of a Christian -- Halburton of Scotland. He was in poverty, and was suffering great pain. He had none of the comforts that Voltaire possessed, but he was infinitely richer. He said: "I shall shortly die. In the resurrection I shall come forth to see my God and to live forevermore. I bless His name that I have found Him, and I die rejoicing in Him. I bless God that I was ever born." {RY 154.2} [RY 154.3] Giving an account of the last days of Sir Davis Brewster, his daughter writes: "He thanked God that the way of salvation was so simple. No labored argument, no hard attainment, was required. To believe in the Lord Jesus Christ was to live. He trusted in Him, and enjoyed His peace." The last words of this great man of science were: "Life has been very bright to me, and now there is the brightness beyond. I shall see Jesus, who created all things, who made the worlds. I shall see Him as He is. Yes, I have had the Light for many years. Oh, how bright it is! I feel so safe, so satisfied." {RY 154.3} [RY 154.4] "The way of the transgressor is hard," but wisdom's "ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace." In the downward road the gateway 155 may be bright with flowers, but there are thorns in the path. The light of hope which shines from its entrance fades into the darkness of despair; and the soul who follows that path descends into the shadows of unending night. {RY 154.4} [RY 155.1] But he who takes Christ for his guide will be led safely home. The road may be rough, and the ascent steep; there may be pitfalls upon the right hand and upon the left; we may have to endure toil in our journey; when weary, when longing for rest, we may have to toil on; when faint; we may have to fight; when discouraged, we must still hope; but with Christ as our guide, we shall not fail of reaching the desired haven at last. Christ has trodden the rough way before us, and has smoothed the path for our feet. {RY 155.1} [RY 155.2] Those who walk in wisdom's ways are, even in tribulation, exceedingly joyful, for He whom their soul loveth walks invisible beside them. At each upward step they discern more distinctly the touch of His hand; at every step, brighter gleamings of glory from the Unseen fall upon their path; and their songs of praise, reaching ever a higher note, ascend to join the songs of the angels before the throne. "The path of the righteous is as the light of dawn, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day." -- ST Aug. 3, 1904. {RY 155.2} [RY 155.3] The Grave Consecrated By Christ Christ has consecrated the grave by passing through death. The Lord Jesus broke the fetters of the tomb, and proclaimed over the rent sepulcher of Joseph, "I am the resurrection, and the life" (John 11:25). The grave is 156 consecrated by His presence. Footsteps of Him that bore the cross are traceable in His life and testify of His character. -- Letter 103, 1898. {RY 155.3} [RY 156.1] Our Washing and Ironing Time We know in whom we believe. Men may talk about our having our minds fixed too much upon heaven, but we know better. We have been in the work nearly forty-eight years, and we know something about God's service. I know best what bereavement is when I stand here alone, when he who stood by my side, and on whose large affections I have leaned for thirty years, is gone, and yet I am not alone, for Christ is my helper. Oh, I wish the curtains could be rolled back and we could see Christ in His glory. We are to be members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King. Now it is our privilege to know that Christ is by our side as our helper. {RY 156.1} [RY 156.2] Christ says, "I know thy works." He knows whether you are living a life of perfection and if you love to talk and think of Him, and whether it is your joy to praise Him. Do we expect to get to heaven at last and join the heavenly choir? Just as we go into the grave we will come up as far as the character is concerned. For this mortal shall put on immortality and this corruptible shall put on incorruption (See 1 Corinthians 15:54). It is the body that will be changed then, but now is the time for washing and ironing. It is the time to wash our robes and make them white in the blood of the Lamb. -- Ms 84, 1886. 157 {RY 156.2} [RY 157.1] Ripening for the Harvest The camp meeting at Worcester, Massachusetts, August 22-28 ... was an occasion of special interest to me. I there met a large number of believers, some of whom have been connected with the work from the very rise of the third angel's message. Since our last camp meeting, Brother Hastings, one of the faithful standard bearers, had fallen at his post. I felt sad as I saw others weighed down by the infirmities of age, yet I was glad to see them eagerly listening to the words of life. The love of God and His truth seemed to glow in their hearts and to light up their countenances. Their eyes were often filled with tears, not of sorrow but of joy, as they heard the message from God by the mouth of His servants. These aged pilgrims were present at nearly all the meetings, as if they feared that, like Thomas, they might be absent when Jesus should come in, and say, "Peace be unto you." {RY 157.1} [RY 157.2] Like ripening grain these precious tried and faithful ones are fitting for the harvest. Their work is nearly done. They may be permitted to remain till Christ shall be revealed in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. They may drop out of the ranks at any time, and sleep in Jesus. But while darkness covers the earth and gross darkness the people, these children of the light can lift up their heads and rejoice, knowing that their redemption draweth nigh. -- LS 271, 272 {RY 157.2} [RY 158.1] Chap. 13 - The Hour of Bereavement No Sin in Weeping Dear Sister: We sympathize with you in your bereavement and widowhood. I have passed over the ground that you are now traveling, and know what it means. How much sorrow there is in our world! How much grief! How much weeping! It is not right to say to the bereaved ones, "Do not weep; it is not right to weep." Such words have little consolation in them. There is no sin in weeping. Although the one who passes away has been for years a sufferer because of weakness and pain, yet that does not wipe away the tears from our eyes. {RY 158.1} [RY 158.2] Our loved ones die. Their accounts with God are sealed up. But while we consider it a serious, solemn thing to die, we must consider it a much more solemn thing to live. Every day of life is freighted with responsibilities which we must bear. Our individual interests, our words, our actions, are making impressions upon those with whom we are connected. We are to find our consolation in Jesus Christ. Precious Saviour! He was ever touched with human woe.... Cling to the Source of your strength. -- 2SM 264. {RY 158.2} [RY 158.3] The Lord to Be Your Comfort Dear Sister: A letter has just been placed in my hands from Sister G, giving an account of your bereavement. I deeply sympathize with you, my sister. If I were where I could visit you, I would do so.... 159 {RY 158.3} [RY 159.1] I will say to you, my sister, the Lord would not have you grieve in sadness. Your husband has been spared to you many years longer than I supposed he would be. God has mercifully spared him, and mercifully, after much suffering, has let him rest in Jesus.... Your husband and my husband are at rest. They have no more pain, no more suffering. They are at rest. {RY 159.1} [RY 159.2] I am sorry, my sister, that you are in affliction and sorrow. But Jesus, the precious Saviour, lives. He lives for you. He wants you to be comforted in His love. Do not worry; trust in the Lord.... Do not complain. Do not mourn and weep. Do not look on the dark side. Let the peace of God reign in your soul. Then you will have strength to bear all your sufferings, and you will rejoice that you have grace to endure. Praise the Lord; talk of His goodness; tell of His power. Sweeten the atmosphere which surrounds your soul. {RY 159.2} [RY 159.3] Do not dishonor God by words of repining, but praise Him with heart and soul and voice. Look on the bright side of everything. Do not bring a cloud or shadow into your home. Praise Him who is the light of your countenance and your God. Do this, and see how smoothly everything will go. -- 2SM 266, 267. {RY 159.3} [RY 159.4] Ellen White in Her Hour of Bereavement In my recent bereavement, I have had a near view of eternity. I have, as it were, been brought before the great white throne, and have seen my life as it will there appear. I can find nothing of which to boast, no merit that I can plead. "Unworthy, unworthy of the least of Thy favors, O my God," is my cry. My only hope is in a 160 crucified and risen Saviour. I claim the merits of the blood of Christ. Jesus will save to the uttermost all who put their trust in Him. {RY 159.4} [RY 160.1] It is sometimes hard for me to preserve a cheerful countenance when my heart is rent with anguish. But I would not permit my sorrow to cast a gloom upon all around me. Seasons of affliction and bereavement are often rendered more sorrowful and distressing than they should be, because it is customary to give ourselves up to mourning without restraint. By the help of Jesus, I determined to shun this evil; but my resolution has been severely tested. {RY 160.1} [RY 160.2] My husband's death was a heavy blow to me, more keenly felt because so sudden. As I saw the seal of death upon his countenance, my feelings were almost insupportable. I longed to cry out in my anguish. But I knew that this could not save the life of my loved one, and I felt that it would be unchristian to give myself up to sorrow. I sought help and comfort from above, and the promises of God were verified to me. The Lord's hand sustained me. It is a sin to indulge, without restraint, in mourning and lamentation. By the grace of Christ, we may be composed and even cheerful under sore trial. {RY 160.2} [RY 160.3] Let us learn a lesson of courage and fortitude from the last interview of Christ with His apostles. They were about to be separated. Our Savior was entering the blood-stained path which would lead Him to Calvary. Never was scene more trying than that through which He was soon to pass. The apostles had heard the words of Christ foretelling His sufferings and death, and their hearts were heavy with sorrow, their minds distracted 161 with doubt and fear. Yet there were no loud outcries; there was no abandonment of grief. Those last solemn, momentous hours were spent by our Saviour in speaking words of comfort and assurance to His disciples, and then all united in a hymn of praise. -- 2SM 267, 268. {RY 160.3} [RY 161.1] Ellen Dreams of James Shortly After His Death A few days since, I was pleading with the Lord for light in regard to my duty. In the night I dreamed I was in the carriage, driving, sitting at the right hand. Father was in the carriage, seated at my left hand. He was very pale, but calm and composed. "Why Father," I exclaimed, "I am so happy to have you by my side once more! I have felt that half of me was gone. Father, I saw you die; I saw you buried. Has the Lord pitied me and let you come back to me again, and we work together as we used to?" {RY 161.1} [RY 161.2] He looked very sad. He said, "The Lord knows what is best for you and for me. My work was very dear to me. We have made a mistake. We have responded to urgent invitations of our brethren to attend important meetings. We had not the heart to refuse. These meetings have worn us both more than we were aware. Our good brethren were gratified, but they did not realize that in these meetings we took upon us greater burdens than at our age we could safely carry. They will never know the result of this long-continued strain upon us. God would have had them bear the burdens we have carried for years. Our nervous energies have been continuously taxed, and then our brethren misjudging our motives and not realizing our burdens have weakened the action 162 of the heart. I have made mistakes, the greatest of which was in allowing my sympathies for the people of God to lead me to take work upon me which others should have borne. {RY 161.2} [RY 162.1] "Now, Ellen, calls will be made as they have been, desiring you to attend important meetings, as has been the case in the past. But lay this matter before God and make no response to the most earnest invitations. Your life hangs as it were upon a thread. You must have quiet rest, freedom from all excitement and from all disagreeable cares. We might have done a great deal for years with our pens, on subjects the people need that we have had light upon and can present before them, which others do not have. Thus you can work when your strength returns, as it will, and you can do far more with your pen than with your voice." {RY 162.1} [RY 162.2] He looked at me appealingly and said, "You will not neglect these cautions, will you, Ellen? Our people will never know under what infirmities we have labored to serve them because our lives were interwoven with the progress of the work, but God knows it all. I regret that I have felt so deeply and labored unreasonably in emergencies, regardless of the laws of life and health. The Lord did not require us to carry so heavy burdens and many of our brethren so few. We ought to have gone to the Pacific Coast before, and devoted our time and energies to writing. Will you do this now? Will you, as your strength returns, take your pen and write out these things we have so long anticipated, and make haste slowly? There is important matter which the people need. Make this your first business. You will have to 163 speak some to the people, but shun the responsibilities which have borne us down." {RY 162.2} [RY 163.1] "Well," said I, "James, you are always to stay with me now and we will work together." Said he, "I stayed in Battle Creek too long. I ought to have gone to California more than one year ago. But I wanted to help the work and institutions at Battle Creek. I have made a mistake. Your heart is tender. You will be inclined to make the same mistakes I have made. Your life can be of use to the cause of God. Oh, those precious subjects the Lord would have had me bring before the people, precious jewels of light!" {RY 163.1} [RY 163.2] I awoke. But this dream seemed so real. Now you can see and understand why I feel no duty to go to Battle Creek for the purpose of shouldering the responsibilities in General Conference. I have no duty to stand in General Conference. The Lord forbids me. That is enough. -- Letter 17, 1881. {RY 163.2} [RY 163.3] Vows to Carry On After Husband's Death During this severe attack of sickness ［experienced in Oakland, California, in 1888］ I had vividly brought to my remembrance the experience I passed through when my husband was dying. I prayed with him in my great feebleness on that occasion. I sat by his side with his hand in mine until he fell asleep in Jesus. The solemn vows I there made to stand at my post of duty were deeply impressed upon my mind -- vows to disappoint the enemy, to bear a constant, earnest appeal to my brethren of the cruelty of their jealousies and evil surmisings which were leavening the churches. I would 164 appeal to them to love one another, to keep their hearts tender by the remembrance of the love of Jesus exercised toward them, in what He did for them. And He said, "Love one another, as I have loved you" (John 15:12). I never can express with pen or voice the work that I discerned was laid out before me on that occasion when I was beside my dying husband. I have not lost the deep views of my work, as I sat by the bed of my husband with his dying hand in mine. -- Ms 21, 1888. {RY 163.3} [RY 164.1] Ellen White Reflects on James White's Death After my husband died, one of our brethren, who thought a great deal of him, said, "Do not let them bury him, but pray to the Lord that He may bring him to life again." I said, "No, no, although I realize my great loss, I will not do this," I felt that he had done his work. No one but myself knew how great a load he had carried in the efforts we had put forth to advance the truth. He had done the work of three men. {RY 164.1} [RY 164.2] Night after night, at the beginning of our work, when advancement seemed to be hindered on every hand, he would say, "Ellen, we must pray. We must not let go until we realize the power of God." He would lie awake for hours, and say, "Oh, Ellen, I am so afflicted. Will you pray for me, that I may not fail or be discouraged." Together we offered up our prayers, with strong crying and tears, until from his lips came the words, "Thank the Lord; He has spoken peace to me. I have light in the Lord. I will not fail. I will press the battle to the gates." Would I have him suffer all this over again? 165 No, no. I would in no case call him from his restful sleep to a life of toil and pain. He will rest until the morning of the resurrection. {RY 164.2} [RY 165.1] My husband died in 1881. During the time that has passed since then, I have missed him constantly. For one year after his death, I felt my loss keenly, until the Lord, when I was at the gates of death, healed me instantly. This was at a camp meeting held at Healdsburg, about a year after my husband's death. Since that time I have been willing to live, or willing to die, just as the Lord sees I can best glorify Him. -- Letter 396, 1906. {RY 165.1} [RY 166.1] Chap. 14 - Lessons from Bible Characters The Faith of Abraham Abraham was an old man when he received the startling command from God to offer up his son Isaac for a burnt offering. Abraham was considered an old man even in his generation. The ardor of his youth had faded away. It was no longer easy for him to endure hardships and brave dangers. In the vigor of youth man may breast the storm with a proud consciousness of strength and rise above discouragements that would cause his heart to fail later in life, when his steps are faltering toward the grave. {RY 166.1} [RY 166.2] But in His providence God reserved His last, most trying, test for Abraham until the burden of years was heavy upon him and he longed for rest from anxiety and toil. The Lord spoke unto him, saying: "Take now thy son, thine only son Isaac, whom thou lovest," "and offer him ... for a burnt offering." The heart of the old man stood still with horror. The loss of such a son by disease would have been most heart-rending to the fond father; it would have bowed his whitened head with sorrow; but now he is commanded to shed the precious blood of that son with his own hand. It seemed to him a fearful impossibility. {RY 166.2} [RY 166.3] Yet God had spoken, and His word must be obeyed. Abraham was stricken in years, but this did not excuse him from duty. He grasped the staff of faith and in dumb agony took by the hand his child, beautiful in the rosy 167 health of youth, and went out to obey the word of God. The grand old patriarch was human; his passions and attachments were like ours, and he loved his boy, who was the solace of his old age, and to whom the promise of the Lord had been given. {RY 166.3} [RY 167.1] But Abraham did not stop to question how God's promises could be fulfilled if Isaac were slain. He did not stay to reason with his aching heart, but carried out the divine command to the very letter, till, just as the knife was about to be plunged into the quivering flesh of the child, the word came: "Lay not thine hand upon the lad;" "for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only son from Me." {RY 167.1} [RY 167.2] This great act of faith is penciled on the pages of sacred history to shine forth upon the world as an illustrious example to the end of time. Abraham did not plead that his old age should excuse him from obeying God. He did not say: "My hairs are gray, the vigor of my manhood is gone; who will comfort my waning life when Isaac is no more? How can an aged father spill the blood of an only son?" No; God had spoken, and man must obey without questioning, murmuring, or fainting by the way. {RY 167.2} [RY 167.3] We need the faith of Abraham in our churches today, to lighten the darkness that gathers around them, shutting out the sweet sunlight of God's love and dwarfing spiritual growth. Age will never excuse us from obeying God. Our faith should be prolific of good works, for faith without works is dead. Every duty performed, every sacrifice made in the name of Jesus, 168 brings an exceeding great reward. In the very act of duty, God speaks and gives His blessing. But He requires of us an entire surrender of the faculties. The mind and heart, the whole being, must be given to Him, or we fall short of becoming true Christians. -- 4T 144, 145. {RY 167.3} [RY 168.1] David's Prayer I was shown David entreating the Lord not to forsake him when he should be old, and what it was that called forth his earnest prayer. He saw that most of the aged around him were unhappy and that unhappy traits of character increased especially with age. If persons were naturally close and covetous, they were most disagreeably so in their old age. If they were jealous, fretful, and impatient, they were especially so when aged. {RY 168.1} [RY 168.2] David was distressed as he saw that kings and nobles who seemed to have the fear of God before them while in the strength of manhood, became jealous of their best friends and relatives when aged. They were in continual fear that it was selfish motives which led their friends to manifest an interest for them. They would listen to the hints and the deceptive advice of strangers in regard to those in whom they should confide. Their unrestrained jealousy sometimes burned into a flame because all did not agree with their failing judgment. Their covetousness was dreadful. They often thought that their own children and relatives were wishing them to die in order to take their place and possess their wealth, and receive the homage which had been bestowed upon them. And some were so controlled by 169 their jealous, covetous feelings as to destroy their own children. {RY 168.2} [RY 169.1] David marked that although the lives of some while in the strength of manhood had been righteous, as old age came upon them they seemed to lose their self-control. Satan stepped in and guided their minds, making them restless and dissatisfied. He saw that many of the aged seemed forsaken of God and exposed themselves to the ridicule and reproaches of his enemies. David was deeply moved; he was distressed as he looked forward to the time when he should be aged. He feared that God would leave him and that he would be as unhappy as other aged persons whose course he had noticed, and would be left to the reproach of the enemies of the Lord. {RY 169.1} [RY 169.2] With this burden upon him he earnestly prays: "Cast me not off in the time of old age; forsake me not when my strength faileth." "O God, Thou hast taught me from my youth: and hitherto have I declared Thy wondrous works. Now also when I am old and gray-headed, O God, forsake me not; until I have showed Thy strength unto this generation, and Thy power to everyone that is to come" ［Psalm 71:9, 17, 18］. David felt the necessity of guarding against the evils which attend old age. -- 1T 422, 423 {RY 169.2} [RY 169.3] David Planned Ahead David, in arranging his business, sets a good example to all who are advanced in years, to settle their matters while they are capable of doing so, that when they shall be drawing near to death, and their mental 170 faculties are dimmed, they shall have nothing of a worldly nature to divert their minds from God. -- 2BC 1025. {RY 169.3} [RY 170.1] How Peter Faced Death Since his reinstatement after his denial of Christ, Peter had unflinchingly braved danger, and had shown a noble courage and boldness in preaching a crucified, risen, and ascended Saviour. As he lay in his cell, he called to mind the words that Christ had spoken to him: "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, When thou wast young, thou girdedst thyself, and walkedst whither thou wouldest: but when thou shalt be old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, and another shall gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldest not." Thus Jesus had made known to the disciple the very manner of his death, and even foretold the stretching of his hands upon the cross. {RY 170.1} [RY 170.2] Peter, as a Jew and a foreigner, was condemned to be scourged and crucified. In prospect of this fearful death, the apostle remembered his great sin in denying Jesus in the hour of His trial. Once so unready to acknowledge the cross, he now counted it a joy to yield up his life for the gospel, feeling only that for him who had denied his Lord, to die in the same manner as his Master died was too great an honor. Peter had sincerely repented of that sin, and had been forgiven by Christ, as is shown by the high commission given him to feed the sheep and lambs of the flock. But he could never forgive himself. Not even the thought of the agonies of the last terrible scene could lessen the bitterness of his sorrow and repentance. As a last favor, he entreated his executioners 171 that he might be nailed to the cross with his head downward. The request was granted, and in this manner died the great apostle Peter. -- RH Sept. 26, 1912. {RY 170.2} [RY 171.1] The Aged Apostle on Patmos More than half a century had passed since the organization of the Christian church. During that time the gospel message had been constantly opposed. Its enemies had never relaxed their efforts, and had at last succeeded in enlisting the power of the Roman emperor against the Christians. {RY 171.1} [RY 171.2] In the terrible persecution that followed, the apostle John did much to confirm and strengthen the faith of the believers. He bore a testimony which his adversaries could not controvert, and which helped his brethren to meet with courage and loyalty the trials that came upon them. When the faith of the Christians would seem to waver under the fierce opposition they were forced to meet, the old, tried servant of Jesus would repeat with power and eloquence the story of the crucified and risen Saviour. He steadfastly maintained his faith, and from his lips came ever the same glad message: "That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; ... that which we have seen and heard declare we unto you." {RY 171.2} [RY 171.3] John lived to be very old. He witnessed the destruction of Jerusalem and the ruin of the stately temple. The last survivor of the disciples who had been intimately 172 connected with the Saviour, his message had great influence in setting forth the fact that Jesus was the Messiah, the Redeemer of the world. No one could doubt his sincerity, and through his teachings many were continually turning from unbelief. {RY 171.3} [RY 172.1] The rulers of the Jews were filled with bitter hatred against John for his unwavering fidelity to the cause of Christ. They declared that their efforts against the Christians would avail nothing so long as John's testimony kept ringing in the ears of the people. In order that the miracles and teachings of Jesus might be forgotten, the voice of the bold witness must be silenced. {RY 172.1} [RY 172.2] John was accordingly summoned to Rome to be tried for his faith. Here before the authorities the apostle's doctrines were misstated. False witnesses accused him of teaching seditious heresies. By these accusations his enemies hoped to bring about the disciple's death. {RY 172.2} [RY 172.3] John answered for himself in a clear and convincing manner, and with such simplicity and candor that his words had a powerful effect. His hearers were astonished at his wisdom and eloquence. But the more convincing his testimony, the deeper was the hatred of his opposers. The emperor Domitian was filled with rage. He could not dispute the reasoning of Christ's faithful advocate, nor match the power that attended his utterance of truth; yet he determined that he would silence his voice. {RY 172.3} [RY 172.4] John was cast into a caldron of boiling oil: but the Lord preserved the life of His faithful servant, even as He preserved the three Hebrews in the fiery furnace. As the words were spoken, "Thus perish all who believe in 173 that deceiver, Jesus Christ of Nazareth," John declared, "My Master patiently submitted to all that Satan and his angels could devise to humiliate and torture Him. He gave His life to save the world. I am honored in being permitted to suffer for His sake. I am a weak, sinful man. Christ was holy, harmless, undefiled. He did not sin, neither was guile found in His mouth." These words had their influence, and John was removed from the caldron by the very men who had cast him in. {RY 172.4} [RY 173.1] Again the hand of persecution fell heavily upon the apostle. By the emperor's decree, John was banished to the isle of Patmos, condemned, "for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ." Here, his enemies thought, his influence would no longer be felt, and he must finally die of hardship and distress. {RY 173.1} [RY 173.2] To outward appearance, the enemies of truth were triumphing, but God's hand was moving unseen in the darkness. God permitted His faithful servant to be placed where Christ could give him a more wonderful revelation of Himself, and of divine truth for the enlightenment of the churches. In exiling John the enemies of truth had hoped to silence forever the voice of the faithful disciple; but on Patmos he received a message, the influence of which his enemies could not destroy, and which was to continue to strengthen the church to the end of time. Though not released from the responsibility of their wrong act, those who exiled John became instruments in the hands of God to carry out His purpose; and the very effort to extinguish the light placed the truth in bold relief. 174 {RY 173.2} [RY 174.1] Patmos, a barren, rocky island in the Aegean Sea, had been chosen by the Roman government as a place of banishment for criminals; but to the servant of God this gloomy abode became the gate of heaven. Here, shut away from the busy scenes of life, and from the active labors of former years, he had the companionship of God and Christ and the heavenly angels, and from them he received instruction for the church for all future time. The events that would take place in the closing scenes of this earth's history were outlined before him; and there he wrote out the visions he received from God. When his voice could no longer testify to the One whom he loved and served, the messages given him on that barren coast were to go forth as a lamp that burneth, declaring the sure purpose of the Lord concerning every nation on the earth. {RY 174.1} [RY 174.2] Among the cliffs and rocks of Patmos, John held communion with his Maker. He reviewed his past life, and at thought of the blessings he had received, peace filled his heart. He had lived the life of a Christian, and he could say in faith, "We know that we have passed from death unto life." Not so the emperor who had banished him. He could look back only on fields of warfare and carnage, on desolated homes, on weeping widows and orphans, the fruit of his ambitious desire for pre-eminence. {RY 174.2} [RY 174.3] In his isolated home John was able to study more closely than ever before the manifestations of divine power as recorded in the book of nature and in the pages of inspiration. To him it was a delight to meditate on the work of creation, and to adore the divine Architect. 175 In former years his eyes had been greeted by the sight of forest-covered hills, green valleys, and fruitful plains; and in the beauties of nature it had ever been his delight to trace the wisdom and skill of the Creator. He was now surrounded by scenes that to many would appear gloomy and uninteresting; but to John it was otherwise. While his surroundings might be desolate and barren, the blue heavens that bent above him were as bright and beautiful as the skies above his loved Jerusalem. In the wild, rugged rocks, in the mysteries of the deep, in the glories of the firmament, he read important lessons. All bore the message of God's power and glory. {RY 174.3} [RY 175.1] All around him the apostle beheld witnesses to the flood that had deluged the earth because the inhabitants ventured to transgress the law of God. The rocks thrown up from the great deep and from the earth, by the breaking forth of the waters, brought vividly to his mind the terrors of that awful outpouring of God's wrath. In the voice of many waters -- deep calling unto deep -- the prophet heard the voice of the Creator. The sea, lashed to fury by the merciless winds, represented to him the wrath of an offended God. The mighty waves, in their terrible commotion, restrained within limits appointed by an invisible hand, spoke of the control of an infinite Power. And in contrast he realized the weakness and folly of mortals, who, though but worms of the dust, glory in their supposed wisdom and strength, and set their hearts against the Ruler of the universe, as if God were altogether such a one as themselves. By the rocks he was reminded of Christ, the Rock of his strength, in whose shelter he could hide 176 without fear. From the exiled apostle on rocky Patmos there went up the most ardent longing of soul after God, the most fervent prayers. -- RH Sept. 5, 1912. {RY 175.1} [RY 176.1] The Best Time of John's Life The history of John affords a striking illustration of the way in which God can use aged workers. When John was exiled to the isle of Patmos, there were many who thought him to be past service, an old and broken reed, ready to fall at any time. But the Lord saw fit to use him still. Though banished from the scenes of his former labor, he did not cease to bear witness to the truth. Even in Patmos he made friends and converts. His was a message of joy, proclaiming a risen Saviour who on high was interceding for His people until He should return to take them to Himself. And it was after John had grown old in the service of his Lord that he received more communications from heaven than he had received during all the former years of his life. -- AA 572,573. {RY 176.1} [RY 176.2] In his old age John revealed the life of Christ in his life. He lived to be nearly one hundred years old, and over and over again he repeated the story of the crucified and risen Saviour. Persecution came upon the believers, and those young in experience were often in danger of losing their hold on Christ. But the old, tried servant of Jesus steadfastly maintained his faith. -- 7 BC 947. {RY 176.2} [RY 176.3] Comfort From Experiences of Bible Characters In the experience of the apostle John during his 177 persecution, there is a lesson of wonderful strength and comfort for the people of God. God does not prevent the plottings of wicked men, but He causes their devices to work for good to those who in trial and conflict maintain their faith and loyalty. Often the gospel worker carries on his work amid storms of persecution, bitter opposition, and unjust reproach. At such times let him remember that the experience to be gained in the furnace of trial and affliction is worth more than all the pain it costs. Thus God brings His children near to Him, that He may show them their weakness and His strength. He teaches them to lean on Him. Thus He prepares them to meet emergencies, to fill positions of trust, and to accomplish the great purpose for which their powers were given them. {RY 176.3} [RY 177.1] In all ages, God's appointed witnesses have exposed themselves to reproach and persecution for the truth's sake. Joseph was maligned and persecuted because he preserved his virtue and integrity. David, the chosen messenger of God, was hunted like a beast of prey by his enemies. Daniel was cast into a den of lions because he was true to his allegiance to heaven. Job was deprived of his worldly possessions, and so afflicted in body that he was abhorred by his relatives and friends; yet he maintained his integrity. Jeremiah could not be deterred from speaking the words that God had given him to speak; and his testimony so enraged the king and princes that he was cast into a loathsome pit. Stephen was stoned because he preached Christ and Him crucified. Paul was imprisoned, beaten with rods, stoned, and finally put to death because he was a faithful messenger 178 for God to the Gentiles. And John was banished to the isle of Patmos "for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ." {RY 177.1} [RY 178.1] These examples of human steadfastness bear witness to the faithfulness of God's promises--of His abiding presence and sustaining grace. They testify to the power of faith to withstand the powers of the world. It is the work of faith to rest in God in the darkest hour, to feel, however sorely tried and tempest tossed, that our Father is at the helm. The eye of faith alone can look beyond the things of time to estimate aright the worth of eternal riches. -- RH Sept. 12, 1912. {RY 178.1} [RY 178.2] Solomon's Life of Backsliding The life of Solomon is full of warning, not only to youth, but to those of mature years and to the aged, those who are descending the hill of life and facing the western sun.... {RY 178.2} [RY 178.3] When Solomon should have been in character as a sturdy oak, he fell from his steadfastness under the power of temptation. When his strength should have been the firmest, he was found the weakest of men. {RY 178.3} [RY 178.4] From such examples as this we should learn that watchfulness and prayer are the only safety for either young or old. Satan will so shape circumstances that unless we are kept by divine power they will almost imperceptibly weaken the fortifications of the soul. We need to inquire at every step, "Is this the way of the Lord?" {RY 178.4} [RY 178.5] As long as life shall last, there is need of guarding the affections and the passions with a firm purpose. 179 There is inward corruption, there are outward temptations, and wherever the work of God shall be advanced, Satan plans so to arrange circumstances that temptation shall come with overpowering force upon the soul. Not one moment can we be secure, only as we are relying upon God, the life hid with Christ in God. {RY 178.5} [RY 179.1] Notwithstanding the warnings in the Word of God and in the testimonies of His Spirit, many have closed their eyes to danger and have gone on in their own way, infatuated, deluded by Satan until they fall under his temptations. Then they abandon themselves to despair. This was the history of Solomon. But even for him there was help. He truly repented of his course of sin, and found help. {RY 179.1} [RY 179.2] Let none venture into sin as he did, in the hope that they too may recover themselves. Sin can be indulged only at the peril of infinite loss. But none who have fallen need give themselves up to despair. Aged men, once honored of God, may have defiled their souls, sacrificing virtue on the altar of lust; but there is still hope for them if they repent, forsake sin, and turn to God. {RY 179.2} [RY 179.3] The misapplication of noble talents in Solomon's case should be a warning to all.... His history stands as a beacon of warning that young and old may learn the sure result of departure from the ways of the Lord. {RY 179.3} [RY 179.4] Solomon acted in direct opposition to God's will. God had made him the depositary of sacred truths, but he proved unfaithful to his holy trust. Evil communications corrupted good manners. He entered into political alliance with pagan kingdoms, especially with Egypt 180 and Phoenicia. One wrong step led to another. Through his associations with these nations, their heathen practices became less abhorrent to him, and at last their sensual customs and their darkest worships were imported into Palestine. Solomon's fine sensibilities were blunted, his conscience seared. He became weak and vacillating. The justice of his early reign gave place to tyranny. Once the guardian of his people, he became a despot. To support his extravagance and profligacy he imposed a grinding taxation upon the poor. {RY 179.4} [RY 180.1] He who had said to his people at the dedication of the temple, "Let your heart therefore be perfect with the Lord our God," became himself the offender. In heart and life he denied his own words. He mistook license for liberty. He tried, but at what cost, to unite light with darkness, Christ with Belial, purity with impurity, good with evil. Shall we give heed to the warning, and shun the first approach to those sins which overcame him who was called the wisest of men? -- Letter 8b, 1891. {RY 180.1} [RY 180.2] Solomon's Weakness a Beacon of Warning Of Solomon the inspired record says, "His wives turned away his heart after other gods: and his heart was not perfect with the Lord his God." {RY 180.2} [RY 180.3] This is no theme to be treated with a smile. The heart that loves Jesus will not desire the unlawful affections of another. Every want is supplied in Christ. This superficial affection is of the same character as that exalted enjoyment which Satan promised Eve. It is 181 coveting that which God has forbidden. When it is too late hundreds can warn others not to venture upon the precipice. Intellect, position, wealth can never, never take the place of moral qualities. Clean hands, a pure heart, and noble, earnest devotion to God and the truth the Lord esteems above the golden wedge of Ophir. {RY 180.3} [RY 181.1] An evil influence has a perpetuating power. I wish I could set this matter before God's commandment-keeping people just as it has been shown me. Let the sad memory of Solomon's apostasy warn every soul to shun the same precipice. His weakness and sin are handed down from generation to generation. The greatest king that ever wielded a scepter, of whom it had been said that he was the beloved of God, through misplaced affection became contaminated and was miserably forsaken of his God. The mightiest ruler of the earth had failed to rule his own passions. Solomon may have been saved "as by fire," yet his repentance could not efface those high places, nor demolish those stones, which remained as evidences of his crimes. He dishonored God, choosing rather to be controlled by lust than to be a partaker of the divine nature. {RY 181.1} [RY 181.2] What a legacy Solomon's life has committed to those who would use his example to cover their own base actions. We must either transmit a heritage of good or evil. Shall our lives and our example be a blessing or a curse? Shall people look at our graves and say, "He ruined me", or "He saved me"? ... {RY 181.2} [RY 181.3] The lesson to be learned from the life of Solomon has a special moral bearing upon the life of the aged, of 182 those who are no longer climbing the mountain but are descending and facing the western sun. We expect to see defects in the characters of youth who are not controlled by love and faith in Jesus Christ. We see youth wavering between right and wrong, vacillating between fixed principle and the almost overpowering current of evil that is bearing them off their feet to ruin. But of those of mature age we expect better things. We look for the character to be established, for principles to be rooted, and for them to be beyond the danger of pollution. {RY 181.3} [RY 182.1] But the case of Solomon is before us as a beacon of warning. When thou, aged pilgrim who hast fought the battles of life, thinkest that thou standest, take heed lest thou fall. How, in Solomon's case, was weak, vacillating character, naturally bold, firm, and determined, shaken like a reed in the wind under the tempter's power! How was an old gnarled cedar of Lebanon, a sturdy oak of Bashan, bent before the blast of temptation! What a lesson for all who desire to save their souls to watch unto prayer continually! What a warning to keep the grace of Christ ever in their heart, to battle with inward corruptions and outward temptations! -- 2BC 1031,1032. {RY 182.1} [RY 182.2] Worldly Renown versus Godly Integrity It has been said of men of gray hairs that there is no danger of their shrinking from their post of duty; but in the case of Solomon, when he became old, we learn that he lost his connection with God. And why? -- Because 183 he sought after the renown, honor, and riches of this world; because he took wives from among the idolatrous nations, and became allied with those nations. It is true that by this alliance he brought gold from Ophir and silver from Tarshish; but it was at the expense of virtue, of principle, of integrity of character. {RY 182.2} [RY 183.1] All through the history of the Jewish nation we see that the people of God, whether old or young, had to keep themselves distinct and separate from the idolatrous nations around them. God has a people today; and it is just as necessary now as anciently that His people should keep themselves distinct and separate, pure and unspotted from the world, its spirit, and its influences, because the world sets up a standard opposed to the standard of truth and righteousness. -- RH Jan. 4, 1887. {RY 183.1} [RY 183.2] Influence for Good or for Ill Solomon's repentance was sincere; but the harm that his example of evil-doing had wrought, could not be undone. During his apostasy, there were in the kingdom men who remained true to their trust, maintaining their purity and loyalty. But many were led astray; and the forces of evil set in operation by the introduction of idolatry and worldly practices, could not easily be stayed by the penitent king. His influence for good was greatly weakened. Many hesitated to place full confidence in his leadership. Though the king confessed his sin, and wrote out, for the benefit of after-generations, a record of his folly and repentance, he could never hope entirely to destroy the baleful influence of his wrong deeds. Emboldened by his apostasy, many 184 continued to do evil, and evil only. And in the downward course of many of the rulers who followed him, may be traced the sad influence of the prostitution of his God-given powers. . . . {RY 183.2} [RY 184.1] Among the many lessons taught by Solomon's life, none is more strongly emphasized than the power of influence for good or for ill. However contracted may be our sphere, we still exert an influence for weal or woe. Beyond our knowledge or control, it tells upon others in blessing or cursing. It may be heavy with the gloom of discontent and selfishness, or poisonous with the deadly taint of some cherished sin; or it may be charged with the life-giving power of faith, courage, and hope, and sweet with the fragrance of love. But potent for good or for ill it will surely be. -- PK 84,85. 185 {RY 184.1} [RY 185.1] Appendix A APPENDIX A HELPFUL BIBLE TEXTS FOR SENIORS AND THOU SHALT GO TO THY FATHERS IN PEACE; THOU SHALT BE BURIED IN A GOOD OLD AGE. -- GENESIS 15:15. {RY 185.1} [RY 185.2] THOU SHALT RISE UP BEFORE THE HOARY HEAD, AND HONOR THE FACE OF THE OLD MAN, AND FEAR THY GOD: I AM THE LORD. -- LEVITICUS 19:32. {RY 185.2} [RY 185.3] AND KING REHOBOAM CONSULTED WITH THE OLD MEN, THAT STOOD BEFORE SOLOMON HIS FATHER WHILE HE YET LIVED, AND SAID, HOW DO YE ADVISE THAT I MAY ANSWER THIS PEOPLE? {RY 185.3} [RY 185.4] AND THEY SPAKE UNTO HIM, SAYING, IF THOU WILT BE A SERVANT UNTO THIS PEOPLE THIS DAY, AND WILT SERVE THEM, AND ANSWER THEM, AND SPEAK GOOD WORDS TO THEM, THEN THEY WILL BE THY SERVANTS FOR EVER. {RY 185.4} [RY 185.5] BUT HE FORSOOK THE COUNSEL OF THE OLD MEN, WHICH THEY HAD GIVEN HIM, AND CONSULTED WITH THE YOUNG MEN THAT WERE GROWN UP WITH HIM, AND WHICH STOOD BEFORE HIM: . . . {RY 185.5} [RY 185.6] AND THE KING ANSWERED THE PEOPLE ROUGHLY, AND FORSOOK THE OLD MEN'S COUNSEL THAT THEY GAVE HIM; {RY 185.6} [RY 185.7] AND SPAKE TO THEM AFTER THE COUNSEL OF THE YOUNG MEN, SAYING, MY FATHER MADE YOUR YOKE HEAVY, AND I WILL ADD TO YOUR YOKE: MY FATHER ALSO CHASTISED YOU WITH WHIPS, BUT I WILL CHASTISE YOU WITH SCORPIONS. . . . {RY 185.7} [RY 185.8] SO ISRAEL REBELLED AGAINST THE HOUSE OF DAVID UNTO THIS DAY. -- 1 KINGS 12:6-8, 13, 14, 19. {RY 185.8} [RY 185.9] WITH THE ANCIENT IS WISDOM; AND IN LENGTH OF DAYS UNDERSTANDING. -- Job 12:12. 186 {RY 185.9} [RY 186.1] YEA, THOUGH I WALK THROUGH THE VALLEY OF THE SHADOW OF DEATH, I WILL FEAR NO EVIL: FOR THOU ART WITH ME; THY ROD AND THY STAFF THEY COMFORT ME. -- PSALM 23:4. {RY 186.1} [RY 186.2] CAST ME NOT OFF IN THE TIME OF OLD AGE; FORSAKE ME NOT WHEN MY STRENGTH FAILETH. -- PSALM 71:9. {RY 186.2} [RY 186.3] FORSAKE ME NOT, O GOD, WHEN I AM OLD AND GRAY; THAT I MAY TELL THE RISING GENERATION OF THY STRENGTH AND THY MIGHT. -- PSALM 71:18, MOFFATT. {RY 186.3} [RY 186.4] THE DAYS OF OUR YEARS ARE THREESCORE YEARS AND TEN; AND IF BY REASON OF STRENGTH THEY BE FOURSCORE YEARS, YET IS THEIR STRENGTH LABOR AND SORROW.... {RY 186.4} [RY 186.5] SO TEACH US TO NUMBER OUR DAYS, THAT WE MAY APPLY OUR HEARTS UNTO WISDOM. -- PSALM 90:10, 12. {RY 186.5} [RY 186.6] THEY SHALL STILL BRING FORTH FRUIT IN OLD AGE; THEY SHALL BE FAT AND FLOURISHING; TO SHEW THAT THE LORD IS UPRIGHT: HE IS MY ROCK, AND THERE IS NO UNRIGHTEOUSNESS IN HIM. -- PSALM 92:14, 15. {RY 186.6} [RY 186.7] PRAISE THE LORD FROM THE EARTH, ... {RY 186.7} [RY 186.8] BOTH YOUNG MEN, AND MAIDENS; OLD MEN, AND CHILDREN: {RY 186.8} [RY 186.9] LET THEM PRAISE THE NAME OF THE LORD: FOR HIS NAME ALONE IS EXCELLENT; HIS GLORY IS ABOVE THE EARTH AND HEAVEN. -- PSALM 148:7, 12, 13. {RY 186.9} [RY 186.10] CHILDREN'S CHILDREN ARE THE CROWN OF OLD MEN; AND THE GLORY OF CHILDREN ARE THEIR FATHERS. -- PROVERBS 17:6. {RY 186.10} [RY 186.11] THE GLORY OF YOUNG MEN IS THEIR STRENGTH: AND THE BEAUTY OF OLD MEN IS THE GRAY HEAD. -- PROVERBS 20:29. {RY 186.11} [RY 186.12] IT IS A WONDERFUL THING TO BE ALIVE! -- ECCLESIASTES 11:7, THE LIVING BIBLE. {RY 186.12} [RY 186.13] IF A MAN LIVE MANY YEARS, LET HIM HAVE JOY THROUGHOUT 187 THEM ALL; LET HIM REMEMBER THAT THE DARK DAYS WILL BE MANY -- ECCLESIASTES 11:8, MOFFATT. {RY 186.13} [RY 187.1] DON'T LET THE EXCITEMENT OF BEING YOUNG CAUSE YOU TO FORGET ABOUT YOUR CREATOR. HONOR HIM IN YOUR YOUTH BEFORE THE EVIL YEARS COME--WHEN YOU'LL NO LONGER ENJOY LIVING. {RY 187.1} [RY 187.2] IT WILL BE TOO LATE THEN TO TRY TO REMEMBER HIM, WHEN THE SUN AND LIGHT AND MOON AND STARS ARE DIM TO YOUR OLD EYES, AND THERE IS NO SILVER LINING LEFT AMONG YOUR CLOUDS. {RY 187.2} [RY 187.3] FOR THERE WILL COME A TIME WHEN YOUR LIMBS WILL TREMBLE WITH AGE, AND YOUR STRONG LEGS WILL BECOME WEAK, AND YOUR TEETH WILL BE TOO FEW TO DO THEIR WORK, AND THERE WILL BE BLINDNESS, TOO. {RY 187.3} [RY 187.4] THEN LET YOUR LIPS BE TIGHTLY CLOSED WHILE EATING, WHEN YOUR TEETH ARE GONE! AND YOU WILL WAKEN AT DAWN WITH THE FIRST NOTE OF THE BIRDS; BUT YOU YOURSELF WILL BE DEAF AND TUNELESS, WITH QUAVERING VOICE. {RY 187.4} [RY 187.5] YOU WILL BE AFRAID OF HEIGHTS AND OF FALLING--A WHITE-HAIRED, WITHERED OLD MAN, DRAGGING HIMSELF ALONG: WITHOUT SEXUAL DESIRE, STANDING AT DEATH'S DOOR, AND NEARING HIS EVERLASTING HOME AS THE MOURNERS GO ALONG THE STREETS. {RY 187.5} [RY 187.6] YES, REMEMBER YOUR CREATOR NOW WHILE YOU ARE YOUNG, BEFORE THE SILVER CORD OF LIFE SNAPS, AND THE GOLDEN BOWL IS BROKEN, AND THE PITCHER IS BROKEN AT THE FOUNTAIN, AND THE WHEEL IS BROKEN AT THE CISTERN; {RY 187.6} [RY 187.7] AND THE DUST RETURNS TO THE EARTH AS IT WAS, AND THE SPIRIT RETURNS TO GOD WHO GAVE IT.... {RY 187.7} [RY 187.8] HERE IS MY FINAL CONCLUSION: FEAR GOD AND OBEY HIS COMMANDMENTS, FOR THIS IS THE ENTIRE DUTY OF MAN. 188 {RY 187.8} [RY 188.1] FOR GOD WILL JUDGE US FOR EVERYTHING WE DO, INCLUDING EVERY HIDDEN THING, GOOD OR BAD. -- ECCLESIASTES 12:1-7, 13, 14, THE LIVING BIBLE. {RY 188.1} [RY 188.2] IN RETURNING AND REST SHALL YE BE SAVED; IN QUIETNESS AND IN CONFIDENCE SHALL BE YOUR STRENGTH. -- ISAIAH 30:15. {RY 188.2} [RY 188.3] EVEN THE YOUTHS SHALL FAINT AND BE WEARY, AND THE YOUNG MEN SHALL UTTERLY FALL: BUT THEY THAT WAIT UPON THE LORD SHALL RENEW THEIR STRENGTH; THEY SHALL MOUNT UP WITH WINGS AS EAGLES; THEY SHALL RUN, AND NOT BE WEARY; AND THEY SHALL WALK, AND NOT FAINT. -- ISAIAH 40:30, 31. {RY 188.3} [RY 188.4] EVEN TO YOUR OLD AGE I WILL BE THE SAME, WHEN YOU ARE GRAY-HAIRED, STILL I WILL SUSTAIN YOU; I HAVE BORNE THE BURDEN, I WILL CARRY IT, YES, I WILL CARRY YOU AND SAVE YOU. -- ISAIAH 46:4, MOFFATT. {RY 188.4} [RY 188.5] AND IT SHALL COME TO PASS AFTERWARD, THAT I WILL POUR OUT MY SPIRIT UPON ALL FLESH; AND YOUR SONS AND YOUR DAUGHTERS SHALL PROPHESY, YOUR OLD MEN SHALL DREAM DREAMS, YOUR YOUNG MEN SHALL SEE VISIONS. -- JOEL 2:28. {RY 188.5} [RY 188.6] WHEN I SIT IN DARKNESS, THE LORD SHALL BE A LIGHT UNTO ME. -- MICAH 7:8. {RY 188.6} [RY 188.7] THUS SAITH THE LORD OF HOSTS; THERE SHALL YET OLD MEN AND OLD WOMEN DWELL IN THE STREETS OF JERUSALEM, AND EVERY MAN WITH HIS STAFF IN HIS HAND FOR VERY AGE. {RY 188.7} [RY 188.8] AND THE STREETS OF THE CITY SHALL BE FULL OF BOYS AND GIRLS PLAYING IN THE STREETS THEREOF. -- ZECHARIAH 8:4, 5. {RY 188.8} [RY 188.9] AT EVENING TIME IT SHALL BE LIGHT. -- ZECHARIAH 14:7. {RY 188.9} [RY 188.10] THERE WAS IN THE DAYS OF HEROD, THE KING OF JUDAEA, A CERTAIN PRIEST NAMED ZACHARIAS, OF THE COURSE OF ABIA; AND HIS WIFE WAS OF THE DAUGHTERS OF AARON, AND HER NAME WAS ELISABETH. {RY 188.10} [RY 188.11] AND THEY WERE BOTH RIGHTEOUS BEFORE GOD, WALKING 189 IN ALL THE COMMANDMENTS AND ORDINANCES OF THE LORD BLAMELESS. {RY 188.11} [RY 189.1] AND THEY HAD NO CHILD, BECAUSE THAT ELISABETH WAS BARREN, AND THEY BOTH WERE NOW WELL STRICKEN IN YEARS.... {RY 189.1} [RY 189.2] AND THERE APPEARED UNTO HIM AN ANGEL OF THE LORD STANDING ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE ALTAR OF INCENSE. {RY 189.2} [RY 189.3] AND WHEN ZACHARIAS SAW HIM, HE WAS TROUBLED, AND FEAR FELL UPON HIM. {RY 189.3} [RY 189.4] BUT THE ANGEL SAID UNTO HIM, FEAR NOT, ZACHARIAS: FOR THY PRAYER IS HEARD; AND THY WIFE ELISABETH SHALL BEAR THEE A SON, AND THOU SHALT CALL HIS NAME JOHN.... {RY 189.4} [RY 189.5] AND HIS FATHER ZACHARIAS WAS FILLED WITH THE HOLY GHOST, AND PROPHESIED, SAYING, {RY 189.5} [RY 189.6] BLESSED BE THE LORD GOD OF ISRAEL; FOR HE HATH VISITED AND REDEEMED HIS PEOPLE. -- LUKE 1:5-7, 11-13, 67, 68. {RY 189.6} [RY 189.7] AND, BEHOLD, THERE WAS A MAN IN JERUSALEM, WHOSE NAME WAS SIMEON; AND THE SAME MAN WAS JUST AND DEVOUT, WAITING FOR THE CONSOLATION OF ISRAEL: AND THE HOLY GHOST WAS UPON HIM. {RY 189.7} [RY 189.8] AND IT WAS REVEALED UNTO HIM BY THE HOLY GHOST, THAT HE SHOULD NOT SEE DEATH, BEFORE HE HAD SEEN THE LORD'S CHRIST. {RY 189.8} [RY 189.9] AND HE CAME BY THE SPIRIT INTO THE TEMPLE: AND WHEN THE PARENTS BROUGHT IN THE CHILD JESUS, TO DO FOR HIM AFTER THE CUSTOM OF THE LAW. {RY 189.9} [RY 189.10] THEN TOOK HE HIM UP IN HIS ARMS, AND BLESSED GOD, AND SAID, {RY 189.10} [RY 189.11] LORD, NOW LETTEST THOU THY SERVANT DEPART IN PEACE, ACCORDING TO THY WORD: 190 {RY 189.11} [RY 190.1] FOR MINE EYES HAVE SEEN THY SALVATION, {RY 190.1} [RY 190.2] WHICH THOU HAST PREPARED BEFORE THE FACE OF ALL PEOPLE; {RY 190.2} [RY 190.3] A LIGHT TO LIGHTEN THE GENTILES, AND THE GLORY OF THY PEOPLE ISRAEL. -- LUKE 2:25-32. {RY 190.3} [RY 190.4] AND THERE WAS ONE ANNA, A PROPHETESS, THE DAUGHTER OF PHANUEL, OF THE TRIBE OF ASER: SHE WAS OF A GREAT AGE, AND HAD LIVED WITH AN HUSBAND SEVEN YEARS FROM HER VIRGINITY; {RY 190.4} [RY 190.5] AND SHE WAS A WIDOW OF ABOUT FOURSCORE AND FOUR YEARS, WHICH DEPARTED NOT FROM THE TEMPLE, BUT SERVED GOD WITH FASTINGS AND PRAYERS NIGHT AND DAY. {RY 190.5} [RY 190.6] AND SHE COMING IN THAT INSTANT GAVE THANKS LIKEWISE UNTO THE LORD, AND SPAKE OF HIM TO ALL THEM THAT LOOKED FOR REDEMPTION IN JERUSALEM. -- LUKE 2:36-38. {RY 190.6} [RY 190.7] THAT THE AGED MEN BE SOBER, GRAVE, TEMPERATE, SOUND IN FAITH, IN CHARITY, IN PATIENCE. {RY 190.7} [RY 190.8] THE AGED WOMEN LIKEWISE, THAT THEY BE IN BEHAVIOR AS BECOMETH HOLINESS, NOT FALSE ACCUSERS, NOT GIVEN TO MUCH WINE, TEACHERS OF GOOD THINGS; {RY 190.8} [RY 190.9] THAT THEY MAY TEACH THE YOUNG WOMEN TO BE SOBER, TO LOVE THEIR HUSBANDS, TO LOVE THEIR CHILDREN, {RY 190.9} [RY 190.10] TO BE DISCREET, CHASTE, KEEPERS AT HOME, GOOD, OBEDIENT TO THEIR OWN HUSBANDS, THAT THE WORD OF GOD BE NOT BLASPHEMED. -- TITUS 2:2-5. {RY 190.10} [RY 190.11] COME, THEN, STIFFEN YOUR DROOPING ARMS AND SHAKING KNEES, AND KEEP YOUR STEPS FROM WAVERING. THEN THE DISABLED LIMB WILL NOT BE PUT OUT OF JOINT, BUT REGAIN ITS FORMER POWERS. -- HEBREWS 12:12, 13, NEW ENGLISH BIBLE. 191 {RY 190.11} [RY 191.1] Appendix B APPENDIX B A BRIEF SUMMARY OF ELLEN WHITE'S ACTIVITIES AFTER AGE 65 ［DRAWN FROM THE WHITE ESTATE BIOGRAPHICAL FILE ON THE LIFE OF ELLEN G. WHITE. THE ABBREVIATED FORM IN WHICH THESE NOTATIONS APPEAR ON THE INDEX CARDS HAS BEEN RETAINED HERE. FOR GREATER DETAIL, SEE THE COMPREHENSIVE INDEX TO THE WRITINGS OF ELLEN G. WHITE, VOL. 3, PP. 2964-2969.］ 1893 LIVED AT GEORGE'S TERRACE, MELBOURNE, IN JAN. LABORED IN MELBOURNE AREA, AT THE SCHOOL AND PUBLISHING HOUSE AND AREA CHURCHES. ATTENDED FIFTH ANNUAL SESSION OF AUSTRALIAN CONF. IN NORTH FITZROY, MELBOURNE, JAN. 6-15. LEFT FOR SYDNEY JAN. 26, EN ROUTE TO NEW ZEALAND, ACCOMPANIED BY EMILY CAMPBELL AND ELDER AND MRS. STARR. SPENT A WEEK WITH CHURCH AT PARRAMATTA, NEAR SYDNEY, AND SPOKE 5 TIMES. SAILED FOR NEW ZEALAND FEB. 4; LANDED IN AUCKLAND FEB. 8 AND SPENT 12 DAYS LABORING FOR CHURCH THERE; SAILED FOR KAEO FEB. 20, ARRIVED FEB. 22 AND LABORED THERE FEB. 22-MARCH 15, STAYING IN HOME OF JOSEPH HARE. RETURNED TO AUCKLAND MARCH 17 AND PROCEEDED TO NAPIER FOR WORKERS' MEETING AND CAMP MEETING, MARCH 22-APRIL 6. MET APPOINTMENT AT HASTINGS APRIL 2, AND LABORED FOR SABBATHKEEPERS IN PALMERSTON NORTH FOLLOWING NAPIER MEETINGS. {RY 191.1} [RY 191.2] MADE HER HOME IN WELLINGTON, IN HOME OF SR. TUXFORD, FROM EARLY APRIL TO MID-AUGUST, HAVING DENTAL WORK CARED FOR, WRITING, AND LABORING IN NEARBY PLACES--MENTONE, PETONE, AND PAREMATA (WITH THE 192 BROWN FAMILY). MADE HASTINGS HER HEADQUARTERS MID-AUG. THROUGH SEPT., ALTERNATING BETWEEN HASTINGS AND NAPIER CHURCHES; ALSO MET APPOINTMENTS IN ORMONDVILLE AND NORSEWOOD. SPENT A FEW WEEKS IN GISBORNE. RETURNED TO WELLINGTON LATE NOV., FOR SECOND NEW ZEALAND CAMP MEETING,--"THREE WEEKS OF SOLID LABOR." SAILED FOR SYDNEY DEC. 14, SPOKE TO AUCKLAND CHURCH FRIDAY EVE. AND SABBATH, BEFORE SAILING FROM THERE; ROUGH VOYAGE, NO WRITING DONE. REACHED SYDNEY DEC. 22 AND HASTENED TO MELBOURNE TO ATTEND FIRST CAMP MEETING IN AUSTRALIA, BEGINNING DEC. 29. {RY 191.2} [RY 192.1] 1894 ON CAMPGROUND, MIDDLE BRIGHTON, MELBOURNE, AS YEAR OPENED. LABORED IN WORKERS' MEETING, CAMP MEETING, AND AUSTRALIAN UNION CONF. SESSION TILL LATE JAN., RETURNING TO THE SCHOOL (AT GEORGE'S TERRACE), FOR TREATMENTS ON ALTERNATE DAYS. AT GEORGE'S TERRACE THROUGH FEB. AND UNTIL LATE MARCH, LABORING IN AREA CHURCHES --WILLIAMSTOWN, NORTH BRIGHTON, PRAHRAN, GEORGE'S TERRACE. MOVED FROM MELBOURNE TO GRANVILLE, NEAR SYDNEY, MARCH 27. LABORED FOR BELIEVERS IN SYDNEY AREA--PARRAMATTA, KELLYVILLE, SEVEN HILLS, CITY OF SYDNEY, CASTLE HILL, GRANVILLE. IN LATE MAY VISITED DORA CREEK, SITE BEING CONSIDERED FOR SCHOOL. {RY 192.1} [RY 192.2] MOVED FROM HER FIRST GRANVILLE HOME TO ANOTHER--NORFOLK VILLA--LAST WEEK IN JUNE, AND CONTINUED HER LABORS IN NEIGHBORING CHURCHES. VISITED COORANBONG LATE IN AUGUST; PLEASED WITH THE LAND FOR SCHOOL. MAY WALLING RETURNED TO U.S. TO APPEAR IN CONNECTION WITH WALLING SUIT. LABORED IN 193 SECOND AUSTRALIAN CAMP MEETING, IN ASHFIELD, A SUBURB OF SYDNEY, IN OCTOBER. DROVE TO PENNANT HILLS FOR SPEAKING APPOINTMENT NOV. 25, A MEETING WHICH WAS TO BE THE BEGINNING OF A SERIES OF MEETINGS. LOCATION OF SCHOOL, SUPPOSEDLY SETTLED, WAS RESURRECTED, AND DEC. 13 SHE WAS CALLED TO VISIT FAIRLIGHT AS ANOTHER POSSIBLE LOCATION; NOT PRACTICABLE TO LOCATE THERE. MANY GUESTS WERE ENTERTAINED IN HER GRANVILLE HOME--WORKERS COMING FOR COUNSEL OR PASSING THROUGH TO GO TO COORANBONG. CHRISTIAN EDUCATION WAS PUBLISHED IN 1894. {RY 192.2} [RY 193.1] 1895 NORFOLK VILLA, GRANVILLE TOOK PROVISIONS TO JAMES FAMILY. GAVE A "LIFT" TO STRANGERS NEEDING A RIDE, AND "HAD A VERY PLEASANT ACQUAINTANCE." STOPPED CARRIAGE WHILE EMILY GOT OUT AND SEPARATED TWO LITTLE GIRLS WHO WERE "FIGHTING LIKE A COUPLE OF DOGS." TRYING TO SELL BATTLE CREEK PROPERTY. SPOKE AT ASHFIELD SABBATH, JAN. 12, TOOK DINNER AT BRO. CORLISS', THEN DROVE TO SYDNEY AND READ THE WORDS THE LORD HAD GIVEN HER FOR BRN. HARDY AND HUMPHREY, AND PRESENTED THE NEED OF THE TRUTH IN SYDNEY, AND EVIL OF CRITICISM, ETC. "SPOKE PLAINLY"; MEETING LASTED TILL AFTER 6 P.M. HOME ABOUT 8, VERY TIRED, HEART HEAVY. JAN. 14 LEFT WITH MAY LACEY AND MAUDE CAMP FOR COORANBONG, FOR GIRLS TO LEARN DRESSMAKING FROM SISTER ROUSSEAU. MAINTAINED HER HOME IN GRANVILLE TILL LATE IN DEC., 1895. EXHAUSTED FROM MUCH LABOR, AS YEAR BEGAN--LABOR AND ALMOST CONTINUOUS COMPANY. {RY 193.1} [RY 193.2] VISITED COORANBONG (NOW ACCEPTED AS SCHOOL SITE), 194 JAN. 14-23, FOR REST, ACCOMPANIED BY MAY LACEY AND MAUD CAMP. CONTINUED HER LABORS AMONG THE CHURCHES--ASHFIELD (WHERE A TENT MEETING WAS IN PROGRESS IN JAN.), SYDNEY, PETERSHAM, PROSPECT, PARRAMATTA. LEFT GRANVILLE APRIL 11, SPENT SABBATH IN MELBOURNE, AND SAILED FOR TASMANIA APRIL 16, ACCOMPANIED BY MAY LACEY. WCW HAD PRECEDED THEM, AND MET THEM IN HOBART. ENTERTAINED IN LACEY HOME, AND MET APPOINTMENTS IN HOBART AND BISMARK. {RY 193.2} [RY 194.1] WCW AND MAY LACEY WERE MARRIED IN THE LACEY HOME MAY 9, AND WITH EGW LEFT THAT NIGHT FOR LAUNCESTON, WHERE EGW SPOKE BOTH SABBATH AND SUNDAY. (ELLA AND MABEL WHITE HAD ARRIVED IN SYDNEY ABOUT MAY 5.) RETURNED TO MELBOURNE MAY 14 OR 15, AND SPENT REMAINDER OF MONTH IN LABORS IN AREA--AT WILLIAMSTOWN, BRIGHTON, NORTH FITZROY, HAWTHORNE. BACK IN HER GRANVILLE HOME DURING JUNE, SPEAKING ON SABBATHS AND SUNDAYS IN THE AREA, DRIVING SEVERAL MILES TO MEET THESE APPOINTMENTS. CANTERBURY WAS ADDED TO THE LIST ABOUT THIS TIME. MOST OF THESE MEETINGS WERE HELD IN HALLS OR TENTS, BUT SOON EFFORTS WERE BEING PUT FORTH TO BUILD CHURCHES. {RY 194.1} [RY 194.2] WITH W.C.W. AND WIFE AND ELLA AND MABEL, WENT TO COORANBONG JULY 1, FOR REST. SPOKE SABBATH JULY 6 AND 13. BOUGHT 40 ACRES FROM THE SCHOOL AND PLANNED TO MAKE HER HOME THERE. RETURNED TO GRANVILLE IN MID-JULY, BUT WAS BACK IN COORANBONG DURING MOST OF AUGUST, LIVING IN TENT, SUPERVISING PLANTING OF HER ORCHARD, AND GETTING HER NEW HOME STARTED. {RY 194.2} [RY 194.3] RETURNED TO GRANVILLE IN EARLY SEPT. MUCH EXHAUSTED. SARA MCENTERFER ARRIVED FROM U.S. OCT. 15. 195 CONTINUED HER LABORS IN SYDNEY AREA IN SPITE OF WEAKNESS, AND LABORED IN THIRD AUSTRALIAN CAMP MEETING, AT ARMADALE, MELBOURNE, OCT. 18-NOV. 21, AND IN TASMANIAN CAMP MEETING, AT HOBART, IN DEC. RETURNED TO HER GRANVILLE HOME DEC. 20, AND ARRIVED AT HER NEW HOME AT AVONDALE, COORANBONG, DEC. 25. FAMILY CONSISTED OF MARIAN DAVIS, SARA M., MAGGIE HARE, MAY ISRAEL, SARAH BELDEN, EDITH WARD, AND BRO. CONNELL--AND E.G.W. TEMPORARY STRUCTURE WAS BEING PLANNED FOR W.C.W. AND FAMILY. {RY 194.3} [RY 195.1] 1896 AT HER NEW HOME IN COORANBONG ("SUNNYSIDE") THE GREATER PORTION OF THE YEAR, ENGROSSED IN WRITING, SPEAKING, AND COUNSELING WITH THE WORKERS RE DEVELOPMENT OF THE SCHOOL. VISITED SYDNEY IN MARCH AND SPOKE IN ASHFIELD CHURCH; ALSO IN SEPTEMBER. ATTENDED AND LABORED IN CAMP MEETING IN ADELAIDE IN OCTOBER, ACCOMPANIED BY W.C.W. AND SARA M. SPOKE IN NEWTOWN AND ASHFIELD EN ROUTE TO ADELAIDE. LEFT ADELAIDE OCT. 19, WITH SARA M. AND ELDER HASKELL. STOPPED OFF IN BALLARAT FOR APPOINTMENT, AND THENCE TO MELBOURNE, WHERE SHE SPENT ABOUT TWO WEEKS AND SPOKE SEVERAL TIMES IN AREA CHURCHES, INCLUDING THE "NEW CHURCH" AT NORTH FITZROY. {RY 195.1} [RY 195.2] LABORED IN THE SECOND CONF. MEETING OF THE NEW SOUTH WALES CONF. (OF WHICH W.C.W. WAS PRESIDENT) IN ASHFIELD, IN NOV. RETURNED TO "SUNNYSIDE" IN LATE NOV. QUITE ILL, SUFFERED INTENSELY FOR TWO WEEKS AND WAS UNABLE TO ATTEND MEETINGS FOR A TIME. SPOKE TO THE PEOPLE FROM HER PHAETON, OUT-OF-DOORS, ON THE LAST 196 EVENING OF THE YEAR. THOUGHTS FROM THE MOUNT OF BLESSING AND CHRIST OUR SAVIOUR WERE PUBLISHED IN 1896. {RY 195.2} [RY 196.1] 1897 AT HER "SUNNYSIDE" HOME. SPOKE "IN THE CHAMBER ABOVE THE MILL" ON SABBATH, JAN. 2 (FOR FIRST TIME SINCE HER ILLNESS LATE IN 1896). "WE MUST HAVE A MEETINGHOUSE," SHE DECIDED--AND SHE INSPIRED INTEREST AND EFFORT UNTIL THE MEETINGHOUSE WAS A REALITY. PLANNING TO BUILD A HOME FOR W.C.W.'S FAMILY. COUNSELING WITH BRO. SEMMENS RE A HEALTH HOME. {RY 196.1} [RY 196.2] VISITED SUMMER HILL (TO COUNSEL WITH BRETHREN SEMMENS AND HASKELL RE HEALTH HOME), AND MET SPEAKING APPOINTMENTS IN NEWTOWN AND ASHFIELD--ALL IN SYDNEY AREA, IN FEB. CARRYING HEAVY BURDENS IN CONNECTION WITH THE SCHOOL, COUNSELING IN REGARD TO MANY PROBLEMS, SPEAKING FREQUENTLY, ETC. ALSO OVERSEEING BUILDING OF HOME FOR W.C.W.'S FAMILY, WHILE HE WAS IN U.S. FOR GEN. CONF. {RY 196.2} [RY 196.3] VISITED SUMMER HILL, SYDNEY, ASHFIELD, AND NEWTOWN AGAIN IN AUGUST, SPEAKING AND COUNSELING, AND SPENT A FEW DAYS IN SUMMER HILL IN SEPT. SPOKE FREQUENTLY TO THE STUDENTS, AND ON SABBATHS "IN THE CROWDED UPPER CHAMBER." OCT. 16 SPOKE IN THE NEW CHAPEL, AND OCT. 17 OFFERED DEDICATORY PRAYER AT THE DEDICATION OF THE NEW CHAPEL--A TRIUMPH OF FAITH. {RY 196.3} [RY 196.4] LABORED IN CAMP MEETING AT STANMORE, NEAR SYDNEY, OCT. 21-31. RETURNED TO "SUNNYSIDE" NOV. 1, FEELING VERY ILL. DEEPLY INTERESTED IN THE WORK AT STANMORE, AND LABORED THERE AGAIN NOV. 19-23, DEC. 3-6 AND 17-27. PLANS WERE UNDER WAY FOR A CHURCH BUILDING 197 THERE. MET W.C.W. AT STANMORE OCT. 21, HE HAVING JUST RETURNED FROM 10 MONTHS' ABSENCE IN U.S. MANY SICK CAME FOR HELP; SARA M. PROVED TO BE A REAL MEDICAL MISSIONARY, ANSWERING MANY CALLS FOR HELP; AT TIMES THE SICK WERE CARED FOR IN E.G.W.'S HOME. {RY 196.4} [RY 197.1] 1898 AT "SUNNYSIDE", BURDENED WITH WRITING AND COUNSELING, AND PASSING THROUGH A PERIOD OF ANXIETY, HEARTACHE, AND PERPLEXITY RE HER DUTY. "FEEL THAT I SHALL HAVE TO GO TO AMERICA AND BEAR MY TESTIMONY ONCE MORE...." LABORED IN STANMORE AGAIN JAN. 2-5 AND JAN 27-FEB. 2. ALSO SPOKE AT ASHFIELD JAN. 31. A TENT EFFORT WAS ON IN STANMORE AT THIS TIME, IN WHICH SHE ASSISTED. {RY 197.1} [RY 197.2] IN MELBOURNE AREA LATE FEB. TO EARLY APRIL; SPOKE 8 TIMES IN THE TENT IN BALACLAVA, 3 TIMES TO NO. FITZROY CHURCH ALSO TO OFFICE WORKERS; MET WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS IN GEELONG AND IN BALLARAT. LABORED UNDER DIFFICULTIES, AS SHE WAS SUFFERING FROM MALARIA, BUT THOUGH SHE SPOKE "IN A FEEBLE VOICE" ON SABBATH AT BALLARAT, SHE WAS STRENGTHENED ON SUNDAY TO SPEAK IN A LARGE HALL FOR MORE THAN AN HOUR AND "WAS NOT THE LEAST WEARY." {RY 197.2} [RY 197.3] WAS IN SYDNEY AREA OVER TWO SABBATHS IN APRIL, WHERE THE NEW STANMORE CHURCH WAS DEDICATED APRIL 23 (24?). RETURNED HOME TO SUNNYSIDE APRIL 25, AFTER ABSENCE FROM HER "PLEASANT HOME" FOR 2 MONTHS. HAD SPOKEN 22 TIMES, AND DONE MUCH WRITING. LABORED IN WEEK OF PRAYER MEETINGS IN JUNE, BOTH IN MEETINGS FOR THE STUDENTS AND FOR THE CHURCH. BUSY WITH WRITING, AND MANY MATTERS. AGED BRO. TUCKER, WHO HAD LIVED IN HER HOME FOR 1 1/2 YEARS, DIED THERE JUNE 24. MET SPEAKING 198 APPOINTMENTS IN STANMORE WEEKEND OF JULY 7-11, AND RETURNED TO STANMORE FOR N.S.W. CONF., MEETING JULY 21-27. {RY 197.3} [RY 198.1] ATTENDED QUEENSLAND CAMP MEETING OCT. 13-31, AND FOLLOWING CAMP MEETING SPENT A FEW DAYS WITH THE ROCKHAMPTON CHURCH, THOUGH WEAK AND ILL (AND THE TRIP WAS NOT AN EASY ONE). CANCELED PLANS TO STOP IN TOOWOOMBA FOR A WEEKEND, AND RETURNED TO COORANBONG AND HOME NOV. 10, WEAK AND EXHAUSTED, "BUT WITH QUIET AND REST I SHALL GROW STRONG AGAIN." FILLED APPOINTMENT AT AWABA NOV. 20, SPOKE TO STUDENTS NOV. 25, AND TO THE CHURCH NOV. 26. LABORED IN CAMP MEETING IN HAMILTON, NEWCASTLE, IN CLOSING DAYS OF DECEMBER. THE DESIRE OF AGES WAS PUBLISHED IN 1898. {RY 198.1} [RY 198.2] 1899 REMAINED IN NEWCASTLE FOR CLOSING OF CAMP MEETING, JAN. 2, AND A FEW DAYS OF FOLLOW-UP WORK. MUCH EXHAUSTED FOLLOWING THIS CAMP MEETING BUT LABORED AT HOME AS ABLE, WRITING AND COUNSELING. LABORED AT NEWCASTLE AGAIN FEB. 3-5 AND FEB. 26, RETURNING TO COORANBONG SAME DAY, AFTER SPEAKING IN THE TENT AT 3 P.M. AT HER "SUNNYSIDE" HOME MOST OF MARCH AND APRIL, MEETING FREQUENT SPEAKING APPOINTMENTS, INCLUDING SPEAKING IN THE OPEN AIR AT DORA CREEK AND MARTINSVILLE; ALSO BUSY WITH WRITING AND MANY OTHER MATTERS. TOOK PART IN DEDICATION OF THE MAIN SCHOOL BUILDING APRIL 16. AGAIN LABORED IN NEWCASTLE APRIL 21-23 AND MAY 19-21, AND AT SUMMER HILL AND STANMORE IN LATE MAY. APPARENTLY AT HOME MOST OF THE TIME DURING JUNE, JULY, AUG., AND EARLY SEPT., CARRYING HER USUAL BURDENS. 199 {RY 198.2} [RY 199.1] AUSTRALIAN UNION CONF. WAS HELD AT THE AVONDALE SCHOOL JULY 6-25. E.G.W. WAS VERY ILL DURING A WEEK OF THAT TIME, BUT SPOKE, SEATED, JULY 17. SPOKE AGAIN JULY 22. WITH W.C.W. AND WIFE DROVE TO MAITLAND SEPT. 8, TO JOIN ELDERS STARR AND DANIELLS IN SEARCH FOR PLACE FOR CAMP MEETING. THEN TOOK TRAIN FOR STRATHFIELD FOR WEEKEND. RETURNED TO "SUNNYSIDE" SEPT. 10. MET APPOINTMENTS AT WALLSEND, NEWCASTLE, IN MID-SEPT., AND AT HAMILTON, NEWCASTLE, SEPT. 29-OCT. 2, WHEN THE NEW CHURCH WAS OPENED. DROVE TO HORNSBY JUNCTION WITH W.C.W. AND SEVERAL OTHERS OCT. 3 TO INVESTIGATE LAND BEING CONSIDERED FOR SAN. SITE. {RY 199.1} [RY 199.2] LABORED IN CAMP MEETING IN TOOWOOMBA OCT. 13-22, AND AGAIN VISITED SAN. SITE NEAR HORNSBY JUNCTION IN LATE OCT. LABORED IN CAMP MEETING AT MAITLAND NOV. 14-30, AND APPARENTLY MADE ANOTHER TRIP TO MAITLAND LATER IN NOV. THIS WAS ONE OF THE PLACES SHE HAD SEEN IN VISION A YEAR EARLIER PLEADING FOR LIGHT. E.G.W. HAD A GREAT BURDEN FOR THE WORK THERE, AND SPENT TWO OR THREE WEEKENDS THERE IN DEC. ALSO MET SEVERAL SPEAKING APPOINTMENTS AT AVONDALE DURING DEC. {RY 199.2} [RY 199.3] 1900 AT "SUNNYSIDE" HOME MUCH EXHAUSTED AS YEAR BEGAN. SUFFERING PAIN IN LEFT EYE, AND WRITING WITH EYE BOUND UP. WITH SARA M. WENT TO SUMMER HILL AND THEN TO SAN. FARM FOR REST, JAN. 4-19. NEITHER GOT MUCH REST! WAS IMPRESSED TO GO TO MAITLAND; WOKE SARA AT 4 A.M. JAN. 19, TOOK EARLY TRAIN TO DORA CREEK STATION, AND THAT AFTERNOON DROVE TO MAITLAND FOR A BUSY WEEKEND OF MEETINGS. VISITED MAITLAND AGAIN FEB. 9-12. LEFT 200 "SUNNYSIDE" MARCH 7 TO LABOR IN THE CAMP MEETING AT GEELONG, VICTORIA, MARCH 8-23. {RY 199.3} [RY 200.1] IMPRESSED THAT SHE SHOULD SOON RETURN TO AMERICA, AND WRESTLED MUCH IN PRAYER BEFORE SHE DECIDED TO GO. SPENT A WEEKEND IN MELBOURNE AREA ON RETURN JOURNEY AND SPOKE IN N. FITZROY CHURCH ON SABBATH AFTERNOON; REACHED "SUNNYSIDE" MARCH 27. MADE NO LONG TRIPS DURING NEXT FOUR MONTHS, BUT WAS BURDENED WITH WRITING AND HER CONCERN OVER MANY FEATURES OF THE WORK, BOTH IN AUSTRALIA AND AMERICA. LABORED SEVERAL WEEKENDS IN MAITLAND, HAMILTON, SUMMER HILL, AND PARRAMATTA. DREADED GIVING UP HER PLEASANT HOME TO GO TO AMERICA BUT WAS CONVINCED SHE MUST, AND IN AUGUST WAS BUSY WITH PREPARATIONS FOR THE MOVE. SUNDAY, AUG. 26, A FITTING FAREWELL SERVICE WAS HELD IN THE COORANBONG CHURCH, AND ON AUG. 29 SHE SAILED FROM SYDNEY ON THE S.S. MOANA WITH W.C.W. AND FAMILY AND SARA M. REACHED SAN FRANCISCO FRIDAY P.M. SEPT. 21, AND SPOKE IN THE OAKLAND CHURCH SABBATH P.M. {RY 200.1} [RY 200.2] SPENT A FEW DAYS IN OAKLAND, HOUSE HUNTING, AND WENT TO ST. HELENA SEPT. 27. AT ST. HELENA SAN. LEARNED OF A HOME FULLY FURNISHED THAT WAS FOR SALE, SURELY THE VERY PLACE THE LORD HAD PREPARED FOR HER, AND "ELMSHAVEN" BECAME HER HOME UNTIL HER DEATH. WHILE ON BOARD SHIP SHE HAD BEEN VISITED "BY THE ANGEL OF THE LORD" AND GIVEN PRECIOUS INSTRUCTION AND THE ASSURANCE THAT THE LORD HAD A PLACE PREPARED FOR HER. {RY 200.2} [RY 200.3] ATTENDED CAMP MEETING AT NAPA, AND DURING CLOSING MONTHS OF THE YEAR LABORED IN ST. HELENA AREA, OAKLAND, SAN FRANCISCO, CALISTOGA, AND HEALDSBURG, AND BECAME SETTLED IN HER NEW HOME, FOR WHICH SHE WAS 201 DEEPLY GRATEFUL. CHRIST'S OBJECT LESSONS, TESTIMONIES ON SABBATH SCHOOL WORK, AND TESTIMONIES FOR THE CHURCH, VOL. 6, WERE PUBLISHED IN 1900. {RY 200.3} [RY 201.1] 1901 RETURNED TO "ELMSHAVEN" DEC. 31, 1900, AND WAS QUITE ILL FOR 3 WEEKS. SPOKE IN SAN. CHAPEL JAN. 19. BURDENED WITH WRITING--PREPARING BOOKS FOR PUBLICATION. STARTED JOURNEY TO BATTLE CREEK FOR GEN. CONF. ABOUT MARCH 6. SPOKE IN LOS ANGELES CHURCH SABBATH, MARCH 9; BECAME VERY ILL IN P.M. AND LOST CONSCIOUSNESS FOR HOURS, BUT THE LORD SUSTAINED HER AND SHE CONTINUED HER JOURNEY, ACCOMPANIED BY W.C.W., SARA M., AND OTHERS. {RY 201.1} [RY 201.2] SPENT A FEW DAYS WITH HER SON EDSON ON THE MORNING STAR AT VICKSBURG, AND SPOKE ON SABBATH AND SUNDAY, WHEN THE CHURCH WAS DEDICATED; AT NASHVILLE SHE MET EMMA WHITE; ALSO SPOKE TO NASHVILLE BELIEVERS; SPENT SABBATH AND SUNDAY IN CHICAGO, WHERE SHE SPOKE ON SABBATH AND TO THE MEDICAL STUDENTS ON SUNDAY. FROM CHICAGO PROCEEDED TO B.C. FOR THE G.C. SESSION WHERE SHE BORE MANY BURDENS. "THE CONFERENCE WAS A TIME OF TAXING LABOR FOR ME." FOLLOWING THE CONFERENCE, SPENT A FEW DAYS IN INDIANAPOLIS, TO HELP MEET A DIFFICULT SITUATION THERE--THE HOLY FLESH FANATICISM; SPENT MAY 6 AND 7 WITH CHURCH AND SAN. WORKERS IN DES MOINES, IOWA; MAY 8 AND 9 IN COLLEGE VIEW, NEB.; MET APPOINTMENTS IN DENVER AND BOULDER, COLO. LABORED IN UPPER COLUMBIA CAMP MEETING IN WAITSBURG, WASH., VISITED WALLA WALLA, AND LABORED IN N. PACIFIC CAMP MEETING AT PORTLAND, ORE. 202 {RY 201.2} [RY 202.1] RETURNED TO OAKLAND IN TIME TO MEET ELDERS IRWIN AND SALISBURY BEFORE THEY SAILED FOR AUSTRALIA MAY 30; THENCE TO HER "ELMSHAVEN" HOME, VERY WORN AND SUFFERING FROM A COLD AND SORE THROAT. ATTENDED CAMP MEETING IN OAKLAND JUNE 5-23 AND SPOKE 11 TIMES. ALSO LABORED IN CAMP MEETING IN LOS ANGELES IN AUG. AND ON RETURN TRIP STOPPED IN OAKLAND AND ATTENDED MEETINGS OF PACIFIC PRESS BOARD. MET SPEAKING APPOINTMENTS IN HEALDSBURG (INCLUDING ATTENDANCE AT TEACHERS' INSTITUTE), SANTA ROSA, AND PETALUMA, AS WELL AS IN ST. HELENA AREA, DURING NEXT FEW MONTHS. {RY 202.1} [RY 202.2] CONVICTED THAT SHE HAD WORK TO DO IN THE EAST, LEFT FOR NEW YORK NOV. 6, ARRIVING THERE NOV. 11, AND LABORED FOR NEARLY TWO WEEKS (INCLUDING AN APPOINTMENT IN TRENTON, N.J.); SPENT SOME TIME IN LATE NOV. AND EARLY DEC. IN SO. LANCASTER, TOOK TREATMENTS AT SAN.; THERE WERE MANY CALLS FOR HER LABORS, BUT, NOT BEING WELL, SHE APPARENTLY WENT DIRECT FROM SO. LANCASTER TO NASHVILLE, TO LABOR IN SO. UNION CONF. SESSION JAN. 3-12. REACHED NASHVILLE ABOUT MID-DECEMBER. {RY 202.2} [RY 202.3] 1902 IN NASHVILLE AND VERY ILL AS YEAR BEGAN BUT WAS GREATLY BLESSED IN SPECIAL SEASON OF PRAYER IN HER BEHALF. TOO FEEBLE TO PARTICIPATE IN THE UNION CONF. MEETINGS. LEFT NASHVILLE ABOUT JAN. 12. HAD SEVERAL HOURS IN CHICAGO AND WAS TAKEN BY AUTO TO HINSDALE SAN. FOR TREATMENT. REACHED HER "ELMSHAVEN" HOME JAN. 17, THANKFUL THAT HER LIFE HAD BEEN SPARED. GRADUALLY IMPROVED IN HEALTH IN FOLLOWING WEEKS, AND CONTINUED HER WRITING (EVEN WHILE SO ILL IN NASHVILLE). TESTED HER 203 VOICE BY SPEAKING A SHORT WHILE IN CALISTOGA CHURCH MARCH 15. {RY 202.3} [RY 203.1] VISITED OAKLAND FOR "AN IMPORTANT COUNCIL MEETING" LATE IN APRIL. SPOKE SEVERAL TIMES IN CAMP MEETING AT PETALUMA JUNE 5-15; ALSO FILLED SEVERAL LOCAL SPEAKING APPOINTMENTS. SPENT SEPT. 10 IN OAKLAND, EN ROUTE SOUTH; STOPPED AT SANTA BARBARA TO COUNSEL RE ESTABLISHING A SANITARIUM AND RESTAURANT THERE; WENT TO SAN FERNANDO TO SEE A PROPERTY THAT MIGHT BE PURCHASED FOR SCHOOL SITE. LABORED IN CAMP MEETING AT LOS ANGELES, SEPT. 12-21. ALSO VISITED OTHER POSSIBLE LOCATIONS FOR SANITARIUM WORK. {RY 203.1} [RY 203.2] LEFT L.A. SEPT. 24 FOR SAN DIEGO, AND DROVE TO PARADISE VALLEY TO SEE PROSPECTIVE SANITARIUM SITE THERE, SPOKE TO BELIEVERS SABBATH FORENOON AND SUNDAY P.M. RETURNED TO L.A. AND VISITED PASADENA, WHERE DR. EVANS HAD OPENED TREATMENT ROOMS; WAS PRESENT AT OPENING OF SCHOOL IN SAN FERNANDO. LABORED IN CAMP MEETING AT FRESNO IN EARLY OCT. AND RETURNED HOME ABOUT OCT. 13. BURDENED WITH MUCH WRITING, AND HER MIND OCCUPIED WITH MANY MATTERS DURING REMAINDER OF YEAR. TESTIMONIES FOR THE CHURCH, VOL. 7, AND MANUAL FOR CANVASSERS WERE PUBLISHED IN 1902. {RY 203.2} [RY 203.3] 1903 AT HOME BUSILY WRITING AND LABORING LOCALLY MUCH OF THE YEAR. DEEPLY DISTRESSED OVER CONDITIONS IN BATTLE CREEK, AND THE FALLING OF GOD'S JUDGMENTS. (THE B.C. SAN. HAD BURNED FEB. 18, 1902, AND THE RH PUB. HOUSE ON DEC. 30, 1902.) HAD A VISION OF WHAT MIGHT HAVE BEEN AT THE 1901 GEN. CONF. LABORED IN GC SESSION 204 IN OAKLAND (AND PRE-CONF. MEETINGS), MARCH 23- APRIL 13. CARRIED BURDENS THAT TAXED HER STRENGTH SEVERELY. WAS VERY WEAK FOLLOWING THE CONFERENCE, BUT CONTINUED TO WRITE, AND PRAYED THAT THERE MIGHT BE A "HUMBLING OF PROUD HEARTS BEFORE THE LORD." {RY 203.3} [RY 204.1] ATTENDED CLOSING EXERCISES OF HEALDSBURG COLLEGE AND GAVE BACCALAUREATE SERMON MAY 30. MET WITH COLLEGE BOARD JUNE 6 AND 7. SPOKE TO TEACHERS ASSEMBLED IN TEACHERS' INSTITUTE AT HEALDSBURG IN AUG., AND AGAIN VISITED HEALDSBURG AND SPOKE BEFORE CALIF. CONF. COMMITTEE, COLLEGE BOARD, AND CALIF. MED. MISS. AND BENEV. ASSOC. GREATLY DISTRESSED OVER INFLUENCE OF LIVING TEMPLE AND DR. KELLOGG'S APOSTASY. EDUCATION WAS PUBLISHED IN 1903. {RY 204.1} [RY 204.2] 1904 AT "ELMSHAVEN" IN EARLY MONTHS, WRITING AS ABLE, AND MEETING LOCAL APPOINTMENTS. ATTENDED SECOND BIENNIAL SESSION OF PACIFIC UNION CONF. IN HEALDSBURG, MARCH 18-28. LEFT ST. HELENA APRIL 18, WITH SARA M. AND MAGGIE HARE. STOPPED IN MT. VIEW TO SEE LAND CHOSEN FOR PPPA, THEN TOOK TRAIN FOR OVERLAND JOURNEY, VIA L.A. REACHED WASHINGTON APRIL 24, AND LOCATED IN A COMFORTABLE HOUSE WITH HER WORKERS. BUSY WITH COUNSELLING, SPEAKING APPOINTMENTS, AND WRITING. GAVE DEDICATORY ADDRESS FOR MEMORIAL CHURCH, MAY 7. ATTENDED 2ND BIENNIAL SESSION OF LAKE UNION CONF. IN BERRIEN SPRINGS, MICH., MAY 17-25. {RY 204.2} [RY 204.3] WENT WITH EDSON TO NASHVILLE; VERY WEARY, BUT SPOKE ON SABBATH IN NASHVILLE CHURCH. ILL AND UNABLE TO DO MUCH WRITING; SPENT A WEEK ON S.S. MORNING STAR 205 WITH EDSON AND EMMA. VISITED IN GRAYSVILLE AND HUNTSVILLE JUNE 17-22; LEFT NASHVILLE FOR WASHINGTON JULY 6 AND LABORED THERE IN MUCH WEAKNESS UNTIL AUGUST 10. SPENT A FEW DAYS AT SAN. IN PHILA. AND SPOKE IN TWO TENTS PITCHED THERE. SPENT 2 WEEKS IN NEW ENGLAND SAN., MELROSE, MASS., TAKING TREATMENTS, SPEAKING TO NURSES AND HELPERS, AND IN THE CAMP MEETING A MILE AWAY. IMPROVED IN STRENGTH. WROTE OFTEN TO MARIAN D., ILL IN ST. HELENA SAN. VISITED MIDDLETOWN, CONN., AND SPOKE 4 TIMES AT SO. NEW ENG. CAMP MEETING. (MARIAN D. DIED OCT. 25.). {RY 204.3} [RY 205.1] IN B.C. SAN. SEPT. 6-8; SPOKE TO PATIENTS, NURSES, AND HELPERS, AND IN TABERNACLE. ATTENDED LATTER PART OF CAMP MEETING IN OMAHA, NEB., AND G.C. COMMITTEE COUNCIL IN COLLEGE VIEW, THEN RETURNED FOR APPOINTMENTS IN B.C. SEPT. 28-OCT. 3. LEFT FOR CALIF. OCT. 3, STOPPED IN RENO FOR SABBATH, AND REACHED HER "ELMSHAVEN" HOME OCT. 9. LEFT OCT. 28 FOR SO. CALIF. MET APPOINTMENTS IN FRESNO ON SABBATH, THEN SPENT A FEW DAYS IN HANFORD AND ASSISTED IN MEETINGS THERE AND IN LEMOORE AND ARMONA. IN L.A. WEEKEND OF NOV. 3-7, AND SPOKE IN TENT SABBATH AND SUNDAY. IN SAN DIEGO NOV. 7-28, ILL AND UNABLE TO DO MUCH SPEAKING, BUT PLEASED WITH PROGRESS IN PREPARING SAN. FOR OCCUPANCY. VISITED GLENDALE SAN., REDLANDS, RIVERSIDE, SAN FERNANDO, AND L.A. IN EARLY DEC., AND RETURNED TO "ELMSHAVEN" ABOUT DEC. 19 OR 20. TESTIMONIES FOR THE CHURCH, VOL. 8, WAS PUBLISHED IN 1904. {RY 205.1} [RY 205.2] 1905 ATTENDED PORTION OF BOOKMEN'S CONVENTION IN 206 MT. VIEW JAN. 19-25, AND SPOKE A NUMBER OF TIMES. BUSY WITH FINAL WORK ON MH AND 9T, AND BURDENED TO PREPARE MANY THINGS ALREADY WRITTEN, FOR PUBLICATION. GRANDDAUGHTER ELLA WAS MARRIED TO D. E. ROBINSON MAY 1. LEFT MAY 3 FOR WASHINGTON, TO ATTEND G.C. SESSION. ACCOMPANIED BY W.C.W. AND WIFE AND MAGGIE HARE. REACHED D.C. MAY 10; SPOKE AT OPENING MEETING OF SESSION AND 10 TIMES DURING SESSION; ALSO IN TAKOMA PARK CHURCH JUNE 3. LEFT D.C. FOR CALIF. JUNE 7. STOPPED 10 DAYS IN SO. CALIF. AND JOINED IN COUNSEL RE LOMA LINDA PROPERTY; ALSO VISITED SAN DIEGO AND PARADISE VALLEY SAN., AND GLENDALE. {RY 205.2} [RY 206.1] ATTENDED SAN JOSE CAMP MEETING, AND SPOKE 5 TIMES. RETURNED TO "ELMSHAVEN" ABOUT JULY 4; EXCEEDINGLY BUSY WITH WRITING. ATTENDED SO. CALIF. CAMP MEETING IN AUGUST; VISITED LOMA LINDA, GLENDALE, AND PARADISE VALLEY SAN., SPEAKING AND COUNSELING AT EACH PLACE. RETURNED HOME TO "ELMSHAVEN" ABOUT SEPT. 21, AND SPENT REMAINING MONTHS OF 1905 WRITING AND MEETING SPEAKING APPOINTMENTS LOCALLY. GREATLY BURDENED WITH THE VARIOUS INTERESTS OF THE WORK, AND WITH HER WRITING, ANXIOUS TO PREPARE FOR PRINTING MUCH VALUABLE COUNSEL IN HER FILES. TROUBLED BY THOUGHT THAT SHE MIGHT DIE AND LEAVE IMPORTANT WORK UNFINISHED. THE MINISTRY OF HEALING WAS PUBLISHED IN 1905. {RY 206.1} [RY 206.2] 1906 AT HOME, BUSY WITH WRITING AS YEAR BEGAN. DEEPLY BURDENED OVER BATTLE CREEK AND MANY OTHER MATTERS. OFTEN IN NIGHT VISIONS SEEMED TO BE IN MEETINGS GIVING COUNSEL, OR WITNESSING SCENES THAT IMPRESSED HER TO 207 WRITE. LEFT ST. HELENA APRIL 12 FOR SO. CALIF. SPOKE 30 MINUTES AT DEDICATION OF LOMA LINDA SAN., SUNDAY, APRIL 15. THAT NIGHT HAD VISION OF DESTRUCTION OF CITIES. ATTENDED 3RD SESSION OF SO. CALIF. CONF. SPOKE IN L.A. CHURCH WED., APRIL 18; LEARNED OF SAN FRANCISCO EARTHQUAKE. SPOKE IN SAN DIEGO CHURCH SABBATH, APRIL 21, AND AT DEDICATION OF PARADISE VALLEY SAN. APRIL 24. RETURNED TO LOMA LINDA TO MEET WITH BRETHREN TO CONSIDER HEALTH FOOD BUSINESS IN SO. CALIF. {RY 206.2} [RY 207.1] LEFT FOR HOME MAY 2; NEARING SAN JOSE SAW EFFECTS OF EARTHQUAKE; STOPPED OFF AT MT. VIEW AND REMAINED OVER SABBATH TO COUNSEL WITH PACIFIC PRESS BOARD. DISTRESSED TO SEE FALLEN WALLS OF PUBLISHING HOUSE, BUT THANKFUL NO WORKERS WERE KILLED. WAS SPECIALLY STRENGTHENED TO SPEAK ON SABBATH. EN ROUTE HOME SPENT SOME TIME DRIVING THROUGH SAN FRANCISCO AND VIEWING THE RUINS LEFT BY THE EARTHQUAKE. OUR CHURCH STILL STANDING. AT HOME MOST OF THE TIME FROM EARLY MAY TILL END OF YEAR. {RY 207.1} [RY 207.2] DISTRESSED OVER DR. KELLOGG'S ATTITUDE AND THAT OF A. T. JONES; ALSO OVER THE FALSE CHARGE THAT OTHERS MANIPULATED HER WRITINGS. THOUGH ILL AND WEAK AND PERPLEXED, DID MUCH IMPORTANT WRITING. ATTENDED CAMP MEETING IN OAKLAND IN JULY, AND SPOKE SEVERAL TIMES. (SABBATH, JULY 21, WORD REACHED THE CAMPGROUND THAT THE PACIFIC PRESS HAD BEEN DESTROYED BY FIRE.) VISITED OAKLAND AUG. 16-20, AND SPOKE IN THE TENT, AND AUG. 31-SEPT. 2 WAS AGAIN IN OAKLAND, WHERE SHE SPOKE TO UNION SERVICE FOR THE AREA CHURCHES. MADE TWO MORE VISITS TO OAKLAND IN SEPTEMBER TO FILL SPEAKING APPOINTMENTS, AND ALSO ATTENDED STOCKHOLDERS' MEETING AND GENERAL COUNCIL MEETING AT PACIFIC PRESS. OCT. 18-21 208 VISITED OAKLAND "FOR THE FIFTH TIME SINCE THE CLOSE OF THE JULY CAMP MEETING." IN NOV. SPENT TWO WEEKENDS IN SAN FRANCISCO-OAKLAND AREA, AND ANOTHER IN DEC. NOV. 6 WROTE: "MY WORK IS NEARLY COMPLETED, . . . MY BOOKS WILL TESTIFY WHEN MY VOICE SHALL NO LONGER BE HEARD." {RY 207.2} [RY 208.1] 1907 AT HOME DEVOTING HERSELF TO WRITING DURING EARLY MONTHS OF 1907. IN OAKLAND FEB. 15-18; UNITED WITH ELDER AND MRS. HASKELL IN THE WORK THERE; HAD TO BEAR PLAIN TESTIMONY AND MEET DIFFICULT SITUATION. IN MARCH WROTE OF THE HEAVY WEIGHT OF RESPONSIBILITY SHE WAS BEARING THAT NO ONE COULD UNDERSTAND. FELT ALONE. LEFT WITH W.C.W., SARA M., AND DORES R. APRIL 18 FOR SO. CALIF. LABORED AT SAN FERNANDO SCHOOL, LOMA LINDA, SAN DIEGO, AND PARADISE VALLEY SAN., SAN PASQUAL, ESCONDIDO, LOS ANGELES, AND GLENDALE THROUGH LATE APRIL AND FIRST 3 WEEKS OF MAY. SPENT MAY 23-27 IN MERCED, LABORING IN CAMP MEETING. REACHED HOME MAY 27, AFTER 6 WEEKS' ABSENCE. IN SPITE OF WEAKNESS AND SUFFERING, HAD FILLED HER APPOINTMENTS. FELT "THE POWER OF THE SPIRIT" IMPARTED TO HER WHENEVER SHE STOOD BEFORE THE PEOPLE TO SPEAK. {RY 208.1} [RY 208.2] CAMPED ON GROUNDS AND LABORED IN CAMP MEETING IN ST. HELENA JUNE 20-30, AND WAS VERY ILL FOLLOWING THAT MEETING. SPOKE 20 MINUTES AT DEDICATION OF ST. HELENA SAN., OCT. 20. (DEDICATION OF NEW HOSPITAL BUILDING.) LEFT HOME OCT. 27 FOR ANOTHER VISIT TO SO. CALIF. LABORED IN MEDICAL CONVENTION IN LOMA LINDA, AND AT PARADISE VALLEY SAN.; ALSO IN LOS ANGELES AND GLENDALE. RETURNED HOME ABOUT DEC. 24. CONCERNING 209 THIS PERIOD IN SO. CALIF. SHE WROTE: "THE BURDEN WAS UPON ME NIGHT AND DAY." "IT WAS A LONG AND WEARISOME JOURNEY, AND I WAS WORN WITH CONTINUAL ANXIETY." {RY 208.2} [RY 209.1] 1908 AT HOME BUSILY WRITING AS YEAR BEGAN, THOUGH MUCH WORN FROM HER LABORS IN SO. CALIF. AS 1907 CLOSED. SPOKE TWICE DURING UNION CONF. SESSION IN SAN CHAPEL IN JAN. RECEIVED AND COUNSELED VISITORS; RODE OUT WHEN ABLE. SPENT TEN DAYS IN OAKLAND DURING BIBLE INSTITUTE, AND SPOKE SIX TIMES (IN MARCH). VISITED LAKE COUNTY A FEW DAYS IN APRIL. SPOKE SEVERAL TIMES AT LODI CAMP MEETING, MAY 1-10, AND RETURNED HOME ILL WITH COLD, AND WEARY. FEELING THE PRESSURE OF MUCH WRITING, AND THAT SHE MUST SPEND MORE TIME OUT-OF-DOORS. SPOKE SIX TIMES AT CAMP MEETING IN MELROSE, OAKLAND, IN EARLY JUNE "WITH AS GREAT CLEARNESS AND POWER AS IN EARLY TIMES." {RY 209.1} [RY 209.2] LEFT HOME AUG. 5 FOR SO. CALIF. DELAYED 8 HOURS IN INTENSE HEAT BECAUSE OF WRECK. REACHED L.A. AUG. 7 AND LABORED IN CAMP MEETING. WEAK AND ILL, WAS TAKEN TO GLENDALE SAN. FOR TREATMENT AUG. 16. VISITED PARADISE VALLEY SAN. AUG. 24-27, THEN LABORED AT LOMA LINDA, AND RETURNED HOME IN EARLY SEPT., AFTER NEARLY FIVE WEEKS' ABSENCE. APPARENTLY STOPPED IN OAKLAND OVER SABBATH ON RETURN TRIP. LABORING IN WEARINESS AND FEELING GREATLY THE PRESSURE TO PREPARE MATTER FOR PRINTING; SEARCHING HER WRITINGS FOR THAT WHICH SHE DESIRED TO HAVE PUBLISHED. REMARKABLY STRENGTHENED TO ADDRESS A MEETING OF THE MEDICAL CONVENTION IN ST. HELENA IN LATE OCT. ALL FELT PRESENCE OF HOLY SPIRIT, AND FOLLOWING 210 THIS MEETING HER HEALTH IMPROVED AND COURAGE WAS RENEWED. {RY 209.2} [RY 210.1] DURING NOVEMBER MADE WEEKEND TRIPS TO SEBASTOPOL, HEALDSBURG, AND BERKELEY, AND WAS STRENGTHENED TO SPEAK. THE "STRANGE WORK" OF BRO. AND SR. MACKIN HAD TO BE MET AT THIS TIME. STUDY WAS BEING GIVEN TO THE REMOVAL OF THE COLLEGE FROM HEALDSBURG TO A MORE DESIRABLE LOCATION, AND BUENA VISTA PROPERTY WAS UNDER CONSIDERATION. E.G.W. JOINED IN STUDY OF THIS PROBLEM. {RY 210.1} [RY 210.2] 1909 PRESSED WITH PHYSICAL SUFFERING AND MANY ANXIETIES OVER THE WORK, BUT CONTINUING HER WRITING, READING OF MSS., ETC., EAGER TO COMPLETE MATTER FOR BOOKS. SPOKE 3 TIMES IN OAKLAND IN FEB. AT ANNUAL SESSION OF CALIF. CONF. LEFT HOME APRIL 5, WITH W.C.W., SARA M., AND MINNIE H., FOR G.C. SESSION IN TAKOMA PARK. SPENT APRIL 7 AND 8 AT PARADISE VALLEY SAN., AND ADDRESSED THE PATIENTS. AT LOMA LINDA SPOKE TO PATIENTS AND MEMBERS "GATHERED UNDER THE PEPPER TREES" ON SABBATH. IN COLLEGE VIEW, NEB., APRIL 16-20, AND SPOKE SEVERAL TIMES. VISITED INSTITUTIONS IN NASHVILLE AREA, IN HUNTSVILLE, ALA., AND ASHEVILLE, N. C., SPEAKING IN EACH PLACE. {RY 210.2} [RY 210.3] REACHED WASHINGTON MAY 3, AFTER A "LONG JOURNEY" IN WHICH SHE "LABORED CONSTANTLY." CONTINUED TO LABOR "CONSTANTLY" BEFORE THE SESSION (MAY 13-JUNE 6), DURING THE SESSION, AND FOLLOWING THE SESSION. MET APPOINTMENTS IN PHILADELPHIA FOLLOWING G.C. SESSION; ALSO IN NEW YORK CITY AND NEWARK, N. J. RESTED A FEW DAYS IN SO. LANCASTER, THEN LABORED IN CAMP MEETING AT 211 NASHUA, N. H. VISITED CONCORD AND SAW PROPERTY SECURED FOR JEWISH WORKERS, THEN RETURNED TO SO. LANCASTER FOR A FEW DAYS BEFORE LABORING IN CAMP MEETING AT PORTLAND, ME. {RY 210.3} [RY 211.1] SPENT A FEW DAYS AT NEW ENGLAND SAN. IN MELROSE, MASS., THEN STARTED ON LONG HOMEWARD JOURNEY, STOPPING FOR APPOINTMENTS EN ROUTE AT BUFFALO, N. Y., BATTLE CREEK, CAMP MEETING AT THREE RIVERS, MICH., WABASH VALLEY SAN. AT LAFAYETTE, IND., ELGIN, ILL. CAMP MEETING, HINSDALE, ILL., MADISON, WIS. CAMP MEETING, IOWA CAMP MEETING AT NEVADA, IOWA, KANSAS CAMP MEETING AT COUNCIL GROVE, KAN., EASTERN COLO. CAMP MEETING AT BOULDER, COLO., AND SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH. SUFFERED SEVERELY FROM FAILING HEART IN HIGH ALTITUDE OF THE ROCKIES, AND WAS TRANSFERRED IN WHEEL CHAIR AT OAKLAND PIER AND VALLEJO JUNCTION. REACHED HOME SEPT. 9, AFTER FIVE MONTHS ABSENCE. {RY 211.1} [RY 211.2] SEPT. 10 WENT IN HER EASIEST CARRIAGE TO SEE THE ANGWIN PROPERTY, WHICH HAD BEEN PURCHASED FOR THE COLLEGE. ATTENDED LATTER PART OF CALIF. CAMP MEETING AT FRUITVALE, SEPT. 13-16. SPENT A FEW DAYS AT THE NEW COLLEGE SITE IN LATE SEPT. AND EARLY OCT., AND TOOK PART IN DEDICATION OF THE SCHOOL SEPT. 29. LABORED IN BIBLE INSTITUTE IN SAN JOSE IN MID-OCT., AND IN WORKERS' INSTITUTE IN LODI NOV. 5-14; ALSO IN WEEK OF PRAYER AT MT. VIEW AND OAKLAND IN MID-DEC. TESTIMONIES FOR THE CHURCH, VOL. 9, WAS PUBLISHED IN 1909. {RY 211.2} [RY 211.3] 1910 MUCH OCCUPIED IN READING ARTICLES AND BOOK MATTER IN PREPARATION, AS WELL AS WRITING. LABORED IN UNION 212 CONF. SESSION AT MT. VIEW JAN. 24-30; ATTENDED ANNUAL SESSION OF CALIF. CONF. IN LODI FEB. 1-6, AND WORKERS' INSTITUTE IN OAKLAND LATTER HALF OF MARCH. LABORED IN GLENDALE, LOS ANGELES, LOMA LINDA, SAN FERNANDO, SAN DIEGO, AND PARADISE VALLEY SAN. FROM END OF MARCH TILL MID-MAY. REACHED HOME MUCH WORN. LABORED IN CAMP MEETING AT NAPA IN LATE JUNE AND IN CAMP MEETING IN BERKELEY IN AUGUST; VISITED ANGWIN AND SPOKE TO THE STUDENTS A FEW TIMES DURING THE YEAR. BUSILY WRITING ON OLD TESTAMENT HISTORY. {RY 211.3} [RY 212.1] 1911 APPARENTLY AT HOME, LABORING AS ABLE, DURING JAN., FEB., AND MOST OF MARCH. IT SEEMS TO HAVE BEEN DURING THIS PERIOD THAT SHE HAD 23 X-RAY TREATMENTS FOR A BLACK SPOT ON HER FOREHEAD, WHICH WAS ENTIRELY REMOVED BY THE TREATMENTS. WRITING ON THE LIFE OF PAUL. LEFT IN LATE MARCH FOR SO. CALIF., AND ATTENDED LOMA LINDA BOARD MEETING IN EARLY APRIL, AND MET OTHER SPEAKING APPOINTMENTS. ALSO LABORED IN RIVERSIDE, SAN FERNANDO, PARADISE VALLEY SAN., GLENDALE, AND LOS ANGELES. RETURNED HOME LATE IN APRIL AND SPOKE IN SAN. CHAPEL SABBATH, APRIL 29; ALSO AT P.U.C. MAY 20, ST. HELENA MAY 27, AND AGAIN AT P.U.C. JUNE 10. {RY 212.1} [RY 212.2] LABORED IN CAMP MEETING IN OAKLAND JULY 6-16. WORKING HARD TO COMPLETE THE ACTS OF THE APOSTLES. ATTENDED CAMP MEETING IN LONG BEACH, CALIF, AUG. 10-20. WAS WONDERFULLY SUSTAINED WHEN SHE GAVE HER LAST TALK AT THE CAMP MEETING, TO A VERY LARGE AUDIENCE "I FELT THAT THE EVERLASTING ARMS WERE UNDERNEATH ME," SHE WROTE. MADE A TRIP TO LOMA LINDA AT THE END OF OCT. 213 AND SPENT A FEW WEEKS THERE, ATTENDING IMPORTANT MEETINGS. W.C.W. HAD BEEN IN THE EAST FOR SOME TIME, AND SHE MET HIM IN L.L. AT THIS TIME. THE ACTS OF THE APOSTLES WAS PUBLISHED LATE IN 1911. {RY 212.2} [RY 213.1] 1912 WORKING AS ABLE ON A BOOK TO TAKE ITS PLACE BETWEEN PP AND DA. THE MATERIAL, ALREADY WRITTEN, NEEDED TO BE PUT INTO SHAPE. "WHEN THIS BOOK IS COMPLETED, I SHALL FEEL THAT MY WORK IS FINISHED," SHE WROTE. LONGED FOR A VISIT FROM EDSON AND EMMA, AND LONGED TO VISIT PORTLAND, ME., ONCE MORE. LEFT MID-MARCH OR A LITTLE EARLIER TO ATTEND IMPORTANT MEETINGS IN SO. CALIF. --MINISTERIAL INSTITUTE, UNION CONF. SESSION, C.M.E. CONSTITUENCY MEETING. GAVE SEVERAL DISCOURSES, BOTH IN L.A. AND LOMA LINDA, THE LAST ONE REPORTED BEING ON APRIL 18. {RY 213.1} [RY 213.2] SPOKE TO TEACHERS AND STUDENTS AT P.U.C. MAY 4. CONSERVING MOST OF HER STRENGTH FOR WORK ON THE BOOK ON OT, FROM THE TIME OF SOLOMON TO CHRIST. SPOKE AGAIN AT P.U.C. SEPT. 7. AT LOMA LINDA AGAIN NOV. 6-DEC. 6. DURING WEEK OF PRAYER SPOKE IN CALISTOGA ONE SABBATH AND AT P.U.C. ONE SABBATH. {RY 213.2} [RY 213.3] 1913 AT "ELMSHAVEN," MAINTAINING HER INTEREST IN THE WORK, AND LABORING TO COMPLETE CERTAIN WRITINGS. "I AM GETTING OLD, BUT I AM DOING ALL THAT I CAN TO GLORIFY GOD," SHE WROTE. WROTE TWO MESSAGES FOR THE GENERAL CONFERENCE IN SESSION IN TAKOMA PARK IN MAY. 214 HAD SEVERAL INTERVIEWS WITH LEADING WORKERS; SPOKE A FEW TIMES LOCALLY. COUNSELS TO PARENTS, TEACHERS, AND STUDENTS WAS PUBLISHED IN 1913. {RY 213.3} [RY 214.1] 1914 VISITED BY HER SON, JAMES EDSON, FOR SEVERAL WEEKS IN SPRING OF 1914. JUNE 14, WROTE "THE VICTORIOUS LIFE"-- LAST WRITING BEFORE HER DEATH. TM 516-520. AUGUST 15, INTERVIEW WITH WCW REPORTED. MS. 12, 1914. SEPTEMBER 8, INTERVIEW WITH DR. THOMASON REPORTED. MS. 10, 1914. DEC. 23, ONE OF HER COPYISTS WROTE TO W.C.W. ABOUT HIS MOTHER. LS 436, 437. {RY 214.1} [RY 214.2] IN A CONVERSATION HELD DEC. 2 RECALLED AN INCIDENT OF MANY YEARS EARLIER. EARLY IN DECEMBER HEARD VOICES IN THE NIGHT SEASON, CRYING: "ADVANCE! ADVANCE!" LONGED TO BE ACTIVE, BUT REALIZED HER WANING STRENGTH. HER PRAYER OF DECEMBER 26. LS 441. {RY 214.2} [RY 214.3] 1915 SABBATH, FEB. 13, MET WITH THE ACCIDENT THAT HASTENED HER DEATH; FELL AS SHE WAS ENTERING HER STUDY, SUSTAINING A FRACTURE OF THE LEFT FEMUR. - PUR FEB. 25, 1915. MARCH 17 E.G.W. WAS VISITED BY A NUMBER OF LEADING WORKERS; SHE WAS "PLEASED TO MEET THESE OLD FRIENDS." MARCH 31, ON W.C.W.'S RETURN FROM LOMA LINDA, WHEN HE ASKED HOW SHE WAS FEELING, SHE RESPONDED, "I AM GETTING ALONG PRETTY WELL--IN RATHER A HARD WAY." --PUR APRIL 15, 1915. {RY 214.3} [RY 214.4] THE END TO THIS GREAT LIFE CAME AT 3:40 O'CLOCK FRIDAY AFTERNOON, JULY 16, WHEN ELLEN WHITE FELL ASLEEP 215 IN JESUS, "AS QUIETLY AND PEACEFULLY AS A WEARY CHILD GOING TO HER REST."--PUR JULY 22, 1915. GOSPEL WORKERS (NEW AND REVISED EDITION) AND LIFE SKETCHES OF ELLEN G. WHITE WERE PUBLISHED IN 1915. 216 {RY 214.4} [RY 216.1] Appendix C APPENDIX C ［ELLEN WHITE DIED FRIDAY, JULY 16, 1915. THREE FUNERAL SERVICES FOLLOWED. ON SUNDAY AFTERNOON, JULY 18, A FUNERAL SERVICE WAS CONDUCTED ON THE LAWN AT HER "ELMSHAVEN" HOME. THE NEXT DAY A FUNERAL WAS CONDUCTED AT THE RICHMOND CAMP MEETING. ON SABBATH, JULY 24, THE THIRD AND LARGEST FUNERAL SERVICE WAS HELD AT BATTLE CREEK, MICHIGAN.］ G.B. STARR'S COMMENTS AT ELLEN WHITE'S ELMSHAVEN FUNERAL SERVICE IT IS MY PRIVILEGE TO SPEAK OF SOME OF THE PHASES OF THE LIFE OF SISTER WHITE. I HAVE KNOWN HER NEARLY 40 YEARS, AND MRS. STARR HAS KNOWN HER OVER 50 YEARS. WE HAVE LEARNED FROM HER OWN LIPS THE STORY OF HER EARLY CONVERSION AT THE AGE OF 13 YEARS, FROM DOUBT AND DARKNESS INTO LIGHT AND SPECIAL LOVE FOR THE PERSON OF JESUS CHRIST. I THINK I HAVE NEVER HEARD ANY OTHER PERSON SPEAK OF LOVE FOR JESUS, PERSONAL LOVE, AS I HAVE HEARD HER SPEAK. MANY TIMES, IN LARGE CONGREGATIONS, I HAVE HEARD HER BREAK FORTH IN THE EXPRESSION, "JESUS, I LOVE YOU; I LOVE YOU, I LOVE YOU!" SOME HERE KNOW THAT; THEY HAVE HEARD IT; AND IT HAS THRILLED THE AUDIENCE. WE HAVE FELT THE INFLUENCE OF THAT LOVE FOR JESUS. {RY 216.1} [RY 216.2] I BELIEVE IT IS A SPLENDID THING FOR US TO EMULATE, NOT ONLY TO HAVE FAITH IN A GENERAL WAY, BUT FAITH IN JESUS AND IN HIS LOVE. HER ENTIRE LIFE WAS DEVOTED TO WINNING OTHERS TO LOVE HIM AND SERVE HIM WITH THEIR HEARTS. {RY 216.2} [RY 216.3] IN HER WRITINGS ARE TO BE FOUND WHAT I CONSIDER THE CLEAREST, MOST FORCEFUL, SIMPLE, EARNEST, PRESENTATION OF THE GOSPEL TO BE FOUND IN ANY WRITINGS, OUTSIDE OF THE SCRIPTURES THEMSELVES. THE LANGUAGE IN HER WRITINGS IS OF THE MOST ATTRACTIVE, SIMPLE, AND FORCEFUL STYLE. NOW, I WILL LEAVE YOU TO JUDGE THAT FOR YOURSELVES, THAT IT IS 217 ATTRACTIVE, ELEVATING, FORCEFUL, AND THERE IS NOTHING TO BE FOUND LIKE IT IN THE WORLD. I HAVE NEVER SEEN ANYONE WHOSE WRITINGS AT ALL IMITATED HER WRITINGS. IN THE LITTLE BOOK STEPS TO CHRIST --I HAD THE PRIVILEGE OF READING THAT BOOK IN THE MANUSCRIPT, AND SHE ASKED SEVERAL OF US TO ADVISE WHAT SHOULD BE DONE WITH IT. "WHY," WE SAID, "PUT IT INTO EVERY LANGUAGE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE, FOR IT IS THE SIMPLEST, CLEAREST GUIDE IN THE SAVING FAITH OF JESUS WE HAVE EVER READ." THAT BOOK HAS BEEN TRANSLATED INTO ［MANY］ LANGUAGES. {RY 216.3} [RY 217.1] I SAW A TABLE WITH A COMPLETE SET OF HER PUBLISHED BOOKS ON IT. I THINK IT IS UNDER THE TREES ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE HOUSE. I THINK IT SHOULD BE NEARER. IT MAKES A NUMBER OF VOLUMES THAT IS QUITE SURPRISING. {RY 217.1} [RY 217.2] AS I LOOKED AT HER THE OTHER DAY, AS I CLASPED HER HAND AND BADE HER GOOD-BYE, I THOUGHT, "THAT HAND HAS WRITTEN MORE GOSPEL EXHORTATION AND PRECIOUS THINGS THAN PERHAPS ANY OTHER HUMAN HAND. I HAVE STUDIED THE WRITINGS OF A GOOD MANY, BUT I KNOW OF NO ONE WHO IS AS DILIGENT AS SHE WAS, GETTING UP AT 2, 3, OR 4 O'CLOCK IN THE MORNING, AND WORKING UNTIL AFTER SUNDOWN. SHE RETIRED VERY EARLY, THAT WAS HER HABIT, AND THEN EARLY IN THE MORNING SHE WOULD ARISE AND BEGIN HER WRITING. YOU WOULD FIND HER, LIKE ALL THE PROPHETS, RISING EARLY AND DOING HER WORK. {RY 217.2} [RY 217.3] I HAVE SEEN HER, I THINK, UNDER NEARLY ALL THE CIRCUMSTANCES UNDER WHICH YOU MEET A FRIEND. WE HAD THE PRIVILEGE OF TRAVELING WITH HER IN MICHIGAN, AND THEN OF ACCOMPANYING HER TO AUSTRALIA, LIVING IN HER HOME, SEEING HER UNDER ALL THE CIRCUMSTANCES OF HOME LIFE, AND, IN ADDITION, WITH THE BURDENS OF THE WORLD'S WORK 218 THAT SHE LOVED UPON HER; AND I WANT TO TESTIFY TODAY THAT MRS. STARR AND I CONSIDER HER ONE OF THE MOST CONSTANT, FAITHFUL CHRISTIANS THAT WE HAVE MET IN OUR LIVES. I DO NOT SAY THAT IN ORDER TO PRAISE HER HERE TODAY, BUT I BELIEVE IT FROM THE HEART; I HAVE REASON TO KNOW IT, I KNOW IT PERSONALLY. {RY 217.3} [RY 218.1] SHE HAS BEEN A GREAT HELP TO ME PERSONALLY. SHE HAS NOT WRITTEN ME FLATTERING LETTERS WHEN I HAVE BEEN IN THE MISSION FIELDS, IN QUEENSLAND AND OTHER PLACES, BUT SHE HAS WRITTEN ME VERY EARNEST WORDS OF COUNSEL THAT HAVE BEEN VERY PROFITABLE TO ME IN MY LIFE AND MINISTRY. {RY 218.1} [RY 218.2] I WISH TO NOTE HER CHARACTER AS A FRIEND, AND I AM SURE THAT ALL WHO KNOW HER HERE WILL VERIFY WHAT I SAY. HER REMEMBRANCE OF NAMES OF INDIVIDUALS WAS VERY REMARKABLE. SHE NEVER SEEMED TO FORGET A PERSON WHOM SHE MET IN ANY PART OF THE WORLD. SHE CARRIED THEM ON HER HEART AND IN HER PRAYERS. HER FAITHFULNESS IN FRIENDSHIP WAS VERY MARKED, EXTENDING THROUGH TRIAL AND TEMPTATION. AS THE LITTLE BOY AT SCHOOL SAID WHEN ASKED THE MEANING OF FRIENDSHIP, "A TRUE FRIEND IS ONE WHO KNOWS ALL ABOUT YOU AND LOVES YOU JUST THE SAME," SO WE CAN SAY OF HER, THAT THOUGH SHE KNEW THE FAILINGS OF HER FRIENDS VERY WELL, SHE LOVED THEM JUST THE SAME, AND PRAYED FOR THEM AND LABORED FOR THEM JUST THE SAME. {RY 218.2} [RY 218.3] ANOTHER WORD ABOUT HER CHARACTER: I REGARDED HER AS ONE OF THE STURDIEST CHARACTERS I EVER MET. I CAN COMPARE HER LIFE ONLY TO THE STURDY OAK THAT MEETS THE WIND AND BEARS ITS SEVEREST PRESSURE; OR THE MOUNTAIN THAT LAUGHS AT THE STORM. SHE MET TRIAL AND OPPOSITION FROM THOSE WHO OUGHT TO HAVE BEEN FRIENDLY; AND SHE MET IT IN THE KINDEST, SWEETEST SPIRIT, BUT WITH THE FIRMEST DETERMINATION 219 TO CONQUER, ALWAYS CONQUER. I NEVER KNEW HER TO BE CONQUERED. HER FAITH IN GOD WAS INVINCIBLE IN THIS COUNTRY, OR ANY OTHER COUNTRY. UNDER CIRCUMSTANCES THAT WOULD HAVE SWAMPED THE FAITH OF MANY, SHE TRIUMPHED UNDER TRIAL. {RY 218.3} [RY 219.1] JUST A WORD FURTHER ABOUT HER SICKNESS. IT HAS BEEN HER LOT, AS BROTHER LOUGHBOROUGH REMARKED, TO SUFFER MORE THAN THE ORDINARY CHRISTIAN. GOD PERMITTED IT, AND SHE--I THINK I WILL LET HER SPEAK FOR HERSELF AS TO HOW SHE REGARDED IT. I HAVE A STATEMENT HERE FROM HER OWN WRITINGS THAT I WILL READ: {RY 219.1} [RY 219.2] "I DO NOT NOW EXPECT TO BE LIFTED ABOVE ALL INFIRMITIES AND TRIBULATIONS, AND TO HAVE AN UNRUFFLED SEA ON THE JOURNEY HEAVENWARD. I EXPECT TRIALS, LOSSES, DISAPPOINTMENTS, AND BEREAVEMENTS"--AND SHE HAD THEM, TWO CHILDREN AND HER HUSBAND BURIED WHERE SHE WILL SOON BE BURIED BY THEIR SIDE, IN MICHIGAN; SHE HAD HER TRIALS IN THAT WAY, AND IN OTHER WAYS--"BUT I HAVE THE SAVIOUR'S PROMISE, 'MY GRACE IS SUFFICIENT FOR THEE.' {RY 219.2} [RY 219.3] "MY SICKNESS HAS TAUGHT ME MY OWN WEAKNESS, AND MY SAVIOUR'S PATIENCE AND LOVE, AND HIS POWER TO SAVE. WHEN PASSING SLEEPLESS NIGHTS, I HAVE FOUND HOPE AND COMFORT IN CONSIDERING THE FORBEARANCE AND TENDERNESS OF JESUS TOWARD HIS WEAK, ERRING DISCIPLES, AND REMEMBERING THAT HE IS STILL THE SAME--UNCHANGEABLE IN MERCY, COMPASSION, AND LOVE. HE SEES OUR WEAKNESS; HE KNOWS HOW WE LACK FAITH AND COURAGE; YET HE DOES NOT CAST US OFF. HE IS PITIFUL AND OF TENDER COMPASSION TOWARD US." {RY 219.3} [RY 219.4] ABOUT SIX WEEKS AGO WE CALLED ON HER, AND SHE SAID, "WHEN WERE YOU IN LAST TO SEE ME?" 220 {RY 219.4} [RY 220.1] "JUST LAST SABBATH AFTERNOON," I REPLIED. {RY 220.1} [RY 220.2] "OH, YES," SHE SAID, "I FORGOT." AND THEN SHE TURNED TO US AND SAID: "WE ALL HAVE OUR WEAKNESSES AND OUR FORGETFULNESSES, BUT IF WE CORRECT THEM THEY ADD STRENGTH TO OUR CHARACTERS AND DO NOT BELITTLE US." NOW THAT, YOU SEE, IS SIMILAR TO HER STATEMENT THAT CHRIST REVEALS HIS TENDER COMPASSION THROUGH SUFFERING. {RY 220.2} [RY 220.3] SPEAKING OF HER DEATH, SHE SAID: "I MAY FALL AT MY POST BEFORE THE LORD SHALL COME; BUT WHEN ALL THAT ARE IN THEIR GRAVES SHALL COME FORTH, I SHALL, IF FAITHFUL TO" --AND SHE WAS FAITHFUL--"SEE JESUS, AND BE MADE LIKE HIM. OH, WHAT JOY, UNSPEAKABLE, TO SEE HIM WHOM WE LOVE--TO SEE HIM IN HIS GLORY WHO SO LOVED US THAT HE GAVE HIMSELF FOR US--TO BEHOLD THOSE HANDS ONCE PIERCED FOR OUR REDEMPTION, STRETCHED OUT TO US IN BLESSING AND WELCOME!" THOSE ARE TRIUMPHANT WORDS, AREN'T THEY? {RY 220.3} [RY 220.4] NOW, WHILE HERE, SHE SANG CONSIDERABLY. I WANT TO READ YOU ONE VERSE OF ONE SONG THAT SHE VERY MUCH DELIGHTED IN. WE HEARD HER SINGING IT THE OTHER MORNING, AS WE WERE AT THE BOTTOM OF THE STAIRS. WE SAID, "WHO IS THAT SINGING?" AND THEY SAID, "THAT IS SISTER WHITE." HERE IS WHAT SHE SANG: "WE HAVE HEARD FROM THE BRIGHT, THE HOLY LAND, WE HAVE HEARD, AND OUR HEARTS ARE GLAD; FOR WE WERE A LONELY PILGRIM BAND, AND WEARY, AND WORN, AND SAD. THEY TELL US THE PILGRIMS HAVE A DWELLING THERE--NO LONGER ARE HOMELESS ONES; AND WE KNOW THAT THE GOODLY LAND IS FAIR, WHERE LIFE'S PURE RIVER RUNS." {RY 220.4} [RY 220.5] THEN SHE WOULD OMIT TWO VERSES AND SHE WOULD USE 221 THE LAST PART OF THE LAST VERSE AS SORT OF A CHORUS, AND WOULD REPEAT IT OVER AND OVER AGAIN. THIS WAS HER CHORUS: "WE'LL BE THERE, WE'LL BE THERE, IN A LITTLE WHILE, WE'LL JOIN THE PURE AND THE BLEST; WE'LL HAVE THE PALM, THE ROBE, THE CROWN, AND FOREVER BE AT REST." SHE WOULD REPEAT THAT AGAIN AND AGAIN. {RY 220.5} [RY 221.1] SOME HAVE ASKED A QUESTION ABOUT HER POSITION AMONG US. SHE WAS NEVER ELECTED TO ANY OFFICE. SHE NEVER DESIRED ANY OFFICE. WHEN A PERSON WOULD SPEAK OF ANY PARTICULAR WORK, SHE WOULD SAY, "MY WORK TO WHICH GOD HAS CALLED ME IS TO BE HIS MESSENGER," AND THAT WAS HER HIGHEST DESIRE, TO BE THE MESSENGER OF JESUS CHRIST. {RY 221.1} [RY 221.2] IN BIDDING HER GOOD-BYE TWO WEEKS AGO TODAY, SHE SAID TO US--AS BROTHER WHITE SPOKE TO HER, (SHE SEEMED TO BE VERY BRIGHT THAT MORNING), HE SAID, "MOTHER, BROTHER AND SISTER STARR HAVE COME TO BID YOU GOOD-BYE." SHE SAID SHE WAS VERY GLAD TO SEE US AGAIN. I SAID, "WE ARE GLAD TO FIND YOU SO BRIGHT THIS MORNING." THIS WAS HER REPLY: "I AM GLAD YOU FIND ME THUS, AND I WISH TO TELL YOU THAT IT IS BRIGHT INSIDE." AND THEN SHE ADDED, "I HAVE NOT HAD MANY MOURNFUL DAYS, HAVE I?" "NO, SISTER WHITE," I SAID, "NOT IN ALL YOUR LIFE, BECAUSE YOU HAVE RISEN ABOVE THEM." "YES," SAID SHE, "MY HEAVENLY FATHER HAS PLANNED IT ALL FOR ME, AND HE KNOWS WHEN IT WILL END, AND I AM DETERMINED NOT TO MURMUR." {RY 221.2} [RY 221.3] I FELT THAT THAT WAS A GREAT TRIUMPH--AND SHE DID TRIUMPH. MAY THE LORD HELP US TO FOLLOW IN HER STEPS. THEN I SAID TO HER, "I CAN ONLY TELL YOU, SISTER WHITE, WHAT YOU WROTE US IN ONE OF YOUR LAST LETTERS. YOU SAID, 222 'THE SHADOWS ARE LENGTHENING'"--AND I THOUGHT OF IT JUST NOW. SHE SAID, "BROTHER STARR, THE SHADOWS ARE LENGTHENING, AND WE ARE NEARING HOME. WE WILL SOON BE HOME, AND THEN WE WILL TALK IT ALL OVER TOGETHER IN THE KINGDOM OF GOD." 223 {RY 221.3} [RY 223.1] Appendix D APPENDIX D J.N. LOUGHBOROUGH LETTER TO LIDA SCOTT SANITARIUM, CALIFORNIA SEPT. 20, 1921 LIDA F. SCOTT MADISON, TENNESSEE DEAR SISTER SCOTT: YOUR LETTER OF SEPTEMBER 8, ENCLOSING NUMBERS 1, 4, AND 5 OF THE MADISON LEAFLETS, DULY RECEIVED. THANK YOU FOR THE LEAFLETS AND YOUR REMEMBRANCE OF ME. YOUR LETTER CAUSED THESE THOUGHTS. {RY 223.1} [RY 223.2] WE ARE APT TO THINK OF OUR FRIENDS, WHOM WE HAVE NOT SEEN IN A LONG TIME, AS WE LAST SAW THEM. SO I SUPPOSE MY FRIENDS A DISTANCE FROM HERE THINK OF ME AS WHEN THEY SAW ME YEARS AGO WHEN I WAS ACTIVELY AT WORK ALL OVER THE COUNTRY, AND EVEN MAKING A TRIP IN MY MINISTERIAL WORK ALL AROUND THE WORLD. IT MAY BE A SURPRISE TO SUCH TO LEARN THAT I WAS EIGHTY-NINE YEARS OF AGE THE 26TH OF LAST JANUARY, AND THAT I HAVE BEEN OFF THIS HILL ON WHICH THIS SANITARIUM STANDS ONLY THREE TIMES IN THREE AND ONE-HALF YEARS. {RY 223.2} [RY 223.3] I THANK YOU FOR YOUR INVITATION TO ATTEND YOUR MISSIONARY VOLUNTEER CONVENTION OCTOBER 7-9. ALTHOUGH I CANNOT COME IN THE FLESH, I CAN ASSURE YOU, AS PAUL DID THE COLOSSIANS, "THOUGH I BE ABSENT IN THE FLESH, YET AM I WITH YOU IN THE SPIRIT, JOYING AND BEHOLDING YOUR ORDER, AND THE STEDFASTNESS OF YOUR FAITH IN CHRIST." {RY 223.3} [RY 223.4] I THANK THE LORD I AM FREE FROM BODILY PAINS, BUT AM 224 ONLY FEEBLE WITH AGE. IF I CANNOT GET ABOUT IN PUBLIC LABORS AS FORMERLY, I THANK GOD THAT, AS SISTER WHITE SAID TO A SISTER WHO HAD BEEN AN ACTIVE BIBLE WORKER WHEN IN HEALTH BUT WAS UNABLE THUS LONGER TO WORK, "SISTER, YOU CAN WORK NOW AS WELL AS FORMERLY--YOU CAN PRAY FOR THOSE WHO HAVE HEALTH TO BE ACTIVELY ENGAGED IN THE GREAT HARVEST FIELD OF LABOR." {RY 223.4} [RY 224.1] I HAVE WATCHED WITH INTENSE INTEREST THE WORK OF BROTHER SUTHERLAND SINCE BEING PRIVILEGED TO BE WITH HIM A SHORT TIME YEARS AGO WHEN HE WAS IN THE BATTLE CREEK COLLEGE, WHEN I GAVE A FEW TALKS THERE. THEN I WAS GLAD TO SEE HIM MOVE OUT IN THE PLAN OF WHICH WE HAD BEEN TOLD, THAT OUR EDUCATIONAL CENTERS SHOULD HAVE LANDS FOR CULTURE, ETC., CONNECTED WITH THEM. I WATCHED WITH PRAYERFUL INTEREST HIS WORK IN CONNECTION WITH ESTABLISHING THE COLLEGE AT BERRIEN SPRINGS, MICHIGAN. {RY 224.1} [RY 224.2] THEN ESPECIALLY HAVE MY MIND AND PRAYERS BEEN ASSOCIATED WITH HIS LABORS IN THE SOUTH IN HARMONY WITH INSTRUCTION AS TO WHAT SHOULD BE DONE THERE. BE ASSURED, FELLOW WORKERS, THAT MY MIND AND FAITH ARE WITH YOU IN YOUR EARNEST WORK TO DO WHAT THE LORD HAS TOLD US SHOULD BE DONE. MAY THE LORD'S BLESSING BE ESPECIALLY IN THE DELIBERATION OF THE CONVENTION, WILL BE MY PRAYER WHILE YOU ARE THUS ASSEMBLED. YOURS IN THE BLESSED GOSPEL HOPE, J. N. LOUGHBOROUGH {RY 224.2} [CCh 0.1] CCh - Counsels for the Church (1991) FOREWORD AS THE SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST MOVEMENT HAS GROWN IN ALL PARTS OF THE WORLD, MEMBERS WHO SPEAK AND READ THE VARIOUS LANGUAGES HAVE YEARNED FOR THE TESTIMONIES FOR THE CHURCH, WHICH, IN FULL OR IN PART, HAVE EDIFIED AND BLESSED THE CHURCH THROUGHOUT THE WORLD. IT IS NOT POSSIBLE TO PUBLISH IN EACH LANGUAGE THE FULL CONTENT OF THE NINE TESTIMONY VOLUMES AND THE MANY OTHER SPIRIT OF PROPHECY BOOKS. THERE IS PRESENTED IN THIS VOLUME, HOWEVER, A SELECTION OF GENERAL COUNSELS DRAWN FROM THESE SOURCES WHICH WILL PROVE OF GREAT SERVICE AND PRACTICAL HELP TO THE CHURCH. THE SELECTION OF MATERIALS, WHICH HAVE BEEN CONVENIENTLY GROUPED IN THE SIXTY-SIX CHAPTERS OF THIS VOLUME, IS THE WORK OF THE TRUSTEES OF THE ELLEN G. WHITE ESTATE, WHO ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE CARE OF MRS. WHITE’S WRITINGS AT THE WORLD HEADQUARTERS OF THE SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH IN SILVER SPRING, MARYLAND, IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. IT HAS BEEN A PAINSTAKING TASK TO GATHER, ARRANGE, TRANSLATE, AND PUBLISH IN THIS BOOK A COMPREHENSIVE SELECTION OF MATERIALS FROM THE MANY E. G. WHITE BOOKS. BECAUSE OF THE LIMITATION OF SPACE, ONLY THE MORE ESSENTIAL COUNSELS ON VITAL THEMES COULD BE INCLUDED. EVEN THIS PRESENTS A WIDE RANGE OF SUBJECTS. IN SOME CASES THE SELECTION IS CONFINED TO A FEW PARAGRAPHS AT A TIME TAKEN FROM SCATTERED SOURCES. REFERENCE TO THE BOOKS FROM WHICH THE SELECTIONS HAVE BEEN DRAWN ARE FOUND IN ABBREVIATED FORM AT THE CLOSE OF EACH CHAPTER. BY REFERENCE TO THE KEY TO ABBREVIATIONS YOU CAN EASILY FIND THE BOOKS TO WHICH THE LETTERS REFER. NO ATTEMPT HAS BEEN MADE TO INDICATE BY ELLIPSIS MARKS THAT PARAGRAPHS OR SENTENCES HAVE BEEN DELETED. DO NOT CONFUSE THE INTRODUCTION, WRITTEN BY THE TRUSTEES, WITH THE WRITINGS OF MRS. WHITE HERSELF, WHICH COMMENCE WITH CHAPTER 1. IT IS WITH SATISFACTION AND JOY THAT THIS BOOK IS NOW MADE AVAILABLE TO THOSE WHO HAVE WAITED SO LONG FOR ITS APPEARANCE. THAT THE PRECIOUS COUNSEL AND INSTRUCTIONS THAT FILLS THESE PAGES MAY DEEPEN THE CONVICTION OF EACH READER IN THE TRUTHS OF THE ADVENT MESSAGE, BROADEN HIS CHRISTIAN EXPERIENCE, AND HEIGHTEN HIS EXPECTATION OF VICTORY IN THE FINAL DAY WHEN OUR LORD SHALL RETURN, IS THE SINCERE PRAYER OF THE TRUSTEES OF THE ELLEN G. WHITE ESTATE. {CCh 0.1} [CCh 0.2] Table of Contents Introduction 9 1. A Vision of the Reward of the Faithful 33 2. The Time of the End 37 3. Prepare to Meet the Lord 41 4. Union With Christ and Brotherly Love 43 5. Christ Our Righteousness 47 6. The Sanctified Life 50 7. God Has a Work for You to Do 58 8. “Here Am I, Lord, Send Me” 64 9. The Publications of the Church 72 10. Belief in a personal God 74 11. Christians to Represent God 78 12. In the World but Not of the World 83 13. The Bible 86 14. The Testimonies for the Church 91 15. The Holy Spirit 98 16. Keep Clear God’s Connection with Man 101 17. Purity of Heart and Life 107 18. The Choosing of a Husband or Wife 112 19. Marry Not an Unbeliever 120 20. Marriage 125 21. A Happy, Successful Partnership 129 22. The Relationship Between Husband and Wife 133 23. The Mother and Her Child 138 24. The Christian Father and Mother 143 25. The Christian Home 148 26. Spiritual Influence in the Home 151 27. Finance in the Home 154 28. Family Activities During Holidays and Anniversaries 158 29. Recreation 160 30. The Avenues to the Mind Which Must be Guarded 166 31. Choice of reading 168 32. Music 172 33. Criticism and Its Effects 174 34. Counsel Concerning Dress 180 35. An Appeal to Youth 184 36. The Proper Discipline and Education of Our Children 190 37. Christian Education 202 38. The Call to Temperate Living 214 39. The Importance of Cleanliness 218 40. The Food We Eat 221 41. Flesh Foods 228 42. Faithfulness in Health Reform 233 43. The Church on Earth 240 44. Church Organization 244 45. The House of God 249 46. Treatment of the Erring 254 47. The Observance of God’s Holy Sabbath 261 48. Counsels on Stewardship 272 49. The Christian Attitude Toward Want and Suffering 283 50. Christians in All the World Become One in Christ 287 51. The Prayer Meeting 292 52. Baptism 295 53. The Lord’s Supper 298 54. Prayer for the Sick 303 55. The Medical Work 308 56. Relations With Those Not of Our Persuasion 312 57. Our relations to Rulers and Laws 314 58. Satan’s Deceptive Work 319 59. False Science—Satan’s Modern Robe of Light 322 60. Satan’s Lying Wonders 329 61. The Coming Crisis 333 62. The Sifting Time 338 63. Some Things to Remember 342 64. Christ Our Great High Priest 347 65. Joshua and the Angel 350 66. “Behold, I Come Quickly” 355 {CCh 0.2} [CCh 0.3] Introduction—The Prophetic Gift and Ellen G. White PREPARING TO MEET CHRIST ALL SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISTS LOOK FORWARD LONGINGLY TO THE TIME WHEN JESUS WILL COME TO TAKE THEM TO THE HEAVENLY HOME THAT HE HAS GONE TO PREPARE FOR THEM. IN THAT BETTER LAND THERE WILL BE NO MORE SIN, NO DISAPPOINTMENTS, NO HUNGER, NO POVERTY, NO SICKNESS, AND NO DEATH. WHEN THE APOSTLE JOHN CONTEMPLATED THE PRIVILEGES THAT AWAIT THE FAITHFUL, HE EXCLAIMED: “BEHOLD, WHAT MANNER OF LOVE THE FATHER HATH BESTOWED UPON US, THAT WE SHOULD BE CALLED THE SONS OF GOD…. NOW ARE WE THE SONS OF GOD, AND IT DOTH NOT YET APPEAR WHAT WE SHALL BE: BUT WE KNOW THAT, WHEN HE SHALL APPEAR, WE SHALL BE LIKE HIM.” 1 JOHN 3:1,2. TO BE LIKE JESUS IN CHARACTER IS GOD’S AIM FOR HIS PEOPLE. FROM THE BEGINNING IT WAS GOD’S PLAN THAT MEMBERS OF THE HUMAN FAMILY, CREATED IN HIS IMAGE, SHOULD DEVELOP GOD-LIKE CHARACTERS. TO ACCOMPLISH THIS, OUR FIRST PARENTS IN EDEN WERE TO RECEIVE INSTRUCTION FROM CHRIST AND THE ANGELS IN FACE-TO-FACE CONVERSE. BUT AFTER ADAM AND EVE SINNED, THEY COULD NO LONGER FREELY SPEAK TO HEAVENLY BEINGS IN THIS MANNER. SO THAT THE HUMAN FAMILY MIGHT NOT BE LEFT WITHOUT GUIDANCE, GOD CHOSE OTHER WAYS TO REVEAL HIS WILL TO HIS PEOPLE, ONE OF WHICH WAS THE MEDIUM OF PROPHETS. TO ISRAEL, GOD EXPLAINED, “IF THERE BE A PROPHET AMONG YOU, I THE LORD WILL MAKE MYSELF KNOWN UNTO HIM IN A VISION AND WILL SPEAK UNTO HIM IN A DREAM.” NUMBERS 12:6. IT IS GOD’S PURPOSE THAT HIS PEOPLE SHALL BE INFORMED AND ENLIGHTENED, KNOWING AND UNDERSTANDING NOT ONLY THE TIMES IN WHICH THEY LIVE BUT ALSO WHAT IS YET TO COME. “SURELY THE LORD WILL DO NOTHING, BUT HE REVEALETH HIS SECRETS UNTO HIS SERVANTS THE PROPHETS.” AMOS 3:7. THIS CONTRASTS GOD’S PEOPLE, “THE CHILDREN OF LIGHT” 1 THESSALONIANS 5:5, WITH THE PEOPLE OF THE WORLD. THE WORK OF THE PROPHET INCLUDES MUCH MORE THAN JUST MAKING PREDICTIONS. MOSES, A PROPHET OF GOD WHO WROTE SIX BOOKS OF THE BIBLE, WROTE VERY LITTLE ABOUT WHAT WAS TO COME IN THE FUTURE. HIS WORK IS DESCRIBED BY HOSEA IN ITS BROADER SENSE, “BY A PROPHET THE LORD BROUGHT ISRAEL OUT OF EGYPT, AND BY A PROPHET WAS HE PRESERVED.” HOSEA 12:13. A PROPHET IS NOT ONE WHO IS APPOINTED BY HIS FELLOW MEN, NOR IS HE SELF-APPOINTED. THE CHOICE OF A PERSON TO BE A PROPHET IS ENTIRELY IN THE HANDS OF GOD. BOTH MEN AND WOMEN HAVE FROM TIME TO TIME BEEN CHOSEN BY GOD TO SPEAK FOR HIM. 10 THESE PROPHETS, THESE MEN AND WOMEN CHOSEN OF GOD AS CHANNELS OF COMMUNICATION, HAVE SPOKEN AND WRITTEN WHAT GOD HAS REVEALED TO THEM IN HOLY VISION. THE PRECIOUS WORD OF GOD COMPRISES THESE MESSAGES. THROUGH THESE PROPHETS MEMBERS OF THE HUMAN FAMILY HAVE BEEN LED TO AN UNDERSTANDING OF THE CONFLICT THAT GOES ON FOR THE SOULS OF MEN, THE CONFLICT BETWEEN CHRIST AND HIS ANGELS AND SATAN AND HIS ANGELS. WE ARE LED TO AN UNDERSTANDING OF THIS CONFLICT IN EARTH’S CLOSING DAYS, AND OF THE MEANS PROVIDED BY GOD TO CARE FOR HIS WORK AND TO PERFECT THE CHARACTERS OF HIS PEOPLE. THE APOSTLES, THE LAST OF THE BIBLE WRITERS, GAVE US A CLEAR PICTURE OF THE EVENTS OF THE LAST DAYS. PAUL WROTE OF “PERILOUS TIMES,” AND PETER WARNED OF SCOFFERS, WALKING AFTER THEIR OWN LUSTS, ASKING, “WHERE IS THE PROMISE OF HIS COMING?” THE CHURCH AT THIS TIME WILL BE IN CONFLICT, FOR JOHN SAW SATAN AS HE “WENT TO MAKE WAR WITH THE REMNANT.” THE APOSTLE JOHN IDENTIFIES THE MEMBERS OF THE LAST-DAY CHURCH, “THE REMNANT CHURCH,” AS THOSE “WHICH KEEP THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD” REVELATION 12:17, THUS MAKING THEM A COMMANDMENT-KEEPING CHURCH. THIS REMNANT CHURCH WOULD ALSO HAVE “THE TESTIMONY OF JESUS,” WHICH IS “THE SPIRIT OF PROPHECY.” REVELATION 19:10. PAUL STATES THAT THE CHURCH THAT IS EXPECTANTLY WAITING FOR THE COMING OF CHRIST WOULD COME BEHIND IN NO GIFT. 1 CORINTHIANS 1:7,8. IT WOULD BE BLESSED WITH THE GIFT OF THE TESTIMONY OF CHRIST. IT IS CLEAR, THEN, THAT IN GOD’S PLAN THE CHURCH OF THE LAST DAYS WOULD, WHEN IT CAME INTO BEING, HAVE IN ITS MIDST THE SPIRIT OF PROPHECY. HOW REASONABLE IT IS THAT GOD SHOULD SPEAK TO HIS PEOPLE IN EARTH’S LAST DAYS JUST AS HE SPOKE TO HIS PEOPLE IN TIME OF SPECIAL NEED IN CENTURIES PAST. WHEN THIS CHURCH OF PROPHECY—THE SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH—CAME INTO BEING IN THE MID-1800S, A VOICE WAS HEARD AMONG US, SAYING, “GOD HAS SHOWN ME IN HOLY VISION.” THESE WERE NOT BOASTING WORDS, BUT THE UTTERANCE OF A MAIDEN OF SEVENTEEN YEARS WHO HAD BEEN CALLED TO SPEAK FOR GOD. THROUGH SEVENTY YEARS OF FAITHFUL MINISTRY THAT VOICE WAS HEARD, GUIDING, CORRECTING, INSTRUCTING. AND THAT VOICE IS STILL HEARD TODAY THROUGH THE THOUSANDS OF PAGES WRITTEN BY THE LORD’S CHOSEN MESSENGER, ELLEN G. WHITE. THE VISION OF THE GREAT CONTROVERSY BETWEEN CHRIST AND SATAN THE LITTLE SCHOOLHOUSE IN A VILLAGE IN THE EASTERN PART OF AMERICA WAS FILLED WITH MEN AND WOMEN THAT SUNDAY AFTERNOON IN MID-MARCH, 1858, AS THEY GATHERED FOR A SERVICE. ELDER JAMES WHITE CONDUCTED THE FUNERAL OF A YOUNG MAN, PREACHING THE SERMON. AS HE FINISHED SPEAKING, MRS. WHITE FELT IMPRESSED TO SAY A FEW WORDS TO THOSE WHO MOURNED. SHE ROSE TO HER FEET, SPOKE FOR A MINUTE OR TWO, AND THEN PAUSED. THE PEOPLE LOOKED UP TO CATCH THE NEXT WORDS FROM HER LIPS. THEY WERE A BIT STARTLED BY THE EXCLAMATION OF “GLORY TO GOD!” REPEATED THREE TIMES WITH INCREASING EMPHASES. MRS. WHITE WAS IN VISION. ELDER WHITE TOLD THE PEOPLE ABOUT THE VISIONS GIVEN TO MRS. WHITE. 11 HE EXPLAINED THAT VISIONS HAD BEEN GIVEN TO HER SINCE SHE WAS A YOUNG WOMAN OF SEVENTEEN. HE TOLD THEM THAT ALTHOUGH HER EYES WERE OPEN, AND IT SEEMED AS IF SHE WERE WATCHING SOMETHING IN THE DISTANCE, SHE WAS ABSOLUTELY UNCONSCIOUS OF HER SURROUNDINGS AND KNEW NOTHING OF WHAT WAS GOING ON ABOUT HER. HE REFERRED TO NUMBERS 24:4 AND 16, WHERE WE READ OF ONE “WHICH HEARD THE WORDS OF GOD, AND KNOW THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE MOST HIGH, WHICH SAW THE VISION OF THE ALMIGHTY, FALLING INTO A TRANCE, BUT HAVING HIS EYES OPEN.” HE EXPLAINED TO THE PEOPLE THAT SHE DID NOT BREATHE WHILE IN VISION. THEN HE TURNED TO DANIEL 10:17 AND READ DANIEL’S EXPERIENCE WHILE IN VISION: “THERE REMAINED NO STRENGTH IN ME, NEITHER IS THERE BREATH LEFT IN ME.” ELDER WHITE NEXT INVITED THOSE WHO CARED TO DO SO TO COME FORWARD AND EXAMINE MRS. WHITE. HE ALWAYS GAVE FREEDOM FOR SUCH AN EXAMINATION AND WAS PLEASED IF A PHYSICIAN WAS PRESENT WHO COULD EXAMINE HER WHILE IN VISION. AS THE PEOPLE PRESSED CLOSE, THEY SAW THAT MRS. WHITE DID NOT BREATHE, YET HER HEART CONTINUED TO BEAT NORMALLY, AND THE COLOR OF HER CHEEKS WAS NATURAL. A MIRROR WAS BROUGHT AND HELD BEFORE HER FACE, BUT NO MOISTURE GATHERED ON THE MIRROR. THEN THEY BROUGHT A CANDLE AND LIT IT AND HELD IT CLOSE TO HER NOSE AND MOUTH. BUT THE FLAME STOOD ERECT, WITHOUT A FLICKER. THE PEOPLE COULD SEE THAT SHE DID NOT BREATHE. SHE WALKED ABOUT THE ROOM, MOVING HER ARMS GRACEFULLY AS SHE SPOKE IN SHORT EXCLAMATIONS OF WHAT WAS BEING REVEALED TO HER. LIKE DANIEL, THERE HAD AT FIRST BEEN A LOSS OF NATURAL STRENGTH; THEN SUPERNATURAL STRENGTH WAS IMPARTED TO HER. SEE DANIEL 10:7,8,18,19. FOR TWO HOURS MRS. WHITE WAS IN VISION. FOR TWO HOURS SHE DID NOT BREATHE. THEN AS THE VISION CAME TO A CLOSE, SHE TOOK A DEEP INHALATION, PAUSED FOR ABOUT A MINUTE, BREATHED AGAIN, AND SOON WAS BREATHING NATURALLY. AT THE SAME TIME SHE BEGAN TO RECOGNIZE HER SURROUNDINGS, BECOMING CONSCIOUS OF WHAT WAS GOING ON ABOUT HER. ONE WHO OFTEN SAW MRS. WHITE IN VISION, MRS. MARTHA AMADON, GIVES THE FOLLOWING DESCRIPTION: “IN VISION HER EYES WERE OPEN. THERE WAS NO BREATH, BUT THERE WERE GRACEFUL MOVEMENTS OF THE SHOULDER, ARMS, THE HANDS, EXPRESSIVE OF WHAT SHE SAW. IT WAS IMPOSSIBLE FOR ANYONE ELSE TO MOVE HER HANDS OR ARMS. SHE OFTEN UTTERED WORDS SINGLY AND SOMETIMES SENTENCES WHICH EXPRESSED TO THOSE ABOUT HER THE NATURE OF THE VIEW SHE WAS HAVING, EITHER OF HEAVEN OR OF EARTH. “HER FIRST WORD IN VISION WAS ‘GLORY,’ SOUNDING AT FIRST CLOSE BY, AND THEN DYING AWAY IN THE DISTANCE, SEEMINGLY FAR AWAY. THIS WAS SOMETIMES REPEATED…. “THERE WAS NO EXCITEMENT AMONG THOSE PRESENT DURING A VISION; NOTHING CAUSED FEAR. IT WAS A SOLEMN, QUIET SCENE…. “WHEN THE VISION WAS ENDED, AND SHE LOST SIGHT OF THE HEAVENLY LIGHT, AS IT WERE COMING BACK TO THE EARTH ONCE MORE, SHE WOULD EXCLAIM WITH A LONG-DRAW SIGH, AS SHE TOOK HER FIRST NATURAL BREATH, ‘D-A-R-K.’ 12 SHE WAS THEN LIMP AND STRENGTHLESS.” BUT WE MUST RETURN TO OUR STORY OF THE TWO-HOUR VISION IN THE SCHOOLHOUSE. OF THIS VISION MRS. WHITE LATER WROTE: “MOST OF THE MATTER WHICH I HAD SEEN TEN YEARS BEFORE CONCERNING THE GREAT CONTROVERSY OF THE AGES BETWEEN CHRIST AND SATAN, WAS REPEATED, AND I WAS INSTRUCTED TO WRITE IT OUT.” IN THE VISION IT SEEMED TO HER THAT SHE WAS PRESENT, WITNESSING THE SCENES AS THEY APPEARED BEFORE HER. FIRST IT SEEMED THAT SHE WAS IN HEAVEN, WHERE SHE WITNESSED THE FALL OF LUCIFER. THEN SHE WITNESSED THE CREATION OF THE WORLD AND SAW OUR FIRST PARENTS IN THEIR EDEN HOME. SHE SAW THEM YIELD TO THE TEMPTATIONS OF THE SERPENT AND LOSE THEIR GARDEN HOME. IN QUICK SUCCESSION BIBLE HISTORY PASSED BEFORE HER. SHE SAW THE EXPERIENCE OF THE PATRIARCHS AND PROPHETS OF ISRAEL. SHE WITNESSED THE LIFE AND DEATH OF OUR SAVIOUR JESUS CHRIST AND HIS ASCENSION TO HEAVEN, WHERE HE HAS BEEN MINISTERING AS OUR HIGH PRIEST EVER SINCE. FOLLOWING THESE SHE SAW THE DISCIPLES GO FORTH TO SPREAD THE GOSPEL MESSAGE TO THE ENDS OF THE EARTH. QUICKLY THIS WAS FOLLOWED BY THE APOSTASY AND THE DARK AGES! THEN SHE SAW IN VISION THE REFORMATION, AS NOBLE MEN AND WOMEN AT THE RISK OF THEIR LIVES STOOD FOR TRUTH. SHE WAS BROUGHT DOWN TO THE SCENES OF THE JUDGMENT WHICH BEGAN IN HEAVEN IN 1844, AND ON TO OUR DAY; THEN SHE WAS TAKEN INTO THE FUTURE AND SAW THE COMING OF CHRIST IN THE CLOUDS OF HEAVEN. SHE WITNESSED THE SCENES OF THE MILLENNIUM AND THE EARTH MADE NEW. WITH THESE VIVID REPRESENTATIONS BEFORE HER, MRS. WHITE, AFTER RETURNING TO HER HOME, UNDERTOOK TO WRITE OUT WHAT SHE HAD SEEN AND HEARD IN THE VISION. ABOUT SIX MONTHS LATER A LITTLE 219-PAGE VOLUME CAME FROM THE PRESS BEARING THE TITLE THE GREAT CONTROVERSY BETWEEN CHRIST AND HIS ANGELS AND SATAN AND HIS ANGELS. THE LITTLE BOOK WAS RECEIVED ENTHUSIASTICALLY, FOR IT PORTRAYED VIVIDLY THE EXPERIENCE THAT WAS BEFORE THE CHURCH, AND UNMASKED THE PLANS OF SATAN AND THE MANNER IN WHICH HE WILL ATTEMPT TO MISLEAD THE CHURCH AND THE WORLD IN THE LAST CONFLICT OF EARTH. HOW THANKFUL THE ADVENTISTS WERE THAT GOD WAS SPEAKING TO THEM IN THESE LAST DAYS THROUGH THE SPIRIT OF PROPHECY, JUST AS HE HAD PROMISED TO DO. THE ACCOUNT OF THE GREAT CONTROVERSY, SO BRIEFLY TOLD IN THE LITTLE VOLUME OF SPIRITUAL GIFTS, WAS LATER REPRINTED IN THE LAST HALF OF EARLY WRITINGS, AND MAY BE FOUND THERE TODAY. BUT AS THE CHURCH GREW AND TIME WENT ON, THE LORD IN MANY SUCCEEDING VISIONS OPENED UP THE GREAT CONTROVERSY STORY IN GREATER DETAIL, AND MRS. WHITE REWROTE IT, BETWEEN 1870 AND 1884, IN FOUR VOLUMES CALLED THE SPIRIT OF PROPHECY. THE BOOK THE STORY OF REDEMPTION PRESENTS THE MORE IMPORTANT PARTS OF THE GREAT CONTROVERSY STORY DRAWN FROM THESE BOOKS. THIS VOLUME, PUBLISHED IN MANY LANGUAGES, BRINGS TO MANY PEOPLE WHAT WAS SHOWN IN THESE VISION OF THE GREAT CONTROVERSY. LATER, IN THE FIVE VOLUMES OF THE “CONFLICT OF THE AGES SERIES”—PATRIARCHS AND PROPHETS, PROPHETS AND KINGS, THE DESIRE OF AGES, THE ACTS OF THE 13 APOSTLES, AND THE GREAT CONTROVERSY—MRS. WHITE PRESENTED, IN MINUTE DETAIL, THE ENTIRE HISTORY OF THE CONFLICT BETWEEN GOOD AND EVIL. THESE VOLUMES, WHICH PARALLEL THE BIBLE ACCOUNT FROM CREATION TO THE CHRISTIAN ERA AND TAKE THE STORY THROUGH TO THE CLOSE OF TIME, GIVE GREAT LIGHT AND ENCOURAGEMENT. THESE ARE BOOKS THAT HELP TO MAKE SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISTS “THE CHILDREN OF LIGHT” AND “CHILDREN OF THE DAY.” WE SEE IN THIS EXPERIENCE THE FULFILLMENT OF THE ASSURANCE: “SURELY THE LORD GOD WILL DO NOTHING, BUT HE REVEALETH HIS SECRET UNTO HIS SERVANTS THE PROPHETS.” AMOS 3:7. WRITING OF HOW THE LIGHT CAME TO HER, MRS. WHITE SAYS: “THROUGH THE ILLUMINATION OF THE HOLY SPIRIT, THE SCENES OF THE LONG-CONTINUED CONFLICT BETWEEN GOOD AND EVIL HAVE BEEN OPENED TO THE WRITER OF THESE PAGES. FROM TIME TO TIME I HAVE BEEN PERMITTED TO BEHOLD THE WORKING, IN DIFFERENT AGES, OF THE GREAT CONTROVERSY BETWEEN CHRIST, THE PRINCE OF LIFE, THE AUTHOR OF OUR SALVATION, AND SATAN, THE PRINCE OF EVIL, THE AUTHOR OF SIN, THE FIRST TRANSGRESSOR OF GOD’S HOLY LAW…. “AS THE SPIRIT OF GOD HAS OPENED TO MY MIND THE GREAT TRUTHS OF HIS WORD, AND THE SCENES OF THE PAST AND THE FUTURE, I HAVE BEEN BIDDEN TO MAKE KNOWN TO OTHERS THAT WHICH HAS THUS BEEN REVEALED—TO TRACE THE HISTORY OF THE CONTROVERSY IN PAST AGES, AND ESPECIALLY SO TO PRESENT IT AS TO SHED A LIGHT ON THE FAST-APPROACHING STRUGGLE OF THE FUTURE.” HOW THE LIGHT CAME TO THE PROPHET AT ONE TIME IN THE EXPERIENCE OF THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL, AS WE HAVE ALREADY SEEN, THE LORD TOLD THE PEOPLE HOW HE WOULD COMMUNICATE WITH THEM THROUGH THE PROPHETS. HE SAID: “IF THERE BE A PROPHET AMONG YOU, I THE LORD WILL MAKE MYSELF KNOWN UNTO HIM IN A VISION, AND WILL SPEAK UNTO HIM IN A DREAM.” NUMBERS 12:6. WE STATED ABOVE THAT THE 1858 GREAT CONTROVERSY VISION WAS ACCOMPANIED BY CERTAIN PHYSICAL PHENOMENA. ONE MIGHT VERY LOGICALLY ASK WHY VISIONS WERE GIVEN IN THIS WAY. UNDOUBTEDLY IT WAS TO ESTABLISH THE CONFIDENCE OF THE PEOPLE AND TO ASSURE THEM THAT THE LORD WAS TRULY SPEAKING TO THE PROPHET. NOT OFTEN DID MRS. WHITE REFER IN DETAIL TO HER CONDITION WHILE IN VISION, BUT ON ONE OCCASION SHE SAID, “THESE MESSAGES WERE THUS GIVEN TO SUBSTANTIATE THE FAITH OF ALL, THAT IN THESE LAST DAYS WE MIGHT HAVE CONFIDENCE IN THE SPIRIT OF PROPHECY.” AS MRS. WHITE’S WORK DEVELOPED, IT COULD BE TESTED BY ITS RESULTS. “BY THEIR FRUITS YE SHALL KNOW THEM.” BUT IT TAKES TIME FOR FRUIT TO DEVELOP, AND THE LORD AT THE OUTSET GAVE EVIDENCES IN CONNECTION WITH THE GIVING OF THE VISIONS, WHICH HELPED THE PEOPLE TO BELIEVE. BUT NOT ALL OF THE VISIONS WERE GIVEN IN PUBLIC, ACCOMPANIED BY MARKED PHYSICAL PHENOMENA. THE LORD PROMISED TO COMMUNICATE WITH THE PROPHETS THROUGH DREAMS AS WELL. NUMBERS 12:16. THESE ARE PROPHETIC DREAMS, SUCH AS DANIEL HAD. HE DECLARES: “IN THE FIRST YEAR OF BELSHAZZAR KING OF BABYLON, DANIEL HAD A DREAM AND VISIONS OF HIS HEAD UPON HIS BED: THEN HE WROTE THE DREAM, AND TOLD THE SUM OF THE MATTERS.” DANIEL 7:1. 14 AS DANIEL TELLS OF WHAT WAS REVEALED TO HIM, IN SEVERAL INSTANCES HE SAYS, “I SAW IN THE NIGHT VISIONS.” LIKEWISE, IN MRS. WHITE’S EXPERIENCE VISIONS WERE GIVEN TO HER WHEN HER MIND WAS AT REST DURING THE HOURS OF THE NIGHT. HER WRITINGS OFTEN CONTAIN THE INTRODUCTORY STATEMENT: “IN THE VISIONS OF THE NIGHT SOME THINGS WERE CLEARLY PRESENTED TO ME.” FREQUENTLY GOD SPOKE TO THE PROPHET IN A PROPHETIC DREAM. QUESTIONS MAY ARISE CONCERNING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN A PROPHETIC DREAM OR NIGHT VISION, AND AN ORDINARY DREAM. OF THIS MRS. WHITE WROTE IN 1868: “THERE ARE MANY DREAMS ARISING FROM THE COMMON THINGS OF LIFE, WITH WHICH THE SPIRIT OF GOD HAS NOTHING TO DO. THERE ARE ALSO FALSE DREAMS, AS WELL AS FALSE VISIONS, WHICH ARE INSPIRED BY THE SPIRIT OF SATAN. BUT DREAMS FROM THE LORD ARE CLASSED IN THE WORD OF GOD WITH VISIONS. SUCH DREAMS, TAKING INTO ACCOUNT THE PERSONS WHO HAVE THEM, AND THE CIRCUMSTANCES UNDER WHICH THEY ARE GIVEN, CONTAIN THEIR OWN PROOFS OF THEIR GENUINENESS.” AT ONE TIME, QUITE LATE IN MRS. WHITE’S LIFE, HER SON, ELDER W. C. WHITE, SEEKING INFORMATION TO HELP THOSE WHO WERE LESS INFORMED, MADE THIS INQUIRY OF HER: “MOTHER, YOU OFTEN SPEAK OF MATTERS BEING REVEALED TO YOU IN THE NIGHT SEASON. YOU SPEAK OF DREAMS IN WHICH LIGHT COMES TO YOU. WE ALL HAVE DREAMS. HOW DO YOU KNOW THAT GOD IS SPEAKING TO YOU IN THE DREAM OF WHICH YOU SO FREQUENTLY SPEAK?” “BECAUSE,” SHE ANSWERED, “THE SAME ANGEL MESSENGER STANDS BESIDE ME INSTRUCTING ME IN THE VISIONS OF THE NIGHT AS STANDS BESIDE ME INSTRUCTING ME IN THE VISIONS OF THE DAY.” THE HEAVENLY BEING REFERRED TO WAS AT OTHER TIMES SPOKEN OF AS “THE ANGEL,” “MY GUIDE,” “MY INSTRUCTOR,” ETC. THERE WAS NO CONFUSION IN THE MIND OF THE PROPHET, NO QUESTION AS TO THE REVELATION THAT CAME DURING THE HOURS OF THE NIGHT, FOR THE VERY CIRCUMSTANCES IN CONNECTION WITH IT MADE IT CLEAR THAT IT WAS INSTRUCTION FROM GOD. AT OTHER TIMES WHILE MRS. WHITE WAS PRAYING, SPEAKING, OR WRITING, VISIONS WERE GIVEN TO HER. THOSE ABOUT HER WOULD NOT BE AWARE OF THE VISION, UNLESS THERE WAS A BRIEF PAUSE IF SHE WAS SPEAKING OR PRAYING PUBLICLY. AT ONE TIME SHE WROTE: “WHILE ENGAGED IN EARNEST PRAYER, I WAS LOST TO EVERYTHING AROUND ME; THE ROOM WAS FILLED WITH LIGHT, AND I WAS HEARING A MESSAGE TO AN ASSEMBLY THAT SEEMED TO BE THE GENERAL CONFERENCE.” OF THE MANY VISIONS GIVEN TO MRS. WHITE THROUGH HER LONG MINISTRY OF SEVENTY YEARS, THE LONGEST VISION LASTED FOUR HOURS AND THE SHORTEST JUST A BRIEF MOMENT. OFTEN THEY WERE FOR A HALF HOUR, OR A LITTLE LONGER. BUT NO SINGLE RULE CAN BE STATED WHICH WOULD COVER ALL THE VISIONS, FOR IT WAS AS PAUL WROTE: “GOD, WHO AT SUNDRY TIMES AND IN DIVERS MANNERS SPAKE IN TIME PAST UNTO THE FATHERS BY THE PROPHETS.” HEBREWS 1:1. 15 THE LIGHT WAS IMPARTED TO THE PROPHET THROUGH VISIONS, BUT THE PROPHET DID NOT WRITE WHILE IN VISION. HIS WORK WAS NOT A MECHANICAL TASK. EXCEPT ON RARE OCCASIONS, THE LORD DID NOT GIVE HIM THE VERY WORDS TO SPEAK. NOR DID THE ANGEL GUIDE THE HAND OF THE PROPHET IN THE PRECISE WORDS TO RECORD. FROM THE MIND, ENLIGHTENED BY VISIONS, THE PROPHET SPOKE OR WROTE THE WORDS THAT WOULD CONVEY THE LIGHT AND INSTRUCTION TO HIS AUDIENCE, WHETHER THEY READ THE MESSAGE OR HEARD IT ORALLY. WE MIGHT ASK HOW THE MIND OF THE PROPHET WAS ENLIGHTENED—HOW DID HE GAIN THE INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTION HE WAS TO IMPART TO THE PEOPLE? JUST AS NO ONE RULE CAN BE ESTABLISHED FOR THE GIVING OF THE VISIONS, SO NO ONE RULE CAN BE ESTABLISHED GOVERNING THE WAY THE PROPHET RECEIVED THE INSPIRED MESSAGE. IN EACH CASE, HOWEVER, IT WAS A VERY VIVID EXPERIENCE THAT MADE AN INDELIBLE IMPRESSION ON THE MIND OF THE PROPHET. AND JUST AS THAT WHICH WE SEE AND EXPERIENCE MAKES A MUCH DEEPER IMPRESSION ON OUR MINDS THAT WHAT WE ONLY HEAR, SO THE REPRESENTATIONS TO THE PROPHETS, WHERE THEY SEEMED TO WITNESS DRAMATIC EVENTS, MADE DEEP AND LASTING IMPRESSIONS ON THEIR MINDS. MRS. WHITE WROTE ONCE, “MY ATTENTION IS OFTEN DIRECTED TO SCENES TRANSPIRING UPON EARTH. AT TIMES I AM CARRIED FAR AHEAD INTO THE FUTURE AND SHOWN WHAT IS TO TAKE PLACE. THEN AGAIN, I AM SHOWN THINGS AS THEY HAVE OCCURRED IN THE PAST.” FROM THIS IT BECOMES EVIDENT THAT ELLEN WHITE SAW THESE EVENTS TAKE PLACE, SEEMINGLY AS AN EYEWITNESS. THEY WERE REENACTED BEFORE HER IN VISION, AND THUS THEY MADE A VIVID IMPRESSION ON HER MIND. AT OTHER TIMES IT SEEMED TO HER THAT SHE WAS ACTUALLY TAKING PART IN THE SCENE PRESENTED TO HER, AND THAT SHE WAS FEELING, SEEING, HEARING, AND OBEYING, WHEN, OF COURSE, SHE WAS NOT, BUT THE IMPRESSION WAS MADE ON HER MIND IN AN UNFORGETTABLE MANNER. HER VERY FIRST VISION, PRESENTED ON PAGES 33 TO 36, WAS OF THIS NATURE. ON OTHER OCCASIONS WHILE IN VISION, MRS. WHITE SEEMED TO BE PRESENT AT GATHERINGS OR IN HOMES OR INSTITUTIONS LOCATED AT DISTANT PLACES. SO VIVID WAS THIS SENSE OF BEING PRESENT AT SUCH GATHERINGS THAT SHE COULD REPORT IN DETAIL THE ACTIONS AND WORDS SPOKEN BY VARIOUS PERSONS. ONCE, WHILE IN VISION, MRS. WHITE HAD THE SENSATION THAT SHE WAS BEING TAKEN ON A TOUR OF ONE OF OUR MEDICAL INSTITUTIONS, VISITING THE ROOMS, AS IT WERE, SEEING EVERYTHING THAT WAS GOING ON. OF THIS EXPERIENCE SHE WROTE: “THE FRIVOLOUS TALK, THE FOOLISH JESTING, THE MEANINGLESS LAUGH, FELL PAINFULLY ON THE EAR…. I WAS ASTONISHED AS I SAW THE JEALOUSY INDULGED, AND LISTENED TO THE WORDS OF ENVY, THE RECKLESS TALK, WHICH MADE THE ANGELS OF GOD ASHAMED.” THEN OTHER MORE PLEASANT CONDITIONS AT THE SAME INSTITUTION WERE REVEALED. SHE WAS CONDUCTED TO THE ROOMS “FROM WHICH CAME THE VOICE OF PRAYER. HOW WELCOME WAS THE SOUND!” A MESSAGE OF INSTRUCTION WAS WRITTEN BASED ON THE SEEMING VISIT TO THE INSTITUTION AND ON THE WORDS OF 16 THE ANGEL WHO SEEMED TO GUIDE HER THROUGH THE DIFFERENT DEPARTMENTS AND ROOMS. OFTEN LIGHT WAS GIVEN TO MRS. WHITE IN VIVID SYMBOLIC REPRESENTATIONS. ONE SUCH REPRESENTATION IS CLEARLY DESCRIBED IN THE FOLLOWING SENTENCES, TAKEN FROM A PERSONAL MESSAGE SENT TO A LEADING WORKER, WHO WAS SEEN TO BE IN PERIL: “AT ANOTHER TIME YOU WERE REPRESENTED TO ME AS A GENERAL, MOUNTED ON A HORSE, AND CARRYING A BANNER. ONE CAME AND TOOK OUT OF YOUR HAND THE BANNER BEARING THE WORDS, ‘THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD AND THE FAITH OF JESUS,’ AND IT WAS TRAMPLED IN THE DUST. I SAW YOU SURROUNDED BY MEN WHO WERE LINKING YOU UP WITH THE WORLD.” THERE WERE TIMES, ALSO, WHEN DIFFERENT, CONTRASTING VIEWS WERE PRESENTED TO MRS. WHITE—ONE ILLUSTRATING WHAT WOULD TAKE PLACE IF CERTAIN PLANS OR POLICIES WERE FOLLOWED, AND IN ANOTHER VIEW THE OUTWORKING OF OTHER PLANS OR POLICIES. AN EXCELLENT ILLUSTRATION OF THIS MAY BE FOUND IN CONNECTION WITH THE LOCATING OF THE HEALTH FOOD FACTORY AT LOMA LINDA, IN THE WESTERN PART OF THE UNITED STATES. THE MANAGER AND HIS ASSOCIATES WERE PLANNING TO ERECT A LARGE BUILDING VERY NEAR THE MAIN SANITARIUM BUILDING. WHILE PLANS WERE DEVELOPING, MRS. WHITE, AT HER HOME HUNDREDS OF MILES AWAY, WAS ONE NIGHT GIVEN TWO VISIONS. OF THE FIRST VISION SHE SAYS: “I WAS SHOWN A LARGE BUILDING WHERE MANY FOODS WERE MADE. THERE WERE ALSO SOME SMALLER BUILDINGS NEAR THE BAKERY. AS I STOOD BY, I HEARD LOUD VOICES IN DISPUTE OVER THE WORK THAT WAS BEING DONE. THERE WAS A LACK OF HARMONY AMONG THE WORKERS, AND CONFUSION HAD COME IN.” SHE THEN SAW THE DISTRESSED MANAGER IN HIS ATTEMPTS TO REASON WITH THE WORKERS TO BRING ABOUT HARMONY. SHE SAW PATIENTS WHO OVERHEARD THESE DISPUTES, AND WHO “WERE EXPRESSING WORDS OF REGRET THAT A FOOD FACTORY SHOULD BE ESTABLISHED ON THESE BEAUTIFUL GROUNDS,” SO NEAR THE SANITARIUM. “THEN ONE APPEARED ON THE SCENE AND SAID: ‘ALL THIS HAS BEEN CAUSED TO PASS BEFORE YOU AS AN OBJECT LESSON, THAT YOU MIGHT SEE THE RESULT OF CARRYING OUT CERTAIN PLANS.’” THEN THE SCENE CHANGED, AND SHE SAW THE FOOD FACTORY “AT A DISTANCE FROM THE SANITARIUM BUILDINGS, ON THE ROAD TOWARD THE RAILROAD.” HERE THE WORK WAS BEING CONDUCTED IN A HUMBLE WAY AND IN HARMONY WITH GOD’S PLAN. WITHIN A FEW HOURS OF THE VISION, MRS. WHITE WAS WRITING TO THE WORKERS AT LOMA LINDA, AND THIS SETTLED THE QUESTION OF WHERE THE FOOD FACTORY SHOULD BE BUILT. HAD THEIR ORIGINAL PLAN BEEN CARRIED OUT, WE WOULD HAVE BEEN MUCH EMBARRASSED IN LATER YEARS WITH A LARGE COMMERCIAL BUILDING RIGHT NEAR THE SANITARIUM. THUS IT CAN BE SEEN THAT IN VARIED WAYS THE MESSENGER OF THE LORD RECEIVED INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTION THROUGH THE VISIONS BY DAY OR BY NIGHT. IT WAS FROM AN ENLIGHTENED MIND THAT THE PROPHET SPOKE FORTH OR WROTE, CONVEYING THE MESSAGE OF INSTRUCTION AND INFORMATION TO THE PEOPLE. IN DOING THIS MRS. WHITE WAS AIDED BY THE SPIRIT OF THE LORD, BUT THERE WAS NO MECHANICAL CONTROL. SHE WAS LEFT TO CHOOSE WORDS BY 17 WHICH TO CONVEY THE MESSAGE. IN THE EARLY YEARS OF HER MINISTRY SHE DECLARED: ALTHOUGH I AM AS DEPENDENT UPON THE AID OF THE SPIRIT OF GOD IN WRITING MY VIEWS AS I AM IN RECEIVING THEM, YET THE WORDS I EMPLOY IN DESCRIBING WHAT I HAVE SEEN ARE MY OWN, UNLESS THEY ARE THOSE SPOKEN TO ME BY AN ANGEL, WHICH I ALWAYS ENCLOSE IN MARKS OF QUOTATION.” LIKE SEVERAL BIBLE WRITERS, MRS. WHITE AT TIMES ELECTED, UNDER THE DIRECTION OF THE HOLY SPIRIT, TO USE THE LANGUAGE OF OTHER AUTHORS, WHERE SHE ESPECIALLY APPRECIATED THEIR WORDING AND THEIR EXPRESSIONS. THE LIFE AND WORK OF MRS. E. G. WHITE ELLEN G. HARMON AND HER TWIN SISTER WERE BORN NOVEMBER 16, 1827, AT GORHAM, MAINE, IN THE NORTHEASTERN PART OF THE UNITED STATES. WHEN NINE YEARS OF AGE, ELLEN WAS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT IN WHICH A STONE WAS THROWN BY A THOUGHTLESS CLASSMATE. THE SEVERE FACE INJURY NEARLY COST HER LIFE AND LEFT HER IN A WEAKENED CONDITION SO THAT SHE WAS UNABLE TO CONTINUE HER SCHOOLING. AT THE AGE OF ELEVEN SHE GAVE HER HEART TO GOD. WHEN SHE WAS FOURTEEN YEARS OLD, SHE WAS BAPTIZED BY IMMERSION IN THE SEA AND WAS RECEIVED AS A MEMBER OF THE METHODIST CHURCH. WITH OTHER MEMBERS OF HER FAMILY SHE ATTENDED THE ADVENTIST MEETINGS IN PORTLAND, MAINE, ACCEPTING FULLY THE VIEWS OF THE NEARNESS OF THE SECOND ADVENT OF CHRIST, PRESENTED BY WILLIAM MILLER AND HIS ASSOCIATES. ONE MORNING IN DECEMBER 1844, WHILE SHE WAS PRAYING WITH FOUR OTHER WOMEN, THE POWER OF GOD RESTED UPON HER. AT FIRST SHE WAS LOST TO EARTHLY THINGS; THEN IN A FIGURATIVE REVELATION SHE WITNESSED THE TRAVELS OF THE ADVENT PEOPLE TO THE CITY OF GOD AND THE REWARD OF THE FAITHFUL. WITH FEAR AND TREMBLING THIS SEVENTEEN-YEAR-OLD GIRL RELATED THIS AND SUCCEEDING VISIONS TO HER FELLOW BELIEVERS IN PORTLAND. THEN AS OPPORTUNITY AFFORDED, SHE RECOUNTED THE VISION TO COMPANIES OF ADVENTISTS IN MAINE AND NEARBY STATES. IN AUGUST, 1846, ELLEN HARMON WAS UNITED IN MARRIAGE WITH JAMES WHITE, A YOUTHFUL ADVENTIST MINISTER. THROUGH THE NEXT THIRTY-FIVE YEARS, HER LIFE WAS CLOSELY LINKED WITH THAT OF HER HUSBAND IN STRENUOUS GOSPEL WORK UNTIL HIS DEATH, AUGUST 6, 1881. THEY TRAVELED EXTENSIVELY IN THE UNITED STATES, PREACHING AND WRITING, PLANTING AND BUILDING, ORGANIZING AND ADMINISTERING. TIME AND TEST HAVE PROVED HOW BROAD AND FIRM WERE THE FOUNDATIONS JAMES AND ELLEN WHITE AND THEIR ASSOCIATES LAID, AND HOW WISELY AND WELL THEY BUILT. THEY LED OUT AMONG THE SABBATHKEEEPING ADVENTISTS IN INAUGURATING THE PUBLISHING WORK IN 1849 AND 1850, AND IN DEVELOPING CHURCH ORGANIZATION WITH A SOUND SYSTEM OF CHURCH FINANCE IN THE LATE 1850S. THIS WAS CULMINATED BY THE ORGANIZATION OF THE GENERAL CONFERENCE OF SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISTS IN 1863. THE YEAR 1866 MARKED THE BEGINNING OF OUR MEDICAL WORK, AND THE GREAT EDUCATIONAL WORK OF THE DENOMINATION HAD ITS INCEPTION IN THE EARLY SEVENTIES. THE PLAN OF HOLDING ANNUAL CAMP MEETINGS WAS DEVELOPED IN 1868, AND IN 1874 SEVENTH-DAY 18 ADVENTISTS SENT OUT THEIR FIRST OVERSEAS MISSIONARY. ALL OF THESE DEVELOPMENTS WERE GUIDED BY THE MANY ORAL AND WRITTEN COUNSELS THAT GOD GAVE THIS PEOPLE THROUGH ELLEN WHITE. MOST OF THE EARLY COMMUNICATIONS WERE WRITTEN OUT IN THE FORM OF PERSONAL LETTERS, OR THROUGH ARTICLES IN THE PRESENT TRUTH, OUR FIRST REGULAR PUBLICATION. IT WAS NOT UNTIL 1851 THAT MRS. WHITE ISSUED HER FIRST BOOK OF SIXTY-FOUR PAGES, ENTITLED A SKETCH OF THE CHRISTIAN EXPERIENCE AND VIEWS OF ELLEN G. WHITE. BEGINNING IN 1855 A SERIES OF NUMBERED PAMPHLETS WAS PUBLISHED, EACH BEARING THE TITLE OF TESTIMONY FOR THE CHURCH. THESE MADE AVAILABLE MESSAGES OF INSTRUCTION AND CORRECTION WHICH, FROM TIME TO TIME, GOD CHOSE TO SEND HIS PEOPLE. TO MEET THE CONTINUED DEMAND FOR THIS INSTRUCTION, THE FIRST THIRTY PAMPHLETS WERE REPUBLISHED IN 1885 IN THE FORM OF FOUR BOUND BOOKS. WITH THE ADDITION OF OTHER VOLUMES, WHICH APPEARED FROM 1998-1909, THESE NOW CONSTITUTE A SET OF NINE VOLUMES KNOWN AS TESTIMONIES FOR THE CHURCH. FOUR CHILDREN WERE BORN TO THE WHITES. THE ELDEST BOY, HENRY, LIVED TO THE AGE OF SIXTEEN; THE YOUNGEST BOY, HERBERT, DIED AT THE AGE OF THREE MONTHS. THE TWO MIDDLE BOYS, EDSON AND WILLIAM, LIVED TO MATURITY. EACH ENGAGED ACTIVELY IN THE WORK OF THE SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST DENOMINATION. IN RESPONSE TO THE REQUEST OF THE GENERAL CONFERENCE, MRS. WHITE WENT TO EUROPE IN THE SUMMER OF 1885. THERE SHE SPENT TWO YEARS IN STRENGTHENING THE NEWLY DEVELOPED WORK ON THE CONTINENT. MAKING HER HOME IN BASEL, SWITZERLAND, SHE TRAVELED EXTENSIVELY THROUGH SOUTHERN, CENTRAL, AND NORTHERN EUROPE, ATTENDING THE GENERAL GATHERINGS OF THE CHURCH. AFTER FOUR YEARS BACK IN THE UNITED STATES, MRS. WHITE AT THE AGE OF SIXTY-THREE, IN RESPONSE TO THE REQUEST OF THE GENERAL CONFERENCE, SAILED TO AUSTRALIA. THERE SHE MINISTERED FOR NINE YEARS, AIDING IN PIONEERING AND DEVELOPING THE WORK, ESPECIALLY IN EDUCATIONAL AND MEDICAL LINES. MRS. WHITE RETURNED IN 1900 TO MAKE HER HOME IN THE WESTERN PART OF THE UNITED STATES, AT ST. HELENA, CALIFORNIA, WHERE SHE LIVED UNTIL HER DEATH IN 1915. DURING MRS. WHITE’S LONG SERVICE OF SIXTY YEARS IN AMERICA AND TEN YEARS OVERSEAS, SHE WAS GIVEN APPROXIMATELY 2,000 VISIONS WHICH, THROUGH HER TIRELESS EFFORT IN COUNSEL TO INDIVIDUALS, CHURCHES, PUBLIC GATHERINGS, AND GENERAL CONFERENCE SESSIONS, LARGELY SHAPED THE GROWTH OF THIS GREAT MOVEMENT. THE TASK OF PRESENTING TO ALL CONCERNED THE MESSAGES GOD GAVE HER WAS NEVER LAID DOWN. HER WRITINGS AGGREGATE ABOUT 100,000 PAGES. THE MESSAGES FROM HER PEN REACHED THE PEOPLE THROUGH PERSONAL COMMUNICATION, WEEK-BY-WEEK ARTICLES IN OUR DENOMINATIONAL JOURNALS, AND IN HER MANY BOOKS. THE SUBJECTS DEALT WITH RELATE TO BIBLE HISTORY, EVERYDAY CHRISTIAN EXPERIENCE, HEALTH, EDUCATION, EVANGELISM, AND OTHER PRACTICAL TOPICS. MANY OF HER BOOKS ARE PRINTED IN THE LEADING LANGUAGES OF THE WORLD, AND 19 MILLIONS OF COPIES HAVE BEEN SOLD. THE BOOK STEPS TO CHRIST ALONE FROM 1892 TO 1990 SOLD AN ESTIMATED 50,000,000 COPIES IN 127 LANGUAGES. AT THE AGE OF EIGHTY-ONE MRS. WHITE CROSSED THE AMERICAN CONTINENT FOR THE LAST TIME TO ATTEND THE GENERAL CONFERENCE SESSION OF 1909. THE REMAINING SIX YEARS OF HER LIFE WERE SPENT IN COMPLETING HER LITERARY WORK. NEAR THE CLOSE OF HER LIFE SHE PENNED THESE WORDS: “WHETHER OR NOT MY LIFE IS SPARED, MY WRITINGS WILL CONTINUALLY SPEAK, AND THEIR WORK WILL GO FORWARD AS LONG AS TIME SHALL LAST.” WITH UNDAUNTED COURAGE AND IN FULL CONFIDENCE OF HER REDEEMER, SHE DIED AT HER CALIFORNIA HOME, JULY 16, 1915, AND WAS LAID TO REST BY THE SIDE OF HER HUSBAND AND CHILDREN IN THE OAK HILL CEMETERY IN BATTLE CREEK, MICHIGAN. BY HER FELLOW WORKERS, THE CHURCH, AND THE MEMBERS OF HER FAMILY, MRS. WHITE WAS ESTEEMED AND HONORED AS A DEVOTED MOTHER AND AS AN EARNEST, TIRELESS, RELIGIOUS WORKER. SHE NEVER HELD OFFICIAL CHURCH OFFICE; BY THE CHURCH AND BY HERSELF IT WAS KNOWN THAT SHE WAS “A MESSENGER” WITH A MESSAGE OF GOD FOR HIS PEOPLE. NEVER DID SHE ASK OTHERS TO LOOK TO HER, NOR DID SHE EVER USE HER GIFT TO BUILD HERSELF UP FINANCIALLY OR IN POPULARITY. HER LIFE AND ALL THAT SHE HAD WERE DEDICATED TO THE CAUSE OF GOD. ON HER DEATH, THE EDITOR OF A POPULAR WEEKLY MAGAZINE, THE INDEPENDENT, IN THE ISSUE OF AUGUST 23, 1915, CLOSED HIS COMMENTS ON HER FRUITFUL LIFE WITH THESE WORDS: “SHE WAS ABSOLUTELY HONEST IN HER BELIEF IN HER REVELATIONS. HER LIFE WAS WORTHY OF THEM. SHE SHOWED NO SPIRITUAL PRIDE, AND SHE SOUGHT NO FILTHY LUCRE. SHE LIVED THE LIFE AND DID THE WORK OF A WORTHY PROPHETESS.” A FEW YEARS BEFORE HER DEATH, MRS. WHITE CREATED A BOARD OF TRUSTEES, MADE UP OF CHURCH LEADERS, TO WHOM SHE LEFT HER WRITINGS WITH THE CHARGE THAT THEY SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR CARE AND THEIR CONTINUED PUBLICATION. WITH OFFICES AT THE WORLD HEADQUARTERS OF THE SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH, THIS BOARD FOSTERS THE CONTINUED ISSUANCE OF THE E. G. WHITE BOOKS IN ENGLISH AND ENCOURAGES THEIR PUBLICATION IN WHOLE OR IN PART IN OTHER LANGUAGES. THEY HAVE ALSO ISSUED NUMEROUS COMPILATIONS OF PERIODICAL ARTICLES AND MANUSCRIPTS, THIS BEING IN HARMONY WITH MRS. WHITE’S INSTRUCTION. IT IS UNDER THE AUTHORIZATION OF THIS BOARD THAT THE PRESENT VOLUME IS ISSUED. MRS. E. G. WHITE AS OTHERS KNEW HER HAVING LEARNED OF THE UNUSUAL EXPERIENCE OF MRS. WHITE IN BEING THE MESSENGER OF THE LORD, SOME HAVE ASKED, WHAT KIND OF PERSON WAS SHE? DID SHE HAVE THE SAME PROBLEMS THAT WE HAVE? WAS SHE WEALTHY, OR WAS SHE POOR? DID SHE EVER SMILE? MRS. WHITE WAS A THOUGHTFUL MOTHER. SHE WAS A CAREFUL HOUSEWIFE. SHE WAS A GENIAL HOSTESS, OFTEN ENTERTAINING CHURCH MEMBERS IN HER HOME. SHE WAS A HELPFUL NEIGHBOR. SHE WAS A WOMAN OF CONVICTION, PLEASANT OF DISPOSITION, GENTLE IN HER MANNER AND VOICE. THERE WAS NO 20 PLACE IN HER EXPERIENCE FOR A LONG-FACED, SMILELESS, JOYLESS RELIGION. ONE FELT AT PERFECT EASE IN HER PRESENCE. PERHAPS THE BEST WAY TO GET ACQUAINTED WITH MRS. WHITE IS TO CALL AT HER HOME IN 1859, THE FIRST YEAR SHE KEPT A DAY-BY-DAY DIARY ACCOUNT. WE FIND THAT THE WHITES LIVED IN THE OUTSKIRTS OF BATTLE CREEK, IN A LITTLE COTTAGE ON A LARGE LOT, GIVING OPPORTUNITY FOR A GARDEN, A FEW FRUIT TREES, A COW, SOME CHICKENS, AND A PLACE FOR THEIR SONS TO WORK AND PLAY. MRS. WHITE AT THE TIME WAS THIRTY-ONE YEARS OF AGE. JAMES WHITE WAS THIRTY-SIX. THERE WERE AT THAT TIME THREE BOYS IN THE HOME, FOUR, NINE, AND TWELVE YEARS OF AGE. WE WOULD FIND A GOOD CHRISTIAN YOUNG WOMAN IN THE HOME EMPLOYED TO ASSIST WITH THE HOUSEWORK, FOR MRS. WHITE OFTEN WAS AWAY FROM HOME AND WAS OFTEN BUSY WITH HER SPEAKING AND WRITING. YET MRS. WHITE CARRIED THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE HOME, THE COOKING, THE CLEANING, THE WASHING, AND THE SEWING. ON SOME DAYS SHE WOULD GO DOWN TO THE PUBLISHING HOUSE, WHERE SHE HAD A QUIET PLACE TO WRITE. OTHER DAYS WE FIND HER IN THE GARDEN, PLANTING FLOWERS AND VEGETABLES, AND AT TIMES EXCHANGING FLOWER PLANTS WITH THE NEIGHBORS. SHE WAS DETERMINED TO MAKE HOME JUST AS PLEASANT AS SHE COULD FOR HER FAMILY, THAT THE CHILDREN MIGHT EVER CONSIDER HOME THE MOST DESIRABLE PLACE TO BE. ELLEN WHITE WAS A CAREFUL BUYER, AND THE ADVENTIST NEIGHBORS WERE HAPPY WHEN THEY COULD GO SHOPPING WITH HER, FOR SHE KNEW VALUES. HER MOTHER HAD BEEN A VERY PRACTICAL WOMAN AND HAD TAUGHT HER DAUGHTERS MANY VALUABLE LESSONS. SHE FOUND THAT POORLY MADE THINGS WERE IN THE LONG RUN MUCH MORE EXPENSIVE THAN GOOD QUALITY MERCHANDISE. SABBATH WAS MADE THE MOST PLEASANT DAY OF THE WEEK FOR THE CHILDREN. OF COURSE THE FAMILY WOULD ATTEND THE CHURCH SERVICE, AND IF ELDER AND MRS. WHITE WERE FREE FROM SPEAKING RESPONSIBILITIES, THE FAMILY WOULD SIT TOGETHER DURING THE SERVICE. FOR DINNER THERE WOULD BE SOME CHOICE DISH NOT HAD ON OTHER DAYS, AND THEN, IF IT WAS A PLEASANT DAY, MRS. WHITE WOULD WALK WITH THE CHILDREN IN THE WOODS OR BY THE RIVER, AND THEY WOULD OBSERVE THE BEAUTIES OF NATURE AND STUDY THE CREATED WORKS OF GOD. IF THE DAY WAS RAINY OR COLD, SHE WOULD GATHER THE CHILDREN AROUND THE FIRE IN THE HOUSE AND READ TO THEM, OFTEN READING FROM MATERIALS SHE HAD GATHERED FROM HERE AND THERE AS SHE MADE HER JOURNEYS. SOME OF THESE STORIES WERE LATER PRINTED IN BOOKS SO OTHER PARENTS MIGHT HAVE THEM TO READ TO THEIR CHILDREN. MRS. WHITE WAS NOT TOO WELL AT THIS TIME, AND SHE OFTEN FAINTED DURING THE DAY, BUT THIS DID NOT DETER HER FROM GOING FORWARD WITH HER WORK IN THE HOME AS WELL AS HER WORK FOR THE LORD. A FEW YEARS LATER, IN 1863, SHE WAS GIVEN A VISION CONCERNING HEALTH AND THE CARE OF THE SICK. SHE WAS SHOWN IN VISION THE PROPER CLOTHES TO WEAR, THE FOOD TO EAT, THE NECESSITY OF PROPER EXERCISE AND REST, AS WELL AS THE IMPORTANCE OF TRUST IN GOD IN ORDER TO MAINTAIN A STRONG, HEALTHY BODY. THE LIGHT FROM GOD CONCERNING DIET, AND THE HARMFULNESS OF FLESH FOOD, CUT RIGHT ACROSS MRS. WHITE’S OWN PERSONAL OPINION THAT FLESH 21 MEAT WAS ESSENTIAL TO HEALTH AND STRENGTH. WITH THE LIGHT OF THE VISION TO ILLUMINATE HER MIND, SHE INSTRUCTED THE GIRL WHO ASSISTED IN PREPARING THE FOOD FOR THE FAMILY TO PUT ON THE TABLE ONLY THE WHOLESOME, SIMPLE FOODS MADE FROM GRAINS, VEGETABLES, NUTS, MILK, CREAM, AND EGGS. THERE WAS AN ABUNDANCE OF FRUIT. AT THAT TIME THE WHITE FAMILY ADOPTED ESSENTIALLY A VEGETARIAN DIET. IN THE YEAR 1894 ELLEN WHITE BANISHED MEAT FROM HER TABLE COMPLETELY. THE HEALTH REFORM WAS A GREAT BLESSING TO THE WHITE FAMILY, AS IT HAS BEEN TO THOUSANDS OF ADVENTIST FAMILIES AROUND THE WORLD. AFTER THE VISION ON HEALTH REFORM IN 1863, AND THE ADOPTION OF THE SIMPLE METHODS OF TREATING THE SICK, THE WHITES WERE OFTEN CALLED UPON BY THEIR NEIGHBORS IN TIMES OF ILLNESS TO HELP IN GIVING TREATMENTS, AND THE LORD GREATLY BLESSED THEIR EFFORTS. AT OTHER TIMES THE SICK WERE BROUGHT TO THEIR HOME AND TENDERLY CARED FOR UNTIL THEY HAD MADE A FULL RECOVERY. MRS. WHITE ENJOYED PERIODS OF RELAXATION AND RECREATION, WHETHER IN THE MOUNTAINS, ON SOME LAKE, OR ON THE OPEN WATER. IN MIDLIFE, WHILE SHE WAS LIVING NEAR THE PACIFIC PRESS IN NORTHERN CALIFORNIA, IT WAS PROPOSED THAT A DAY BE SPENT IN REST AND RECREATION. MRS. WHITE, WITH HER HOME AND OFFICE FAMILY, WERE ASKED TO JOIN THE PUBLISHING HOUSE FAMILY, AND SHE READILY ACCEPTED THE INVITATION. HER HUSBAND WAS IN THE EAST ON DENOMINATIONAL BUSINESS. IT IS IN A LETTER TO HIM THAT WE FIND HER ACCOUNT OF THIS EXPERIENCE. AFTER ENJOYING A WHOLESOME LUNCH ON THE BEACH, THE ENTIRE GROUP WENT FOR A BOAT RIDE ON SAN FRANCISCO BAY. THE CAPTAIN OF THE SAILING CRAFT WAS A MEMBER OF THE CHURCH, AND IT WAS A PLEASANT AFTERNOON. THEN IT WAS PROPOSED THAT THEY GO OUT INTO THE OPEN OCEAN. IN RECOUNTING THE EXPERIENCE ELLEN WHITE WROTE: “THE WAVES RAN HIGH, AND WE WERE TOSSED UP AND DOWN SO VERY GRANDLY. I WAS HIGHLY ELEVATED IN MY FEELINGS, BUT HAD NO WORDS TO SAY TO ANYONE. IT WAS GRAND! THE SPRAY DASHED OVER US. THE WIND WAS STRONG OUTSIDE THE GOLDEN GATE, AND I NEVER ENJOYED ANYTHING AS MUCH IN MY LIFE!” THEN SHE OBSERVED THE WATCHFUL EYES OF THE CAPTAIN AND THE READINESS OF THE CREW TO OBEY HIS COMMANDS, AND SHE COMMENTED: “GOD HOLDS THE WINDS IN HIS HANDS. HE CONTROLS THE WATERS. WE ARE MERE SPECKS UPON THE BROAD, DEEP WATERS OF THE PACIFIC; YET ANGELS OF HEAVEN ARE SENT TO GUARD THIS LITTLE SAILBOAT AS IT RACES OVER THE WAVES. OH, THE WONDERFUL WORKS OF GOD! SO FAR BEYOND OUR UNDERSTANDING! AT ONE GLANCE HE BEHOLDS THE HIGHEST HEAVENS AND THE MIDST OF THE SEA!” MRS. WHITE HAD EARLY ADOPTED AN ATTITUDE OF CHEERFULNESS. ONE TIME SHE ASKED, “DO YOU EVER SEE ME GLOOMY, DESPONDING, COMPLAINING? I HAVE A FAITH THAT FORBIDS THIS. IT IS A MISCONCEPTION OF THE TRUE IDEAL OF CHRISTIAN CHARACTER AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE, THAT LEADS TO THESE CONCLUSIONS…. A HEARTY, WILLING SERVICE TO JESUS PRODUCES A SUNNY RELIGION. THOSE WHO FOLLOW CHRIST THE MOST CLOSELY HAVE NOT BEEN GLOOMY.” ON ANOTHER OCCASION SHE WROTE: “IN SOME CASES THE IDEA HAS BEEN 22 ENTERTAINED THAT CHEERFULNESS IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE DIGNITY OF CHRISTIAN CHARACTER; BUT THIS IS A MISTAKE. HEAVEN IS ALL JOY.” SHE DISCOVERED THAT IF YOU GIVE SMILES, SMILES WILL BE RETURNED TO YOU; IF YOU SPEAK KIND WORDS, KIND WORDS WILL BE SPOKEN IN RETURN. NEVERTHELESS THERE WERE TIMES WHEN SHE SUFFERED A GREAT DEAL. ONE SUCH PERIOD OCCURRED SOON AFTER SHE WENT TO AUSTRALIA TO ASSIST IN THE WORK THERE. SHE WAS VERY ILL FOR NEARLY A YEAR AND SUFFERED INTENSELY. SHE WAS CONFINED TO HER BED FOR MONTHS AND COULD SLEEP BUT A FEW HOURS AT NIGHT. OF THIS EXPERIENCE SHE WROTE IN A LETTER TO A FRIEND: “WHEN I FIRST FOUND MYSELF IN A STATE OF HELPLESSNESS, I DEEPLY REGRETTED HAVING CROSSED THE BROAD WATERS. WHY WAS I NOT IN AMERICA? WHY AT SUCH EXPENSE WAS I IN THIS COUNTRY? TIME AND AGAIN I COULD HAVE BURIED MY FACE IN THE BED QUILTS AND HAD A GOOD CRY. BUT I DID NOT LONG INDULGE IN THIS LUXURY OF TEARS. I SAID TO MYSELF, ELLEN G. WHITE, WHAT DO YOU MEAN? HAVE YOU NOT COME TO AUSTRALIA BECAUSE YOU FELT THAT IT WAS YOUR DUTY TO GO WHERE THE CONFERENCE JUDGED IT BEST FOR YOU TO GO? HAS THIS NOT BEEN YOUR PRACTICE? “I SAID, ‘YES.’ “THEN WHY DO YOU FEEL ALMOST FORSAKEN AND DISCOURAGED? IS NOT THIS THE ENEMY’S WORK? I SAID, ‘I BELIEVE IT IS!’ “I DRIED MY TEARS AS QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE AND SAID, ‘IT IS ENOUGH. I WILL NOT LOOK ON THE DARK SIDE ANY MORE. LIVE OR DIE, I COMMIT THE KEEPING OF MY SOUL TO HIM WHO DIED FOR ME.’ “I THEN BELIEVED THAT THE LORD WOULD DO ALL THINGS WELL, AND DURING THIS EIGHT MONTHS OF HELPLESSNESS I HAVE NOT HAD ANY DESPONDENCY OR DOUBT. I NOW LOOK UPON THIS MATTER AS A PART OF THE LORDS’ GREAT PLAN, FOR THE GOOD OF HIS PEOPLE HERE IN THIS COUNTRY, AND FOR THOSE IN AMERICA, AND FOR MY GOOD. I CANNOT EXPLAIN WHY OR HOW, BUT I BELIEVE IT. AND I AM HAPPY IN MY AFFLICTION. I CAN TRUST MY HEAVENLY FATHER. I WILL NOT DOUBT HIS LOVE.” MRS. WHITE LIVED IN HER HOME IN CALIFORNIA DURING THE LAST FIFTEEN YEARS OF HER LIFE AND, ALTHOUGH SHE WAS GROWING OLDER, SHE TOOK AN INTEREST IN THE WORK ABOUT THE LITTLE FARM, AND IN THE WELFARE OF THE FAMILIES OF THOSE WHO ASSISTED HER IN HER WORK. WE FIND HER BUSY WITH HER WRITING, OFTEN BEGINNING SOON AFTER MIDNIGHT, AS SHE RETIRED EARLY. IF IT WAS A PLEASANT DAY, SHE WOULD, IF HER WORK PERMITTED, GO FOR A LITTLE DRIVE IN THE COUNTRY, STOPPING TO TALK WITH A MOTHER SHE MIGHT SEE IN THE GARDEN OR ON THE PORCH OF A HOME SHE PASSED. SOMETIMES SHE FOUND A NEED FOR FOOD AND CLOTHES, AND SHE WOULD GO HOME AND GET SOME THINGS FROM HER HOME SUPPLY. YEARS AFTER HER DEATH SHE WAS REMEMBERED BY THE NEIGHBORS OF THE VALLEY WHERE SHE LIVED, AS THE LITTLE WHITE-HAIRED WOMAN WHO ALWAYS SPOKE LOVINGLY OF JESUS. WHEN SHE DIED, SHE HAD LITTLE MORE THAN THE NECESSITIES AND BASIC COMFORTS OF LIFE. SHE WAS A SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHRISTIAN, TRUSTING IN THE MERITS OF HER RISEN LORD AND FAITHFULLY ATTEMPTING TO DO THE WORK THE LORD ASSIGNED TO HER. THUS WITH THE CONFIDENCE IN HER HEART SHE CAME TO THE 23 CLOSE OF A FULL LIFE, CONSISTENT IN HER CHRISTIAN EXPERIENCE. MESSAGES THAT CHANGED LIVES AN EVANGELIST HELD A SERIES OF MEETINGS IN BUSHNELL, MICHIGAN. SOON AFTER THE BAPTISM, HOWEVER, HE LEFT THE PEOPLE WITHOUT PROPERLY GROUNDING THE BELIEVERS IN THE MESSAGE. THE PEOPLE SLOWLY BECAME DISCOURAGED, AND SOME BEGAN THEIR BAD HABITS AGAIN. FINALLY THE CHURCH BECAME SO SMALL THAT THE TEN OR TWELVE MEMBERS WHO WERE LEFT DECIDED THAT IT WAS NO USE TO CONTINUE ANY LONGER. JUST AFTER THEY DISPERSED FOR WHAT THEY THOUGHT WAS THEIR LAST MEETING, THE MAIL ARRIVED AND AMONG THE LETTERS WAS THE REVIEW AND HERALD. IN THE ITINERARY SECTION WAS A NOTICE THAT JAMES AND ELLEN WHITE WERE TO BE AT BUSHNELL FOR MEETINGS ON JULY 20, 1867. THIS WAS ONLY ONE WEEK AWAY. THE CHILDREN WERE SENT TO CALL THE PEOPLE BACK WHO WERE ON THEIR WAY HOME. IT WAS DECIDED TO PREPARE A PLACE IN THE GROVE AND INVITE THEIR NEIGHBORS, ESPECIALLY THE BACKSLIDDEN MEMBERS. ON SABBATH MORNING, JULY 20, THE WHITES ARRIVED AT THE GROVE WHERE SIXTY PERSONS HAD GATHERED. ELDER WHITE SPOKE IN THE MORNING. IN THE AFTERNOON MRS. WHITE ROSE TO SPEAK, BUT AFTER READING HER TEXT, SHE LOOKED PERPLEXED. WITHOUT FURTHER COMMENT SHE CLOSED HER BIBLE AND BEGAN TO SPEAK TO THE PEOPLE IN A VERY PERSONAL WAY. “AS I STAND BEFORE YOU THIS AFTERNOON, I AM LOOKING INTO THE FACES OF THOSE WHO WERE SHOWN TO ME IN VISION TWO YEARS AGO. AS I LOOK INTO YOUR FACES, YOUR EXPERIENCE COMES BACK CLEARLY TO MY MIND, AND I HAVE A MESSAGE FOR YOU FROM THE LORD. “THERE IS THIS BROTHER OVER NEAR THE PINE TREE. I CAN’T CALL YOUR NAME FOR I HAVEN’T BEEN INTRODUCED TO YOU, BUT YOUR FACE IS FAMILIAR TO ME, AND YOUR EXPERIENCE STANDS OUT CLEARLY BEFORE ME.” THEN SHE SPOKE TO THIS BROTHER OF HIS BACKSLIDING. SHE ENCOURAGED HIM TO COME BACK AND WALK WITH GOD’S PEOPLE. THEN, TURNING TO A WOMAN IN ANOTHER PART OF THE AUDIENCE, SHE SAID, “THIS SISTER SEATED BY SISTER MAYNARD OF THE GREENVILLE CHURCH—I CAN’T SPEAK YOUR NAME BECAUSE I HAVEN’T BEEN TOLD WHAT IT IS—BUT TWO YEARS AGO YOUR CASE WAS SHOWN TO ME IN VISION, AND YOUR EXPERIENCE IS FAMILIAR TO ME.” THEN MRS. WHITE GAVE ENCOURAGEMENT TO THIS SISTER. “THEN THERE IS THIS BROTHER BACK THERE BY THE OAK TREE. I CAN’T CALL YOU BY NAME EITHER, FOR I HAVEN’T MET YOU YET, BUT YOUR CASE IS CLEAR TO ME.” THEN SHE SPOKE OF THIS MAN, OPENING TO EVERYONE THERE HIS INMOST THOUGHTS AND TELLING OF HIS EXPERIENCE. FROM ONE TO ANOTHER SHE TURNED IN THAT CONGREGATION, TELLING OF WHAT HAD BEEN SHOWN TO HER TWO YEARS BEFORE IN VISION. AFTER MRS. WHITE HAD FINISHED HER SERMON, SPEAKING NOT ONLY WORDS OF REPROOF BUT WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT AS WELL, SHE SAT DOWN. ONE OF THE COMPANY STOOD UP. HE SAID, “I WANT TO KNOW IF WHAT SISTER WHITE HAS TOLD US THIS AFTERNOON IS TRUE. ELDER AND MRS. WHITE HAVE NEVER BEEN HERE BEFORE; THEY ARE NOT ACQUAINTED WITH US AT ALL. SISTER WHITE DOES NOT EVEN KNOW THE NAMES OF 24 MOST OF US, AND YET SHE COMES HERE THIS AFTERNOON AND TELLS US THAT TWO YEARS AGO A VISION WAS GIVEN TO HER IN WHICH OUR CASES WERE SHOWN TO HER, AND THEN ONE BY ONE SHE PROCEEDS TO SPEAK TO US INDIVIDUALLY, OPENING UP TO EVERYONE HERE OUR COURSE OF LIVING AND OUR INMOST THOUGHTS. ARE THESE ALL TRUE IN EVERY CASE? OR HAS SISTER WHITE MADE SOME MISTAKE? I WANT TO KNOW.” ONE BY ONE THE PEOPLE STOOD UP. THE MAN OVER BY THE PINE TREE STOOD TO HIS FEET AND SAID THAT MRS. WHITE HAD DESCRIBED HIS CASE BETTER THAN HE COULD HAVE DESCRIBED IT. HE CONFESSED HIS WAYWARD COURSE. HE EXPRESSED HIS RESOLUTION TO COME BACK AND WALK WITH GOD’S PEOPLE. THE WOMAN SEATED BY SISTER MAYNARD FROM THE GREENVILLE CHURCH ALSO TESTIFIED. SHE SAID THAT MRS. WHITE HAD TOLD HER EXPERIENCE BETTER THAN SHE COULD HAVE TOLD IT. THE MAN BY THE OAK TREE SAID THAT SISTER WHITE HAD DESCRIBED HIS CASE BETTER THAN HE COULD HAVE DESCRIBED IT. CONFESSIONS WERE MADE. SINS WERE PUT ASIDE. THE SPIRIT OF GOD CAME IN, AND THERE WAS A REVIVAL AT BUSHNELL. ELDER AND MRS. WHITE CAME BACK ON THE NEXT SABBATH, WHEN A BAPTISM WAS HELD, AND THE CHURCH AT BUSHNELL WAS WELL ESTABLISHED. THE LORD LOVED HIS PEOPLE IN BUSHNELL, AS HE DOES ALL THOSE WHO LOOK TO HIM. “AS MANY AS I LOVE, I REBUKE AND CHASTEN: BE ZEALOUS THEREFORE, AND REPENT” REVELATION 3:19, MUST HAVE COME TO THE MINDS OF SOME PRESENT. WHEN THE PEOPLE SAW THEIR OWN HEARTS AS THE LORD SAW THEM, THEY UNDERSTOOD THEIR TRUE CONDITION AND LONGED FOR A CHANGE IN THEIR LIVES. THIS IS THE TRUE PURPOSE OF THE MANY VISIONS GIVEN TO MRS. WHITE. SHORTLY AFTER JAMES WHITE’S DEATH IN 1881, MRS. WHITE LIVED CLOSE TO HEALDSBURG COLLEGE. SEVERAL YOUNG WOMEN STAYED IN HER HOME WHILE THEY ATTENDED SCHOOL. IT WAS THE CUSTOM AT THAT TIME TO WEAR A SIMPLE NET OVER THE HEAD SO AS TO KEEP THE HAIR NEAT AND ORDERLY THROUGHOUT THE DAY. ONE DAY WHILE PASSING THROUGH MRS. WHITE’S ROOM, ONE OF THE GIRLS SAW A WELL-MADE HAIRNET THAT SHE WANTED. THINKING THAT IT WOULD NOT BE MISSED, SHE TOOK IT AND PUT IT IN THE TOP OF HER TRUNK. A LITTLE LATER WHILE DRESSING TO GO OUT, MRS. WHITE MISSED HER NET AND HAD TO DO WITHOUT IT. IN THE EVENING WHEN THE FAMILY WERE TOGETHER MRS. WHITE INQUIRED ABOUT HER MISSING NET, BUT NO ONE GAVE ANY INDICATION OF KNOWING WHERE IT WAS. A DAY OR SO LATER WHEN MRS. WHITE WAS PASSING THROUGH THE GIRL’S ROOM, A VOICE SAID, “OPEN THAT TRUNK.” BECAUSE THE TRUNK WAS NOT HERS, SHE DID NOT WISH TO DO SO. AT THE SECOND COMMAND SHE RECOGNIZED THE VOICE AS THAT OF THE ANGEL. WHEN SHE LIFTED THE LID, SHE SAW WHY THE ANGEL HAD SPOKEN, FOR THERE WAS HER NET. WHEN THE FAMILY MET AGAIN MRS. WHITE AGAIN ASKED ABOUT THE NET, STATING THAT IT COULD NOT DISAPPEAR BY ITSELF. NO ONE SPOKE UP, SO MRS. WHITE DID NOT PURSUE THE MATTER. A FEW DAYS LATER WHILE MRS. WHITE WAS RESTING FROM HER WRITING, SHE WAS GIVEN A VERY SHORT VISION. SHE SAW THE HAND OF A GIRL LOWER A HAIRNET INTO A KEROSENE LAMP. WHEN THE NET TOUCHED THE FLAME IT WAS GONE 25 IN A FLASH OF FIRE. THAT WAS THE END OF THE VISION. WHEN THE FAMILY WERE NEXT TOGETHER, MRS. WHITE AGAIN PRESSED THE MATTER OF THE DISAPPEARANCE OF THE HAIRNET, BUT STILL THERE WAS NO CONFESSION, AND NO ONE SEEMED TO KNOW OF ITS WHEREABOUTS. THEN A LITTLE LATER MRS. WHITE CALLED THIS YOUNG WOMAN ASIDE, TOLD HER OF THE VOICE AND WHAT SHE SAW IN THE TRUNK, AND THEN RELATED THE VERY SHORT VISION IN WHICH SHE SAW THE HAIRNET BURN OVER THE LAMP. WITH THIS INFORMATION BEFORE HER, THE GIRL CONFESSED TAKING THE NET, AND BURNING IT LEST SHE BE DETECTED. SHE MADE THE MATTER RIGHT WITH MRS. WHITE AND WITH THE LORD. WE MAY THINK THAT THIS IS A VERY SMALL MATTER FOR GOD TO BOTHER ABOUT—JUST A HAIRNET. BUT IT WAS A MATTER OF MUCH GREATER IMPORTANCE THAN THE VALUE OF THE OBJECT STOLEN. HERE WAS A YOUNG WOMAN, A MEMBER OF THE SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH. SHE FELT SHE WAS ALL RIGHT, BUT SHE DID NOT SEE THE DEFECTS IN HER OWN CHARACTER. SHE DID NOT SEE THE SELFISHNESS THERE, WHICH LED HER TO STEAL AND DECEIVE. NOW WHEN SHE REALIZED HOW IMPORTANT THE LITTLE THINGS ARE—THAT GOD WOULD GIVE A VISION TO HIS BUSY MESSENGER HERE ON EARTH JUST ABOUT A HAIRNET—THIS YOUNG WOMAN BEGAN TO SEE MATTERS IN THEIR TRUE LIGHT. THIS EXPERIENCE WAS THE TURNING POINT IN HER LIFE. THAT IS ONE REASON VISIONS WERE GIVEN TO MRS. WHITE. THOUGH MANY OF THE TESTIMONIES WRITTEN BY MRS. WHITE HAD VERY SPECIFIC APPLICATIONS, YET THEY PRESENT PRINCIPLES THAT MEET THE NEEDS OF THE CHURCH IN EVERY COUNTRY OF THE WORLD. MRS. WHITE HAS MADE PLAIN THE PURPOSE AND PLACE OF THE TESTIMONIES IN THESE WORDS: “THE WRITTEN TESTIMONIES ARE NOT TO GIVE NEW LIGHT, BUT TO IMPRESS VIVIDLY UPON THE HEART THE TRUTHS OF INSPIRATION ALREADY REVEALED. MAN’S DUTY TO GOD AND TO HIS FELLOW MAN HAS BEEN DISTINCTLY SPECIFIED IN GOD’S WORD, YET BUT FEW OF YOU ARE OBEDIENT TO THE LIGHT GIVEN. ADDITIONAL TRUTH IS NOT BROUGHT OUT; BUT GOD HAS THROUGH THE TESTIMONIES SIMPLIFIED THE GREAT TRUTHS ALREADY GIVEN…. THE TESTIMONIES ARE NOT TO BELITTLE THE WORD OF GOD, BUT TO EXALT IT, AND ATTRACT MINDS TO IT, THAT THE BEAUTIFUL SIMPLICITY OF TRUTH MAY IMPRESS ALL.” ALL THROUGH HER LIFE MRS. WHITE KEPT THE WORD OF GOD BEFORE THE PEOPLE. AS SHE CLOSED HER VERY FIRST BOOK SHE STATED: “I RECOMMEND TO YOU, DEAR READER, THE WORD OF GOD AS THE RULE OF YOU FAITH AND PRACTICE. BY THAT WORD WE ARE TO BE JUDGED. GOD HAS, IN THAT WORD, PROMISED TO GIVE VISIONS IN THE ‘LAST DAYS’; NOT FOR A NEW RULE OF FAITH, BUT FOR THE COMFORT OF HIS PEOPLE, AND TO CORRECT THOSE WHO ERR FROM BIBLE TRUTH.” THE VISION THAT COULD NOT BE TOLD DURING A SERIES OF MEETINGS IN SALAMANCA, NEW YORK, IN NOVEMBER 1890, IN WHICH MRS. WHITE WAS MAKING SOME PUBLIC ADDRESSES TO LARGE GATHERINGS, SHE BECAME QUITE WEAK, AS SHE HAD CAUGHT A SEVERE COLD ON THE TRIP TO THE CITY. AFTER ONE OF THE MEETINGS SHE LEFT FOR HER ROOM DISCOURAGED AND SICK. SHE WAS THINKING ABOUT POURING OUT HER SOUL 26 BEFORE GOD AND PLEADING FOR MERCY AND FOR HEALTH AND STRENGTH. SHE KNELT BY HER CHAIR, AND IN HER OWN WORDS, IN TELLING ABOUT WHAT HAPPENED, SHE SAID: “I HAD NOT UTTERED A WORD WHEN THE WHOLE ROOM SEEMED FILLED WITH A SOFT SILVERY LIGHT, AND MY PAIN OF DISAPPOINTMENT AND DISCOURAGEMENT WAS REMOVED. I WAS FILLED WITH COMFORT AND HOPE—THE PEACE OF CHRIST.” AND THEN SHE WAS GIVEN A VISION. AFTER THE VISION SHE DID NOT WISH TO SLEEP. SHE DID NOT WISH TO REST. SHE WAS HEALED—SHE WAS RESTED. IN THE MORNING A DECISION MUST BE GIVEN. COULD SHE GO ON TO THE PLACE WHERE THE NEXT MEETINGS WERE TO BE HELD, OR MUST SHE GO BACK TO HER HOME AT BATTLE CREEK? A. T. ROBINSON, WHO HAD CHARGE OF THE WORK, AND WILLIAM WHITE, MRS. WHITE’S SON, CALLED AT HER ROOM TO GET HER ANSWER. THEY FOUND HER DRESSED AND WELL. SHE WAS READY TO GO. SHE TOLD OF THE HEALING. SHE TOLD OF THE VISION. SHE SAID, “I WANT TO TELL YOU WHAT WAS REVEALED TO ME LAST NIGHT. IN THE VISION I SEEMED TO BE IN BATTLE CREEK, AND THE ANGEL MESSENGER SAID, ‘FOLLOW ME.’” AND THEN SHE HESITATED. SHE COULD NOT RECALL IT TO MIND. TWICE SHE ATTEMPTED TO TELL IT, BUT COULD NOT RECALL WHAT HAD BEEN SHOWN TO HER. IN THE DAYS THAT FOLLOWED SHE WROTE ABOUT WHAT SHE WAS SHOWN. IT WAS ABOUT PLANS BEING MADE FOR OUR RELIGIOUS LIBERTY JOURNAL, THEN CALLED THE AMERICAN SENTINEL. “IN THE NIGHT SEASON I WAS PRESENT IN SEVERAL COUNCILS, AND THERE I HEARD WORDS REPEATED BY INFLUENTIAL MEN TO THE EFFECT THAT IF THE AMERICAN SENTINEL WOULD DROP THE WORDS ‘SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST’ FROM ITS COLUMN, AND WOULD SAY NOTHING ABOUT THE SABBATH, THE GREAT MEN OF THE WORLD WOULD PATRONIZE IT; IT WOULD BECOME POPULAR, AND DO A LARGER WORK. THIS LOOKED VERY PLEASING. “I SAW THEIR COUNTENANCES BRIGHTEN, AND THEY BEGAN TO WORK ON A POLICY TO MAKE THE SENTINEL A POPULAR SUCCESS. THE WHOLE MATTER WAS INTRODUCED BY MEN WHO NEEDED THE TRUTH IN THE CHAMBERS OF THE MIND AND SOUL.” IT IS CLEAR THAT SHE SAW A GROUP OF MEN DISCUSSING THE EDITORIAL POLICY OF THIS PAPER. WHEN THE GENERAL CONFERENCE WAS OPENED IN MARCH 1891, MRS. WHITE WAS ASKED TO SPEAK TO THE WORKERS EACH MORNING AT HALF PAST FIVE AND TO ADDRESS THE WHOLE CONFERENCE OF 4,000 ON SABBATH AFTERNOON. HER TEXT ON SABBATH AFTERNOON WAS, “LET YOUR LIGHT SO SHINE BEFORE MEN, THAT THEY MAY SEE YOUR GOOD WORKS, AND GLORIFY YOUR FATHER WHICH IS IN HEAVEN.” THE ENTIRE DISCOURSE WAS AN APPEAL TO SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISTS TO HOLD FORTH THE DISTINCTIVE FEATURES OF THEIR FAITH. THREE TIMES DURING THE MEETING SHE STARTED TO TELL OF THE SALAMANCA VISION, BUT EACH TIME SHE WAS RESTRAINED. THE EVENTS OF THE VISION WOULD SIMPLY LEAVE HER MIND. THEN SHE SAID, “OF THIS, I SHALL HAVE MORE TO SAY LATER.” SHE ROUNDED OUT HER SERMON IN ABOUT AN HOUR’S TIME, AND THE MEETING WAS DISMISSED. ALL HAD NOTICED THAT SHE WAS UNABLE TO CALL THE VISION TO MIND. 27 THE PRESIDENT OF THE GENERAL CONFERENCE CAME TO HER AND ASKED IF SHE WOULD TAKE THE MORNING MEETING. “NO,” SHE REPLIED, “I’M WEARY; I’VE BORNE MY TESTIMONY. YOU MUST MAKE OTHER PLANS FOR THE MORNING MEETING.” OTHER PLANS WERE MADE. AS MRS. WHITE RETURNED TO HER HOME, SHE TOLD THE MEMBERS OF HER FAMILY THAT SHE WOULD NOT BE ATTENDING THE MORNING MEETING. SHE WAS WEARY, AND SHE WAS GOING TO HAVE A GOOD REST. SHE WAS GOING TO SLEEP IN ON SUNDAY MORNING, AND PLANS WERE LAID ACCORDINGLY. THAT NIGHT, AFTER THE CLOSE OF THE CONFERENCE SESSION, A SMALL GROUP OF MEN MET IN ONE OF THE OFFICES IN THE REVIEW AND HERALD BUILDING. AT THAT MEETING WERE REPRESENTATIVES OF THE PUBLISHING HOUSE THAT ISSUED THE AMERICAN SENTINEL, AND THERE WERE PRESENT ALSO THE REPRESENTATIVES OF THE RELIGIOUS LIBERTY ASSOCIATION. THEY MET TO DISCUSS AND SETTLE A VERY VEXING QUESTION—THE EDITORIAL POLICY OF THE AMERICAN SENTINEL. THE DOOR WAS THEN LOCKED, AND ALL AGREED THAT THE DOOR WOULD NOT BE UNLOCKED UNTIL THE QUESTION WAS SETTLED. A LITTLE BEFORE THREE O’CLOCK ON SUNDAY MORNING THE MEETING ENDED IN A DEADLOCK, WITH THE ASSERTION ON THE PART OF THE RELIGIOUS LIBERTY MEN THAT UNLESS THE PACIFIC PRESS WOULD ACCEDE TO THEIR DEMANDS AND DROP THE TERM “SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST” AND “THE SABBATH” FROM THE COLUMNS OF THAT PAPER, THEY WOULD NO LONGER USE IT AS THE ORGAN OF THE RELIGIOUS LIBERTY ASSOCIATION. THAT MEANT KILLING THE PAPER. THEY UNLOCKED THE DOOR, AND THE MEN WENT TO THEIR ROOMS, WENT TO BED, AND WENT TO SLEEP. BUT GOD, WHO NEVER SLUMBERS NOR SLEEPS, SENT HIS ANGEL MESSENGER TO ELLEN WHITE’S ROOM AT THREE O’CLOCK THAT MORNING. SHE WAS AROUSED FROM HER SLEEP AND INSTRUCTED THAT SHE MUST GO INTO THE WORKERS’ MEETING AT HALF-PAST FIVE, AND THERE SHE MUST PRESENT WHAT WAS SHOWN TO HER AT SALAMANCA. SHE DRESSED, WENT TO HER BUREAU, TOOK FROM IT THE JOURNAL IN WHICH SHE HAD MADE THE RECORD OF WHAT HAD BEEN SHOWN TO HER AT SALAMANCA. AS THE SCENE CAME CLEARLY TO HER MIND, SHE WROTE MORE TO GO WITH IT. THE MINISTERS WERE JUST GETTING UP FROM PRAYER IN THE TABERNACLE AS MRS. WHITE WAS SEEN COMING IN THE DOOR, A BUNDLE OF MANUSCRIPTS UNDER HER ARM. THE PRESIDENT OF THE GENERAL CONFERENCE WAS THE SPEAKER, AND HE ADDRESSED HER: “SISTER WHITE,” HE SAID, “WE ARE HAPPY TO SEE YOU. DO YOU HAVE A MESSAGE FOR US?” “INDEED I DO,” SHE SAID, AND STEPPED TO THE FRONT. THEN SHE BEGAN RIGHT WHERE SHE LEFT OFF THE DAY BEFORE. SHE TOLD THEM THAT AT THREE O’CLOCK THAT MORNING SHE HAD BEEN AROUSED FROM HER SLEEP AND INSTRUCTED TO GO TO THE WORKERS’ MEETING AT HALF-PAST FIVE AND THERE PRESENT WHAT HAD BEEN SHOWN TO HER AT SALAMANCA. “IN THE VISION,” SHE SAID, “I SEEMED TO BE IN BATTLE CREEK. I WAS TAKEN TO THE REVIEW AND HERALD OFFICE, AND THE ANGEL MESSENGER BADE ME, ‘FOLLOW ME.’ I WAS TAKEN TO A ROOM WHERE A GROUP OF MEN WERE 28 EARNESTLY DISCUSSING A MATTER. THERE WAS A ZEAL MANIFEST, BUT NOT ACCORDING TO KNOWLEDGE.” SHE TOLD OF HOW THEY WERE DISCUSSING THE EDITORIAL POLICY OF THE AMERICAN SENTINEL, AND SHE SAID, “I SAW ONE OF THE MEN TAKE A COPY OF THE SENTINEL, HOLD IT HIGH OVER HIS HEAD, AND SAY, ‘UNLESS THESE ARTICLES ON THE SABBATH AND THE SECOND ADVENT COME OUT OF THIS PAPER, WE CAN NO LONGER USE IT AS THE ORGAN OF THE RELIGIOUS LIBERTY ASSOCIATION.’” ELLEN WHITE SPOKE FOR AN HOUR, DESCRIBING THE MEETING THAT HAD BEEN SHOWN TO HER IN VISION MONTHS BEFORE, AND GIVING COUNSEL BASED UPON THAT REVELATION. THEN SHE SAT DOWN. THE PRESIDENT OF THE GENERAL CONFERENCE DID NOT KNOW WHAT TO THINK OF IT. HE HAD NEVER HEARD OF ANY SUCH MEETING. BUT THEY DID NOT WAIT VERY LONG FOR AN EXPLANATION, FOR A MAN STOOD UP IN THE BACK OF THE ROOM AND BEGAN TO SPEAK: “I WAS IN THAT MEETING LAST NIGHT.” “LAST NIGHT!” SISTER WHITE REMARKED, “LAST NIGHT? I THOUGHT THAT MEETING TOOK PLACE MONTHS AGO, WHEN IT WAS SHOWN TO ME IN VISION.” “I WAS IN THAT MEETING LAST NIGHT,” HE SAID, “AND I AM THE MAN WHO MADE THE REMARKS ABOUT THE ARTICLES IN THE PAPER, HOLDING IT HIGH OVER MY HEAD. I AM SORRY TO SAY THAT I WAS ON THE WRONG SIDE, BUT I TAKE THIS OPPORTUNITY TO PLACE MYSELF ON THE RIGHT SIDE.” HE SAT DOWN. ANOTHER MAN STOOD TO SPEAK. HE WAS THE PRESIDENT OF THE RELIGIOUS LIBERTY ASSOCIATION. NOTE HIS WORDS: “I WAS IN THAT MEETING. LAST NIGHT AFTER THE CLOSE OF THE CONFERENCE SOME OF US MET IN MY ROOM IN THE REVIEW OFFICE WHERE WE LOCKED OURSELVES IN AND THERE TOOK UP AND DISCUSSED THE QUESTIONS AND THE MATTER THAT HAS BEEN PRESENTED TO US THIS MORNING. WE REMAINED IN THAT ROOM UNTIL THREE O’CLOCK THIS MORNING. IF I SHOULD BEGIN TO GIVE A DESCRIPTION OF WHAT TOOK PLACE AND THE PERSONAL ATTITUDE OF THOSE IN THE ROOM, I COULD NOT GIVE IT AS EXACTLY AND AS CORRECTLY AS IT HAS BEEN GIVEN BY SISTER WHITE. I NOW SEE THAT I WAS IN ERROR AND THAT THE POSITION THAT I TOOK WAS NOT CORRECT. FROM THE LIGHT THAT HAS BEEN GIVEN THIS MORNING, I ACKNOWLEDGE THAT I WAS WRONG.” OTHERS SPOKE THAT DAY. EVERY MAN WHO WAS IN THE MEETING THE NIGHT BEFORE STOOD TO HIS FEET AND BORE HIS TESTIMONY, SAYING THAT ELLEN WHITE HAD ACCURATELY DESCRIBED THE MEETING AND THE ATTITUDE OF THOSE IN THE ROOM. BEFORE THAT MEETING CLOSED THAT SUNDAY MORNING, THE RELIGIOUS LIBERTY GROUP WERE CALLED TOGETHER, AND THEY RESCINDED THE ACTION THEY HAD TAKEN ONLY A FEW HOUR BEFORE. HAD MRS. WHITE NOT BEEN RESTRAINED AND HAD SHE RELATED THE VISION ON SABBATH AFTERNOON, HER MESSAGE WOULD NOT HAVE SERVED THE PURPOSE THAT GOD HAD INTENDED, FOR THE MEETING HAD NOT YET TAKEN PLACE. SOMEHOW THE MEN DID NOT APPLY THE GENERAL COUNSEL GIVEN SABBATH AFTERNOON. THEY THOUGHT THEY KNEW BETTER. PERHAPS THEY REASONED AS SOME DO TODAY, “WELL, PERHAPS SISTER WHITE DID NOT UNDERSTAND,” OR, “WE ARE LIVING IN A DIFFERENT DAY NOW.” THE THOUGHTS THAT SATAN WHISPERS 29 TO US IN THESE DAYS ARE THE SAME WITH WHICH HE TEMPTED OUR MINISTERS IN 1891. GOD, IN HIS OWN TIME AND IN HIS OWN WAY, MADE IT CLEAR THAT IT WAS HIS WORK; HE WAS GUIDING; HE WAS GUARDING; HE HAD HIS HAND UPON THE WHEEL. ELLEN WHITE TELLS US THAT GOD “HAS OFTEN PERMITTED MATTERS TO COME TO A CRISIS, THAT HIS INTERFERENCE MIGHT BECOME MARKED. THEN HE HAS MADE IT MANIFEST THAT THERE IS A GOD IN ISRAEL.” THE TESTIMONIES AND THE READER FOR SEVENTY YEARS ELLEN G. WHITE SPOKE AND WROTE OF THE THINGS GOD HAD REVEALED TO HER. MANY TIMES THE COUNSELS WERE GIVEN TO CORRECT THOSE WHO ERRED FROM BIBLE TRUTH. MANY TIMES THEY POINTED OUT THE COURSE GOD WOULD HAVE HIS PEOPLE FOLLOW. AT TIMES THE TESTIMONIES DEALT WITH THE MANNER OF LIFE, THE HOME, AND THE CHURCH. HOW DID THE MEMBERS OF THE CHURCH RECEIVE THESE MESSAGES? FROM THE OUTSET OF HER WORK, RESPONSIBLE LEADERS EXAMINED HER WORK TO ASSURE THEMSELVES THAT THE MANIFESTATION OF THE GIFT OF PROPHECY WAS GENUINE. THE APOSTLE PAUL ADMONISHES, “DESPISE NOT PROPHESYINGS. PROVE ALL THINGS; HOLD FAST THAT WHICH IS GOOD.” 1 THESSALONIANS 5:20, 21. THE BIBLE TESTS OF A PROPHET WERE BROUGHT TO BEAR ON MRS. WHITE’S WORK. AND THIS IS AS SHE WOULD HAVE IT, FOR SHE WROTE: “THIS WORK IS OF GOD, OR IT IS NOT. GOD DOES NOTHING IN PARTNERSHIP WITH SATAN. MY WORK FOR THE PAST THIRTY YEARS BEARS THE STAMP OF GOD OR THE STAMP OF THE ENEMY. THERE IS NO HALFWAY WORK IN THE MATTER.” THE BIBLE GIVES FOUR BASIC TESTS BY WHICH A PROPHET IS TO BE EXAMINED. MRS. WHITE’S WORK STANDS EACH TEST. THE MESSAGE OF THE TRUE PROPHET MUST BE IN HARMONY WITH THE LAW OF GOD AND THE MESSAGES OF THE PROPHETS. ISAIAH 8:20. THE E. G. WHITE WRITINGS ELEVATE THE LAW OF GOD AND EVER LEAD MEN AND WOMEN TO THE BIBLE IN ITS ENTIRETY. SHE POINTS TO THE BIBLE AS THE SOLE RULE OF FAITH AND PRACTICE AND AS THE GREAT LIGHT TO WHICH HER WRITINGS, “THE LESSER LIGHT,” LEAD. THE PREDICTIONS OF THE TRUE PROPHET MUST COME TO PASS WITHIN THE CONTEXT OF CONDITIONALITY. JEREMIAH 18:7-10; 28:9. WHILE THE WORK OF MR. WHITE WAS MUCH LIKE THAT OF MOSES IN LEADING AND GUIDING THE PEOPLE, YET SHE WROTE IN A PREDICTIVE MANNER OF THE MANY EVENTS TO TAKE PLACE. AT THE OUTSET OF OUR PUBLISHING WORK IN 1848, SHE SPOKE OF HOW IT WOULD GROW TO ENCIRCLE THE WORLD WITH LIGHT. TODAY SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISTS PUBLISH LITERATURE IN 200 LANGUAGES VALUED AT MORE THAN $100,000,000 A YEAR. IN 1890, WHEN THE WORLD DECLARED THAT THERE WOULD BE NO MORE WAR AND THE MILLENNIUM WAS ABOUT TO DAWN, ELLEN WHITE WROTE: “THE TEMPEST IS COMING, AND WE MUST GET READY FOR ITS FURY…. WE SHALL SEE TROUBLE ON ALL SIDES. THOUSANDS OF SHIPS WILL BE HURLED INTO THE DEPTHS OF THE SEA. NAVIES WILL GO DOWN, AND HUMAN LIVES WILL BE SACRIFICED BY MILLIONS.” THIS WAS FULFILLED IN WORLD WARS I AND II. THE TRUE PROPHET WILL CONFESS THAT JESUS CHRIST IS COME IN THE 30 FLESH, THAT GOD WAS INCARNATE IN HUMAN FLESH. 1 JOHN 4:2. THE READING OF THE DESIRE OF AGES MAKES IT CLEAR THAT THE WORK OF ELLEN G. WHITE MEASURED UP TO THIS TEST. OBSERVE THESE WORDS: “JESUS MIGHT HAVE REMAINED AT THE FATHER’S SIDE. HE MIGHT HAVE RETAINED THE GLORY OF HEAVEN, AND THE HOMAGE OF THE ANGELS. BUT HE CHOSE TO GIVE BACK THE SCEPTER INTO THE FATHER’S HANDS, AND TO STEP DOWN FROM THE THRONE OF THE UNIVERSE, THAT HE MIGHT BRING LIGHT TO THE BENIGHTED, AND LIFE TO THE PERISHING. “NEARLY TWO THOUSAND YEARS AGO, A VOICE OF MYSTERIOUS IMPORT WAS HEARD IN HEAVEN, FROM THE THRONE OF GOD, ‘LO, I COME.’ ‘SACRIFICE AND OFFERING THOU WOULDEST NOT, BUT A BODY HAS THOU PREPARED ME…. LO, I COME IN THE VOLUME OF THE BOOK IT IS WRITTEN OF ME, TO DO THY WILL O GOD.’ HEBREWS 10:5-7. IN THESE WORDS IS ANNOUNCED THE FULFILLMENT OF THE PURPOSE THAT HAD BEEN HIDDEN FROM ETERNAL AGES. CHRIST WAS ABOUT TO VISIT OUR WORLD, AND TO BECOME INCARNATE… IN THE EYES OF THE WORLD HE POSSESSED NO BEAUTY THAT THEY SHOULD DESIRE HIM; YET HE WAS THE INCARNATE GOD, THE LIGHT OF HEAVEN AND EARTH. HIS GLORY WAS VEILED. HIS GREATNESS AND MAJESTY WERE HIDDEN THAT HE MIGHT DRAW NEAR TO SORROWFUL, TEMPTED MAN.” PERHAPS THE MOST CRUCIAL TEST OF THE TRUE PROPHET IS FOUND IN HIS LIFE, HIS WORK, AND THE INFLUENCE OF HIS TEACHINGS. CHRIST ENUNCIATED THIS TEST IN MATTHEW 7:15,16: “YE SHALL KNOW THEM BY THEIR FRUITS.” AS WE LOOK AT THE FRUIT AS MANIFESTED IN THE LIVES OF THOSE WHO HAVE FOLLOWED THE SPRIT OF PROPHECY COUNSELS, WE SEE THAT IT IS GOOD. THE TESTIMONIES HAVE YIELDED GOOD FRUIT. AS WE LOOK AT THE CHURCH, KNOWING THAT WE HAVE BEEN LEAD INTO VARIOUS LINES OF ACTIVITY BY THESE COUNSELS, WE MUST ACKNOWLEDGE THAT MRS. WHITE’S WORK MEASURES UP TO THIS TEST. THE UNITY OF TEACHING IN THE WRITINGS PENNED OVER A PERIOD OF SEVENTY YEARS ALSO BEARS POSITIVE WITNESS TO THE INTEGRITY OF THE GIFT. PRACTICAL TESTS OF A TRUE PROPHET IN ADDITION TO THESE FOUR MAJOR BIBLE TESTS, THE LORD HAS GIVEN EVIDENCES THAT MAKE IT CLEAR THAT THE WORK IS OF HIS DIRECTION. AMONG THESE ARE: THE TIMELINESS OF THE MESSAGE. GOD’S PEOPLE ARE IN SOME SPECIAL NEED, AND THE MESSAGE COMES JUST IN TIME TO MEET THE NEED, AS DID THE FIRST VISION GIVEN TO MRS. WHITE. THE PRACTICAL NATURE OF THE MESSAGES. THE INFORMATION REVEALED TO MRS. WHITE IN THE VISIONS WAS OF PRACTICAL VALUE, MEETING PRACTICAL NEEDS. LOOK AT THE WAY IN WHICH THE TESTIMONY COUNSELS ENTER IN A PRACTICAL WAY INTO OUR EVERYDAY LIVES. THE HIGH SPIRITUAL PLANE OF THE MESSAGES. THEY DO NOT DEAL WITH MATTERS THAT ARE CHILDISH OR COMMON, BUT WITH GRAND, ELEVATED THEMES. THE LANGUAGE ITSELF IS SUBLIME. THE MANNER IN WHICH THE VISIONS WERE GIVEN. MANY OF THE VISIONS WERE ACCOMPANIED BY PHYSICAL PHENOMENA AS DESCRIBED EARLIER. 31 MRS. WHITE’S EXPERIENCE IN VISION WAS SIMILAR TO THAT OF THE BIBLE PROPHETS, THE VISIONS WERE DEFINITE EXPERIENCES, NOT JUST IMPRESSIONS. IN VISION, MRS. WHITE SAW, HEARD, FELT, AND RECEIVED INSTRUCTION FROM THE ANGELS. THE VISIONS COULD NOT BE ACCOUNTED FOR BY EXCITEMENT OR IMAGINATION. MRS. WHITE WAS NOT CONTROLLED BY THOSE ABOUT HER. TO ONE MAN SHE WROTE: “YOU THINK INDIVIDUALS HAVE PREJUDICED MY MIND. IF I AM IN THIS STATE I AM NOT FITTED TO BE ENTRUSTED WITH THE WORK OF GOD.” HER WORK WAS RECOGNIZED BY HER CONTEMPORARIES. BOTH THOSE IN THE CHURCH WHO LIVED AND WORKED WITH MRS. WHITE, AND MANY OUTSIDE THE CHURCH RECOGNIZED HER AS THE “MESSENGER OF THE LORD.” THOSE CLOSEST TO HER HAD THE GREATEST CONFIDENCE IN HER CALL AND WORK. THESE FOUR BIBLE TESTS AND THE ADDITIONAL EVIDENCES OUTLINED ABOVE ASSURE US THAT ELLEN WHITE’S WORK IS OF GOD AND IS WORTHY OF UNQUESTIONED CONFIDENCE. THE MANY E. G. WHITE BOOKS ARE FILLED WITH COUNSEL AND INSTRUCTION OF PERMANENT VALUE TO THE CHURCH. WHETHER THESE TESTIMONIES WERE OF A MORE GENERAL NATURE OR PERSONAL TESTIMONIES TO FAMILIES AND INDIVIDUALS, THEY ARE OF SERVICE TO US TODAY. CONCERNING THIS POINT, MRS. WHITE SAYS: “SINCE THE WARNING AND INSTRUCTION GIVEN IN TESTIMONIES FOR INDIVIDUAL CASES APPLIED WITH EQUAL FORCE TO MANY OTHERS WHO HAD NOT BEEN SPECIALLY POINTED OUT IN THIS MANNER, IT SEEMED TO BE MY DUTY TO PUBLISH THE PERSONAL TESTIMONIES FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE CHURCH…. I KNOW OF NO BETTER WAY TO PRESENT MY VIEWS OF GENERAL DANGERS AND ERRORS, AND THE DUTY OF ALL WHO LOVE GOD AND KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS, THAN BY GIVING THESE TESTIMONIES.” IT IS A MISTAKEN USE OF THE TESTIMONIES TO READ THEM TO FIND SOME POINT ON WHICH CONDEMNATION OF A FELLOW CHURCH MEMBER CAN BE BASED. THE TESTIMONIES MUST NEVER BE USED AS A CLUB TO BRING SOME BROTHER OR SISTER TO SEE THINGS JUST AS WE SEE THEM. THERE ARE MATTERS THAT MUST BE LEFT FOR THE INDIVIDUAL TO SETTLE ALONE WITH GOD. THE COUNSELS SHOULD BE STUDIED TO FIND THE BASIC PRINCIPLES THAT APPLY IN OUR OWN LIVES TODAY. THE HUMAN HEART IS MUCH THE SAME THE WORLD OVER; THE PROBLEMS OF ONE ARE OFTEN THE PROBLEMS OF ANOTHER. “IN REBUKING THE WRONGS OF ONE,” MRS. WHITE WROTE, GOD “DESIGNS TO CORRECT MANY.” “HE MAKES PLAIN THE WRONGS OF SOME THAT OTHERS MAY THUS BE WARNED.” NEAR THE CLOSE OF HER LIFE, MRS. WHITE GAVE THE FOLLOWING COUNSEL: “THROUGH HIS HOLY SPIRIT THE VOICE OF GOD HAS COME TO US CONTINUALLY IN WARNING AND INSTRUCTION…. TIME AND TRIAL HAVE NOT MADE VOID THE INSTRUCTION GIVEN…. THE INSTRUCTION THAT WAS GIVEN IN THE EARLY DAYS OF THE MESSAGE IS TO BE HELD AS SAFE INSTRUCTION TO FOLLOW IN THESE ITS CLOSING DAYS.” THE COUNSELS THAT FOLLOW ARE DRAWN FROM A NUMBER OF THE E. G. WHITE BOOKS—BUT MAINLY FROM THE THREE VOLUMES OF TESTIMONY TREASURES, THE WORLD EDITION OF THE TESTIMONIES FOR THE CHURCH—AND REPRESENT 32 THE LINES OF INSTRUCTION THOUGHT TO BE MOST HELPFUL TO THE CHURCH IN AREAS WHERE THE LIMITATIONS OF CHURCH MEMBERSHIP MAKE IT IMPOSSIBLE TO PUBLISH MORE THAN A SINGLE VOLUME OF MODERATE SIZE. THE WORK OF SELECTING AND ARRANGING THESE COUNSELS WAS DONE BY A LARGE COMMITTEE, WORKING UNDER THE AUTHORIZATION OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE ELLEN G. WHITE ESTATE, TO WHOM WAS ASSIGNED THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE CARE OF THE SPIRIT OF PROPHECY COUNSELS. THE SELECTIONS ARE OFTEN BRIEF AND CONFINED TO A STATEMENT OF PRACTICAL BASIC PRINCIPLES, AND THUS A WIDE RANGE OF SUBJECTS IS INCLUDED. “BELIEVE IN THE LORD YOUR GOD, SO SHALL YE BE ESTABLISHED; BELIEVE HIS PROPHETS, SO SHALL YE PROSPER.” 2 CHRONICLES 20:20. THE TRUSTEES OF THE ELLEN G. WHITE ESTATE WASHINGTON, D.C., JULY 22, 1957. REVISED, SILVER SPRING, MD JANUARY 1, 1990. {CCh 0.3} [CCh 33.1] Chapter 1 —A Vision of the Reward of the Faithful My First Vision While I was praying at the family altar, the Holy Ghost fell upon me, and I seemed to be rising higher and higher, far above the dark world. I turned to look for the Advent people in the world, but could not find them, when a voice said to me, "Look again, and look a little higher." At this I raised my eyes, and saw a straight and narrow path, cast up high above the world. On this path the Advent people were traveling to the city, which was at the farther end of the path. They had a bright light set up behind them at the beginning of the path, which an angel told me was the midnight cry. This light shone all along the path and gave light for their feet so that they might not stumble. If they kept their eyes fixed on Jesus, who was just before them, leading them to the city, they were safe. But soon some grew weary, and said the city was a great way off, and they expected to have entered it before. Then Jesus would encourage them by raising His glorious right arm, and from His arm came a light which waved over the Advent band, and they shouted, "Alleluia!" Others rashly denied the light behind them and said that it was not God that had led them out so far. The light behind them went out, leaving their feet in perfect darkness, and they stumbled and lost sight of the mark and of Jesus, and fell off the path down into the dark and wicked world below. Soon we heard the voice of God like many waters, which gave us the day and hour of Jesus' coming. The living saints, 144,000 in number, knew and understood the voice, while the wicked thought it was thunder and an earthquake. When God spoke the time, He poured upon us the Holy Ghost, and our faces began to light up and shine with the glory of God, as Moses' did when he came down from Mount Sinai. {CCh 33.1} [CCh 33.2] The 144,000 were all sealed and perfectly united. On their foreheads was written, God, New Jerusalem, and a glorious star containing Jesus' new name. At our happy, holy state the wicked were enraged, and would rush violently up to lay hands on us to thrust us into prison, when we would stretch forth the hand in the name of the Lord, and they would fall helpless to the ground. Then it was that the synagogue of Satan ［those who chose to follow Satan］ knew that God had loved us who could wash one another's feet and salute the brethren with a holy kiss, and they worshiped at our feet. {CCh 33.2} [CCh 33.3] Soon our eyes were drawn to the east, for a small black cloud had 34 appeared, about half as large as a man's hand, which we all knew was the sign of the Son of man. We all in solemn silence gazed on the cloud as it drew nearer and became lighter, glorious, and still more glorious, till it was a great white cloud. The bottom appeared like fire; a rainbow was over the cloud, while around it were ten thousand angels, singing a most lovely song; and upon it sat the Son of man. His hair was white and curly and lay on His shoulders; and upon His head were many crowns. His feet had the appearance of fire; in His right hand was a sharp sickle; in His left, a silver trumpet. His eyes were as a flame of fire, which searched His children through and through. Then all faces gathered paleness, and those that God had rejected gathered blackness. Then we all cried out, "Who shall be able to stand? Is my robe spotless?" Then the angels ceased to sing, and there was some time of awful silence, when Jesus spoke: "Those who have clean hands and pure hearts shall be able to stand; My grace is sufficient for you." At this our faces lighted up, and joy filled every heart. And the angels struck a note higher and sang again, while the cloud drew still nearer the earth. {CCh 33.3} [CCh 34.1] Then Jesus' silver trumpet sounded, as He descended on the cloud, wrapped in flames of fire. He gazed on the graves of the sleeping saints, then raised His eyes and hands to heaven, and cried, "Awake! awake! awake! ye that sleep in the dust, and arise." Then there was a mighty earthquake. The graves opened, and the dead came up clothed with immortality. The 144,000 shouted, "Alleluia!" as they recognized their friends who had been torn from them by death, and in the same moment we were changed and caught up together with them to meet the Lord in the air. {CCh 34.1} [CCh 34.2] We all entered the cloud together, and were seven days ascending to the sea of glass, when Jesus brought the crowns, and with His own right hand placed them on our heads. He gave us harps of gold and palms of victory. Here on the sea of glass the 144,000 stood in a perfect square. Some of them had very bright crowns, others not so bright. Some crowns appeared heavy with stars, while others had but few. All were perfectly satisfied with their crowns. And they were all clothed with a glorious white mantle from their shoulders to their feet. Angels were all about us as we marched over the sea of glass to the gate of the city. Jesus raised His mighty, glorious arm, laid hold of the pearly gate, swung it back on its glittering hinges, and said to us, "You have washed your robes in My blood, stood stiffly for My truth, enter in." We all marched in and felt that we had a perfect right in the city. {CCh 34.2} [CCh 34.3] Here we saw the tree of life and the throne of God. Out of the throne came a pure river of water, and on either side of the river was the tree of life. On one side of the river was a trunk of a tree, and a trunk on the other side of the river, both of pure, transparent gold. At first I thought I saw two trees. I looked again, and saw that they were united at the top in one tree. So it was the tree of life on either side of the river of life. Its 35 branches bowed to the place where we stood, and the fruit was glorious; it looked like gold mixed with silver. {CCh 34.3} [CCh 35.1] We all went under the tree and sat down to look at the glory of the place, when Brethren Fitch and Stockman, who had preached the gospel of the kingdom, and whom God had laid in the grave to save them, came up to us and asked us what we had passed through while they were sleeping. We tried to call up our greatest trials, but they looked so small compared with the far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory that surrounded us that we could not speak them out, and we all cried out, "Alleluia, heaven is cheap enough!" and we touched our glorious harps and made heaven's arches ring. {CCh 35.1} [CCh 35.2] With Jesus at our head we all descended from the city down to this earth, on a great and mighty mountain, which could not bear Jesus up, and it parted asunder, and there was a mighty plain. Then we looked up and saw the great city, with twelve foundations, and twelve gates, three on each side, and an angel at each gate. We all cried out, "The city, the great city, it's coming, it's coming down from God out of heaven," and it came and settled on the place where we stood. Then we began to look at the glorious things outside of the city. There I saw most glorious houses, that had the appearance of silver, supported by four pillars set with pearls most glorious to behold. These were to be inhabited by the saints. In each was a golden shelf. I saw many of the saints go into the houses, take off their glittering crowns and lay them on the shelf, then go out into the field by the houses to do something with the earth; not as we have to do with the earth here; no, no. A glorious light shone all about their heads, and they were continually shouting and offering praises to God. {CCh 35.2} [CCh 35.3] I saw another field full of all kinds of flowers, and as I plucked them, I cried out, "They will never fade." Next I saw a field of tall grass, most glorious to behold; it was living green and had a reflection of silver and gold, as it waved proudly to the glory of King Jesus. Then we entered a field full of all kinds of beasts—the lion, the lamb, the leopard, and the wolf, all together in perfect union. We passed through the midst of them, and they followed on peaceably after. Then we entered a wood, not like the dark woods we have here; no, no; but light, and all over glorious; the branches of the trees moved to and fro, and we all cried out, "We will dwell safely in the wilderness and sleep in the woods." We passed through the woods, for we were on our way to Mount Zion. {CCh 35.3} [CCh 35.4] As we were traveling along, we met a company who also were gazing at the glories of the place. I noticed red as a border on their garments; their crowns were brilliant; their robes were pure white. As we greeted them, I asked Jesus who they were. He said they were martyrs that had been slain for Him. With them was an innumerable company of little ones; they also had a hem of red on their garments. Mount Zion was just before us, and on the mount was a glorious temple, and about it were seven other mountains, on which grew roses and 36 lilies. And I saw the little ones climb, or, if they chose, use their little wings and fly, to the top of the mountains and pluck the never-fading flowers. There were all kinds of trees around the temple to beautify the place: the box, the pine, the fir, the oil, the myrtle, the pomegranate, and the fig tree bowed down with the weight of its timely figs—these made the place all over glorious. And as we were about to enter the holy temple, Jesus raised His lovely voice and said, "Only the 144,000 enter this place," and we shouted, "Alleluia." {CCh 35.4} [CCh 36.1] This temple was supported by seven pillars, all of transparent gold, set with pearls most glorious. The wonderful things I there saw I cannot describe. Oh, that I could talk in the language of Canaan, then could I tell a little of the glory of the better world. I saw there tables of stone in which the names of the 144,000 were engraved in letters of gold. After we beheld the glory of the temple, we went out, and Jesus left us and went to the city. Soon we heard His lovely voice again, saying, "Come, My people, you have come out of great tribulation, and done My will; suffered for Me; come in to supper, for I will gird Myself, and serve you." We shouted, "Alleluia! glory!" and entered into the city. And I saw a table of pure silver; it was many miles in length, yet our eyes could extend over it. I saw the fruit of the tree of life, the manna, almonds, figs, pomegranates, grapes, and many other kinds of fruit. I asked Jesus to let me eat of the fruit. He said, "Not now. Those who eat of the fruit of this land go back to earth no more. But in a little while, if faithful, you shall both eat of the fruit of the tree of life and drink of the water of the fountain." And He said, "You must go back to the earth again and relate to others what I have revealed to you." Then an angel bore me gently down to this dark world. Sometimes I think I can stay here no longer; all things of earth look so dreary. I feel very lonely here, for I have seen a better land. Oh, that I had wings like a dove, then would I fly away and be at rest! EW 14-201 {CCh 36.1} [CCh 37.1] Chapter 2 —The Time of The End We are living in the time of the end. The fast-fulfilling signs of the times declare that the coming of Christ is near at hand. The days in which we live are solemn and important. The Spirit of God is gradually but surely being withdrawn from the earth. Plagues and judgments are already falling upon the despisers of the grace of God. The calamities by land and sea, the unsettled state of society, the alarms of war, are portentous. They forecast approaching events of the greatest magnitude. {CCh 37.1} [CCh 37.2] The agencies of evil are combining their forces and consolidating. They are strengthening for the last great crisis. Great changes are soon to take place in our world, and the final movements will be rapid ones. {CCh 37.2} [CCh 37.3] The condition of things in the world shows that troublous times are right upon us. The daily papers are full of indications of a terrible conflict in the near future. Bold robberies are of frequent occurrence. Strikes are common. Thefts and murders are committed on every hand. Men possessed of demons are taking the lives of men, women, and little children. Men have become infatuated with vice, and every species of evil prevails. The enemy has succeeded in perverting justice and in filling men's hearts with the desire for selfish gain. "Justice standeth afar off: for truth is fallen in the street, and equity cannot enter." Isaiah 59:14. In the great cities there are multitudes living in poverty and wretchedness, well-nigh destitute of food, shelter, and clothing; while in the same cities are those who have more than heart could wish, who live luxuriously, spending their money on richly furnished houses, on personal adornment, or worse still, upon the gratification of sensual appetites, upon liquor, tobacco, and other things that destroy the powers of the brain, unbalance the mind, and debase the soul. The cries of starving humanity are coming up before God, while by every species of oppression and extortion men are piling up colossal fortunes. {CCh 37.3} [CCh 37.4] I was in the night season called upon to behold buildings rising story after story toward heaven. These buildings were warranted to be fireproof, and they were erected to glorify the owners and builders. Higher and still higher these buildings rose, and in them the most costly material was used. Those to whom these buildings belonged were not asking themselves: "How can we best glorify God?" The Lord was not in their thoughts. {CCh 37.4} [CCh 37.5] As these lofty buildings went up, the owners rejoiced with ambitious pride that they had money to use in gratifying self and provoking the 38 envy of their neighbors. Much of the money that they thus invested had been obtained through exaction, through grinding down the poor. They forgot that in heaven an account of every business transaction is kept; every unjust deal, every fraudulent act, is there recorded. The time is coming when in their fraud and insolence men will reach a point that the Lord will not permit them to pass, and they will learn that there is a limit to the forbearance of Jehovah. {CCh 37.5} [CCh 38.1] The scene that next passed before me was an alarm of fire. Men looked at the lofty and supposedly fireproof buildings and said: "They are perfectly safe." But these buildings were consumed as if made of pitch. The fire engines could do nothing to stay the destruction. The firemen were unable to operate the engines. {CCh 38.1} [CCh 38.2] I am instructed that when the Lord's time comes, should no change have taken place in the hearts of proud, ambitious human beings, men will find that the hand that had been strong to save will be strong to destroy. No earthly power can stay the hand of God. No material can be used in the erection of buildings that will preserve them from destruction when God's appointed time comes to send retribution on men for their disregard of His law and for their selfish ambition. {CCh 38.2} [CCh 38.3] There are not many, even among educators and statesmen, who comprehend the causes that underlie the present state of society. Those who hold the reins of government are not able to solve the problem of moral corruption, poverty, pauperism, and increasing crime. They are struggling in vain to place business operations on a more secure basis. If men would give more heed to the teaching of God's word, they would find a solution of the problems that perplex them. {CCh 38.3} [CCh 38.4] The Scriptures describe the condition of the world just before Christ's second coming. Of the men who by robbery and extortion are amassing great riches, it is written: "Ye have heaped treasure together for the last days. Behold, the hire of the laborers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of Sabaoth. Ye have lived in pleasure on the earth, and been wanton; ye have nourished your hearts, as in a day of slaughter. Ye have condemned and killed the just; and he doth not resist you." James 5:3-6. {CCh 38.4} [CCh 38.5] But who reads the warnings given by the fast-fulfilling signs of the times? What impression is made upon worldlings? What change is seen in their attitude? No more than was seen in the attitude of the inhabitants of the Noachian world. Absorbed in worldly business and pleasure, the antediluvians "knew not until the Flood came, and took them all away." Matthew 24:39. They had heaven-sent warnings, but they refused to listen. And today the world, utterly regardless of the warning voice of God, is hurrying on to eternal ruin. {CCh 38.5} [CCh 38.6] The world is stirred with the spirit of war. The prophecy of the eleventh chapter of Daniel has nearly reached its complete fulfillment. Soon the scenes of trouble spoken of in the prophecies will take place. {CCh 38.6} [CCh 38.7] "Behold, the Lord maketh the earth empty, and maketh it waste, and turneth it upside down, and scattereth abroad the inhabitants thereof. . . . Because they have transgressed the laws, changed the ordinance, 39 broken the everlasting covenant. Therefore hath the curse devoured the earth, and they that dwell therein are desolate. . . . The mirth of tabrets ceaseth, the noise of them that rejoice endeth, the joy of the harp ceaseth." Isaiah 24:1-8. {CCh 38.7} [CCh 39.1] "Alas for the day! for the day of the Lord is at hand, and as a destruction from the Almighty shall it come. . . ." Joel 1:15. {CCh 39.1} [CCh 39.2] "I beheld the earth, and, lo, it was without form, and void; and the heavens, and they had no light. I beheld the mountains, and, lo, they trembled, and all the hills moved lightly. I beheld, and, lo, there was no man, and all the birds of the heavens were fled. I beheld, and, lo, the fruitful place was a wilderness, and all the cities thereof were broken down." Jeremiah 4:23-26. {CCh 39.2} [CCh 39.3] "Alas! for that day is great, so that none is like it: it is even the time of Jacob's trouble; but he shall be saved out of it." Jeremiah 30:7. {CCh 39.3} [CCh 39.4] Not all in this world have taken sides with the enemy against God. Not all have become disloyal. There are a faithful few who are true to God; for John writes: "Here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus." Revelation 14:12. Soon the battle will be waged fiercely between those who serve God and those who serve Him not. Soon everything that can be shaken will be shaken, that those things that cannot be shaken may remain. {CCh 39.4} [CCh 39.5] Satan is a diligent Bible student. He knows that his time is short, and he seeks at every point to counterwork the work of the Lord upon this earth. It is impossible to give any idea of the experience of the people of God who shall be alive upon the earth when celestial glory and a repetition of the persecutions of the past are blended. They will walk in the light proceeding from the throne of God. By means of the angels there will be constant communication between heaven and earth. And Satan, surrounded by evil angels, and claiming to be God, will work miracles of all kinds, to deceive, if possible, the very elect. God's people will not find their safety in working miracles, for Satan will counterfeit the miracles that will be wrought. God's tried and tested people will find their power in the sign spoken of in Exodus 31:12-18. They are to take their stand on the living word: "It is written." This is the only foundation upon which they can stand securely. Those who have broken their covenant with God will in that day be without God and without hope. {CCh 39.5} [CCh 39.6] The worshipers of God will be especially distinguished by their regard for the fourth commandment, since this is the sign of God's creative power and the witness to His claim upon man's reverence and homage. The wicked will be distinguished by their efforts to tear down the Creator's memorial and to exalt the institution of Rome. In the issue of the conflict all Christendom will be divided into two great classes, those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, and those who worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark. Although church and state will unite their power to compel all, "both 40 small and great, rich and poor, free and bond," to receive the mark of the beast, yet the people of God will not receive it. Revelation 13:16. The prophet of Patmos beholds "them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God," and singing the song of Moses and the Lamb. Revelation 15:2. {CCh 39.6} [CCh 40.1] Fearful tests and trials await the people of God. The spirit of war is stirring the nations from one end of the earth to the other. But in the midst of the time of trouble that is coming,—a time of trouble such as has not been since there was a nation—God's chosen people will stand unmoved. Satan and his host cannot destroy them, for angels that excel in strength will protect them. 9T 11-172 {CCh 40.1} [CCh 41.1] Chapter 3 —Prepare to Meet the Lord I saw that we should not put off the coming of the Lord. Said the angel: "Prepare, prepare, for what is coming upon the earth. Let your works correspond with your faith." I saw that the mind must be stayed upon God, and that our influence should tell for God and His truth. We cannot honor the Lord when we are careless and indifferent. We cannot glorify Him when we are desponding. We must be in earnest to secure our own soul's salvation, and to save others. All importance should be attached to this, and everything besides should come in secondary. {CCh 41.1} [CCh 41.2] I saw the beauty of heaven. I heard the angels sing their rapturous songs, ascribing praise, honor, and glory to Jesus. I could then realize something of the wondrous love of the Son of God. He left all the glory, all the honor which He had in heaven, and was so interested for our salvation that He patiently and meekly bore every indignity and slight which man could heap upon Him. He was wounded, smitten, and bruised; He was stretched on Calvary's cross and suffered the most agonizing death to save us from death, that we might be washed in His blood and be raised up to live with Him in the mansions He is preparing for us, to enjoy the light and glory of heaven, to hear the angels sing, and to sing with them. {CCh 41.2} [CCh 41.3] I saw that all heaven is interested in our salvation; and shall we be indifferent? Shall we be careless, as though it were a small matter whether we are saved or lost? Shall we slight the sacrifice that has been made for us? Some have done this. They have trifled with offered mercy, and the frown of God is upon them. God's Spirit will not always be grieved. It will depart if grieved a little longer. After all has been done that God could do to save men, if they show by their lives that they slight Jesus' offered mercy, death will be their portion, and it will be dearly purchased. It will be a dreadful death; for they will have to feel the agony that Christ felt upon the cross to purchase for them the redemption which they have refused. And they will then realize what they have lost—eternal life and the immortal inheritance. The great sacrifice that has been made to save souls shows us their worth. When the precious soul is once lost, it is lost forever. {CCh 41.3} [CCh 41.4] I have seen an angel standing with scales in his hands weighing the thoughts and interest of the people of God, especially the young. In one scale were the thoughts and interest tending heavenward; in the 42 other were the thoughts and interest tending to earth. And in this scale were thrown all the reading of storybooks, thoughts of dress and show, vanity, pride, etc. Oh, what a solemn moment! the angels of God standing with scales, weighing the thoughts of His professed children—those who claim to be dead to the world and alive to God. The scale filled with thoughts of earth, vanity, and pride quickly went down, notwithstanding weight after weight rolled from the scale. The one with the thoughts and interest tending to heaven went quickly up as the other went down, and oh, how light it was! I can relate this as I saw it; but never can I give the solemn and vivid impression stamped upon my mind, as I saw the angel with the scales weighing the thoughts and interest of the people of God. Said the angel: "Can such enter heaven? No, no, never. Tell them the hope they now possess is vain, and unless they speedily repent, and obtain salvation, they must perish." {CCh 41.4} [CCh 42.1] A form of godliness will not save any. All must have a deep and living experience. This alone will save them in the time of trouble. Then their work will be tried of what sort it is; and if it is gold, silver, and precious stones, they will be hid as in the secret of the Lord's pavilion. But if their work is wood, hay, and stubble, nothing can shield them from the fierceness of Jehovah's wrath. {CCh 42.1} [CCh 42.2] I saw that many measure themselves among themselves, and compare their lives with the lives of others. This should not be. No one but Christ is given us as an example. He is our true Pattern, and each should strive to excel in imitating Him. We are co-workers with Christ, or co-workers with the enemy. We either gather with Christ or scatter abroad. We are decided, wholehearted Christians, or none at all. Says Christ: "I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spew thee out of My mouth." {CCh 42.2} [CCh 42.3] I saw that some hardly know as yet what self-denial or sacrifice is, or what it is to suffer for the truth's sake. But none will enter heaven without making a sacrifice. A spirit of self-denial and sacrifice should be cherished. Some have not sacrificed themselves, their own bodies, on the altar of God. They indulge in hasty, fitful temper, gratify their appetites, and attend to their own self-interest, regardless of the cause of God. Those who are willing to make any sacrifice for eternal life, will have it; and it will be worth suffering for, worth crucifying self for, and sacrificing every idol for. The far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory swallows up everything and eclipses every earthly pleasure. 1T 123-1263 {CCh 42.3} [CCh 43.1] Chapter 4 —Union With Christ and Brotherly Love One With Christ in God It is the purpose of God that His children shall blend in unity. Do they not expect to live together in the same heaven? Is Christ divided against Himself? Will He give His people success before they sweep away the rubbish of evil surmising and discord, before the laborers, with unity of purpose, devote heart and mind and strength to the work so holy in God's sight? Union brings strength; disunion, weakness. United with one another, working together in harmony for the salvation of men, we shall indeed be "laborers together with God." Those who refuse to work in harmony greatly dishonor God. The enemy of souls delights to see them working at cross purposes with one another. Such ones need to cultivate brotherly love and tenderness of heart. If they could draw aside the curtain veiling the future and see the result of their disunion they would surely be led to repent. 8T 2404 {CCh 43.1} [CCh 43.2] Union With Christ and One Another Our Only Safety The world is looking with gratification at the disunion amongst Christians. Infidelity is well pleased. God calls for a change among His people. Union with Christ and with one another is our only safety in these last days. Let us not make it possible for Satan to point to our church members, saying: "Behold how these people, standing under the banner of Christ, hate one another. We have nothing to fear from them while they spend more strength fighting one another than in warfare with my forces." {CCh 43.2} [CCh 43.3] After the descent of the Holy Spirit the disciples went forth to proclaim a risen Saviour, their one desire the salvation of souls. They rejoiced in the sweetness of the communion with saints. They were tender, thoughtful, self-denying, willing to make any sacrifice for the truth's sake. In their daily association with one another they revealed the love that Christ had commanded them to reveal. By unselfish words and deeds they strove to kindle this love in other hearts. {CCh 43.3} [CCh 43.4] The believers were ever to cherish the love that filled the hearts of the apostles after the descent of the Holy Spirit. They were to go forward in willing obedience to the new commandment: "As I have loved you, that ye also love one another." John 13:34. So closely were they to be united to Christ that they would be enabled to fulfill His requirements. {CCh 43.4} [CCh 44.1] 44 The power of a Saviour who could justify them by His righteousness was to be magnified. {CCh 44.1} [CCh 44.2] But the early Christians began to look for defects in one another. Dwelling upon mistakes, giving place to unkind criticism, they lost sight of the Saviour and of the great love He had revealed for sinners. They became more strict in regard to outward ceremonies, more particular about the theory of the faith, more severe in their criticisms. In their zeal to condemn others they forgot their own errors. They forgot the lesson of brotherly love that Christ had taught. And, saddest of all, they were unconscious of their loss. They did not realize that happiness and joy were going out of their lives, and that soon they would walk in darkness, having shut the love of God out of their hearts. {CCh 44.2} [CCh 44.3] The apostle John realized that brotherly love was waning in the church, and he dwelt particularly upon this point. Up to the day of his death he urged upon believers the constant exercise of love for one another. His letters to the churches are filled with this thought. "Beloved, let us love one another," he writes; for love is of God. . . . God sent His only-begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. . . . Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another." 1 John 4:7-11. {CCh 44.3} [CCh 44.4] In the church of God today brotherly love is greatly lacking. Many of those who profess to love the Saviour neglect to love those who are united with them in Christian fellowship. We are of the same faith, members of one family, all children of the same heavenly Father, with the same blessed hope of immortality. How close and tender should be the tie that binds us together. The people of the world are watching us to see if our faith is exerting a sanctifying influence upon our hearts. They are quick to discern every defect in our lives, every inconsistency in our actions. Let us give them no occasion to reproach our faith. 8T 240-2425 {CCh 44.4} [CCh 44.5] Harmony and Union Is Our Strongest Witness It is not the opposition of the world that endangers us the most; it is the evil cherished in the hearts of professed believers that works our most grievous disaster and most retards the progress of God's cause. There is no surer way of weakening our spirituality than by being envious, suspicious of one an other, full of faultfinding and evil surmising. "This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace." James 3:15-18. {CCh 44.5} [CCh 44.6] Harmony and union existing among men of varied dispositions is the strongest witness that can be borne that God has sent His Son into the world to save sinners. It is our privilege to bear this witness. But, in 45 order to do this, we must place ourselves under Christ's command. Our characters must be molded in harmony with His character, our wills must be surrendered to His will. Then we shall work together without a thought of collision. {CCh 44.6} [CCh 45.1] Little differences dwelt upon lead to actions that destroy Christian fellowship. Let us not allow the enemy thus to gain the advantage over us. Let us keep drawing nearer to God and to one another. Then we shall be as trees of righteousness, planted by the Lord, and watered by the river of life. And how fruitful we shall be! Did not Christ say: "Herein is My Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit"? John 15:8. {CCh 45.1} [CCh 45.2] When Christ's prayer is fully believed, when its instruction is brought into the daily life of God's people, unity of action will be seen in our ranks. Brother will be bound to brother by the golden bonds of the love of Christ. The Spirit of God alone can bring about this oneness. He who sanctified Himself can sanctify His disciples. United with Him, they will be united with one another in the most holy faith. When we strive for this unity as God desires us to strive for it, it will come to us. 8T 242, 2436 {CCh 45.2} [CCh 45.3] It is not a great number of institutions, large buildings, and outward display that God requires, but the harmonious action of a peculiar people, a people chosen by God and precious, united with one another, their life hid with Christ in God. Every man is to stand in his lot and place, exerting a right influence in thought, word, and deed. When all God's workers do this, and not till then, His work will be a complete, symmetrical whole. 8T 1837 {CCh 45.3} [CCh 45.4] The Lord calls for men of genuine faith and sound minds, men who recognize the distinction between the true and the false. Each one should be on his guard, studying and practicing the lessons given in the seventeenth chapter of John, and preserving a living faith in the truth for this time. We need that self-control which will enable us to bring our habits into harmony with the prayer of Christ. 8T 2398 {CCh 45.4} [CCh 45.5] The heart of the Saviour is set upon His followers' fulfilling God's purpose in all its height and depth. They are to be one in Him, even though they are scattered the world over. But God cannot make them one in Christ unless they are willing to give up their own way for His way. 8T 2439 {CCh 45.5} [CCh 45.6] Cooperation In the establishment of institutions in new fields it is often necessary to place responsibilities upon persons not fully acquainted with the details of the work. These persons labor at great disadvantage, and, unless they and their fellow workers have an unselfish interest in the Lord's institution, there will result a condition of things that will hinder its prosperity. {CCh 45.6} [CCh 45.7] Many feel that the line of work they are doing belongs solely to them and that no one else should make any suggestions in regard to it. These very ones may be ignorant as to the best methods of conducting the 46 work; yet, if one ventures to offer them advice, they are offended and become more determined to follow their independent judgment. Again, some of the workers are not willing to help or instruct their fellow workmen. Others who are inexperienced do not wish their ignorance to be known. They make mistakes, at a cost of much time and material, because they are too proud to ask counsel. {CCh 45.7} [CCh 46.1] The cause of the trouble it is not difficult to determine. The workers have been independent threads, when they should have regarded themselves as threads that must be woven together to help form the pattern. {CCh 46.1} [CCh 46.2] These things grieve the Holy Spirit. God desires us to learn of one another. Unsanctified independence places us where He cannot work with us. With such a state of things Satan is well pleased. {CCh 46.2} [CCh 46.3] Every worker will be tested as to whether he is laboring for the advancement of the Lord's institution, or to serve his own interests. {CCh 46.3} [CCh 46.4] The sin that is most nearly hopeless and incurable is pride of opinion, self-conceit. This stands in the way of all growth. When a man has defects of character, yet fails of realizing this; when he is so imbued with self-sufficiency that he cannot see his fault, how can he be cleansed? "They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick." Matthew 9:12. How can one improve when he thinks his ways perfect? {CCh 46.4} [CCh 46.5] None but a wholehearted Christian can be a true gentleman. 7T 197-20010 {CCh 46.5} [CCh 47.1] Chapter 5 –Christ Our Righteousness “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9. {CCh 47.1} [CCh 47.2] God requires that we confess our sins and humble our hearts before Him; but at the same time we should have confidence in Him as a tender Father, who will not forsake those who put their trust in Him. Many of us walk by sight and not by faith. We believe the things that are seen but do not appreciate the precious promises given us in God's Word; and yet we cannot dishonor God more decidedly than by showing that we distrust what He says and question whether the Lord is in earnest with us or is deceiving us. {CCh 47.2} [CCh 47.3] God does not give us up because of our sins. We may make mistakes and grieve His Spirit, but when we repent and come to Him with contrite hearts, He will not turn us away. There are hindrances to be removed. Wrong feelings have been cherished, and there have been pride, self-sufficiency, impatience, and murmurings. All these separate us from God. Sins must be confessed; there must be a deeper work of grace in the heart. Those who feel weak and discouraged may become strong men of God and do noble work for the Master. But they must work from a high standpoint; they must be influenced by no selfish motives. {CCh 47.3} [CCh 47.4] We must learn in the school of Christ. Nothing but His righteoZsness can entitle us to one of the blessings of the covenant of grace. We have long desired and tried to obtain these blessings but have not received them because we have cherished the idea that we could do something to make ourselves worthy of them. We have not looked away from ourselves, believing that Jesus is a living Saviour. We must not think that our own grace and merits will save us; the grace of Christ is our only hope of salvation. Through His prophet the Lord promises, "Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and He will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon" Isaiah 55:7. We must believe the naked promise, and not accept feeling for faith. When we trust God fully, when we rely upon the merits of Jesus as a sin-pardoning Saviour, we shall receive all the help that we can desire. {CCh 47.4} [CCh 47.5] We look to self, as though we had power to save ourselves; but Jesus died for us because we are helpless to do this. In Him is our hope, our justification, our righteousness. We should not despond and fear that we have no Saviour or that He has no thoughts of mercy toward us. At 48 this very time He is carrying on His work in our behalf, inviting us to come to Him in our helplessness and be saved. We dishonor Him by our unbelief. It is astonishing how we treat our very best Friend, how little confidence we repose in Him who is able to save to the uttermost and who has given us every evidence of His great love. {CCh 47.5} [CCh 48.1] My brethren, are you expecting that your merit will recommend you to the favor of God, thinking that you must be free from sin before you trust His power to save? If this is the struggle going on in your mind, I fear you will gain no strength and will finally become discouraged. {CCh 48.1} [CCh 48.2] In the wilderness, when the Lord permitted poisonous serpents to sting the rebellious Israelites, Moses was directed to lift up a brazen serpent and bid all the wounded look to it and live. But many saw no help in this Heaven-appointed remedy. The dead and dying were all around them, and they knew without divine help their fate was certain; but they would lament their wounds, their pains, their sure death, until their strength was gone, and their eyes were glazed, when they might have had instant healing. {CCh 48.2} [CCh 48.3] "As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness," even so was "the Son of man lifted up: that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have eternal life" John 3:14, 15. If you are conscious of your sins, do not devote all your powers to mourning over them, but look and live. Jesus is our only Saviour; and although millions who need to be healed will reject His offered mercy, not one who trusts in His merits will be left to perish. While we realize our helpless condition without Christ, we must not be discouraged; we must rely upon a crucified and risen Saviour. Poor, sin-sick, discouraged soul, look and live. Jesus has pledged His word; He will save all who come unto Him. {CCh 48.3} [CCh 48.4] Come to Jesus, and receive rest and peace. You may have the blessing even now. Satan suggests that you are helpless and cannot bless yourself. It is true; you are helpless. But lift up Jesus before him: "I have a risen Saviour. In Him I trust, and He will never suffer me to be confounded. In His name I triumph. He is my righteousness and my crown of rejoicing." Let no one here feel that his case is hopeless, for it is not. You may see that you are sinful and undone, but it is just on this account that you need a Saviour. If you have sins to confess, lose no time. These moments are golden. "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" 1 John 1:9. Those who hunger and thirst after righteousness will be filled, for Jesus has promised it. Precious Saviour! His arms are open to receive us, and His great heart of love is waiting to bless us. {CCh 48.4} [CCh 48.5] Some seem to feel that they must be on probation and must prove to the Lord that they are reformed, before they can claim His blessing. But these dear souls may claim the blessing even now. They must have His grace, the Spirit of Christ, to help their infirmities, or they cannot form a Christian character. Jesus loves to have us come to Him, just as we 49 are—sinful, helpless, dependent. {CCh 48.5} [CCh 49.1] Repentance, as well as forgiveness, is the gift of God through Christ. It is through the influence of the Holy Spirit that we are convicted of sin and feel our need of pardon. None but the contrite are forgiven; but it is the grace of God that makes the heart penitent. He is acquainted with all our weaknesses and infirmities, and He will help us. {CCh 49.1} [CCh 49.2] Some who come to God by repentance and confession, and even believe that their sins are forgiven, still fail of claiming, as they should, the promises of God. They do not see that Jesus is an ever-present Saviour; and they are not ready to commit the keeping of their souls to Him, relying upon Him to perfect the work of grace begun in their hearts. While they think they are committing themselves to God, there is a great deal of self-dependence. There are conscientious souls that trust partly to God and partly to themselves. They do not look to God, to be kept by His power, but depend upon watchfulness against temptation and the performance of certain duties for acceptance with Him. There are no victories in this kind of faith. Such persons toil to no purpose; their souls are in continual bondage, and they find no rest until their burdens are laid at the feet of Jesus. {CCh 49.2} [CCh 49.3] There is need of constant watchfulness and of earnest, loving devotion, but these will come naturally when the soul is kept by the power of God through faith. We can do nothing, absolutely nothing, to commend ourselves to divine favor. We must not trust at all to ourselves or to our good works; but when as erring, sinful beings we come to Christ, we may find rest in His love. God will accept every one that comes to Him trusting wholly in the merits of a crucified Saviour. Love springs up in the heart. There may be no ecstasy of feeling, but there is an abiding, peaceful trust. Every burden is light; for the yoke which Christ imposes is easy. Duty becomes a delight, and sacrifice a pleasure. The path that before seemed shrouded in darkness becomes bright with beams from the Sun of Righteousness. This is walking in the light as Christ is in the light. 1 SM 350-354.11 {CCh 49.3} [CCh 50.1] Chapter 6 —The Sanctified Life Our Saviour claims all there is of us; He asks our first and holiest thoughts, our purest and most intense affection. If we are indeed partakers of the divine nature, His praise will be continually in our hearts and upon our lips. Our only safety is to surrender our all to Him and to be constantly growing in grace and in the knowledge of the truth. SL 9512 The sanctification set forth in the Sacred Scriptures has to do with the entire being—spirit, soul, and body. Here is the true idea of entire consecration. Paul prays that the church at Thessalonica may enjoy this great blessing. "The very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ" 1 Thessalonians 5:23. {CCh 50.1} [CCh 50.2] There is in the religious world a theory of sanctification which is false in itself and dangerous in its influence. In many cases those who profess sanctification do not possess the genuine article. Their sanctification consists in talk and will worship. {CCh 50.2} [CCh 50.3] They lay aside reason and judgment, and depend wholly upon their feelings, basing their claims to sanctification upon emotions which they have at some time experienced. They are stubborn and perverse in urging their tenacious claims of holiness, giving many words, but bearing no precious fruit as proof. These professedly sanctified persons are not only deluding their own souls by their pretensions, but are exerting an influence to lead astray many who earnestly desire to conform to the will of God. They may be heard to reiterate again and again, "God leads me! God teaches me! I am living without sin!" Many who come in contact with this spirit encounter a dark, mysterious something which they cannot comprehend. But it is that which is altogether unlike Christ, the only true pattern. SL 7-1013 {CCh 50.3} [CCh 50.4] Sanctification is a progressive work. The successive steps are set before us in the words of Peter: "Giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ" 2 Peter 1:5-8. "Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: for so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting 51 kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ" verses 10, 11. {CCh 50.4} [CCh 51.1] Here is a course by which we may be assured that we shall never fall. Those who are thus working upon the plan of addition in obtaining the Christian graces have the assurance that God will work upon the plan of multiplication in granting them the gifts of His Spirit. SL 94-9514 {CCh 51.1} [CCh 51.2] Sanctification is not the work of a moment, an hour, or a day. It is a continual growth in grace. We know not one day how strong will be our conflict the next. Satan lives, and is active, and every day we need to cry earnestly to God for help and strength to resist him. As long as Satan reigns we shall have self to subdue, besetments to overcome, and there is no stopping place, there is no point to which we can come and say we have fully attained. {CCh 51.2} [CCh 51.3] The Christian life is constantly an onward march. Jesus sits as a refiner and purifier of His people; and when His image is perfectly reflected in them, they are perfect and holy, and prepared for translation. A great work is required of the Christian. We are exhorted to cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. Here we see where the great labor rests. There is a constant work for the Christian. Every branch in the parent vine must derive life and strength from that vine, in order to yield fruit. 1T 34015 {CCh 51.3} [CCh 51.4] Let none deceive themselves with the belief that God will pardon and bless them while they are trampling upon one of His requirements. The willful commission of a known sin silences the witnessing voice of the Spirit and separates the soul from God. Whatever may be the ecstasies of religious feeling, Jesus cannot abide in the heart that disregards the divine law. God will honor those only who honor Him. 5 SL 9216 {CCh 51.4} [CCh 51.5] When Paul wrote, "The very God of peace sanctify you wholly" 1 Thessalonians 5:23, he did not exhort his brethren to aim at a standard which it was impossible for them to reach; he did not pray that they might have blessings which it was not the will of God to give. He knew that all who would be fitted to meet Christ in peace must possess a pure and holy character. Read 1 Corinthians 9:25-27; 6:19, 20. {CCh 51.5} [CCh 51.6] True Christian principle will not stop to weigh consequences. It does not ask, What will people think of me if I do this? or, How will it affect my worldly prospects if I do that? With the most intense longing the children of God desire to know what He would have them do, that their works may glorify Him. The Lord has made ample provision that the hearts and lives of all His followers may be controlled by divine grace, that they may be as burning and shining lights in the world. SL 26, 3917 {CCh 51.6} [CCh 51.7] True Evidences of Sanctification Our Saviour was the light of the world, but the world knew Him not. He was constantly employed in works of mercy, shedding light upon the pathway of all; yet He did not call upon those with whom He mingled to behold His unexampled virtue, His self-denial, self-sacrifice, and benevolence. The Jews did not admire such a life. They considered 52 His religion worthless, because it did not accord with their standard of piety. They decided that Christ was not religious in spirit or character; for their religion consisted in display, in praying publicly, and in doing works of charity for effect. The most precious fruit of sanctification is the grace of meekness. When this grace presides in the soul, the disposition is molded by its influence. There is a continual waiting upon God and a submission of the will to His. {CCh 51.7} [CCh 52.1] Self-denial, self-sacrifice, benevolence, kindness, love, patience, fortitude, and Christian trust are the daily fruits borne by those who are truly connected with God. Their acts may not be published to the world, but they themselves are daily wrestling with evil, and gaining precious victories over temptation and wrong. Solemn vows are renewed, and kept through the strength gained by earnest prayer and constant watching thereunto. The ardent enthusiast does not discern the struggles of these silent workers; but the eye of Him who seeth the secrets of the heart, notices and regards with approval every effort put forth in lowliness and meekness. It requires the testing time to reveal the pure gold of love and faith in the character. When trials and perplexities come upon the church, then the steadfast zeal and warm affections of Christ's true followers are developed. {CCh 52.1} [CCh 52.2] All who come within the sphere of his ［the true religious man］ influence perceive the beauty and fragrance of his Christian life, while he himself is unconscious of it, for it is in harmony with his habits and inclinations. He prays for divine light, and loves to walk in that light. It is his meat and drink to do the will of his heavenly Father. His life is hid with Christ in God; yet he does not boast of this, nor seem conscious of it. God smiles upon the humble and lowly ones who follow closely in the footsteps of the Master. Angels are attracted to them, and love to linger about their path. They may be passed by as unworthy of notice by those who claim exalted attainments and who delight in making prominent their good works, but heavenly angels bend lovingly over them and are as a wall of fire round about them. SL 11-1518 {CCh 52.2} [CCh 52.3] Daniel—An Example of a Sanctified Life The life of Daniel is an inspired illustration of what constitutes a sanctified character. It presents a lesson for all, and especially for the young. A strict compliance with the requirements of God is beneficial to the health of body and mind. In order to reach the highest standard of moral and intellectual attainments, it is necessary to seek wisdom and strength from God and to observe strict temperance in all the habits of life. SL 2319 {CCh 52.3} [CCh 52.4] The more blameless the conduct of Daniel, the greater was the hatred excited against him by his enemies. They were filled with madness, because they could find nothing in his moral character or in the discharge of his duties upon which to base a complaint against him. "Then said these men, We shall not find any occasion against this Daniel, except we find it against him concerning the law of his God" Daniel 6:5. {CCh 52.4} [CCh 53.1] 53 What a lesson is here presented for all Christians. The keen eyes of jealousy were fixed upon Daniel day after day; their watchings were sharpened by hatred; yet not a word or act of his life could they make appear wrong. And still he made no claim to sanctification, but he did that which was infinitely better—he lived a life of faithfulness and consecration. {CCh 53.1} [CCh 53.2] The decree goes forth from the king. Daniel is acquainted with the purpose of his enemies to ruin him. But he does not change his course in a single particular. With calmness he performs his accustomed duties, and at the hour of prayer he goes to his chamber, and with his windows open toward Jerusalem, he offers his petitions to the God of heaven. By his course of action he fearlessly declares that no earthly power has the right to come between him and his God and tell him to whom he should or should not pray. Noble man of principle! he stands before the world today a praiseworthy example of Christian boldness and fidelity. He turns to God with all his heart, although he knows that death is the penalty for his devotion. {CCh 53.2} [CCh 53.3] "Then the king commanded, and they brought Daniel, and cast him into the den of lions. Now the king spake and said unto Daniel, Thy God whom thou servest continually, he will deliver thee" Verse 16. {CCh 53.3} [CCh 53.4] Early in the morning the monarch hastened to the den of lions, and cried, "Daniel, Oh Daniel, servant of the living God, is thy God, whom thou servest continually, able to deliver thee from the lions?" Verse 20. The voice of the prophet was heard in reply, "Oh king, live for ever. My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions' mouths, that they have not hurt me: forasmuch as before him innocency was found in me; and also before thee, Oh king, have I done no hurt. {CCh 53.4} [CCh 53.5] "Then was the king exceeding glad for him, and commanded that they should take Daniel up out of the den. So Daniel was taken up out of the den, and no manner of hurt was found upon him, because he believed in his God" Verses 22, 23. Thus was the servant of God delivered. And the snare which his enemies had laid for his destruction proved to be their own ruin. At the command of the king they were cast into the den, and instantly devoured by the wild beasts. {CCh 53.5} [CCh 53.6] As the time approached for the close of the seventy years' captivity, Daniel's mind became greatly exercised upon the prophecies of Jeremiah. {CCh 53.6} [CCh 53.7] Daniel does not proclaim his own fidelity before the Lord. Instead of claiming to be pure and holy, this honored prophet humbly identifies himself with the really sinful of Israel. The wisdom which God had imparted to him was as far superior to the wisdom of the great men of the world as the light of the sun shining in the heavens at noonday is brighter than the feeblest star. Yet ponder the prayer from the lips of this man so highly favored of Heaven. With deep humiliation, with tears and rending of heart, he pleads for himself and for his people. He lays his soul open before God, confessing his own unworthiness and acknowledging 54 the Lord's greatness and majesty. {CCh 53.7} [CCh 54.1] As Daniel's prayer is going forth, the angel Gabriel comes sweeping down from the heavenly courts to tell him that his petitions are heard and answered. This mighty angel has been commissioned to give him skill and understanding—to open before him the mysteries of future ages. Thus, while earnestly seeking to know and understand the truth, Daniel was brought into communion with Heaven's delegated messenger. {CCh 54.1} [CCh 54.2] In answer to his petition, Daniel received not only the light and truth which he and his people most needed, but a view of the great events of the future, even to the advent of the world's Redeemer. Those who claim to be sanctified, while they have no desire to search the Scriptures or to wrestle with God in prayer for a clearer understanding of Bible truth, know not what true sanctification is. {CCh 54.2} [CCh 54.3] Daniel talked with God. Heaven was opened before him. But the high honors granted him were the result of humiliation and earnest seeking. All who believe with the heart the word of God will hunger and thirst for a knowledge of His will. God is the author of truth. He enlightens the darkened understanding and gives to the human mind power to grasp and comprehend the truths which He has revealed. {CCh 54.3} [CCh 54.4] The great truths revealed by the world's Redeemer are for those who search for truth as for hid treasures. Daniel was an aged man. His life had been passed amid the fascinations of a heathen court, his mind cumbered with the affairs of a great empire. Yet he turns aside from all these to afflict his soul before God, and seek a knowledge of the purposes of the Most High. And in response to his supplications, light from the heavenly courts was communicated for those who should live in the latter days. With what earnestness, then, should we seek God, that He may open our understanding to comprehend the truths brought to us from heaven. {CCh 54.4} [CCh 54.5] Daniel was a devoted servant of the Most High. His long life was filled up with noble deeds of service for his Master. His purity of character and unwavering fidelity are equaled only by his humility of heart and his contrition before God. We repeat, The life of Daniel is an inspired illustration of true sanctification. SL 43-5220 {CCh 54.5} [CCh 54.6] God Tests Those Whom He Values The fact that we are called upon to endure trial proves that the Lord Jesus sees in us something very precious, which He desires to develop. If He saw in us nothing whereby He might glorify His name He would not spend time in refining us. We do not take special pains in pruning brambles. Christ does not cast worthless stones into His furnace. It is valuable ore that He tests. 7T 21421 {CCh 54.6} [CCh 54.7] To men whom God designs shall fill responsible positions, He in mercy reveals their hidden defects, that they may look within and examine critically the complicated emotions and exercises of their own 55 hearts, and detect that which is wrong; thus they may modify their dispositions and refine their manners. The Lord in His providence brings men where He can test their moral powers and reveal their motives of action, that they may improve what is right in themselves and put away that which is wrong. God would have His servants become acquainted with the moral machinery of their own hearts. In order to bring this about, He often permits the fire of affliction to assail them that they may become purified. "But who may abide the day of His coming? and who shall stand when He appeareth? for He is like a refiner's fire, and like fullers' soap: and He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver: and He shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the Lord an offering in righteousness." Malachi 3:2,3 4 T 8422 {CCh 54.7} [CCh 55.1] God leads His people on, step by step. He brings them up to different points calculated to manifest what is in the heart. Some endure at one point, but fall off at the next. At every advanced point the heart is tested and tried a little closer. If the professed people of God find their hearts opposed to this straight work, it should convince them that they have a work to do to overcome, if they would not be spewed out of the mouth of the Lord. 1T 18723 {CCh 55.1} [CCh 55.2] Just as soon as we realize our inability to do God's work and submit to be guided by His wisdom, the Lord can work with us. If we will empty the soul of self, He will supply all our necessities. 7T 21324 {CCh 55.2} [CCh 55.3] Counsel to Those Who Seek Assurance of God’s Acceptance How are you to know that you are accepted of God? Study His word prayerfully. Lay it not aside for any other book. This Book convinces of sin. It plainly reveals the way of salvation. It brings to view a bright and glorious reward. It reveals to you a complete Saviour, and teaches you that through His boundless mercy alone can you expect salvation. Do not neglect secret prayer, for it is the soul of religion. With earnest, fervent prayer, plead for purity of soul. Plead as earnestly, as eagerly, as you would for your mortal life, were it at stake. Remain before God until unutterable longings are begotten within you for salvation, and the sweet evidence is obtained of pardoned sin. 1T 16325 {CCh 55.3} [CCh 55.4] Jesus has not left you to be amazed at the trials and difficulties you meet. He has told you all about them, and He has told you also not to be cast down and oppressed when trials come. Look to Jesus, your Redeemer, and be cheerful and rejoice. The trials hardest to bear are those that come from our brethren, our own familiar friends; but even these trials may be borne with patience. Jesus is not lying in Joseph's new tomb. He has risen and has ascended to heaven, there to intercede in our behalf. We have a Saviour who so loved us that He died for us, that through Him we might have hope and strength and courage, and a place with Him upon His throne. He is able and willing to help you whenever you call upon Him. {CCh 55.4} [CCh 55.5] Do you feel your insufficiency for the position of trust that you 56 occupy? Thank God for this. The more you feel your weakness, the more you will be inclined to seek for a helper. "Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you." James 4:8. Jesus wants you to be happy, to be cheerful. He wants you to do your best with the ability that God has given you and then trust the Lord to help you and to raise up those who will be your helpers in carrying burdens. {CCh 55.5} [CCh 56.1] Let not the unkind speeches of men hurt you. Did not men say unkind things about Jesus? You err, and may sometimes give occasion for unkind remarks; but Jesus never did. He was pure, spotless, undefiled. Do not expect a better portion in this life than the Prince of glory had. When your enemies see that they can make you feel hurt, they will rejoice, and Satan will rejoice. Look to Jesus, and work with an eye single to His glory. Keep your heart in the love of God. 8T 128, 12926 {CCh 56.1} [CCh 56.2] Feelings Alone Are Not an Indication of Sanctification Happy feelings or the absence of joy is no evidence that a person is or is not sanctified. There is no such thing as instantaneous sanctification. True sanctification is a daily work, continuing as long as life shall last. Those who are battling with daily temptations, overcoming their own sinful tendencies, and seeking for holiness of heart and life, make no boastful claims of holiness. They are hungering and thirsting for righteousness. Sin appears to them exceedingly sinful. SL 1027 {CCh 56.2} [CCh 56.3] God does not give us up because of our sins. We may make mistakes and grieve His Spirit, but when we repent and come to Him with contrite hearts, He will not turn us away. There are hindrances to be removed. Wrong feelings have been cherished, and there have been pride, self-sufficiency, impatience, and murmurings. All these separate us from God. Sins must be confessed; there must be a deeper work of grace in the heart. Those who feel weak and discouraged may become strong men of God and do noble work for the Master. But they must work from a high standpoint; they must be influenced by no selfish motives. {CCh 56.3} [CCh 56.4] Some seem to feel that they must be on probation and must prove to the Lord that they are reformed, before they can claim His blessing. But these dear souls may claim the blessing even now. They must have His grace, the Spirit of Christ, to help their infirmities, or they cannot form a Christian character. Jesus loves to have us come to Him, just as we are—sinful, helpless, dependent. {CCh 56.4} [CCh 56.5] Repentance, as well as forgiveness, is the gift of God through Christ. It is through the influence of the Holy Spirit that we are convicted of sin, and feel our need of pardon. None but the contrite are forgiven; but it is the grace of God that makes the heart penitent. He is acquainted with all our weaknesses and infirmities, and He will help us. 1SM 350, 351, 35328 Darkness and discouragement will sometimes come upon the soul and threaten to overwhelm us, but we should not cast away our confidence. We must keep the eye fixed on Jesus, feeling or no feeling. We should seek to 57 faithfully perform every known duty, and then calmly rest in the promises of God. {CCh 56.5} [CCh 57.1] At times a deep sense of our unworthiness will send a thrill of terror through the soul, but this is no evidence that God has changed toward us, or we toward God. No effort should be made to rein the mind up to a certain intensity of emotion. We may not feel today the peace and joy which we felt yesterday; but we should by faith grasp the hand of Christ, and trust Him as fully in the darkness as in the light. {CCh 57.1} [CCh 57.2] By faith look upon the crowns laid up for those who shall overcome; listen to the exultant song of the redeemed, Worthy, worthy is the Lamb that was slain and hast redeemed us to God! Endeavor to regard these scenes as real. {CCh 57.2} [CCh 57.3] If we would permit our minds to dwell more upon Christ and the heavenly world, we should find a powerful stimulus and support in fighting the battles of the Lord. Pride and love of the world will lose their power as we contemplate the glories of that better land so soon to be our home. Beside the loveliness of Christ, all earthly attractions will seem of little worth. {CCh 57.3} [CCh 57.4] Though Paul was at last confined in a Roman prison—shut away from the light and air of heaven, cut off from his active labors in the gospel, and momentarily expecting to be condemned to death—yet he did not yield to doubt or despondency. From that gloomy dungeon came his dying testimony, full of a sublime faith and courage that has inspired the hearts of saints and martyrs in all succeeding ages. His words fitly describe the results of that sanctification which we have in these pages endeavored to set forth: "I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing" 2 Timothy 4:6-8. SL 89-9629 {CCh 57.4} [CCh 58.1] Chapter 7 —God Has a Work for You to Do The work of God in this earth can never be finished until the men and women comprising our church membership rally to the work and unite their efforts with those of ministers and church officers. 9T 11730 {CCh 58.1} [CCh 58.2] The words "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature" Mark 16:15 are spoken to each one of Christ's followers. All who are ordained unto the life of Christ are ordained to work for the salvation of their fellow men. The same longing of soul that He felt for the saving of the lost is to be manifest in them. Not all can fill the same place, but for all there is a place and a work. All upon whom God's blessings have been bestowed are to respond by actual service; every gift is to be employed for the advancement of His kingdom. 8T 1631 {CCh 58.2} [CCh 58.3] Preaching is a small part of the work to be done for the salvation of souls. God's Spirit convicts sinners of the truth, and He places them in the arms of the church. The ministers may do their part, but they can never perform the work that the church should do. God requires His church to nurse those who are young in faith and experience, to go to them, not for the purpose of gossiping with them, but to pray, to speak unto them words that are "like apples of gold in pictures of silver." 4T 6932 {CCh 58.3} [CCh 58.4] God has called His church in this day, as He called ancient Israel, to stand as a light in the earth. By the mighty cleaver of truth—the messages of the first, second, and third angels—He has separated them from the churches and from the world to bring them into a sacred nearness to Himself. He has made them the depositaries of His law and has committed to them the great truths of prophecy for this time. Like the holy oracles committed to ancient Israel, these are a sacred trust to be communicated to the world. {CCh 58.4} [CCh 58.5] The three angels of Revelation 14 represent the people who accept the light of God's messages and go forth as His agents to sound the warning throughout the length and breadth of the earth. Christ declares to His followers: "Ye are the light of the world." Matthew 5:14. To every soul that accepts Jesus the cross of Calvary speaks: "Behold the worth of the soul: 'Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.'" Mark 16:15. Nothing is to be permitted to hinder this work. It is the all-important work for time; it is to be far-reaching as eternity. The love that Jesus manifested for the souls of men in the sacrifice which He made for their redemption, will actuate all His followers. 5T 455, 45633 {CCh 58.5} [CCh 59.1] 59 Christ accepts, oh, so gladly! every human agency that is surrendered to Him. He brings the human into union with the divine, that He may communicate to the world the mysteries of incarnate love. Talk it, pray it, sing it, fill the world with the message of His truth, and keep pressing on into the regions beyond. 9T 3034 {CCh 59.1} [CCh 59.2] Christ’s True Followers Will Witness for Him Were every one of you a living missionary, the message for this time would speedily be proclaimed in all countries, to every people and nation and tongue. 6T 43835 {CCh 59.2} [CCh 59.3] All who would enter the city of God must during their earthly life set forth Christ in their dealings. It is this that constitutes them the messengers of Christ, His witnesses. They are to bear a plain, decided testimony against all evil practices, pointing sinners to the Lamb of God, who taketh away the sin of the world. He gives to all who receive Him, power to become the sons of God. Regeneration is the only path by which we can enter the city of God. It is narrow, and the gate by which we enter is strait; but along it we are to lead men and women and children, teaching them that, in order to be saved, they must have a new heart and a new spirit. The old, hereditary traits of character must be overcome. The natural desires of the soul must be changed. All deception, all falsifying, all evilspeaking, must be put away. The new life, which makes men and women Christlike, is to be lived. 9T 2336 {CCh 59.3} [CCh 59.4] My brethren and sisters, do you desire to break the spell that holds you? Would you arouse from this sluggishness that resembles the torpor of death? Go to work, whether you feel like it or not. Engage in personal effort to bring souls to Jesus and the knowledge of the truth. In such labor you will find both a stimulus and a tonic; it will both arouse and strengthen. By exercise your spiritual powers will become more vigorous, so that you can with better success work out your own salvation. The stupor of death is upon many who profess Christ. Make every effort to arouse them. Warn, entreat, expostulate. Pray that the melting love of God may warm and soften their icebound natures. Though they may refuse to hear, your labor will not be lost. In the effort to bless others your own souls will be blessed. 5T 38737 {CCh 59.4} [CCh 59.5] Let none feel that because they are uneducated they cannot take part in the Lord's work. God has a work for you to do. He has given to every man his work. You can search the Scriptures for yourselves. "The entrance of Thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple." Psalm 119:130. You can pray for the work. The prayer of the sincere heart, offered in faith, will be heard in heaven. And you are to work according to your ability. 6T 43338 {CCh 59.5} [CCh 59.6] Heavenly intelligences are waiting to co-operate with human instrumentalities, that they may reveal to the world what human beings may become and what, through their influence, they may accomplish for the saving of souls that are ready to perish. {CCh 59.6} [CCh 60.1] 60 Christ calls upon us to labor patiently and perseveringly for the thousands perishing in their sins, scattered in all lands, like wrecks on a desert shore. Those who share in Christ's glory must share also in His ministry, helping the weak, the wretched, and the despondent. 9T 30, 3139 {CCh 60.1} [CCh 60.2] Every believer should be wholehearted in his attachment to the church. Its prosperity should be his first interest, and unless he feels under sacred obligations to make his connection with the church a benefit to it in preference to himself, it can do far better without him. It is in the power of all to do something for the cause of God. There are those who spend a large amount for needless luxuries; they gratify their appetites, but feel it a great tax to contribute means to sustain the church. They are willing to receive all the benefit of its privileges, but prefer to leave others to pay the bills. 4T 1840 {CCh 60.2} [CCh 60.3] The church of Christ may be fitly compared to an army. The life of every soldier is one of toil, hardship, and danger. On every hand are vigilant foes, led on by the prince of the powers of darkness, who never slumbers and never deserts his post. Whenever a Christian is off his guard, this powerful adversary makes a sudden and violent attack. Unless the members of the church are active and vigilant, they will be overcome by his devices. What if half the soldiers in an army were idling or asleep when ordered to be on duty; the result would be defeat, captivity, or death. Should any escape from the hands of the enemy, would they be thought worthy of a reward? No; they would speedily receive the sentence of death. And is the church of Christ careless or unfaithful, far more important consequences are involved. A sleeping army of Christian soldiers—what could be more terrible! What advance could be made against the world, who are under the control of the prince of darkness? Those who stand back indifferently in the day of battle, as though they had no interest and felt no responsibility as to the issue of the contest, might better change their course or leave the ranks at once. 5T 39441 {CCh 60.3} [CCh 60.4] A Place for Each Member of the Family Women as well as men can engage in the work of hiding the truth where it can work out and be made manifest. They can take their place in the work at this crisis, and the Lord will work through them. If they are imbued with a sense of their duty, and labor under the influence of the Spirit of God, they will have just the self-possession required for this time. The Saviour will reflect upon these self-sacrificing women the light of His countenance, and this will give them a power that will exceed that of men. They can do in families a work that men cannot do, a work that reaches the inner life. They can come close to the hearts of those whom men cannot reach. Their work is needed. Discreet and humble women can do a good work in explaining the truth to the people in their homes. The word of God thus explained will do its leavening work, and through its influence whole families will be converted. 9T 128, 12942 {CCh 60.4} [CCh 61.1] 61 All can do something. In an effort to excuse themselves, some say: "My home duties, my children, claim my time and my means." Parents, your children should be your helping hand, increasing your power and ability to work for the Master. Children are the younger members of the Lord's family. They should be led to consecrate themselves to God, whose they are by creation and by redemption. They should be taught that all their powers of body, mind, and soul are His. They should be trained to help in various lines of unselfish service. Do not allow your children to be hindrances. With you the children should share spiritual as well as physical burdens. By helping others they increase their own happiness and usefulness. 7T 6343 {CCh 61.1} [CCh 61.2] Our work for Christ is to begin with the family in the home. The education of the youth should be of a different order from that which has been given in the past. Their welfare demands far more labor than has been given them. There is no missionary field more important than this. By precept and example parents are to teach their children to labor for the unconverted. The children should be so educated that they will sympathize with the aged and afflicted and will seek to alleviate the sufferings of the poor and distressed. They should be taught to be diligent in missionary work; and from their earliest years self-denial and sacrifice for the good of others and the advancement of Christ's cause should be inculcated, that they may be laborers together with God. 6T 42944 {CCh 61.2} [CCh 61.3] Witnessing by Moving Into New Localities It is not the purpose of God that His people should colonize or settle together in large communities. The disciples of Christ are His representatives upon the earth, and God designs that they shall be scattered all over the country, in the towns, cities, and villages, as lights amidst the darkness of the world. They are to be missionaries for God, by their faith and works testifying to the near approach of the coming Saviour. {CCh 61.3} [CCh 61.4] The lay members of our churches can accomplish a work which, as yet, they have scarcely begun. None should move into new places merely for the sake of worldly advantage; but where there is an opening to obtain a livelihood, let families that are well grounded in the truth enter, one or two families in a place, to work as missionaries. They should feel a love for souls, a burden of labor for them, and should make it a study how to bring them into the truth. They can distribute our publications, hold meetings in their homes, become acquainted with their neighbors, and invite them to come to these meetings. Thus they can let their light shine in good works. {CCh 61.4} [CCh 61.5] Let the workers stand alone in God, weeping, praying, laboring for the salvation of their fellow men. Remember that you are running a race, striving for a crown of immortality. While so many love the praise of men more than the favor of God, let it be yours to labor in humility. Learn to exercise faith in presenting your neighbors before the throne of grace and pleading with God to touch their hearts. In this way effectual 62 missionary work may be done. Some may be reached who would not listen to a minister or a colporteur. And those who thus labor in new places will learn the best ways of approaching the people and can prepare the way for other laborers. 8T 244, 24545 {CCh 61.5} [CCh 62.1] Visit your neighbors and show an interest in the salvation of their souls. Arouse every spiritual energy to action. Tell those whom you visit that the end of all things is at hand. The Lord Jesus Christ will open the door of their hearts and will make upon their minds lasting impressions. {CCh 62.1} [CCh 62.2] Even while engaged in their daily employment, God's people can lead others to Christ. And while doing this they will have the precious assurance that the Saviour is close beside them. They need not think that they are left to depend on their own feeble efforts. Christ will give them words to speak that will refresh and encourage and strengthen poor, struggling souls who are in darkness. Their own faith will be strengthened as they realize that the Redeemer's promise is being fulfilled. Not only are they a blessing to others, but the work they do for Christ brings blessing to themselves. 9T 38, 3946 {CCh 62.2} [CCh 62.3] A great work can be done by presenting to the people the Bible just as it reads. Carry the word of God to every man's door, urge its plain statements upon every man's conscience, repeat to all the Saviour's command: "Search the Scriptures." John 5:39. Admonish them to take the Bible as it is, to implore divine enlightenment, and then, when the light shines, to gladly accept each precious ray and fearlessly abide the consequences. 5T 38847 {CCh 62.3} [CCh 62.4] Among the members of our churches there should be more house-to-house labor in giving Bible readings and distributing literature. A Christian character can be symmetrically and completely formed only when the human agent regards it as a privilege to work disinterestedly in the proclamation of the truth and to sustain the cause of God with means. We must sow beside all waters, keeping our souls in the love of God, working while it is day, and using the means the Lord has given us to do whatever duty comes next. Whatever our hands find to do, we are to do it with faithfulness; whatever sacrifice we are called upon to make, we are to make it cheerfully. As we sow beside all waters we shall realize that "he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully." 2 Corinthians 9:6. 9T 12748 {CCh 62.4} [CCh 62.5] Practical Manifestation of Religion Anything less than active, earnest service for the Master gives the lie to our profession of faith. Only the Christianity that is revealed by earnest, practical work will make an impression upon those who are dead in trespasses and sins. Praying, humble, believing Christians, those who show by their actions that their greatest desire is to make known the saving truth which is to test all people, will gather a rich harvest of souls for the Master. {CCh 62.5} [CCh 63.1] 63 There is no excuse for the faith of our churches to be so faint and feeble. "Turn you to the Stronghold, ye prisoners of hope." Zechariah 9:12. There is strength for us in Christ. He is our Advocate before the Father. He dispatches His messengers to every part of His dominion to communicate His will to His people. He walks in the midst of His churches. He desires to sanctify, elevate, and ennoble His followers. The influence of those who truly believe in Him will be a savor of life in the world. He holds the stars in His right hand, and it is His purpose to let His light shine through these to the world. Thus He desires to prepare His people for higher service in the church above. He has given us a great work to do. Let us do it with accuracy and determination. Let us show in our lives what the truth has done for us. {CCh 63.1} [CCh 63.2] It has cost self-denial, self-sacrifice, indomitable energy, and much prayer, to bring up the various missionary enterprises where they now stand. There is danger that some of those now coming upon the stage of action will rest content to be inefficient, feeling that there is now no need of so great self-denial and diligence, such hard and disagreeable labor, as the leaders in this message experienced; that times have changed; and that since there is now more means in the cause of God, it is not necessary for them to place themselves in such trying circumstances as many were called to meet in the rise of the message. {CCh 63.2} [CCh 63.3] But were there the same diligence and self-sacrifice manifest at the present stage of the work as at its beginning, we should see a hundred times more than is now accomplished. 6T 417-41949 {CCh 63.3} [CCh 63.4] Our profession is an exalted one. As Sabbathkeeping Adventists we profess to obey all God's commandments and to be looking for the coming of our Redeemer. A most solemn message of warning has been entrusted to God's faithful few. We should show by our words and works that we recognize the great responsibility laid upon us. Our light should shine so clearly that others can see that we glorify the Father in our daily lives; that we are connected with heaven and are joint heirs with Jesus Christ, that when He shall appear in power and great glory, we shall be like Him. 4T 1650 {CCh 63.4} [CCh 64.1] Chapter 8 —“Here Am I, Lord, Send Me” The end is near, stealing upon us stealthily, imperceptibly, like the noiseless approach of a thief in the night. May the Lord grant that we shall no longer sleep as do others, but that we shall watch and be sober. The truth is soon to triumph gloriously, and all who now choose to be laborers together with God will triumph with it. The time is short; the night soon cometh when no man can work. Let those who are rejoicing in the light of present truth, now make haste to impart the truth to others. The Lord is inquiring, "Whom shall I send?" Those who wish to sacrifice for the truth's sake, are now to respond, "Here am I, Lord; send me." {CCh 64.1} [CCh 64.2] We have done only a small part of the evangelical work that God desires us to do among our neighbors and friends. In every city of our land there are those who know not the truth. And out in the broad world beyond the seas there are many new fields in which we must plow the ground and sow the seed. “An Appeal to Ministers and Church Officers”51 {CCh 64.2} [CCh 64.3] We are on the very verge of the time of trouble, and perplexities that are scarcely dreamed of are before us. A power from beneath is leading men to war against Heaven. Human beings have confederated with satanic agencies to make void the law of God. The inhabitants of the world are fast becoming as the inhabitants of the world in Noah's day, who were swept away by the Flood, and as the inhabitants of Sodom, who were consumed by fire from heaven. The powers of Satan are at work to keep minds diverted from eternal realities. The enemy has arranged matters to suit his own purposes. Worldly business, sports, the fashions of the day—these things occupy the minds of men and women. Amusements and unprofitable reading spoil the judgment. In the broad road that leads to eternal ruin there walks a long procession. The world, filled with violence, reveling, and drunkenness, is converting the church. The law of God, the divine standard of righteousness, is declared to be of no effect. 9T 43, 4452 {CCh 64.3} [CCh 64.4] Are we to wait until the fulfillment of the prophecies of the end before we say anything concerning them? Of what value will our words be then? Shall we wait until God's judgments fall upon the transgressor before we tell him how to avoid them? Where is our faith in the word of God? Must we see things foretold come to pass before we will believe what He has said? In clear, distinct rays light has come to us, showing us that the great day of the Lord is near at hand, "even at the 65 doors." Let us read and understand before it is too late. 9T 2053 {CCh 64.4} [CCh 65.1] Your Talents Fit a Need The Lord has a place for everyone in His great plan. Talents that are not needed are not bestowed. Supposing that the talent is small. God has a place for it, and that one talent, if faithfully used, will do the very work God designs that it should do. The talents of the humble cottager are needed in the house-to-house labor and can accomplish more in this work than brilliant gifts. 9T 37, 3854 {CCh 65.1} [CCh 65.2] When men use their powers as God directs, their talents will increase, their ability will enlarge, and they will have heavenly wisdom in seeking to save the lost. But while the church members are listless and neglectful of their God-given responsibility to impart to others, how can they expect to receive the treasure of heaven? When professed Christians feel no burden to enlighten those in darkness, when they cease to impart grace and knowledge, they become less discerning, they lose their appreciation of the richness of the heavenly endowment; and, failing to value it themselves, they fail to realize the necessity of presenting it to others. {CCh 65.2} [CCh 65.3] We see large churches gathered in different localities. Their members have gained a knowledge of the truth, and many are content to hear the word of life without seeking to impart light. They feel little responsibility for the progress of the work, little interest in the salvation of souls. They are full of zeal in worldly things, but they do not bring their religion into their business. They say: "Religion is religion, and business is business." They believe that each has its proper sphere, but they say: "Let them be separated." {CCh 65.3} [CCh 65.4] Because of neglected opportunities and abuse of privileges, the members of these churches are not growing "in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ." 2 Peter 3:18. Therefore they are weak in faith, deficient in knowledge, and children in experience. They are not rooted and grounded in the truth. If they remain thus, the many delusions of the last days will surely deceive them, for they will have no spiritual eyesight to distinguish truth from error. 6T 42455 {CCh 65.4} [CCh 65.5] God Desires to Bestow the Gift of the Holy Spirit When a special effort is put forth by laborers of experience in a community where our own people live, there rests upon the believers in that field a most solemn obligation to do all in their power to open the way for the Lord to work. They should search their hearts prayerfully, and clear the King's highway by putting away every sin that would hinder them from co-operating with God and with their brethren. {CCh 65.5} [CCh 65.6] In visions of the night, representations passed before me of a great reformatory movement among God's people. Many were praising God. {CCh 65.6} [CCh 66.1] 66 The sick were healed, and other miracles were wrought. A spirit of intercession was seen, even as was manifested before the great Day of Pentecost. Hundreds and thousands were seen visiting families and opening before them the word of God. Hearts were convicted by the power of the Holy Spirit, and a spirit of genuine conversion was manifest. On every side doors were thrown open to the proclamation of the truth. The world seemed to be lightened with the heavenly influence. Great blessings were received by the true and humble people of God. I heard voices of thanksgiving and praise, and there seemed to be a reformation such as we witnessed in 1844. 9T 125, 12656 {CCh 66.1} [CCh 66.2] God desires to refresh His people by the gift of the Holy Spirit, baptizing them anew in His love. There is no need for a dearth of the Spirit in the church. After Christ's ascension the Holy Spirit came upon the waiting, praying, believing disciples with a fullness and power that reached every heart. In the future the earth is to be lightened with the glory of God. A holy influence is to go forth to the world from those who are sanctified through the truth. The earth is to be encircled with an atmosphere of grace. The Holy Spirit is to work on human hearts, taking the things of God and showing them to men. 9T 4057 {CCh 66.2} [CCh 66.3] The Lord is willing to do a great work for all who truly believe in Him. If the lay members of the church will arouse to do the work that they can do, going on a warfare at their own charges, each seeing how much he can accomplish in winning souls to Jesus, we shall see many leaving the ranks of Satan to stand under the banner of Christ. If our people will act upon the light that is given in these few words of instruction, we shall surely see of the salvation of God. Wonderful revivals will follow. Sinners will be converted, and many souls will be added to the church. When we bring our hearts into unity with Christ, and our lives into harmony with His work, the Spirit that fell on the disciples on the Day of Pentecost will fall on us. 8T 24658 {CCh 66.3} [CCh 66.4] Danger in Delay In the visions of the night a very impressive scene passed before me. I saw an immense ball of fire fall among some beautiful mansions, causing their instant destruction. I heard someone say: "We knew that the judgments of God were coming upon the earth, but we did not know that they would come so soon." Others, with agonized voices, said: "You knew! Why then did you not tell us? We did not know." On every side I heard similar words of reproach spoken. {CCh 66.4} [CCh 66.5] In great distress I awoke. I went to sleep again, and I seemed to be in a large gathering. One of authority was addressing the company, before whom was spread out a map of the world. He said that the map pictured God's vineyard, which must be cultivated. As light from heaven shone upon anyone, that one was to reflect the light to others. Lights were to be kindled in many places, and from these lights still other lights were to be kindled. {CCh 66.5} [CCh 67.1] 67 The words were repeated: "Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savor, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden underfoot of men. Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." Matthew 5:13-16. {CCh 67.1} [CCh 67.2] Every day that passes brings us nearer the end. Does it bring us also near to God? Are we watching unto prayer? Those with whom we associate day by day need our help, our guidance. They may be in such a condition of mind that a word in season will be sent home by the Holy Spirit as a nail in a sure place. Tomorrow some of these souls may be where we can never reach them again. What is our influence over these fellow travelers? What effort do we make to win them to Christ? 9T 2759 {CCh 67.2} [CCh 67.3] While the angels hold the four winds, we are to work with all our capabilities. We must bear our message without any delay. We must give evidence to the heavenly universe, and to men in this degenerate age, that our religion is a faith and a power of which Christ is the Author and His word the divine oracle. Human souls are hanging in the balance. They will either be subjects for the kingdom of God or slaves to the despotism of Satan. All are to have the privilege of laying hold of the hope set before them in the gospel, and how can they hear without a preacher? The human family is in need of a moral renovation, a preparation of character, that they may stand in God's presence. There are souls ready to perish because of the theoretical errors which are prevailing, and which are calculated to counterwork the gospel message. Who will now fully consecrate themselves to become laborers together with God? 6T 2160 {CCh 67.3} [CCh 67.4] Today a large part of those who compose our congregations are dead in trespasses and sins. They come and go like the door upon its hinges. For years they have complacently listened to the most solemn, soul-stirring truths, but they have not put them in practice. Therefore they are less and less sensible of the preciousness of truth. The stirring testimonies of reproof and warning do not arouse them to repentance. The sweetest melodies that come from God through human lips—justification by faith, and the righteousness of Christ—do not call forth from them a response of love and gratitude. Though the heavenly Merchantman displays before them the richest jewels of faith and love, though He invites them to buy of Him "gold tried in the fire," and white raiment" that they may be clothed, and "eyesalve" that they may see, they steel their hearts against Him, and fail to exchange their lukewarmness for love and zeal. While making a profession, they deny the power of godliness. If they continue in this state, God will reject them. They are unfitting themselves to be members of His family. 6T 42661 {CCh 67.4} [CCh 67.5] Let church members bear in mind that the fact that their names are 68 registered on the church books will not save them. They must show themselves approved of God, workmen that need not be ashamed. Day by day they are to build their characters in accordance with Christ's directions. They are to abide in Him, constantly exercising faith in Him. Thus they will grow up to the full stature of men and women in Christ—wholesome, cheerful, grateful Christians, led by God into clearer and still clearer light. If this is not their experience, they will be among those whose voices will one day be raised in the bitter lamentation: "The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and my soul is not saved! Why did I not flee to the Stronghold for refuge? Why have I trifled with my soul's salvation, and done despite to the Spirit of grace?" 9T 4862 {CCh 67.5} [CCh 68.1] Brethren and sisters who have long claimed to believe the truth, I ask you individually, Have your practices been in harmony with the light, the privileges, and the opportunities granted you of heaven? This is a serious question. The Sun of Righteousness has risen upon the church, and it is the duty of the church to shine. It is the privilege of every soul to make advancement. Those who are connected with Christ will grow in grace and in the knowledge of the Son of God, to the full stature of men and women. If all who claim to believe the truth had made the most of their ability and opportunities to learn and to do, they would have become strong in Christ. Whatever their occupation—whether they were farmers, mechanics, teachers, or pastors—if they had wholly consecrated themselves to God they would have become efficient workers for the heavenly Master. 6T 42363 {CCh 68.1} [CCh 68.2] Workers to Train Church Members It is evident that all the sermons that have been preached have not developed a large class of self-denying workers. This subject is to be considered as involving the most serious results. Our future for eternity is at stake. The churches are withering up because they have failed to use their talents in diffusing light. Careful instruction should be given which will be as lessons from the Master, that all may put their light to practical use. Those who have the oversight of the churches should select members of ability and place them under responsibilities, at the same time giving them instruction as to how they may best serve and bless others. 6T 43164 {CCh 68.2} [CCh 68.3] Mechanics, lawyers, merchants, men of all trades and professions, educate themselves that they may become masters of their business. Should the followers of Christ be less intelligent, and while professedly engaged in His service be ignorant of the ways and means to be employed? The enterprise of gaining everlasting life is above every earthly consideration. In order to lead souls to Jesus there must be a knowledge of human nature and a study of the human mind. Much careful thought and fervent prayer are required to know how to approach men and women upon the great subject of truth. 4T 6765 {CCh 68.3} [CCh 69.1] 69 Just as soon as a church is organized, let the minister set the members at work. They will need to be taught how to labor successfully. Let the minister devote more of his time to educating than to preaching. Let him teach the people how to give to others the knowledge they have received. While the new converts should be taught to ask counsel from those more experienced in the work, they should also be taught not to put the minister in the place of God. {CCh 69.1} [CCh 69.2] The greatest help that can be given our people is to teach them to work for God, and to depend on Him, not on the ministers. Let them learn to work as Christ worked. Let them join His army of workers and do faithful service for Him. 7T 19, 2066 {CCh 69.2} [CCh 69.3] Let the teachers lead the way in working among the people, and others, uniting with them, will learn from their example. One example is worth more than many precepts. MH 14967 {CCh 69.3} [CCh 69.4] Those who have the spiritual oversight of the church should devise ways and means by which an opportunity may be given to every member of the church to act some part in God's work. This has not always been done in the past. Plans have not been fully carried out whereby the talent of all might be employed in active service. There are but few who realize how much has been lost because of this. {CCh 69.4} [CCh 69.5] In every church there is talent, which, with the right kind of labor, might be developed to become a great help in this work. There should be a well-organized plan for the employment of workers to go into all our churches, large and small, to instruct the members how to labor for the upbuilding of the church, and also for unbelievers. It is training, education, that is needed. Let all set their hearts and minds to become intelligent in regard to the work for this time, qualifying themselves to do that for which they are best adapted. {CCh 69.5} [CCh 69.6] That which is needed now for the upbuilding of our churches is the nice work of wise laborers to discern and develop talent in the church,—talent that can be educated for the Master's service. Those who shall labor in visiting the churches should give the brethren and sisters instruction in practical methods of doing missionary work. Let there be a class for the training of the youth as well. Young men and women should be educated to become workers at home, in their own neighborhoods, and in the church. “An Appeal to Ministers and Church Officers”68 {CCh 69.6} [CCh 69.7] Heavenly angels have long been waiting for human agents—the members of the church—to co-operate with them in the great work to be done. They are waiting for you. So vast is the field, so comprehensive the design, that every sanctified heart will be pressed into service as an instrument of divine power. 9T 4669 {CCh 69.7} [CCh 69.8] If Christians were to act in concert, moving forward as one, under the direction of one Power, for the accomplishment of one purpose, they would move the world. 9T 22170 {CCh 69.8} [CCh 69.9] The call to be given in "the highways" is to be proclaimed to all who have an active part in the world's work, to the teachers and leaders 70 of the people. Those who bear heavy responsibilities in public life—physicians and teachers, lawyers and judges, public officers and businessmen—should be given a clear, distinct message. What shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?" Mark 8:36, 37. {CCh 69.9} [CCh 70.1] We talk and write much of the neglected poor; should not some attention be given also to the neglected rich? Many look upon this class as hopeless, and they do little to open the eyes of those who, blinded and dazed by the power of Satan, have lost eternity out of their reckoning. Thousands of wealthy men have gone to their graves unwarned because they have been judged by appearance and passed by as hopeless subjects. But, indifferent as they may appear, I have been shown that most of this class are soul-burdened. There are thousands of rich men who are starving for spiritual food. Many in official life feel their need of something which they have not. Few among them go to church, for they feel that they receive no benefit. The teaching they hear does not touch the soul. Shall we make no personal effort in their behalf? {CCh 70.1} [CCh 70.2] Some will ask: Can we not reach them with publications? There are many who cannot be reached in this way. It is personal effort that they need. Are they to perish without a special warning? It was not so in ancient times. God's servants were sent to tell those in high places that they could find peace and rest only in the Lord Jesus Christ. {CCh 70.2} [CCh 70.3] The Majesty of heaven came to our world to save lost, fallen humanity. His efforts included not merely the outcasts but those in places of high honor. Ingeniously He worked to obtain access to souls in the higher classes who knew not God and did not keep His commandments. {CCh 70.3} [CCh 70.4] The same work was continued after Christ's ascension. My heart is made very tender as I read of the interest manifested by the Lord in Cornelius. Cornelius was a man in high position, an officer in the Roman army, but he was walking in strict accordance with all the light he had received. The Lord sent a special message from heaven to him, and by another message directed Peter to visit him and give him light. It ought to be a great encouragement to us in our work to think of the compassion and tender love of God for those who are seeking and praying for light. {CCh 70.4} [CCh 70.5] There are many who are represented to me as being like Cornelius, men whom God desires to connect with His church. Their sympathies are with the Lord's commandment-keeping people. But the threads that bind them to the world hold them firmly. They have not the moral courage to take their position with the lowly ones. We are to make special efforts for these souls, who are in need of special labor because of their responsibilities and temptations. {CCh 70.5} [CCh 70.6] From the light given me I know that a plain "Thus saith the Lord" should now be spoken to men who have influence and authority in the world. They are stewards to whom God has committed important trusts. If they will accept His call, God will use them in His cause…. {CCh 70.6} [CCh 71.1] 71 There are some who are especially fitted to work for the higher classes. These should seek the Lord daily, making it a study how to reach these persons, not to have merely a casual acquaintance with them, but to lay hold of them by personal effort and living faith, manifesting a deep love for their souls, a real concern that they shall have a knowledge of the truth as it is in the word of God. 6T 78-8171 {CCh 71.1} [CCh 72.1] Chapter 9 —The Publications of the Church Our publishing work was established by the direction of God and under His special supervision. It was designed to accomplish a specific purpose. Seventh-day Adventists have been chosen by God as a peculiar people, separate from the world. By the great cleaver of truth He has cut them out from the quarry of the world and brought them into connection with Himself. He has made them His representatives and has called them to be ambassadors for Him in the last work of salvation. The greatest wealth of truth ever entrusted to mortals, the most solemn and fearful warnings ever sent by God to man, have been committed to them to be given to the world; and in the accomplishment of this work our publishing houses are among the most effective agencies. The publications sent forth from our printing houses are to prepare a people to meet God. 7T 138, 13972 {CCh 72.1} [CCh 72.2] If there is one work more important than another, it is that of getting our publications before the public, thus leading them to search the Scriptures. Missionary work—introducing our publications into families, conversing, and praying with and for them—is a good work and one which will educate men and women to do pastoral labor. 4T 39073 {CCh 72.2} [CCh 72.3] Canvassing for our publications is an important and most profitable line of evangelistic work. Our publications can go to places where meetings cannot be held. In such places the faithful evangelistic canvasser takes the place of the living preacher. By the canvassing work the truth is presented to thousands who otherwise would never hear it. Canvassers must go out into various parts of the country. The importance of this work is fully equal to that of the ministry. The living preacher and the silent messenger are both required for the accomplishment of the great work before us. CM 874 {CCh 72.3} [CCh 72.4] God has ordained the canvassing work as a means of presenting before the people the light contained in our books, and canvassers should be impressed with the importance of bringing before the world as fast as possible the books necessary for their spiritual education and enlightenment. This is the very work the Lord would have His people do at this time. All who consecrate themselves to God to work as canvassers are assisting to give the last message of warning to the world. We cannot too highly estimate this work; for were it not for the efforts of the canvasser, many would never hear the warning. 6T 31375 {CCh 72.4} [CCh 72.5] Our publications should go everywhere. Let them be issued in many 73 languages. The third angel's message is to be given through this medium and through the living teacher. You who believe the truth for this time, wake up. It is your duty now to bring in all the means possible to help those who understand the truth to proclaim it. Part of the money that comes in from the sale of our publications should be used to increase our facilities for the production of more literature that will open blind eyes and break up the fallow ground of the heart. 9T 6276 {CCh 72.5} [CCh 73.1] I have been instructed that even where the people hear the message from the living preacher, the canvasser should carry on his work in co-operation with the minister; for though the minister may faithfully present the message, the people are not able to retain it all. The printed page is therefore essential, not only in awakening them to the importance of the truth for this time, but in rooting and grounding them in the truth and establishing them against deceptive error. Papers and books are the Lord's means of keeping the message for this time continually before the people. In enlightening and confirming souls in the truth the publications will do a far greater work than can be accomplished by the ministry of the word alone. The silent messengers that are placed in the homes of the people through the work of the canvasser will strengthen the gospel ministry in every way; for the Holy Spirit will impress minds as they read the books, just as He impresses the minds of those who listen to the preaching of the word. The same ministry of angels attends the books that contain the truth as attends the work of the minister. 6T 315, 31677 {CCh 73.1} [CCh 73.2] Let wise plans be laid to help worthy students to earn their own schooling by handling these books, if they so desire. Those who earn sufficient means in this way to pay their way through a course at one of our training schools will gain a most valuable practical experience that will help fit them for pioneer missionary work in other fields. 9T 7978 {CCh 73.2} [CCh 73.3] When church members realize the importance of the circulation of our literature, they will devote more time to this work. CM 779 {CCh 73.3} [CCh 73.4] And as long as probation continues, there will be opportunity for the canvasser to work. 6T 47880 {CCh 73.4} [CCh 73.5] Brethren and sisters, the Lord will be pleased if you will take hold heartily to sustain the publishing institution with your prayers and your means. Pray every morning and evening that it may receive God's richest blessing. Do not encourage criticism and complaining. Let no murmurs or complaints come from your lips; remember that angels hear these words. All must be led to see that these institutions are of God's appointment. Those who disparage them in order to serve their own interests must render an account to God. He designs that everything connected with His work shall be treated as sacred. 7T 182, 18381 {CCh 73.5} [CCh 74.1] Chapter 10 —Belief in a Personal God It will be found in the day of final settlement that God was acquainted with everyone by name. There is an unseen witness to every action of the life. "I know thy works," says He that "walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks." Revelation 2:1. It is known what opportunities have been slighted, how untiring have been the efforts of the Good Shepherd to search out those who were wandering in crooked ways, and to bring them back to the path of safety and peace. Again and again God has called after the pleasure lovers; again and again He has flashed the light of His word across their path, that they might see their peril, and escape. But on and on they go, jesting and joking as they travel the broad road, until at length their probation is ended. God's ways are just and equal; and when sentence is pronounced against those who are found wanting, every mouth will be stopped. 5T 43582 {CCh 74.1} [CCh 74.2] The mighty power that works through all nature and sustains all things is not, as some men of science represent, merely an all-pervading principle, an actuating energy. God is a spirit; yet He is a personal being, for man was made in His image. {CCh 74.2} [CCh 74.3] God's handiwork in nature is not God Himself in nature. The things of nature are an expression of God's character; by them we may understand His love, His power, and His glory; but we are not to regard nature as God. The artistic skill of human beings produces very beautiful workmanship, things that delight the eye and these things give us something of the idea of the designer; but the thing made is not the man. It is not the work, but the workman, that is counted worthy of honor. So, while nature is an expression of God's thought, it is not nature but the God of nature that is to be exalted. {CCh 74.3} [CCh 74.4] In the creation of man was manifest the agency of a personal God. When God had made man in His image, the human form was perfect in all its arrangements, but it was without life. Then a personal, self-existing God breathed into that form the breath of life, and man became a living, breathing, intelligent being. All parts of the human organism were put in action. The heart, the arteries, the veins, the tongue, the hands, the feet, the senses, the perceptions of the mind—all began their work, and all were placed under law. Man became a living soul. Through Jesus Christ a personal God created man and endowed him with intelligence and power. {CCh 74.4} [CCh 74.5] Our substance was not hid from Him when we were made in secret. {CCh 74.5} [CCh 75.1] 75 His eyes saw our substance, yet being imperfect; and in His book all our members were written, when as yet there were none of them. {CCh 75.1} [CCh 75.2] Above all lower orders of being, God designed that man, the crowning work of His creation, should express His thought and reveal His glory. But man is not to exalt himself as God. {CCh 75.2} [CCh 75.3] God the Father Revealed in Christ As a personal being, God has revealed Himself in His Son. Jesus, the outshining of the Father's glory, "and the express image of His person" Hebrews 1:3, was on earth found in fashion as a man. As a personal Saviour He came to the world. As a personal Saviour He ascended on high. As a personal Saviour He intercedes in the heavenly courts. Before the throne of God in our behalf ministers "One like unto the Son of man." Revelation 1:13. {CCh 75.3} [CCh 75.4] Christ, the Light of the world, veiled the dazzling splendor of His divinity and came to live as a man among men, that they might, without being consumed, become acquainted with their Creator. No man has seen God at any time except as He is revealed through Christ. {CCh 75.4} [CCh 75.5] Christ came to teach human beings what God desires them to know. In the heavens above, in the earth, in the broad waters of the ocean, we see the handiwork of God. All created things testify to His power, His wisdom, His love. But not from the stars or the ocean or the cataract can we learn of the personality of God as it is revealed in Christ. {CCh 75.5} [CCh 75.6] God saw that a clearer revelation than nature was needed to portray both His personality and His character. He sent His Son into the world to reveal, so far as could be endured by human sight, the nature and the attributes of the invisible God. {CCh 75.6} [CCh 75.7] Had God desired to be represented as dwelling personally in the things of nature—in the flower, the tree, the spire of grass—would not Christ have spoken of this to His disciples when He was on the earth? But never in the teaching of Christ is God thus spoken of. Christ and the apostles taught clearly the truth of the existence of a personal God. {CCh 75.7} [CCh 75.8] Christ revealed all of God that sinful human beings could bear without being destroyed. He is the divine Teacher, the Enlightener. Had God thought us in need of revelations other than those made through Christ and in His written word, He would have given them. {CCh 75.8} [CCh 75.9] Christ Gives Men Power to Become Sons of God Let us study the words that Christ spoke in the upper chamber on the night before His crucifixion. He was nearing His hour of trial, and He sought to comfort His disciples, who were to be so severely tempted and tried. {CCh 75.9} [CCh 75.10] The disciples did not yet understand Christ's words concerning His relation to God. Much of His teaching was still dark to them. They had asked many questions that revealed their ignorance of God's relation to 76 them and to their present and future interests. Christ desired them to have a clearer, more distinct knowledge of God. {CCh 75.10} [CCh 76.1] When on the Day of Pentecost the Holy Spirit was poured out upon the disciples, they understood the truths that Christ had spoken in parables. The teachings that had been mysteries to them were made clear. The understanding that came to them with the outpouring of the Spirit made them ashamed of their fanciful theories. Their suppositions and interpretations were foolishness when compared with the knowledge of heavenly things which they now received. They were led by the Spirit, and light shone into their once darkened understanding. {CCh 76.1} [CCh 76.2] But the disciples had not yet received the complete fulfillment of Christ's promise. They received all the knowledge of God that they could bear, but the complete fulfillment of the promise that Christ would show them plainly of the Father was yet to come. Thus it is today. Our knowledge of God is partial and imperfect. When the conflict is ended and the Man Christ Jesus acknowledges before the Father His faithful workers, who, in a world of sin, have borne true witness for Him, they will understand clearly what now are mysteries to them. {CCh 76.2} [CCh 76.3] Christ took with Him to the heavenly courts His glorified humanity. To those who receive Him, He gives power to become the sons of God, that at last God may receive as His, to dwell with Him throughout eternity. If, during this life, they are loyal to God, they will at last "see His face; and His name shall be in their foreheads." Revelation 22:4. And what is the happiness of heaven but to see God? What greater joy could come to the sinner saved by the grace of Christ than to look upon the face of God and know Him as Father? {CCh 76.3} [CCh 76.4] God’s Individual Interests in His Children The Scriptures clearly indicate the relation between God and Christ, and they bring to view as clearly the personality and individuality of each. {CCh 76.4} [CCh 76.5] God is the Father of Christ; Christ is the Son of God. To Christ has been given an exalted position. He has been made equal with the Father. All the counsels of God are opened to His Son. {CCh 76.5} [CCh 76.6] This unity is expressed also in the seventeenth chapter of John, in the prayer of Christ for His disciples: "Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me. And the glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are one: I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me." John 17:20-23. {CCh 76.6} [CCh 76.7] Wonderful statement! The unity that exists between Christ and His disciples does not destroy the personality of either. They are one in 77 purpose, in mind, in character, but not in person. It is thus that God and Christ are one…. {CCh 76.7} [CCh 77.1] Our God has heaven and earth at His command, and He knows just what we need. We can see only a little way before us; "but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of Him with whom we have to do." Hebrews 4:13. Above the distractions of the earth He sits enthroned; all things are open to His divine survey; and from His great and calm eternity He orders that which His providence sees best. {CCh 77.1} [CCh 77.2] Not even a sparrow falls to the ground without the Father's notice. Satan's hatred against God leads him to delight in destroying even the dumb creatures. It is only through God's protecting care that the birds are preserved to gladden us with their songs of joy. But He does not forget even the sparrows. "Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows." Matthew 10:31. 8T 263-27383 {CCh 77.2} [CCh 78.1] Chapter 11 —Christians to Represent God It is God's purpose to manifest through His people the principles of His kingdom. {CCh 78.1} [CCh 78.2] That in life and character they may reveal these principles, He desires to separate them from the customs, habits, and practices of the world. He seeks to bring them near to Himself, that He may make known to them His will. {CCh 78.2} [CCh 78.3] The purpose which God seeks to accomplish through His people today is the same that He desired to accomplish through Israel when He brought them forth out of Egypt. By beholding the goodness, the mercy, the justice, and the love of God revealed in the church, the world is to have a representation of His character. And when the law of God is thus exemplified in the life, even the world will recognize the superiority of those who love and fear and serve God above every other people on the earth. {CCh 78.3} [CCh 78.4] The Lord has His eye upon every one of His people; He has His plans concerning each. It is His purpose that those who practice His holy precepts shall be a distinguished people. To the people of God today as well as to ancient Israel belong the words written by Moses through the Spirit of Inspiration: "Thou art an holy people unto the Lord thy God: the Lord thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto Himself, above all people that are upon the face of the earth." Deuteronomy 7:6. T 9, 1284 {CCh 78.4} [CCh 78.5] The Forming of a Christlike Character The religion of Christ never degrades the receiver; it never makes him coarse or rough, discourteous or self-important, passionate or hardhearted. On the contrary, it refines the taste, sanctifies the judgment, and purifies and ennobles the thoughts, bringing them into captivity to Christ. God's ideal for His children is higher than the highest human thought can reach. He has given in His holy law a transcript of His character. {CCh 78.5} [CCh 78.6] The ideal of Christian character is Christlikeness. There is opened before us a path of constant advancement. We have an object to gain, a standard to reach, that includes everything good and pure and noble and elevated. There should be continual striving and constant progress onward and upward toward perfection of character. 8T 63, 6485 {CCh 78.6} [CCh 78.7] We shall be individually, for time and eternity, what our habits make 79 us. The lives of those who form right habits, and are faithful in the performance of every duty, will be as shining lights, shedding bright beams upon the pathway of others; but if habits of unfaithfulness are indulged, if lax, indolent, neglectful habits are allowed to strengthen, a cloud darker than midnight will settle on the prospects in this life and forever debar the individual from the future life. 4T 45286 {CCh 78.7} [CCh 79.1] Blessed is he who heeds the words of eternal life. Guided by "the Spirit of truth," he will be led into all truth. He will not be loved, honored, and praised by the world; but he will be precious in the sight of heaven. "Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew Him not." 1 John 3:1 5 T 43987 {CCh 79.1} [CCh 79.2] Live Courageously Today The truth of God received into the heart is able to make you wise unto salvation. In believing and obeying it you will receive grace sufficient for the duties and trials of today. Grace for tomorrow you do not need. You should feel that you have only to do with today. Overcome for today; deny self for today; watch and pray for today; obtain victories in God for today. Our circumstances and surroundings, the changes daily transpiring around us, and the written word of God which discerns and proves all things—these are sufficient to teach us our duty and just what we ought to do, day by day. Instead of suffering your mind to run in a channel of thought from which you will derive no benefit, you should be searching the Scriptures daily and doing those duties in daily life which may now be irksome to you, but which must be done by someone. 3T 33388 {CCh 79.2} [CCh 79.3] Many fix their eyes upon the terrible wickedness existing around them, the apostasy and weakness on every side, and they talk of these things until their hearts are filled with sadness and doubt. They keep uppermost before the mind the masterly working of the archdeceiver and dwell upon the discouraging features of their experience, while they seem to lose sight of the heavenly Father's power and His matchless love. All this is as Satan would have it. It is a mistake to think of the enemy of righteousness as clothed with so great power, when we dwell so little upon the love of God and His might. We must talk of the mightiness of Christ. We are utterly powerless to rescue ourselves from the grasp of Satan; but God has appointed a way of escape. The Son of the Highest has strength to fight the battle for us, and "through Him that loved us" we may come off "more than conquerors." {CCh 79.3} [CCh 79.4] There is no spiritual strength for us in constantly brooding over our weakness and backslidings, and bemoaning the power of Satan. This great truth must be established as a living principle in our minds and hearts—the efficacy of the offering made for us; that God can and does save to the uttermost all who come unto Him complying with the conditions 80 specified in His word. Our work is to place our will on the side of God's will. Then, through the blood of the atonement, we become partakers of the divine nature; through Christ we are children of God, and we have the assurance that God loves us even as He loved His Son. We are one with Jesus. We walk where Christ leads the way; He has power to dispel the dark shadows which Satan casts across our path; and, in place of darkness and discouragement, the sunlight of His glory shines into our hearts. {CCh 79.4} [CCh 80.1] Brethren and sisters, it is by beholding that we become changed. By dwelling upon the love of God and our Saviour, by contemplating the perfection of the divine character and claiming the righteousness of Christ as ours by faith, we are to be transformed into the same image. Then let us not gather together all the unpleasant pictures—the iniquities and corruptions and disappointments, the evidences of Satan's power—to hang in the halls of our memory, to talk over and mourn over until our souls are filled with discouragement. A discouraged soul is a body of darkness, not only failing himself to receive the light of God, but shutting it away from others. Satan loves to see the effect of the pictures of his triumphs, making human beings faithless and disheartened. 5T 741-74589 {CCh 80.1} [CCh 80.2] Represent God by an Unselfish Life The sin which is indulged to the greatest extent, and which separates us from God and produces so many contagious spiritual disorders, is selfishness. There can be no returning to the Lord except by self-denial. Of ourselves we can do nothing; but, through God strengthening us, we can live to do good to others, and in this way shun the evil of selfishness. We need not go to heathen lands to manifest our desire to devote all to God in a useful, unselfish life. We should do this in the home circle, in the church, among those with whom we associate and with whom we do business. Right in the common walks of life is where self is to be denied and kept in subordination. Paul could say: "I die daily." It is the daily dying to self in the little transactions of life that makes us overcomers. We should forget self in the desire to do good to others. With many there is a decided lack of love for others. Instead of faithfully performing their duty, they seek rather their own pleasure. {CCh 80.2} [CCh 80.3] In heaven none will think of self, nor seek their own pleasure; but all, from pure, genuine love, will seek the happiness of the heavenly beings around them. If we wish to enjoy heavenly society in the earth made new, we must be governed by heavenly principles here. 2T 132, 13390 {CCh 80.3} [CCh 80.4] I was shown that there was too much comparing ourselves among ourselves, taking fallible mortals for a pattern, when we have a sure, unerring pattern. We should not measure ourselves by the world, nor by the opinions of men, nor by what we were before we embraced the truth. But our faith and position in the world, as they now are, must be compared with what they would have been if our course had been 81 continually onward and upward since we professed to be followers of Christ. This is the only safe comparison that can be made. In every other there will be self-deception. If the moral character and spiritual state of God's people do not correspond with the blessings, privileges, and light which have been conferred upon them, they are weighed in the balance, and angels make the report, WANTING. 1T 40691 {CCh 80.4} [CCh 81.1] The Unpardonable Sin What constitutes the sin against the Holy Ghost? It is willfully attributing to Satan the work of the Holy Spirit. For example, suppose that one is a witness of the special work of the Spirit of God. He has convincing evidence that the work is in harmony with the Scriptures, and the Spirit witnesses with his spirit that it is of God. Afterward, however, he falls under temptation; pride, self-sufficiency, or some other evil trait, controls him; and rejecting all the evidence of its divine character, he declares that that which he had before acknowledged to be the power of the Holy Spirit was the power of Satan. It is through the medium of His Spirit that God works upon the human heart; and when men willfully reject the Spirit and declare it to be from Satan, they cut off the channel by which God can communicate with them. By denying the evidence which God has been pleased to give them, they shut out the light which had been shining in their hearts, and as the result they are left in darkness. Thus the words of Christ are verified: "If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness!" Matthew 6:23. For a time, persons who have committed this sin may appear to be children of God; but when circumstances arise to develop character and show what manner of spirit they are of, it will be found that they are on the enemy's ground, standing under his black banner. 5T 63492 {CCh 81.1} [CCh 81.2] Confessing or Denying Christ In our mingling in society, in families or in whatever relations of life we are placed, either limited or extended, there are many ways wherein we may acknowledge our Lord and many ways wherein we may deny Him. We may deny Him in our words, by speaking evil of others, by foolish talking, jesting and joking, by idle or unkind words, or by prevaricating, speaking contrary to truth. In our words we may confess that Christ is not in us. In our character we may deny Him by loving our ease, by shunning the duties and burdens of life which someone must bear if we do not, and by loving sinful pleasure. We may also deny Christ by pride of dress and conformity to the world, or by uncourteous behavior. We may deny Him by loving our own opinions and by seeking to maintain and justify self. We may also deny Him in allowing the mind to run in the channel of lovesick sentimentalism and to brood over our supposed hard lot and trials. {CCh 81.2} [CCh 82.1] 82 No one can truly confess Christ before the world unless the mind and spirit of Christ live in him. It is impossible to communicate that which we have not. The conversation and the deportment should be a real and visible expression of grace and truth within. If the heart is sanctified, submissive, and humble, the fruits will be seen outwardly and will be a most effectual confession of Christ. 3T 331, 33293 {CCh 82.1} [CCh 83.1] Chapter 12 —In the World but Not of the World I was shown our danger, as a people, of becoming assimilated to the world rather than to the image of Christ. We are now upon the very borders of the eternal world, but it is the purpose of the adversary of souls to lead us to put far off the close of time. Satan will in every conceivable manner assail those who profess to be the commandment-keeping people of God and to be waiting for the second appearing of our Saviour in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. He will lead as many as possible to put off the evil day and become in spirit like the world, imitating its customs. I felt alarmed as I saw that the spirit of the world was controlling the hearts and minds of many who make a high profession of the truth. Selfishness and self-indulgence are cherished by them, but true godliness and sterling integrity are not cultivated. 4T 30694 {CCh 83.1} [CCh 83.2] Christian Integrity In every business transaction be rigidly honest. However tempted, never deceive or prevaricate in the least matter. At times a natural impulse may bring temptation to diverge from the straightforward path of honesty, but do not vary one hairsbreadth. If in any matter you make a statement as to what you will do, and afterward find that you have favored others to your own loss, do not vary a hairsbreadth from principle. Carry out your agreement. CG 15495 {CCh 83.2} [CCh 83.3] The Bible condemns in the strongest terms all falsehood, false dealing, and dishonesty. Right and wrong are plainly stated. But I was shown that God's people have placed themselves on the enemy's ground; they have yielded to his temptations and followed his devices until their sensibilities have become fearfully blunted. A slight deviation from truth, a little variation from the requirements of God, is thought to be, after all, not so very sinful, when pecuniary gain or loss is involved. But sin is sin, whether committed by the possessor of millions or by the beggar in the streets. Those who secure property by false representations are bringing condemnation on their souls. All that is obtained by deceit and fraud will be only a curse to the receiver. 4T 31196 {CCh 83.3} [CCh 83.4] He ［one who utters falsehood or practices deception］ loses his own self-respect. He may not be conscious that God sees him and is acquainted with every business transaction, that holy angels are weighing his motives and listening to his words, and that his reward will be 84 according to his works; but if it were possible to conceal his wrongdoing from human and divine inspection, the fact that he himself knows it, is degrading to his mind and character. One act does not determine the character, but it breaks down the barrier, and the next temptation is more readily entertained, until finally a habit of prevarication and dishonesty in business is formed, and the man cannot be trusted. 5T 39697 {CCh 83.4} [CCh 84.1] God wants men in His service, under His banner, to be strictly honest, unimpeachable in character, that their tongues shall not utter a semblance of untruth. The tongue must be true, the eyes must be true, the actions wholly and entirely such as God can commend. We are living in the sight of a holy God, who solemnly declares, "I know thy works." The divine eye is ever upon us. We cannot cover one act of unjust deal from God. The witness of God to our every action is a truth which but few realize. CG 15298 {CCh 84.1} [CCh 84.2] The Believer—A Better Man in Business An honest man, according to Christ's measurement, is one who will manifest unbending integrity. Deceitful weights and false balances, with which many seek to advance their interests in the world, are abomination in the sight of God. Yet many who profess to keep the commandments of God are dealing with false weights and false balances. When a man is indeed connected with God, and is keeping His law in truth, his life will reveal the fact; for all his actions will be in harmony with the teachings of Christ. He will not sell his honor for gain. His principles are built upon the sure foundation, and his conduct in worldly matters is a transcript of his principles. Firm integrity shines forth as gold amid the dross and rubbish of the world. {CCh 84.2} [CCh 84.3] Deceit, falsehood, and unfaithfulness may be glossed over and hidden from the eyes of man, but not from the eyes of God. The angels of God, who watch the development of character and weigh moral worth, record in the books of heaven these minor transactions which reveal character. If a workman in the daily vocations of life is unfaithful and slights his work, the world will not judge incorrectly if they estimate his standard in religion according to his standard in business. {CCh 84.3} [CCh 84.4] Belief in the near coming of the Son of man in the clouds of heaven will not cause the true Christian to become neglectful and careless of the ordinary business of life. The waiting ones who look for the soon appearing of Christ will not be idle, but diligent in business. Their work will not be done carelessly and dishonestly, but with fidelity, promptness, and thoroughness. Those who flatter themselves that careless inattention to the things of this life is an evidence of their spirituality and of their separation from the world are under a great deception. Their veracity, faithfulness, and integrity are tested and proved in temporal things. If they are faithful in that which is least they will be faithful in much. {CCh 84.4} [CCh 84.5] I have been shown that here is where many will fail to bear the test. They develop their true character in the management of temporal concerns. {CCh 84.5} [CCh 85.1] 85 They manifest unfaithfulness, scheming, dishonesty, in dealing with their fellow men. They do not consider that their hold upon the future, immortal life depends upon how they conduct themselves in the concerns of this life, and that the strictest integrity is indispensable to the formation of a righteous character. Dishonesty is … the cause of lukewarmness on the part of many who profess to believe the truth. They are not connected with Christ and are deceiving their own souls. I am pained to make the statement that there is an alarming lack of honesty even among Sabbathkeepers. 4T 309-31199 {CCh 85.1} [CCh 85.2] Business Alliances With the World Some have no tact at wise management of worldly matters. They lack the necessary qualifications, and Satan takes advantage of them. When this is the case, such should not remain in ignorance of their task. They should be humble enough to counsel with their brethren, in whose judgment they can have confidence, before they carry out plans. I was directed to this text: "Bear ye one another's burdens." Some are not humble enough to let those who have judgment calculate for them until they have followed their own plans, and have involved themselves in difficulties. Then they see the necessity of having the counsel and judgment of their brethren; but how much heavier the burden then than at first. Brethren should not go to law if it can be possibly avoided; for they thus give the enemy great advantage to entangle and perplex them. It would be better to make a settlement at some loss. {CCh 85.2} [CCh 85.3] I saw that God was displeased with His people for becoming surety for unbelievers. I was directed to these texts: Proverbs 22:26: "Be not thou one of them that strike hands, or of them that are sureties for debts." Proverbs 11:15: "He that is surety for a stranger shall smart for it: and he that hateth suretyship is sure." Unfaithful stewards! They pledge that which belongs to another,—their heavenly Father,—and Satan stands ready to aid his children to wrench it out of their hands. Sabbathkeepers should not be in partnership with unbelievers. God's people trust too much to the words of strangers, and ask their advice and counsel when they should not. The enemy makes them his agents, and works through them to perplex and take from God's people. 1T 200, 201100 {CCh 85.3} [CCh 86.1] Chapter 13 —The Bible In the Scriptures thousands of gems of truth lie hidden from the surface seeker. The mine of truth is never exhausted. The more you search the Scriptures with humble hearts, the greater will be your interest, and the more you will feel like exclaiming with Paul: "O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are His judgments, and His ways past finding out!" Romans 11:33 5T 266101 {CCh 86.1} [CCh 86.2] Christ and His word are in perfect harmony. Received and obeyed, they open a sure path for the feet of all who are willing to walk in the light as Christ is in the light. If the people of God would appreciate His word, we should have a heaven in the church here below. Christians would be eager, hungry, to search the word. They would be anxious for time to compare scripture with scripture and to meditate upon the word. They would be more eager for the light of the word than for the morning paper, magazines, or novels. Their greatest desire would be to eat the flesh and drink the blood of the Son of God. And as a result their lives would be conformed to the principles and promises of the word. Its instruction would be to them as the leaves of the tree of life. It would be in them a well of water, springing up into everlasting life. Refreshing showers of grace would refresh and revive the soul, causing them to forget all toil and weariness. They would be strengthened and encouraged by the words of inspiration. 8T 193102 {CCh 86.2} [CCh 86.3] In its wide range of style and subjects the Bible has something to interest every mind and appeal to every heart. In its pages are found history the most ancient; biography the truest to life; principles of government for the control of the state, for the regulation of the household—principles that human wisdom has never equaled. It contains philosophy the most profound, poetry the sweetest and the most sublime, the most impassioned and the most pathetic. Immeasurably superior in value to the productions of any human author are the Bible writings, even when thus considered; but of infinitely wider scope, of infinitely greater value, are they when viewed in their relation to the grand central thought. Viewed in the light of this thought, every topic has a new significance. In the most simply stated truths are involved principles that are as high as heaven and that compass eternity. Ed 125103 {CCh 86.3} [CCh 86.4] Every day you should learn something new from the Scriptures. Search them as for hid treasures, for they contain the words of eternal life. Pray for wisdom and understanding to comprehend these holy writings. {CCh 86.4} [CCh 87.1] 87 If you would do this you would find new glories in the word of God; you would feel that you had received new and precious light on subjects connected with the truth, and the Scriptures would be constantly receiving a new value in your estimation. 5T 266104 {CCh 87.1} [CCh 87.2] The truths of the Bible, received, will uplift the mind from its earthliness and debasement. If the word of God were appreciated as it should be, both young and old would possess an inward rectitude, a strength of principle, that would enable them to resist temptation. 8T 319105 {CCh 87.2} [CCh 87.3] Study Diligently and Systematically Parents, if you would educate your children to serve God and do good in the world, make the Bible your textbook. It exposes the wiles of Satan. It is the great elevator of the race, the reprover and corrector of moral evils, the detector which enables us to distinguish between the true and the false. Whatever else is taught in the home or at school, the Bible, as the great educator, should stand first. If it is given this place, God is honored, and He will work for you in the conversion of your children. There is a rich mine of truth and beauty in this Holy Book, and parents have themselves to blame if they do not make it intensely interesting to their children. 5T 322106 {CCh 87.3} [CCh 87.4] "It is written" was the only weapon that Christ used when the tempter came with his deceptions. The teaching of Bible truth is the great and grand work which every parent should undertake. In a pleasant, happy frame of mind place the truth as spoken by God before the children. As fathers and mothers, you can be object lessons to the children in the daily life by practicing patience, kindness, and love, by attaching them to yourself. Do not let them do as they please, but show them that your work is to practice the Word of God and to bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. {CCh 87.4} [CCh 87.5] Observe system in the study of the Scriptures in your families. Neglect anything of a temporal nature, . . . but be sure that the soul is fed with the bread of life. It is impossible to estimate the good results of one hour or even half an hour each day devoted in a cheerful, social manner to the Word of God. Make the Bible its own expositor, bringing together all that is said concerning a given subject at different times and under varied circumstances. Do not break up your home class for callers or visitors. If they come in during the exercise, invite them to take part in it. Let it be seen that you consider it more important to obtain a knowledge of God's Word than to secure the gains or pleasures of the world. {CCh 87.5} [CCh 87.6] If we would study the Bible diligently and prayerfully every day, we should every day see some beautiful truth in a new, clear, and forcible light. 5T 510, 511107 {CCh 87.6} [CCh 87.7] You must make the Bible your guide if you would bring up your children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. Let the life and character of Christ be presented as the pattern for them to copy. If they err, read to them what the Lord has said concerning similar sins. There 88 is need of constant care and diligence in this work. One wrong trait tolerated by parents, uncorrected by teachers, may cause the whole character to become deformed and unbalanced. Teach the children that they must have a new heart; that new tastes must be created, new motives inspired. They must have help from Christ; they must become acquainted with the character of God as revealed in His Word. CG 515108 {CCh 87.7} [CCh 88.1] Divine Enlightenment Is Promised the Reader The Word of God, like the character of its divine Author, presents mysteries which can never be fully comprehended by finite beings. It directs our minds to the Creator, who dwelleth "in the light which no man can approach unto." 1 Timothy 6:16. It presents to us His purposes, which embrace all the ages of human history, and which will reach their fulfillment only in the endless cycles of eternity. It calls our attention to subjects of infinite depth and importance relating to the government of God and the destiny of man. The entrance of sin into the world, the incarnation of Christ, regeneration, the resurrection, and many other subjects presented in the Bible, are mysteries too deep for the human mind to explain or even to fully comprehend. But God has given us in the Scriptures sufficient evidence of their divine character, and we are not to doubt His word because we cannot understand all the mysteries of His providence. {CCh 88.1} [CCh 88.2] If it were possible for created beings to attain to a full understanding of God and His works, then, having reached this point, there would be for them no further discovery of truth, no growth in knowledge, no further development of mind or heart. God would no longer be supreme; and men, having reached the limit of knowledge and attainment, would cease to advance. Let us thank God that it is not so. God is infinite; in Him are "all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge." And to all eternity men may be ever searching, ever learning, and yet they can never exhaust the treasures of His wisdom, His goodness, and His power. {CCh 88.2} [CCh 88.3] Without the guidance of the Holy Spirit we shall be continually liable to wrest the Scriptures or to misinterpret them. There is much reading of the Bible that is without profit and in many cases is a positive injury. When the word of God is opened without reverence and without prayer; when the thoughts and affections are not fixed upon God or in harmony with His will, the mind is clouded with doubt; and in the very study of the Bible, skepticism strengthens. The enemy takes control of the thoughts, and he suggests interpretations that are not correct. 5T 699-705109 {CCh 88.3} [CCh 88.4] Love for Bible Study Is Not Natural Both old and young neglect the Bible. They do not make it their study, the rule of their life. Especially are the young guilty of this 89 neglect. Most of them find time to read other books, but the Book that points out the way to eternal life is not daily studied. Idle stories are attentively read, while the Bible is neglected. This Book is our guide to a higher, holier life. The youth would pronounce it the most interesting book they ever read had not their imagination been perverted by the reading of fictitious stories. CT 138, 139110 {CCh 88.4} [CCh 89.1] As a people who have had great light, we are to be uplifting in our habits, in our words, in our domestic life and association. Give the Word its honored position as a guide in the home. Let it be regarded as the counselor in every difficulty, the standard of every practice. Will my brethren and sisters be convinced that there can never be true prosperity to any soul in the family circle unless the truth of God, the wisdom of righteousness, presides? Every effort should be made by fathers and mothers to bring their own minds up from the lazy habit of regarding the service of God as a burden. The power of the truth must be a sanctifying agency in the home. CG 508, 509111 {CCh 89.1} [CCh 89.2] In their early years children are to be taught the claims of God's law and faith in Jesus our Redeemer to cleanse from the stains of sin. This faith must be taught day by day, by precept and example. 5T 329112 {CCh 89.2} [CCh 89.3] Bible Study Strengthens the Intellect If the Bible were studied as it should be, men would become strong in intellect. The subjects treated upon in the Word of God, the dignified simplicity of its utterance, the noble themes which it presents to the mind, develop faculties in man which cannot otherwise be developed. In the Bible a boundless field is opened for the imagination. The student will come from a contemplation of its grand themes, from association with its lofty imagery, more pure and elevated in thought and feeling than if he had spent the time reading any work of mere human origin, to say nothing of those of a trifling character. Youthful minds fail to reach their noblest development when they neglect the highest source of wisdom—the Word of God. The reason why we have so few men of good mind, of stability and solid worth, is that God is not feared, God is not loved, the principles of religion are not carried out in the life as they should be. {CCh 89.3} [CCh 89.4] God would have us avail ourselves of every means of cultivating and strengthening our intellectual powers. . . . If the Bible were read more, if its truths were better understood, we should be a far more enlightened and intelligent people. Energy is imparted to the soul by searching its pages. CG 507113 {CCh 89.4} [CCh 89.5] The teaching of the Bible has a vital bearing upon man's prosperity in all the relations of this life. It unfolds the principles that are the cornerstone of a nation's prosperity—principles with which is bound up the well-being of society, and which are the safeguard of the family—principles without which no man can attain usefulness, happiness, and honor in this life, or can hope to secure the future, immortal life. There 90 is no position in life, no phase of human experience, for which the teaching of the Bible is not an essential preparation. PP 599114 {CCh 89.5} [CCh 90.1] Christ in All the Bible The power of Christ, the crucified Saviour, to give eternal life, should be presented to the people. We should show them that the Old Testament is as verily the gospel in types and shadows as the New Testament is in its unfolding power. The New Testament does not present a new religion; the Old Testament does not present a religion to be superseded by the New. The New Testament is only the advancement and unfolding of the Old. {CCh 90.1} [CCh 90.2] Abel was a believer in Christ, and was as verily saved by His power as was Peter or Paul. Enoch was a representative of Christ as surely as was the beloved disciple John. Enoch walked with God, and he was not, for God took him. To him was committed the message of the second coming of Christ. "And Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of these, saying, Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of His saints, to execute judgment upon all." Jude 14, 15. The message preached by Enoch and his translation to heaven were a convincing argument to all who lived in his time. These things were an argument that Methuselah and Noah could use with power to show that the righteous could be translated. {CCh 90.2} [CCh 90.3] That God who walked with Enoch was our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. He was the light of the world then just as He is now. Those who lived then were not without teachers to instruct them in the path of life; for Noah and Enoch were Christians. The gospel is given in precept in Leviticus. Implicit obedience is required now, as then. How essential it is that we understand the importance of this word! {CCh 90.3} [CCh 90.4] The question is asked: What is the cause of the dearth in the church? The answer is: We allow our minds to be drawn away from the word. If the word of God were eaten as the food for the soul, if it were treated with respect and deference, there would be no necessity for the many and repeated testimonies that are borne. The simple declarations of Scripture would be received and acted upon. 6T 392, 393115 {CCh 90.4} [CCh 91.1] Chapter 14 —The Testimonies for the Church As the end draws near and the work of giving the last warning to the world extends, it becomes more important for those who accept present truth to have a clear understanding of the nature and influence of the Testimonies, which God in His providence has linked with the work of the third angel's message from its very rise. {CCh 91.1} [CCh 91.2] In ancient times God spoke to men by the mouth of prophets and apostles. In these days He speaks to them by the testimonies of His Spirit. There was never a time when God instructed His people more earnestly than He instructs them now concerning His will and the course that He would have them pursue. {CCh 91.2} [CCh 91.3] Warnings and reproofs are not given to the erring among Seventh-day Adventists because their lives are more blameworthy than are the lives of professed Christians of the nominal churches…but because they have great light, and have by their profession taken their position as God's special, chosen people, having the law of God written in their hearts. {CCh 91.3} [CCh 91.4] The messages given me for different individuals I often wrote out for them, in many cases doing this at their urgent request. As my work extended, this became an important and taxing part of my labors. {CCh 91.4} [CCh 91.5] In a view given me about twenty years ago ［1871］, "I was then directed to bring out general principles, in speaking and in writing, and at the same time specify the dangers, errors, and sins of some individuals, that all might be warned, reproved, and counseled. I saw that all should search their own hearts and lives closely to see if they had not made the same mistakes for which others were corrected and if the warnings given for others did not apply to their own cases. If so, they should feel that the counsel and reproofs were given especially for them and should make as practical an application of them as though they were especially addressed to themselves. {CCh 91.5} [CCh 91.6] God designs to test the faith of all who claim to be followers of Christ. He will test the sincerity of the prayers of all those who claim to earnestly desire to know their duty. He will make duty plain. He will give all an ample opportunity to develop what is in their hearts. {CCh 91.6} [CCh 91.7] The Lord reproves and corrects the people who profess to keep His law. He points out their sins and lays open their iniquity because He wishes to separate all sin and wickedness from them, that they may perfect holiness in His fear. God rebukes, reproves, and corrects them, that they may be refined, sanctified, elevated, and finally exalted to His own throne. 5T 654-662116 {CCh 91.7} [CCh 92.1] To Point Men to the Bible The written testimonies are not to give new light, but to impress vividly upon the heart the truths of inspiration already revealed. Man's duty to God and to his fellow man has been distinctly specified in God's word, yet but few of you are obedient to the light given. Additional truth is not brought out; but God has through the Testimonies simplified the great truths already given and in His own chosen way brought them before the people to awaken and impress the mind with them, that all may be left without excuse. The Testimonies are not to belittle the word of God, but to exalt it and attract minds to it, that the beautiful simplicity of truth may impress all. 5T 665117 {CCh 92.1} [CCh 92.2] The Spirit was not given—nor can it ever be bestowed—to supersede the Bible; for the Scriptures explicitly state that the word of God is the standard by which all teaching and experience must be tested. Says the apostle John, "Believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world." 1 John 4:1. And Isaiah declares, "To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them." Isaiah 8:20. GC vii118 {CCh 92.2} [CCh 92.3] Brother J would confuse the mind by seeking to make it appear that the light God has given through the Testimonies is an addition to the Word of God, but in this he presents the matter in a false light. God has seen fit in this manner to bring the minds of His people to His word, to give them a clearer understanding of it. The word of God is sufficient to enlighten the most beclouded mind and may be understood by those who have any desire to understand it. But notwithstanding all this, some who profess to make the Word of God their study are found living in direct opposition to its plainest teachings. Then, to leave men and women without excuse, God gives plain and pointed testimonies, bringing them back to the word that they have neglected to follow. The word of God abounds in general principles for the formation of correct habits of living, and the testimonies, general and personal, have been calculated to call their attention more especially to these principles. {CCh 92.3} [CCh 92.4] I took the precious Bible and surrounded it with the several Testimonies for the Church, given for the people of God. Here, said I, the cases of nearly all are met. The sins they are to shun are pointed out. The counsel that they desire can be found here, given for other cases situated similarly to themselves. God has been pleased to give you line upon line and precept upon precept. {CCh 92.4} [CCh 92.5] But there are not many of you that really know what is contained in the Testimonies. You are not familiar with the Scriptures. If you had made God's Word your study, with a desire to reach the Bible standard and attain to Christian perfection, you would not have needed the Testimonies. It is because you have neglected to acquaint yourselves with God's inspired Book that He has sought to reach you by simple, direct testimonies, calling your attention to the words of inspiration which you had neglected to obey, and urging you to fashion your lives in accordance with its pure and elevated teachings. 5T 663-665119 {CCh 92.5} [CCh 93.1] Judge the “Testimonies” by Their Fruits Let the Testimonies be judged by their fruits. What is the spirit of their teaching? What has been the result of their influence? All who desire to do so can acquaint themselves with the fruits of these visions. For seventeen years God has seen fit to let them survive and strengthen against the opposition of Satan's forces and the influence of human agencies that have aided Satan in his work. {CCh 93.1} [CCh 93.2] God is either teaching His church, reproving their wrongs and strengthening their faith, or He is not. This work is of God, or it is not. God does nothing in partnership with Satan. My work . . . bears the stamp of God or the stamp of the enemy. There is no halfway work in the matter. The Testimonies are of the Spirit of God, or of the devil. As the Lord has manifested Himself through the Spirit of prophecy, past, present, and future have passed before me. I have been shown faces that I had never seen, and years afterward I knew them when I saw them. I have been aroused from my sleep with a vivid sense of subjects previously presented to my mind; and I have written, at midnight, letters that have gone across the continent and, arriving at a crisis, have saved great disaster to the cause of God. This has been my work for many years. A power has impelled me to reprove and rebuke wrongs that I had not thought of. Is this work from above or from beneath. 5T 671120 {CCh 93.2} [CCh 93.3] Satan’s Aim Is to Cause Doubt In many cases the Testimonies are fully received, the sin and indulgence broken off, and reformation at once commences in harmony with the light God has given. In other instances sinful indulgences are cherished, the Testimonies are rejected, and many excuses which are untrue are offered to others as the reason for refusing to receive them. The true reason is not given. It is a lack of moral courage—a will, strengthened and controlled by the Spirit of God, to renounce hurtful habits. {CCh 93.3} [CCh 93.4] Satan has ability to suggest doubts and to devise objections to the pointed testimony that God sends, and many think it a virtue, a mark of intelligence in them, to be unbelieving and to question and quibble. Those who desire to doubt will have plenty of room. God does not propose to remove all occasion for unbelief. He gives evidence, which must be carefully investigated with a humble mind and a teachable spirit, and all should decide from the weight of evidence. God gives sufficient evidence for the candid mind to believe; but he who turns from the weight of evidence because there are a few things which he cannot make plain to his finite understanding will be left in the cold, chilling atmosphere of unbelief and questioning doubts, and will make shipwreck of faith. {CCh 93.4} [CCh 93.5] It is Satan's plan to weaken the faith of God's people in the Testimonies. Satan knows how to make his attacks. He works upon minds to excite jealousy and dissatisfaction toward those at the head of the work. {CCh 93.5} [CCh 94.1] 94 The gifts are next questioned; then, of course, they have but little weight, and instruction given through vision is disregarded. Next follows skepticism in regard to the vital points of our faith, the pillars of our position, then doubt as to the Holy Scriptures, and then the downward march to perdition. When the Testimonies, which were once believed, are doubted and given up, Satan knows the deceived ones will not stop at this; and he redoubles his efforts till he launches them into open rebellion, which becomes incurable and ends in destruction. By giving place to doubts and unbelief in regard to the work of God, and by cherishing feelings of distrust and cruel jealousies, they are preparing themselves for complete deception. They rise up with bitter feelings against the ones who dare to speak of their errors and reprove their sins. {CCh 94.1} [CCh 94.2] It is not alone those who openly reject the Testimonies, or who cherish doubt concerning them, that are on dangerous ground. To disregard light is to reject it. {CCh 94.2} [CCh 94.3] If you lose confidence in the Testimonies you will drift away from Bible truth. I have been fearful that many would take a questioning, doubting position, and in my distress for your souls I would warn you. How many will heed the warning? 5T 672-680121 {CCh 94.3} [CCh 94.4] Ignorance of the “Testimonies” Is No Excuse Many are going directly contrary to the light which God has given to His people, because they do not read the books which contain the light and knowledge in cautions, reproofs, and warnings. The cares of the world, the love of fashion, and the lack of religion have turned the attention from the light God has so graciously given, while books and periodicals containing error are traveling all over the country. Skepticism and infidelity are increasing everywhere. Light so precious, coming from the throne of God, is hid under a bushel. God will make His people responsible for this neglect. An account must be rendered to Him for every ray of light He has let shine upon our pathway, whether it has been improved to our advancement in divine things or rejected because it was more agreeable to follow inclination. {CCh 94.4} [CCh 94.5] The Testimonies should be introduced into every Sabbathkeeping family, and the brethren should know their value and be urged to read them. It was not the wisest plan to place these books at a low figure and have only one set in a church. They should be in the library of every family and be read again and again. Let them be kept where they can be read by many. 5T 681122 {CCh 94.5} [CCh 94.6] I have been shown that unbelief in the testimonies of warning, encouragement, and reproof is shutting away the light from God's people. Unbelief is closing their eyes so that they are ignorant of their true condition. They think the testimony of the Spirit of God in reproof is uncalled for or that it does not mean them. Such are in the greatest need of the grace of God and spiritual discernment, that they may discover their deficiency in spiritual knowledge. {CCh 94.6} [CCh 95.1] 95 Many who have backslidden from the truth assign as a reason for their course that they do not have faith in the Testimonies. The question now is: Will they yield their idol which God condemns, or will they continue in their wrong course of indulgence and reject the light God has given them reproving the very things in which they delight? The question to be settled with them is: Shall I deny myself and receive as of God the Testimonies which reprove my sins, or shall I reject the Testimonies because they reprove my sins? 5T 674, 675123 {CCh 95.1} [CCh 95.2] Wrong Use of the “Testimonies” The first number of the Testimonies ever published contains a warning against the injudicious use of the light which is thus given to God's people. I stated that some had taken an unwise course; when they had talked their faith to unbelievers, and the proof had been asked for, they had read from my writings instead of going to the Bible for proof. It was shown me that this course was inconsistent and would prejudice unbelievers against the truth. The Testimonies can have no weight with those who know nothing of their spirit. They should not be referred to in such cases. {CCh 95.2} [CCh 95.3] Other warnings concerning the use of the Testimonies have been given from time to time, as follows: {CCh 95.3} [CCh 95.4] "Some of the preachers are far behind. They profess to believe the testimony borne, and some do harm by making them an iron rule for those who have had no experience in reference to them, but they fail to carry them out themselves. They have had repeated testimonies which they have utterly disregarded. The course of such is not consistent." {CCh 95.4} [CCh 95.5] "I saw that many have taken advantage of what God has shown in regard to the sins and wrongs of others. They have taken the extreme meaning of what has been shown in vision, and then have pressed it until it has a tendency to weaken the faith of many in what God has shown, and also to discourage and dishearten the church.” 5T 669, 670124 {CCh 95.5} [CCh 95.6] Danger in Criticizing the “Testimonies” In a recent dream I was brought before an assembly of people, some of whom were making efforts to remove the impression of a most solemn testimony of warning that I had given them. They said: "We believe Sister White's testimonies; but when she tells us things that she has not directly seen in vision in the particular case under consideration, her words are of no more account to us than the words of any other person." The Spirit of the Lord came upon me, and I arose and rebuked them in the name of the Lord. {CCh 95.6} [CCh 95.7] Now if those to whom these solemn warnings are addressed say, "It is only Sister White's individual opinion, I shall still follow my own judgment," and if they continue to do the very things they were warned not to do, they show that they despise the counsel of God, and the result 96 is just what the Spirit of God has shown me it would be—injury to the cause of God and ruin to themselves. Some who wish to strengthen their own position will bring forward from the Testimonies statements which they think will support their views, and will put the strongest possible construction upon them; but that which questions their course of action, or which does not coincide with their views, they pronounce Sister White's opinion, denying its heavenly origin and placing it on a level with their own judgment. {CCh 95.7} [CCh 96.1] And now, brethren, I entreat you not to interpose between me and the people, and turn away the light which God would have come to them. Do not by your criticisms take out all the force, all the point and power, from the Testimonies. Do not feel that you can dissect them to suit your own ideas, claiming that God has given you ability to discern what is light from heaven and what is the expression of mere human wisdom. If the Testimonies speak not according to the word of God, reject them. Christ and Belial cannot be united. For Christ's sake do not confuse the minds of the people with human sophistry and skepticism, and make of none effect the work that the Lord would do. Do not, by your lack of spiritual discernment, make of this agency of God a rock of offense whereby many shall be caused to stumble and fall, "and be snared, and be taken." 5T 687-691125 {CCh 96.1} [CCh 96.2] How to Receive Reproof Those who are reproved by the Spirit of God should not rise up against the humble instrument. It is God, and not an erring mortal, who has spoken to save them from ruin. It is not pleasing to human nature to receive reproof, nor is it possible for the heart of man, unenlightened by the Spirit of God, to realize the necessity of reproof or the blessing it is designed to bring. As man yields to temptation, and indulges in sin, his mind becomes darkened. The moral sense is perverted. The warnings of conscience are disregarded, and its voice is less clearly heard. He gradually loses the power to distinguish between right and wrong, until he has no true sense or his standing before God. He may observe the forms of religion and zealously maintain its doctrines, while destitute of its spirit. His condition is that described by the True Witness: "Thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked." Revelation 3:17. When the Spirit of God, by message of reproof, declares this to be his condition, he cannot see that the message is true. Is he therefore to reject the warning? No. {CCh 96.2} [CCh 96.3] God has given sufficient evidence, so that all who desire to do so may satisfy themselves as to the character of the Testimonies; and, having acknowledged them to be from God, it is their duty to accept reproof, even though they do not themselves see the sinfulness of their course. If they fully realized their condition, what would be the need of reproof? Because they know it not, God mercifully sets it before them, 97 so that they may repent and reform before it shall be too late. Those who despise the warning will be left in blindness to become self-deceived; but those who heed it, and zealously go about the work of separating their sins from them in order to have the needed graces, will be opening the door of their hearts that the dear Saviour may come in and dwell with them. Those who are most closely connected with God are the ones who know His voice when He speaks to them. Those who are spiritual discern spiritual things. Such will feel grateful that the Lord has pointed out their errors. {CCh 96.3} [CCh 97.1] David learned wisdom from God's dealings with him and bowed in humility beneath the chastisement of the Most High. The faithful portrayal of his true state by the prophet Nathan made David acquainted with his own sins and aided him to put them away. He accepted counsel meekly and humiliated himself before God. “The law of the Lord,” he exclaims, “is perfect, converting the soul.” Psalm 19:7. {CCh 97.1} [CCh 97.2] "If ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye . . . not sons." Hebrews 12:8. Our Lord has said: "As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten." Revelation 3:19. "No chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby." Hebrews 12:11. Though bitter the discipline, it is appointed by a Father's tender love, "that we might be partakers of His holiness." 5T 682, 683126 {CCh 97.2} [CCh 98.1] Chapter 15 —The Holy Spirit It is the privilege of every Christian, not only to look for, but to hasten the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Were all who profess His name bearing fruit to His glory, how quickly the whole world would be sown with the seed of the gospel. Quickly the last harvest would be ripened, and Christ would come to gather the precious grain. {CCh 98.1} [CCh 98.2] My brethren and sisters, plead for the Holy Spirit, God stands back of every promise He has made. With your Bibles in your hands, say: "I have done as Thou hast said, I present Thy promise, 'Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.'" Christ declares: "What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them." "Whatsoever ye shall ask in My name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son." Matthew 7:7; Mark 11:24; John 14:13. {CCh 98.2} [CCh 98.3] Christ dispatches His messengers to every part of His dominion to communicate His will to His servants. He walks in the midst of His churches. He desires to sanctify, elevate, and ennoble His followers. The influence of those who believe in Him will be in the world a savor of life unto life. Christ holds the stars in His right hand, and it is His purpose to let His light shine forth through them to the world. Thus He desires to prepare His people for higher service in the church above. He has given us a great work to do. Let us do it faithfully. Let us show forth in our lives what divine grace can do for humanity. 8T 22, 23127 {CCh 98.3} [CCh 98.4] Unity Must Precede the Outpouring of the Holy Spirit Notice that it was after the disciples had come into perfect unity, when they were no longer striving for the highest place, that the Spirit was poured out. They were of one accord. All differences had been put away. And the testimony borne of them after the Spirit had been given is the same. Mark the word: "The multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul." Acts 4:32. The Spirit of Him who died that sinners might live animated the entire congregation of believers. {CCh 98.4} [CCh 98.5] The disciples did not ask for a blessing for themselves. They were weighted with the burden of souls. The gospel was to be carried to the ends of the earth, and they claimed the endowment of power that Christ had promised. Then it was that the Holy Spirit was poured out, and thousands were converted in a day. {CCh 98.5} [CCh 98.6] So it may be now. Let Christians put away all dissension and give 99 themselves to God for the saving of the lost. Let them ask in faith for the promised blessing, and it will come. The outpouring of the Spirit in the days of the apostles was "the former rain," and glorious was the result. But the latter rain will be more abundant. What is the promise to those living in these last days? "Turn you to the stronghold, ye prisoners of hope: even today do I declare that I will render double unto thee." "Ask ye of the Lord rain in the time of the latter rain; so the Lord shall make bright clouds, and give them showers of rain, to every one grass in the field." Zechariah 9:12; 10:1. 8T 20, 21128 {CCh 98.6} [CCh 99.1] One’s Usefulness Depends Upon His Surrender to the Holy Spirit God does not ask us to do in our own strength the work before us. He has provided divine assistance for all the emergencies to which our human resources are unequal. He gives the Holy Spirit to help in every strait, to strengthen our hope and assurance, to illuminate our minds and purify our hearts. {CCh 99.1} [CCh 99.2] Christ has made provision that His church shall be a transformed body, illumined with the light of heaven, possessing the glory of Immanuel. It is His purpose that every Christian shall be surrounded with a spiritual atmosphere of light and peace. There is no limit to the usefulness of the one who, putting self aside, makes room for the working of the Holy Spirit upon his heart and lives a life wholly consecrated to God. {CCh 99.2} [CCh 99.3] What was the result of the outpouring of the Spirit upon the Day of Pentecost? The glad tidings of a risen Saviour were carried to the utmost bounds of the inhabited world. The hearts of the disciples were surcharged with a benevolence so full, so deep, so far-reaching, that it impelled them to go to the ends of the earth, testifying: "God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ." Galatians 6:14. As they proclaimed the truth as it is in Jesus, hearts yielded to the power of the message. The church beheld converts flocking to her from all directions. Backsliders were reconverted. Sinners united with Christians in seeking the pearl of great price. Those who had been the bitterest opponents of the gospel became its champions. The prophecy was fulfilled: The weak shall be "as David," and the house of David "as the angel of the Lord." Every Christian saw in his brother the divine similitude of love and benevolence. One interest prevailed. One subject of emulation swallowed up all others. The only ambition of the believers was to reveal the likeness of Christ's character and to labor for the enlargement of His kingdom. {CCh 99.3} [CCh 99.4] To us today, as verily as to the first disciples, the promise of the Spirit belongs. God will today endow men and women with power from above, as He endowed those who on the Day of Pentecost heard the word of salvation. At this very hour His Spirit and His grace are for all who need them and will take Him at His word. 8T 19, 20129 {CCh 99.4} [CCh 100.1] The Holy Spirit Will Abide Unto the End Christ declared that the divine influence of the Spirit was to be with His followers unto the end. But the promise is not appreciated as it should be; and therefore its fulfillment is not seen as it might be. The promise of the Spirit is a matter little thought of; and the result is only what might be expected—spiritual drought, spiritual darkness, spiritual declension and death. Minor matters occupy the attention, and the divine power which is necessary for the growth and prosperity of the church, and which would bring all other blessings in its train, is lacking, though offered in its infinite plenitude. {CCh 100.1} [CCh 100.2] It is the absence of the Spirit that makes the gospel ministry so powerless. Learning, talent, eloquence, every natural or acquired endowment, may be possessed; but, without the presence of the Spirit of God, no heart will be touched, no sinner won to Christ. On the other hand, if they are connected with Christ, if the gifts of the Spirit are theirs, the poorest and most ignorant of His disciples will have a power that will tell upon hearts. God makes them channels for the outflowing of the highest influence in the universe. {CCh 100.2} [CCh 100.3] Zeal for God moved the disciples to bear witness to the truth with mighty power. Should not this zeal fire our hearts with a determination to tell the story of redeeming love, of Christ and Him crucified? Is not the Spirit of God to come today, in answer to earnest, persevering prayer, and fill men with power for service? Why, then, is the church so weak and spiritless? 8T 21, 22130 {CCh 100.3} [CCh 100.4] When the Holy Spirit controls the minds of our church members, there will be seen in our churches a much higher standard in speech, in ministry, in spirituality, than is now seen. The church members will be refreshed by the water of life, and the laborers, working under one Head, even Christ, will reveal their Master in spirit, in word, in deed, and will encourage one another to press forward in the grand, closing work in which we are engaged. There will be a healthy increase of unity and love, which will bear testimony to the world that God sent His Son to die for the redemption of sinners. Divine truth will be exalted; and as it shines forth as a lamp that burneth, we shall understand it more and still more clearly. 8T 211131 {CCh 100.4} [CCh 100.5] I was shown that if God's people make no efforts on their part, but wait for the refreshing to come upon them and remove their wrongs and correct their errors; if they depend upon that to cleanse them from filthiness of the flesh and spirit, and fit them to engage in the loud cry of the third angel, they will be found wanting. The refreshing or power of God comes only on those who have prepared themselves for it by doing the work which God bids them, namely, cleansing themselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. 1T 619132 {CCh 100.5} [CCh 101.1] Chapter 16 —Keep Clear God’s Connection With Man The brain nerves which communicate with the entire system are the only medium through which Heaven can communicate to man and affect his inmost life. Whatever disturbs the circulation of the electric currents in the nervous system lessens the strength of the vital powers, and the result is a deadening of the sensibilities of the mind. 2T 347133 {CCh 101.1} [CCh 101.2] Intemperance of any kind benumbs the perceptive organs and so weakens the brain-nerve power that eternal things are not appreciated, but placed upon a level with the common. The higher powers of the mind, designed for elevated purposes, are brought into slavery to the baser passions. If our physical habits are not right, our mental and moral powers cannot be strong; for great sympathy exists between the physical and the moral. 3T 50, 51134 {CCh 101.2} [CCh 101.3] Satan exults to see the human family plunging themselves deeper, and deeper, into suffering and misery. He knows that persons who have wrong habits, and unsound bodies, cannot serve God so earnestly, perseveringly, and purely as though sound. A diseased body affects the brain. With the mind we serve the Lord. The head is the capital of the body. Satan triumphs in the ruinous work he causes by leading the human family to indulge in habits which destroy themselves, and one another; for by this means he is robbing God of the service due Him. {CCh 101.3} [CCh 101.4] Satan is constantly on the alert to bring the race fully under his control. His strongest hold on man is through the appetite, and this he seeks to stimulate in every possible way. Te 13, 14135 {CCh 101.4} [CCh 101.5] Satan’s Most Destructive Device Satan gathered the fallen angels together to devise some way of doing the most possible evil to the human family. One proposition after another was made, till finally Satan himself thought of a plan. He would take the fruit of the vine, also wheat, and other things given by God as food, and would convert them into poisons, which would ruin man's physical, mental, and moral powers, and so overcome the senses that Satan should have full control. Under the influence of liquor, men would be led to commit crimes of all kinds. Through perverted appetite the world would be made corrupt. By leading men to drink alcohol, Satan would cause them to descend lower and lower in the scale. Te 12136 {CCh 101.5} [CCh 101.6] Satan is taking the world captive through the use of liquor and tobacco, tea and coffee. The God-given mind, which should be kept 102 clear, is perverted by the use of narcotics. The brain is no longer able to distinguish correctly. The enemy has control. Man has sold his reason for that which makes him mad. He has no sense of what is right. Ev 529137 {CCh 101.6} [CCh 102.1] Our Creator has bestowed His bounties upon man with a liberal hand. Were all these gifts of Providence wisely and temperately employed, poverty, sickness, and distress would be well-nigh banished from the earth. But alas, we see on every hand the blessings of God changed to a curse by the wickedness of men. {CCh 102.1} [CCh 102.2] There is no class guilty of greater perversion and abuse of His precious gifts than are those who employ the products of the soil in the manufacture of intoxicating liquors. The nutritive grains, the healthful, delicious fruits, are converted into beverages that pervert the senses and madden the brain. As a result of the use of these poisons, thousands of families are deprived of the comforts and even the necessaries of life, acts of violence and crime are multiplied, and disease and death hurry myriads of victims to a drunkard's grave. GW 385, 386138 {CCh 102.2} [CCh 102.3] Intoxicating Wine The wine that Christ made from water at the marriage feast of Cana was the pure juice of the grape. This is the "new wine found in the cluster," of which the Scripture says, "Destroy it not; for a blessing is in it." Isaiah 65:8. "Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: And whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise." "Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? Who hath redness of eyes? They that tarry long at the wine; They that go to seek mixed wine. Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, When it giveth his color in the cup, When it moveth itself aright. At the last it biteth like a serpent, And stingeth like an adder." —Proverbs 20:1; 23:29-32. {CCh 102.3} [CCh 102.4] Never was traced by human hand a more vivid picture of the debasement and the slavery of the victim of intoxicating drink. Enthralled, degraded, even when awakened to a sense of his misery, he has no power to break from the snare; he "will seek it yet again." Proverbs 23:35. {CCh 102.4} [CCh 102.5] Intoxication is just as really produced by wine, beer, and cider as by stronger drinks. The use of these drinks awakens the taste for those that are stronger, and thus the liquor habit is established. Moderate drinking is the school in which men are educated for the drunkard's career. Yet so insidious is the work of these milder stimulants that the highway to drunkenness is entered before the victim suspects his danger. {CCh 102.5} [CCh 102.6] No argument is needed to show the evil effects of intoxicants on the 103 drunkard. The bleared, besotted wrecks of humanity—souls for whom Christ died, and over whom angels weep—are everywhere. They are a blot on our boasted civilization. They are the shame and curse and peril of every land. MH 330-333139 {CCh 102.6} [CCh 103.1] Liquor Makes Man a Slave When the appetite for spirituous liquor is indulged, the man voluntarily places to his lips the draft which debases below the level of the brute him who was made in the image of God. Reason is paralyzed, the intellect is benumbed, the animal passions are excited, and then follow crimes of the most debasing character. 3T 561140 {CCh 103.1} [CCh 103.2] Under the influence of the drink they take, they ［men］ are led to do things from which, if they had not tasted the maddening drug, they would have shrunk in horror. When they are under the influence of the liquid poison, they are in Satan's control. He rules them, and they co-operate with him. Te 24141 {CCh 103.2} [CCh 103.3] Thus he ［Satan］ works when he entices men to sell the soul for liquor. He takes possession of body, mind, and soul, and it is no longer the man, but Satan, who acts. And the cruelty of Satan is expressed as the drunkard lifts his hand to strike down the wife he has promised to love and cherish as long as life shall last. The deeds of the drunkard are an expression of Satan's violence. MM 114142 {CCh 103.3} [CCh 103.4] Men who use liquor make themselves the slaves of Satan. Satan tempts those who occupy positions of trust on railways, on steamships, those who have charge of the boats or cars laden with people flocking to idolatrous amusement, to indulge perverted appetite, and thus forget God and His laws. {CCh 103.4} [CCh 103.5] They cannot see what they are about. Signals are made incorrectly, and cars collide with each other. Then comes horror, mutilation, and death. This condition of things will become more and more marked. {CCh 103.5} [CCh 103.6] The drunkard's corrupt tendencies are transmitted to his posterity, and through them to the coming generations. Te 34, 38143 {CCh 103.6} [CCh 103.7] Tobacco a Slow Poison Tobacco is a slow, insidious, but most malignant poison. In whatever form it is used, it tells upon the constitution; it is all the more dangerous because its effects are slow and at first hardly perceptible. It excites and then paralyzes the nerves. It weakens and clouds the brain. Often it affects the nerves in a more powerful manner than does intoxicating drink. It is more subtle, and its effects are difficult to eradicate from the system. Its use excites a thirst for strong drink and in many cases lays the foundation for the liquor habit. {CCh 103.7} [CCh 103.8] The use of tobacco is inconvenient, expensive, uncleanly, defiling to the user, and offensive to others. {CCh 103.8} [CCh 103.9] Among children and youth the use of tobacco is working untold 104 harm. Boys begin the use of tobacco at a very early age. The habit thus formed when body and mind are especially susceptible to its effects, undermines the physical strength, dwarfs the body, stupefies the mind, and corrupts the morals. MH 327, 329144 {CCh 103.9} [CCh 104.1] There is no natural appetite for tobacco in nature unless inherited. {CCh 104.1} [CCh 104.2] By the use of tea and coffee an appetite is formed for tobacco. {CCh 104.2} [CCh 104.3] Food prepared with condiments and spices inflames the stomach, corrupts the blood, and paves the way to stronger stimulants. Te 56, 57145 {CCh 104.3} [CCh 104.4] The highly seasoned flesh meats and the tea and coffee, which some mothers encourage their children to use, prepare the way for them to crave stronger stimulants, as tobacco. The use of tobacco encourages the appetite for liquor. 3T 488, 489146 {CCh 104.4} [CCh 104.5] Tobacco Smoke Harmful to Women and Children Women and children suffer from having to breathe the atmosphere that has been polluted by the pipe, the cigar, or the foul breath of the tobacco user. Those who live in this atmosphere will always be ailing. 5T 440147 {CCh 104.5} [CCh 104.6] By inhaling the poisonous tobacco effluvia, which is thrown from the lungs and pores of the skin, the system of the infant is filled with poison. While it acts upon some infants as a slow poison, and affects the brain, heart, liver, and lungs, and they waste away and fade gradually, upon others, it has a more direct influence, causing spasms, fits, paralysis, and sudden death. Every exhalation of the lungs of the tobacco slave ［user］ poisons the air about him. Te 58, 59148 {CCh 104.6} [CCh 104.7] The unhealthful practices of past generations affect the children and youth of today. Mental inability, physical weakness, disordered nerves, and unnatural cravings are transmitted as a legacy from parents to children. And the same practices, continued by the children, are increasing and perpetuating the evil results. MH 328149 {CCh 104.7} [CCh 104.8] Tea and Coffee do Not Nourish the System Tea acts as a stimulant and, to a certain extent, produces intoxication. The action of coffee and many other popular drinks is similar. The first effect is exhilarating. The nerves of the stomach are excited; these convey irritation to the brain, and this in turn is aroused to impart increased action to the heart and short-lived energy to the entire system. Fatigue is forgotten; the strength seems to be increased. The intellect is aroused, the imagination becomes more vivid. {CCh 104.8} [CCh 104.9] Because of these results, many suppose that their tea or coffee is doing them great good. But this is a mistake. Tea and coffee do not nourish the system. Their effect is produced before there has been time for digestion and assimilation, and what seems to be strength is only nervous excitement. When the influence of the stimulant is gone, the unnatural force abates, and the result is a corresponding degree of languor and debility. {CCh 104.9} [CCh 105.1] 105 The continued use of these nerve irritants is followed by headache, wakefulness, palpitation of the heart, indigestion, trembling, and many other evils; for they wear away the life forces. Tired nerves need rest and quiet instead of stimulation and overwork. MH 326, 327150 Some have backslidden and tampered with tea and coffee. Those who break the laws of health will become blinded in their minds and break the law of God. Te 80151 {CCh 105.1} [CCh 105.2] The Use of Drugs A practice that is laying the foundation of a vast amount of disease and of even more serious evils is the free use of poisonous drugs. When attacked by disease, many will not take the trouble to search out the cause of their illness. Their chief anxiety is to rid themselves of pain and inconvenience. {CCh 105.2} [CCh 105.3] By the use of poisonous drugs, many bring upon themselves lifelong illness, and many lives are lost that might be saved by the use of natural methods of healing. The poisons contained in many so-called remedies create habits and appetites that mean ruin to both soul and body. Many of the popular nostrums called patent medicines, and even some of the drugs dispensed by physicians, act a part in laying the foundation of the liquor habit, the opium habit, the morphine habit, that are so terrible a curse to society. MH 126, 127152 {CCh 105.3} [CCh 105.4] Drug medication, as it is generally practiced, is a curse. Educate away from drugs. Use them less and less, and depend more upon hygienic agencies; then nature will respond to God's physicians—pure air, pure water, proper exercise, a clear conscience. Those who persist in the use of tea, coffee, and flesh meats will feel the need of drugs, but many might recover without one grain of medicine if they would obey the laws of health. Drugs need seldom be used. CH 261153 {CCh 105.4} [CCh 105.5] Seventh-day Adventists—An Example to the World As a people we profess to be reformers, to be light bearers in the world, to be faithful sentinels for God, guarding every avenue whereby Satan could come in with his temptations to pervert the appetite. Our example and influence must be a power on the side of reform. We must abstain from any practice which will blunt the conscience or encourage temptation. We must open no door that will give Satan access to the mind of one human being formed in the image of God. 5T 360154 {CCh 105.5} [CCh 105.6] The only safe course is to touch not, taste not, handle not, tea, coffee, wines, tobacco, opium, and alcoholic drinks. The necessity for the men of this generation to call to their aid the power of the will, strengthened by the grace of God, in order to withstand the temptations of Satan and resist the least indulgence of perverted appetite is twice as great as it was several generations ago. But the present generation have less power of self-control than had those who lived then. Those who have indulged the appetite for these stimulants have transmitted their depraved appetites 106 and passions to their children, and greater moral power is required to resist intemperance in all its forms. The only perfectly safe course to pursue is to stand firmly on the side of temperance and not venture in the path of danger. {CCh 105.6} [CCh 106.1] If the moral sensibilities of Christians were aroused upon the subject of temperance in all things, they could, by their example, commencing at their tables, help those who are weak in self-control, who are almost powerless to resist the cravings of appetite. If we could realize that the habits we form in this life will affect our eternal interests, that our eternal destiny depends upon strictly temperate habits, we would work to the point of strict temperance in eating and drinking. By our example and personal effort we may be the means of saving many souls from the degradation of intemperance, crime, and death. Our sisters can do much in the great work for the salvation of others by spreading their tables with only healthful, nourishing food. They may employ their precious time in educating the tastes and appetites of their children, in forming habits of temperance in all things, and in encouraging self-denial and benevolence for the good of others. 3T 488, 489155 {CCh 106.1} [CCh 107.1] Chapter 17 —Purity of Heart and Life God has given you a habitation to care for and preserve in the best condition for His service and glory. Your bodies are not your own. "What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's." "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are." 2T 352, 353156 {CCh 107.1} [CCh 107.2] In this age of corruption when our adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about seeking whom he may devour, I see the necessity of lifting my voice in warning. "Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into temptation." There are many who possess brilliant talents who wickedly devote them to the service of Satan. What warning can I give to a people who profess to have come out from the world and to have left its works of darkness? to a people whom God has made the repositories of His law, but who, like the pretentious fig tree, flaunt their apparently flourishing branches in the very face of the Almighty, yet bear no fruit to the glory of God? Many of them cherish impure thoughts, unholy imaginations, unsanctified desires, and base passions. God hates the fruit borne upon such a tree. Angels, pure and holy, look upon the course of such with abhorrence, while Satan exults. Oh, that men and women would consider what is to be gained by transgressing God's law! Under any and every circumstance, transgression is a dishonor to God and a curse to man. We must regard it thus, however fair its guise, and by whomsoever committed. 5T 146157 {CCh 107.2} [CCh 107.3] The pure in heart shall see God. Every impure thought defiles the soul, impairs the moral sense, and tends to obliterate the impressions of the Holy Spirit. It dims the spiritual vision, so that men cannot behold God. The Lord may and does forgive the repenting sinner; but though forgiven, the soul is marred. All impurity of speech or of thought must be shunned by him who would have clear discernment of spiritual truth. DA 302158 Some will acknowledge the evil of sinful indulgences, yet will excuse themselves by saying that they cannot overcome their passions. This is a terrible admission for any person to make who names Christ. "Let everyone that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity." 2 Timothy 2:19. Why is this weakness? It is because the animal propensities have been strengthened by exercise until they have gained the ascendancy over the higher powers. Men and women lack principle. They are dying spiritually because they have so long pampered their 108 natural appetites that their power of self-government seems gone. The lower passions of their nature have taken the reins, and that which should be the governing power has become the servant of corrupt passion. The soul is held in lowest bondage. Sensuality has quenched the desire for holiness and withered spiritual prosperity. 2T 348159 {CCh 107.3} [CCh 108.1] Defile Not the Temple of God It is the special work of Satan in these last days to take possession of the minds of youth, to corrupt the thoughts and inflame the passions; for he knows that by so doing he can lead to impure actions, and thus all the noble faculties of the mind will become debased, and he can control them to suit his own purposes. CG 440160 {CCh 108.1} [CCh 108.2] My soul mourns for the youth who are forming characters in this degenerate age. I tremble for their parents also; for I have been shown that as a general thing they do not understand their obligations to train up their children in the way they should go. Custom and fashion are consulted, and the children soon learn to be swayed by these and are corrupted; while their indulgent parents are themselves benumbed and asleep to their danger. But very few of the youth are free from corrupt habits. They are excused from physical exercise to a great degree for fear they will overwork. The parents bear burdens themselves which their children should bear. {CCh 108.2} [CCh 108.3] Overwork is bad, but the result of indolence is more to be dreaded. Idleness leads to the indulgence of corrupt habits. Industry does not weary and exhaust one-fifth part as much as the pernicious habit of self-abuse. If simple, well-regulated labor exhausts your children, be assured, parents, there is something, aside from their labor, which is enervating their systems and producing a sense of constant weariness. Give your children physical labor, which will call into exercise the nerves and muscles. The weariness attending such labor will lessen their inclination to indulge in vicious habits. 2T 348, 349161 {CCh 108.3} [CCh 108.4] Avoid reading and seeing things which will suggest impure thoughts. Cultivate the moral and intellectual powers. 2T 410162 {CCh 108.4} [CCh 108.5] Not only does God require you to control your thoughts, but also your passions and affections. Your salvation depends upon your governing yourself in these things. Passion and affection are powerful agents. If misapplied, if set in operation through wrong motives, if misplaced, they are powerful to accomplish your ruin and leave you a miserable wreck, without God and without hope. {CCh 108.5} [CCh 108.6] If you indulge in vain imaginations, permitting your mind to dwell upon impure subjects, you are, in a degree, as guilty before God as if your thoughts were carried into action. All that prevents the action is the lack of opportunity. Day and night dreaming and castle-building are bad and exceedingly dangerous habits. When once established, it is next to impossible to break up such habits, and direct the thoughts to pure, holy, elevated themes. You will have to become a faithful sentinel over 109 your eyes, ears, and all your senses if you would control your mind and prevent vain and corrupt thoughts from staining your soul. The power of grace alone can accomplish this most desirable work. 2T 561163 {CCh 108.6} [CCh 109.1] Excessive study, by increasing the flow of blood to the brain, creates morbid excitability that tends to lessen the power of self-control, and too often gives sway to impulse or caprice. Thus the door is opened to impurity. The misuse or nonuse of the physical powers is largely responsible for the tide of corruption that is overspreading the world. "Pride, fullness of bread, and abundance of idleness," are as deadly foes to human progress in this generation as when they led to the destruction of Sodom. Ed 209164 {CCh 109.1} [CCh 109.2] Indulgence of the baser passions will lead very many to shut their eyes to the light, for they fear that they will see sins which they are unwilling to forsake. All may see if they will. If they choose darkness rather than light, their criminality will be none the less. 2T 352165 {CCh 109.2} [CCh 109.3] Death before dishonor or the transgression of God's law should be the motto of every Christian. As a people professing to be reformers, treasuring the most solemn, purifying truths of God's word, we must elevate the standard far higher than it is at the present time. Sin and sinners in the church must be promptly dealt with, that others may not be contaminated. Truth and purity require that we make more thorough work to cleanse the camp from Achans. Let those in responsible positions not suffer sin in a brother. Show him that he must either put away his sins or be separated from the church. 5T 147166 {CCh 109.3} [CCh 109.4] The youth may have principles so firm that the most powerful temptations of Satan will not draw them away from their allegiance. Samuel was a child surrounded by the most corrupting influences. He saw and heard things that grieved his soul. The sons of Eli, who ministered in holy office, were controlled by Satan. These men polluted the whole atmosphere which surrounded them. Men and women were daily fascinated with sin and wrong, yet Samuel walked untainted. His robes of character were spotless. He did not fellowship, or have the least delight in, the sins which filled all Israel with fearful reports. Samuel loved God; he kept his soul in such close connection with heaven that an angel was sent to talk with him in reference to the sins of Eli's sons, which were corrupting Israel. 3T 472-474167 {CCh 109.4} [CCh 109.5] The Result of Moral Pollution Some who make a high profession do not understand the sin of self-abuse and its sure results. Long-established habit has blinded their understanding. They do not realize the exceeding sinfulness of this degrading sin, which is enervating the system and destroying their brain nerve power. Moral principle is exceedingly weak when it conflicts with established habit. Solemn messages from heaven cannot forcibly impress the heart that is not fortified against the indulgence of this degrading vice. The sensitive nerves of the brain have lost their healthy 110 tone by morbid excitation to gratify an unnatural desire for sensual indulgence. 2T 347168 {CCh 109.5} [CCh 110.1] Moral pollution has done more than every other evil to cause the race to degenerate. It is practiced to an alarming extent and brings on disease of almost every description. {CCh 110.1} [CCh 110.2] Parents do not generally suspect that their children understand anything about this vice. In very many cases the parents are the real sinners. They have abused their marriage privileges, and by indulgence have strengthened their animal passions. And as these have strengthened, the moral and intellectual faculties have become weak. The spiritual has been overborne by the brutish. Children are born with the animal propensities largely developed, the parents' own stamp of character having been given to them. Children born to these parents will almost invariably take naturally to the disgusting habits of secret vice. The sins of the parents will be visited upon their children because the parents have given them the stamp of their own lustful propensities. {CCh 110.2} [CCh 110.3] Those who have become fully established in this soul-and-body-destroying vice can seldom rest until their burden of secret evil is imparted to those with whom they associate. Curiosity is at once aroused, and the knowledge of vice is passed from youth to youth, from child to child, until there is scarcely one to be found ignorant of the practice of this degrading sin. 2T 391, 392169 {CCh 110.3} [CCh 110.4] The practice of secret habits surely destroys the vital forces of the system. All unnecessary vital action will be followed by corresponding depression. Among the young the vital capital, the brain, is so severely taxed at an early age that there is a deficiency and great exhaustion, which leaves the system exposed to disease of various kinds. {CCh 110.4} [CCh 110.5] If the practice is continued from the ages of fifteen and upward, nature will protest against the abuse she has suffered, and continues to suffer, and will make them pay the penalty for the transgression of her laws, especially from the ages of thirty to forty-five, by numerous pains in the system and various diseases, such as affection of the liver and lungs, neuralgia, rheumatism, affection of the spine, diseased kidneys, and cancerous humors. Some of nature's fine machinery gives way, leaving a heavier task for the remaining to perform, which disorders nature's fine arrangement; and there is often a sudden breaking down of the constitution, and death is the result. {CCh 110.5} [CCh 110.6] To take one's life instantly is no greater sin in the sight of heaven than to destroy it gradually, but surely. Persons who bring upon themselves sure decay, by wrongdoing, will suffer the penalty here, and without a thorough repentance, will not be admitted into heaven hereafter any sooner than the one who destroys life instantly. The will of God establishes the connection between cause and its effects. {CCh 110.6} [CCh 110.7] We do not include all the youth who are feeble as guilty of wrong habits. There are those who are pure-minded and conscientious who are sufferers from different causes over which they have no control. {CCh 110.7} [CCh 111.1] 111 Secret vice is the destroyer of high resolve, earnest endeavor, and strength of will to form a good religious character. All who have any true sense of what is embraced in being a Christian know that the followers of Christ are under obligation as His disciples to bring all their passions, their physical powers and mental faculties into perfect subordination to His will. Those who are controlled by their passions cannot be followers of Christ. They are too much devoted to the service of their master, the originator of every evil, to leave their corrupt habits and choose the service of Christ. CG 444-446170 {CCh 111.1} [CCh 111.2] When the young adopt vile practices while the spirit is tender, they will never obtain force to fully and correctly develop physical, intellectual, and moral character. 2T 351171 {CCh 111.2} [CCh 111.3] The only hope for those who practice vile habits is to forever leave them if they place any value upon health here and salvation hereafter. When these habits have been indulged in for quite a length of time, it requires a determined effort to resist temptation and refuse the corrupt indulgence. CG 464172 {CCh 111.3} [CCh 111.4] The only sure safety for our children against every vicious practice is to seek to be admitted into the fold of Christ and to be taken under the watch care of the faithful and true Shepherd. He will save them from every evil, shield them from all dangers, if they will heed His voice. He says, "My sheep hear my voice, . . . and they follow me." In Christ they will find pasture, obtain strength and hope, and will not be troubled with restless longings for something to divert the mind and satisfy the heart. They have found the pearl of great price, and the mind is at peaceful rest. Their pleasures are of a pure, peaceful, elevated, heavenly character. They leave no painful reflections, no remorse. Such pleasures do not impair health or prostrate the mind, but are of a healthful nature. CG 467173 {CCh 111.4} [CCh 112.1] Chapter 18 —The Choosing of a Husband or Wife Marriage is something that will influence and affect your life both in this world and in the world to come. A sincere Christian will not advance his plans in this direction without the knowledge that God approves his course. He will not want to choose for himself, but will feel that God must choose for him. We are not to please ourselves, for Christ pleased not Himself. I would not be understood to mean that anyone is to marry one whom he does not love. This would be sin. But fancy and the emotional nature must not be allowed to lead on to ruin. God requires the whole heart, the supreme affections. {CCh 112.1} [CCh 112.2] Those who are contemplating marriage should consider what will be the character and influence of the home they are founding. As they become parents, a sacred trust is committed to them. Upon them depends in a great measure the well-being of their children in this world, and their happiness in the world to come. To a great extent they determine both the physical and the moral stamp that the little ones receive. And upon the character of the home depends the condition of society; the weight of each family's influence will tell in the upward or the downward scale. {CCh 112.2} [CCh 112.3] Great care should be taken by Christian youth in the formation of friendships and in the choice of companions. Take heed, lest what you now think to be pure gold turns out to be base metal. Worldly associations tend to place obstructions in the way of your service to God, and many souls are ruined by unhappy unions, either business or matrimonial, with those who can never elevate or ennoble. {CCh 112.3} [CCh 112.4] Weigh every sentiment, and watch every development of character in the one with whom you think to link your life destiny. The step you are about to take is one of the most important in your life, and should not be taken hastily. While you may love, do not love blindly. {CCh 112.4} [CCh 112.5] Examine carefully to see if your married life would be happy or inharmonious and wretched. Let the questions be raised, Will this union help me heavenward? Will it increase my love for God? And will it enlarge my sphere of usefulness in this life? If these reflections present no drawback, then in the fear of God move forward. {CCh 112.5} [CCh 112.6] The choice of a life companion should be such as best to secure physical, mental, and spiritual well-being for parents and for their children—such as will enable both parents and children to bless their fellow men and to honor their Creator. {CCh 112.6} [CCh 113.1] Qualities to Be Sought in a Prospective Wife Let a young man seek one to stand by his side who is fitted to bear her share of life's burdens, one whose influence will ennoble and refine him, and who will make him happy in her love. {CCh 113.1} [CCh 113.2] "A prudent wife is from the Lord." "The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her. She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life." "She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness. She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness. Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her," saying, "Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all." He who gains such a wife "findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favor of the Lord." {CCh 113.2} [CCh 113.3] Here are things which should be considered: Will the one you marry bring happiness to your home? Is ［she］ an economist, or will she, if married, not only use all her own earnings, but all of yours to gratify a vanity, a love of appearance? Are her principles correct in this direction? Has she anything now to depend upon?. . . I know that to the mind of a man infatuated with love and thoughts of marriage these questions will be brushed away as though they were of no consequence. But these things should be duly considered, for they have a bearing upon your future life. {CCh 113.3} [CCh 113.4] In your choice of a wife study her character. Will she be one who will be patient and painstaking? Or will she cease to care for your mother and father at the very time when they need a strong son to lean upon? And will she withdraw him from their society to carry out her plans and to suit her own pleasure, and leave the father and mother who, instead of gaining an affectionate daughter, will have lost a son? {CCh 113.4} [CCh 113.5] Qualities to Be Sought in a Prospective Husband Before giving her hand in marriage, every woman should inquire whether he with whom she is about to unite her destiny is worthy. What has been his past record? Is his life pure? Is the love which he expresses of a noble, elevated character, or is it a mere emotional fondness? Has he the traits of character that will make her happy? Can she find true peace and joy in his affection? Will she be allowed to preserve her individuality, or must her judgment and conscience be surrendered to the control of her husband? . . . Can she honor the Saviour's claims as supreme? Will body and soul, thoughts and purposes, be preserved pure and holy? These questions have a vital bearing upon the well-being of every woman who enters the marriage relation. {CCh 113.5} [CCh 113.6] Let the woman who desires a peaceful, happy union, who would escape future misery and sorrow, inquire before she yields her affections, Has my lover a mother? What is the stamp of her character? Does he recognize his obligations to her? Is he mindful of her wishes and 114 happiness? If he does not respect the honor his mother, will he manifest respect and love, kindness and attention, toward his wife? When the novelty of marriage is over, will he love me still? Will he be patient with my mistakes, or will he be critical, overbearing, and dictatorial? True affection will overlook many mistakes; love will not discern them. {CCh 113.6} [CCh 114.1] Let a young woman accept as a life companion only one who possesses pure, manly traits of character, one who is diligent, aspiring, and honest, one who loves and fears God. {CCh 114.1} [CCh 114.2] Shun those who are irreverent. Shun one who is a lover of idleness; shun the one who is a scoffer of hallowed things. Avoid the society of one who uses profane language, or is addicted to the use of even one glass of liquor. Listen not to the proposals of a man who has no realization of his responsibility to God. The pure truth which sanctifies the soul will give you courage to cut yourself loose from the most pleasing acquaintance whom you know does not love and fear God, and knows nothing of the principles of true righteousness. We may always bear with a friend's infirmities and with his ignorance, but never with his vices. {CCh 114.2} [CCh 114.3] Love Is a Precious Gift From Jesus Love is a precious gift, which we receive from Jesus. Pure and holy affection is not a feeling, but a principle. Those who are actuated by true love are neither unreasonable nor blind. {CCh 114.3} [CCh 114.4] There is but little real, genuine, devoted, pure love. This precious article is very rare. Passion is termed love. {CCh 114.4} [CCh 114.5] True love is a high and holy principle, altogether different in character from that love which is awakened by impulse, and which suddenly dies when severely tested. {CCh 114.5} [CCh 114.6] Love is a plant of heavenly growth, and it must be fostered and nourished. Affectionate hearts, truthful, loving words, will make happy families and exert an elevating influence upon all who come within the sphere of their influence. {CCh 114.6} [CCh 114.7] While pure love will take God into all its plans, and will be in perfect harmony with the Spirit of God, passion will be headstrong, rash, unreasonable, defiant of all restraint, and will make the object of its choice an idol. In all the deportment of one who possesses true love, the grace of God will be shown. Modesty, simplicity, sincerity, morality, and religion will characterize every step toward an alliance in marriage. Those who are thus controlled will not be absorbed in each other's society, at a loss of interest in the prayer meeting and the religious service. Their fervor for the truth will not die on account of the neglect of the opportunities and privileges that God has graciously given to them. {CCh 114.7} [CCh 114.8] That love which has no better foundation than mere sensual gratification will be headstrong, blind, and uncontrollable. Honor, truth, and every noble, elevated power of the mind are brought under the slavery of passions. The man who is bound in the chains of this infatuation is 115 too often deaf to the voice of reason and conscience; neither argument nor entreaty can lead him to see the folly of his course. {CCh 114.8} [CCh 115.1] True love is not a strong, fiery, impetuous passion. On the contrary, it is calm and deep in its nature. It looks beyond mere externals, and is attracted by qualities alone. It is wise and discriminating, and its devotion is real and abiding. {CCh 115.1} [CCh 115.2] Love, lifted out of the realm of passion and impulse, becomes spiritualized, and is revealed in words and acts. A Christian must have a sanctified tenderness and love in which there is no impatience of fretfulness; the rude, harsh manners must be softened by the grace of Christ. {CCh 115.2} [CCh 115.3] Prayer and Bible Study Necessary to Make the Right Decision Instituted by God, marriage is a sacred ordinance and should never be entered upon in a spirit of selfishness. Those who contemplate this step should solemnly and prayerfully consider its importance and seek divine counsel that they may know whether they are pursuing a course in harmony with the will of God. The instruction given in God's word on this point should be carefully considered. Heaven looks with pleasure upon a marriage formed with an earnest desire to conform to the directions given in the Scripture. If there is any subject that should be considered with calm reason and unimpassioned judgment, it is the subject of marriage. If ever the Bible is needed as a counselor, it is before taking a step that binds persons together for life. But the prevailing sentiment is that in this matter the feelings are to be the guide, and in too many cases lovesick sentimentalism takes the helm and guides to certain ruin. It is here that the youth show less intelligence than on any other subject; it is here that they refuse to be reasoned with. The question of marriage seems to have a bewitching power over them. They do not submit themselves to God. Their senses are enchained, and they move forward in secretiveness, as if fearful that their plans would be interfered with by someone. {CCh 115.3} [CCh 115.4] Many are sailing in a dangerous harbor. They need a pilot; but they scorn to accept the much-needed help, feeling that they are competent to guide their own bark, and not realizing that it is about to strike a hidden rock that may cause them to make shipwreck of faith and happiness…. Unless they are diligent students of that Word ［the Bible］, they will make grave mistakes which will mar their happiness and that of others, both for the present and the future life. {CCh 115.4} [CCh 115.5] If men and women are in the habit of praying twice a day before they contemplate marriage, they should pray four times a day when such a step is anticipated. Marriage is something that will influence and affect your life, both in this world and in the world to come…. {CCh 115.5} [CCh 115.6] The majority of the marriages of our time and the way in which they are conducted make them one of the signs of the last days. Men and women are so persistent, so headstrong, that God is left out of the 116 question. Religion is laid aside, as if it had no part to act in this solemn and important matter. {CCh 115.6} [CCh 116.1] The Counsel of God-fearing Parents When so much misery results from marriage, why will not the youth be wise? Why will they continue to feel that they do not need the counsel of older and more experienced persons? In business, men and women manifest great caution. Before engaging in any important enterprise, they prepare themselves for their work. Time, money, and much careful study are devoted to the subject, lest they shall make a failure in their undertaking. {CCh 116.1} [CCh 116.2] How much greater caution should be exercised in entering the marriage relation—a relation which affects future generations and the future life? Instead of this, it is often entered upon with jest and levity, impulse and passion, blindness and lack of calm consideration. The only explanation of this is that Satan loves to see misery and ruin in the world, and he weaves this net to entangle souls. He rejoices to have these inconsiderate persons lose their enjoyment of this world and their home in the world to come. {CCh 116.2} [CCh 116.3] Shall children consult only their own desires and inclinations irrespective of the advice and judgment of their parents? Some seem never to bestow a thought upon their parents' wishes or preferences, nor to regard their matured judgment. Selfishness has closed the door of their hearts to filial affection. The minds of the young need to be aroused in regard to this matter. The fifth commandment is the only commandment to which is annexed a promise, but it is held lightly and is even positively ignored by the lover's claim. Slighting a mother's love, dishonoring a father's care are sins that stand registered against many youth. {CCh 116.3} [CCh 116.4] One of the greatest errors connected with this subject is that the young and inexperienced must not have their affections disturbed, that there must be no interference in their love experience. If there ever was a subject that needed to be viewed from every standpoint, it is this. The aid of the experience of others and a calm, careful weighing of the matter on both sides are positively essential. It is a subject that is treated altogether too lightly by the great majority of people. Take God and your God-fearing parents into your counsel, young friends. Pray over the matter. {CCh 116.4} [CCh 116.5] "Should parents," you ask, "select a companion without regard to the mind or feelings of son or daughter?" I put the question to you as it should be: Should a son or daughter select a companion without first consulting the parents, when such a step must materially affect the happiness of parents if they have any affection for their children? And should that child, notwithstanding the counsel and entreaties of his parents, persist in following his own course? I answer decidedly: No; not if he never marries. The fifth commandment forbids such a course. "Honor thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the 117 land which the Lord thy God giveth thee." Here is a commandment with a promise which the Lord will surely fulfill to those who obey. Wise parents will never select companions for their children without respect to their wishes. {CCh 116.5} [CCh 117.1] Fathers and mothers should feel that a duty devolves upon them to guide the affections of the youth, that they may be placed upon those who will be suitable companions. They should feel it a duty, by their own teaching and example, with the assisting grace of God, to so mold the character of the children from their earliest years that they will be pure and noble and will be attracted to the good and true. Like attracts like; like appreciates like. Let the love for truth and purity and goodness be early implanted in the soul, and the youth will seek the society of those who possess these characteristics. {CCh 117.1} [CCh 117.2] Cautions to Those Contemplating Marriage The youth trust altogether too much to impulse. They should not give themselves away too easily, nor be captivated too readily by the winning exterior of the lover. Courtship as carried on in this age is a scheme of deception and hypocrisy, with which the enemy of souls has far more to do than the Lord. Good common sense is needed here if anywhere; but the fact is, it has little to do in the matter. {CCh 117.2} [CCh 117.3] Imagination, lovesick sentimentalism, should be guarded against as would be the leprosy. Very many of the young men and women in this age of the world are lacking in virtue; therefore great caution is needed. {CCh 117.3} [CCh 117.4] There is much of this low sentimentalism mingled with the religious experience of the young in this age of the world. My sister, God requires you to be transformed. Elevate your affections, I implore you. Devote your mental and physical powers to the service of your Redeemer, who has bought you. Sanctify your thoughts and feelings that all your works may be wrought in God. {CCh 117.4} [CCh 117.5] Satan's angels are keeping watch with those who devote a large share of the night to courting. Could they have their eyes opened, they would see an angel making a record of their words and acts. The laws of health and modesty are violated. It would be more appropriate to let some of the hours of courtship before marriage run through the married life. But as a general thing, marriage ends all the devotion manifested during the days of courtship. {CCh 117.5} [CCh 117.6] Satan knows just what elements he has to deal with, and he displays his infernal wisdom in various devices to entrap souls to their ruin. He watches every step that is taken, and makes many suggestions, and often these suggestions are followed rather than the counsel of God's word. This finely woven, dangerous net is skillfully prepared to entangle the young and unwary. It may often be disguised under a covering of light; but those who become its victims pierce themselves through 118 with many sorrows. As the result, we see wrecks of humanity everywhere. {CCh 117.6} [CCh 118.1] Improper Conduct To trifle with hearts is a crime of no small magnitude in the sight of a holy God. And yet some will show preference for young ladies and call out their affections, and then go their way and forget all about the words they have spoken and their effect. A new face attracts them, and they repeat the same words, devote to another the same attentions. {CCh 118.1} [CCh 118.2] This disposition will reveal itself in the married life. The marriage relation does not always make the fickle mind firm, the wavering steadfast and true to principle. They tire of constancy, and unholy thoughts will manifest themselves in unholy actions. How essential it is, then, that the youth so gird up the loins of their mind and guard their conduct that Satan cannot beguile them from the path of uprightness. {CCh 118.2} [CCh 118.3] A young man who enjoys the society and wins the friendship of a young lady unbeknown to her parents does not act a noble Christian part toward her or toward her parents. Through secret communications and meetings he may gain an influence over her mind, but in so doing he fails to manifest that nobility and integrity of soul which every child of God will possess. In order to accomplish their ends, they act a part that is not frank and open and according to the Bible standard, and prove themselves untrue to those who love them and try to be faithful guardians over them. Marriages contracted under such influences are not according to the word of God. He who would lead a daughter away from duty, who would confuse her ideas of God's plain and positive commands to obey and honor her parents, is not one who would be true to the marriage obligations. {CCh 118.3} [CCh 118.4] "Thou shalt not steal" was written by the finger of God upon the tables of stone, yet how much underhand stealing of affections is practiced and excused! A deceptive courtship is maintained, private communications are kept up, until the affections of one who is inexperienced, and knows not whereunto these things may grow, are in a measure withdrawn from her parents and placed upon him who shows by the very course he pursues that he is unworthy of her love. The Bible condemns every species of dishonesty. {CCh 118.4} [CCh 118.5] Professed Christians, whose lives are marked with integrity, and who seem sensible upon every other subject, make fearful mistakes here. They manifest a set, determined will that reason cannot change. They become so fascinated with human feelings and impulses that they have no desire to search the Bible and come into close relationship with God. When once the barriers of female modesty are removed, the basest licentiousness does not appear exceeding sinful. Alas, what terrible results of woman's influence for evil may be witnessed in the world today! Through the allurements of "strange 119 women," thousands are incarcerated in prison cells, many take their own lives, and many cut short the lives of others. How true the words of Inspiration, "Her feet go down to death; her steps take hold on hell.” {CCh 118.5} [CCh 119.1] Beacons of warning are placed on every side in the pathway of life to prevent men from approaching the dangerous, forbidden ground; but, notwithstanding this, multitudes choose the fatal path, contrary to the dictates of reason, regardless of God's law, and in defiance of His vengeance. {CCh 119.1} [CCh 119.2] Those who would preserve physical health, a vigorous intellect, and sound morals must "flee . . . youthful lusts." Those who will put forth zealous and decided efforts to check the wickedness that lifts its bold, presumptuous head in our midst are hated and maligned by all wrongdoers, but they will be honored and recompensed of God. AH 43-57, 70-75174 {CCh 119.2} [CCh 120.1] Chapter 19 —Marry Not an Unbeliever There is in the Christian world an astonishing, alarming indifference to the teaching of God's word in regard to the marriage of Christians with unbelievers. Many who profess to love and fear God choose to follow the bent of their own minds rather than take counsel of Infinite Wisdom. In a matter which vitally concerns the happiness and well-being of both parties for this world and the next, reason, judgment, and the fear of God are set aside; and blind impulse, stubborn determination are allowed to control. {CCh 120.1} [CCh 120.2] Men and women who are otherwise sensible and conscientious close their ears to counsel; they are deaf to the appeals and entreaties of friends and kindred and of the servants of God. The expression of a caution or warning is regarded as impertinent meddling, and the friend who is faithful enough to utter a remonstrance is treated as an enemy. All this is as Satan would have it. He weaves his spell about the soul, and it becomes bewitched, infatuated. Reason lets fall the reins of self-control upon the neck of lust; unsanctified passion bears sway, until, too late, the victim awakens to a life of misery and bondage. This is not a picture drawn by the imagination, but a recital of facts. God's sanction is not given to unions which He has expressly forbidden. {CCh 120.2} [CCh 120.3] The Lord commanded ancient Israel not to intermarry with the idolatrous nations around them: "Neither shalt thou make marriages with them; thy daughter thou shalt not give unto his son, nor his daughter shalt thou take unto thy son." The reason is given. Infinite Wisdom, foreseeing the result of such unions, declares: "For they will turn away thy son from following Me, that they may serve other gods: so will the anger of the Lord be kindled against you, and destroy thee suddenly." "For thou art an holy people unto the Lord thy God: the Lord thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto Himself, above all people that are upon the face of the earth." In the New Testament are similar prohibitions concerning the marriage of Christians with the ungodly. The Apostle Paul, in his first letter to the Corinthians, declares: "The wife is bound by the law as long as her husband liveth; but if her husband be dead, she is at liberty to be married to whom she will; only in the Lord." Again, in his second epistle, he writes: "Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? And what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? Or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what 121 agreement hath the temple of God with idols? For ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty." {CCh 120.3} [CCh 121.1] Never should God's people venture upon forbidden ground. Marriage between believers and unbelievers is forbidden by God. But too often the unconverted heart follows its own desires, and marriages unsanctioned by God are formed. Because of this many men and women are without hope and without God in the world. Their noble aspirations are dead; by a chain of circumstances they are held in Satan's net. Those who are ruled by passion and impulse will have a bitter harvest to reap in this life, and their course may result in the loss of their souls. {CCh 121.1} [CCh 121.2] Those who profess the truth trample on the will of God in marrying unbelievers; they lose His favor and make bitter work for repentance. The unbelieving may possess an excellent moral character, but the fact that he or she has not answered to the claims of God and has neglected so great salvation is sufficient reason why such a union should not be consummated. The character of the unbelieving may be similar to that of the young man to whom Jesus addressed the words, "One thing thou lackest"; that was the one thing needful. {CCh 121.2} [CCh 121.3] Can Two Walk Together Except They Be Agreed? The plea is sometimes made that the unbeliever is favorable to religion and is all that could be desired in a companion except in one thing—he is not a Christian. Although the better judgment of the believer may suggest the impropriety of a union for life with an unbeliever, yet, in nine cases out of ten, inclination triumphs. Spiritual declension commences the moment the vow is made at the altar; religious fervor is dampened, and one stronghold after another is broken down, until both stand side by side under the black banner of Satan. Even in the festivities of the wedding the spirit of the world triumphs against conscience, faith, and truth. In the new home the hour of prayer is not respected. The bride and bridegroom have chosen each other and dismissed Jesus. {CCh 121.3} [CCh 121.4] At first the unbelieving one may make no show of opposition in the new relation; but when the subject of Bible truth is presented for attention and consideration, the feeling at once arises: "You married me, knowing that I was what I am; I do not wish to be disturbed. From henceforth let it be understood that conversation upon your peculiar views is to be interdicted." If the believer should manifest any special earnestness in regard to his faith, it might seem like unkindness toward the one who has no interest in the Christian experience. {CCh 121.4} [CCh 121.5] The believing one reasons that in his new relation he must concede somewhat to the companion of his choice. Social, worldly amusements 122 are patronized. At first there is great reluctance of feeling in doing this, but the interest in the truth becomes less and less, and faith is exchanged for doubt and unbelief. No one would have suspected that the once firm, conscientious believer and devoted follower of Christ could ever become the doubting, vacillating person that he now is. Oh, the change wrought by that unwise marriage! {CCh 121.5} [CCh 122.1] It is a dangerous thing to form a worldly alliance. Satan well knows that the hour that witnesses the marriage of many young men and women closes the history of their religious experience and usefulness. They are lost to Christ. They may for a time make an effort to live a Christian life, but all their strivings are made against a steady influence in the opposite direction. Once it was a privilege and joy to them to speak of their faith and hope; but they become unwilling to mention the subject, knowing that the one with whom they have linked their destiny takes no interest in it. As the result, faith in the precious truth dies out of the heart, and Satan insidiously weaves about them a web of skepticism. {CCh 122.1} [CCh 122.2] Can two walk together, except they be agreed?" "If two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of My Father which is in heaven." But how strange the sight! While one of those so closely united is engaged in devotion, the other is indifferent and careless; while one is seeking the way to everlasting life, the other is in the broad road to death. {CCh 122.2} [CCh 122.3] Hundreds have sacrificed Christ and heaven in consequence of marrying unconverted persons. Can it be that the love and fellowship of Christ are of so little value to them that they prefer the companionship of poor mortals? Is heaven so little esteemed that they are willing to risk its enjoyments for one who has no love for the precious Saviour? {CCh 122.3} [CCh 122.4] The Christian’s Answer to the Unbeliever What ought every Christian to do when brought into the trying position which tests the soundness of religious principle? With a firmness worthy of imitation he should say frankly: "I am a conscientious Christian. I believe the seventh day of the week to be the Sabbath of the Bible. Our faith and principles are such that they lead in opposite directions. We cannot be happy together, for if I follow on to gain a more perfect knowledge of the will of God, I shall become more and more unlike the world and assimilated to the likeness of Christ. If you continue to see no loveliness in Christ, no attractions in the truth, you will love the world, which I cannot love, while I shall love the things of God, which you cannot love. Spiritual things are spiritually discerned. Without spiritual discernment you will be unable to see the claims of God upon me, or to realize my obligations to the Master whom I serve; therefore you will feel that I neglect you for religious duties. You will not be happy; you will be jealous on account of the affections which I give to God, and I shall be alone in my religious belief. When your views shall change, when your heart shall respond to the claims of God, 123 and you shall learn to love my Saviour, then our relationship may be renewed." {CCh 122.4} [CCh 123.1] The believer thus makes a sacrifice for Christ which his conscience approves, and which shows that he values eternal life too highly to run the risk of losing it. He feels that it would be better to remain unmarried than to link his interest for life with one who chooses the world rather than Jesus, and who would lead away from the cross of Christ. {CCh 123.1} [CCh 123.2] Better to Break an Unwise Engagement It is only in Christ that a marriage alliance can be safely formed. Human love should draw its closest bonds from divine love. Only where Christ reigns can there be deep, true, unselfish affection. {CCh 123.2} [CCh 123.3] Even if an engagement has been entered into without a full understanding of the character of the one with whom you intend to unite, do not think that the engagement makes it a positive necessity for you to take upon yourself the marriage vow and link yourself for life to one whom you cannot love and respect. Be very careful how you enter into conditional engagements; but better, far better, break the engagement before marriage than separate afterward, as many do. {CCh 123.3} [CCh 123.4] You may say, "But I have given my promise, and shall I now retract it?" I answer, If you have made a promise contrary to the Scriptures, by all means retract it without delay, and in humility before God repent of the infatuation that led you to make so rash a pledge. Far better take back such a promise, in the fear of God, than keep it, and thereby dishonor your Maker. {CCh 123.4} [CCh 123.5] Let every step toward a marriage alliance be characterized by modesty, simplicity, sincerity, and an earnest purpose to please and honor God. Marriage affects the afterlife both in this world and in the world to come. A sincere Christian will make no plans that God cannot approve. {CCh 123.5} [CCh 123.6] The heart yearns for human love, but this love is not strong enough, or pure enough, or precious enough to supply the place of the love of Jesus. Only in her Saviour can the wife find wisdom, strength, and grace to meet the cares, responsibilities, and sorrows of life. She should make Him her strength and her guide. Let woman give herself to Christ before giving herself to any earthly friend, and enter into no relation which shall conflict with this. Those who would find true happiness must have the blessing of Heaven upon all that they possess and all that they do. It is disobedience to God that fills so many hearts and homes with misery. My sister, unless you would have a home where the shadows are never lifted, do not unite yourself with one who is an enemy of God. {CCh 123.6} [CCh 124.1] Counsel to One Who Alone Becomes Converted After Marriage He who has entered the marriage relation while unconverted is by his conversion placed under stronger obligation to be faithful to his 124 companion, however widely they may differ in regard to religious faith; yet the claims of God should be placed above every earthly relationship, even though trials and persecution may be the result. With the spirit of love and meekness, this fidelity may have an influence to win the unbelieving one. AH 48, 49, 61-69175 {CCh 124.1} [CCh 125.1] Chapter 20 —Marriage God made from the man a woman, to be a companion and helpmeet for him, to be one with him, to cheer, encourage, and bless him, he in his turn to be her strong helper. All who enter into matrimonial relations with a holy purpose—the husband to obtain the pure affections of a woman's heart, the wife to soften and improve her husband's character and give it completeness—fulfill God's purpose for them. {CCh 125.1} [CCh 125.2] Christ came not to destroy this institution, but to restore it to its original sanctity and elevation. He came to restore the moral image of God in man, and He began His work by sanctioning the marriage relation. {CCh 125.2} [CCh 125.3] He who gave Eve to Adam as a helpmeet performed His first miracle at a marriage festival. In the festal hall where friends and kindred rejoiced together, Christ began His public ministry. Thus He sanctioned marriage, recognizing it as an institution that He Himself had established. He ordained that men and women should be united in holy wedlock, to rear families whose members, crowned with honor, should be recognized as members of the family above. {CCh 125.3} [CCh 125.4] The Wedding Should Be a Simple, Happy Occasion The divine love emanating from Christ never destroys human love, but includes it. By it human love is refined and purified, elevated and ennobled. Human love can never bear its precious fruit until it is united with the divine nature and trained to grow heavenward. Jesus wants to see happy marriages, happy firesides. {CCh 125.4} [CCh 125.5] The Scriptures state that both Jesus and His disciples were called to this marriage feast ［at Cana］. Christ has given Christians no sanction to say when invited to a marriage, We ought not to be present on so joyous an occasion. By attending this feast Christ taught that He would have us rejoice with those who do rejoice in the observance of His statutes. He never discouraged the innocent festivities of mankind when carried on in accordance with the laws of Heaven. A gathering that Christ honored by His presence, it is right that His followers should attend. After attending this feast, Christ attended many others, sanctifying them by His presence and instruction. There is no reason why we should make great parade or display, even if the parties were perfectly suited to each other. {CCh 125.5} [CCh 125.6] It has always seemed so very inappropriate to me to see the marriage ordinance associated with hilarity and glee and a pretense of something. 126 No. It is an ordinance ordained of God, to be looked upon with the greatest solemnity. As the family relation is formed here below, it is to give a demonstration of what they shall be, the family in heaven above. The glory of God is ever to be made first. AH 99-101176 {CCh 125.6} [CCh 126.1] Counsel to Newlyweds My Dear Brother and Sister: You have united in a life long covenant. Your education in married life has begun. The first year of married life is a year of experience, a year in which husband and wife learn each other's different traits of character, as a child learns lessons in school. In this, the first year of your married life, let there be no chapters that will mar your future happiness. {CCh 126.1} [CCh 126.2] To gain a proper understanding of the marriage relation is the work of a lifetime. Those who marry enter a school from which they are never in this life to be graduated. My brother, your wife's time and strength and happiness are now bound up with yours. Your influence over her may be a savor of life unto life or of death unto death. Be very careful not to spoil her life. {CCh 126.2} [CCh 126.3] My sister, you are now to learn your first practical lessons in regard to the responsibilities of married life. Be sure to learn these lessons faithfully day by day. Do not give way to discontent or moodiness. Do not long for a life of ease and inactivity. Guard constantly against giving way to selfishness. {CCh 126.3} [CCh 126.4] In your life union your affections are to be tributary to each other's happiness. Each is to minister to the happiness of the other. This is the will of God concerning you. But while you are to blend as one, neither of you is to lose his or her individuality in the other. God is the owner of your individuality. Of Him you are to ask: What is right? What is wrong? How may I best fulfill the purpose of my creation? Ye are not your own; for ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's." 1 Corinthians 6:19, 20. Your love for that which is human is to be secondary to your love for God. The wealth of your affection is to flow forth to Him who gave His life for you. Living for God, the soul sends forth to Him its best and highest affections. Is the greatest outflow of your love toward Him who died for you? If it is, your love for each other will be after heaven's order. {CCh 126.4} [CCh 126.5] Affection may be as clear as crystal and beauteous in its purity, yet it may be shallow because it has not been tested and tried. Make Christ first and last and best in everything. Constantly behold Him, and your love for Him will daily become deeper and stronger as it is submitted to the test of trial. And as your love for Him increases, your love for each other will grow deeper and stronger. "We all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory." 2 Corinthians 3:18. You now have duties to perform that before your marriage you did not have. "Put on therefore, . . . kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, long-suffering." Walk in 127 love, as Christ also hath loved us." Give careful study to the following instruction: Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church. . . . Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave Himself for it." Colossians 3:12; Ephesians 5:2, 22-25. {CCh 126.5} [CCh 127.1] Marriage, a union for life, is a symbol of the union between Christ and His church. The spirit that Christ manifests toward the church is the spirit that husband and wife are to manifest toward each other. {CCh 127.1} [CCh 127.2] Neither husband nor wife is to make a plea for rulership. The Lord has laid down the principle that is to guide in this matter. The husband is to cherish his wife as Christ cherishes the church. And the wife is to respect and love her husband. Both are to cultivate the spirit of kindness, being determined never to grieve or injure the other. {CCh 127.2} [CCh 127.3] My brother and sister, both of you have strong will power. You may make this power a great blessing or a great curse to yourselves and to those with whom you come in contact. Do not try to compel each other to do as you wish. You cannot do this and retain each other's love. Manifestations of self-will destroy the peace and happiness of the home. Let not your married life be one of contention. If you do you will both be unhappy. Be kind in speech and gentle in action, giving up your own wishes. Watch well your words, for they have a powerful influence for good or for ill. Allow no sharpness to come into your voices. Bring into your united life the fragrance of Christ-likeness. {CCh 127.3} [CCh 127.4] Before a man enters a union as close as the marriage relation, he should learn how to control himself and how to deal with others. {CCh 127.4} [CCh 127.5] My brother, be kind, patient, forbearing. Remember that your wife accepted you as her husband, not that you might rule over her, but that you might be her helper. Never be overbearing and dictatorial. Do not exert your strong will power to compel your wife to do as you wish. Remember that she has a will and that she may wish to have her way as much as you wish to have yours. Remember, too, that you have the advantage of your wider experience. Be considerate and courteous. "The wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits." James 3:17. {CCh 127.5} [CCh 127.6] Remember, my dear brother and sister, that God is love and that by His grace you can succeed in making each other happy, as in your marriage pledge you promised to do. And in the strength of the Redeemer you can work with wisdom and power to help some crooked life to be straight in God. What is there that Christ cannot do? He is perfect in wisdom, in righteousness, in love. Do not shut yourselves up to yourselves, satisfied to pour out all your affection upon each other. Seize every opportunity to contribute to the happiness of those around you, sharing with them your affection. Words of kindness, looks of sympathy, expressions of appreciation, would to many a struggling, 128 lonely one be as a cup of cold water to a thirsty soul. A word of cheer, an act of kindness, would go far to lighten the burdens that are resting heavily upon weary shoulders. It is in unselfish ministry that true happiness is found. And every word and deed of such service is recorded in the books of heaven as done for Christ. "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these My brethren," He declares, "ye have done it unto Me." Matthew 25:40. {CCh 127.6} [CCh 128.1] Live in the sunshine of the Saviour's love. Then your influence will bless the world. Let the Spirit of Christ control you. Let the law of kindness be ever on your lips. Forbearance and unselfishness mark the words and actions of those who are born again, to live the new life in Christ. 7T 45-50177 {CCh 128.1} [CCh 129.1] Chapter 21 —A Happy, Successful Partnership God has ordained that there should be perfect love and harmony between those who enter into the marriage relation. Let bride and bridegroom, in the presence of the heavenly universe, pledge themselves to love each other as God has ordained they should…. The wife is to respect and reverence her husband, and the husband is to love and cherish his wife. {CCh 129.1} [CCh 129.2] Men and women, at the beginning of married life, should reconsecrate themselves to God. {CCh 129.2} [CCh 129.3] However carefully and wisely marriage may have been entered into, few couples are completely united when the marriage ceremony is performed. The real union of the two in wedlock is the work of the after years. {CCh 129.3} [CCh 129.4] As life with its burden of perplexity and care meets the newly wedded pair, the romance with which imagination so often invests marriage disappears. Husband and wife learn each other's character as it was impossible to learn it in their previous association. This is a most critical period in their experience. The happiness and usefulness of their whole future life depend upon their taking a right course now. Often they discern in each other unsuspected weaknesses and defects; but the hearts that love has united will discern excellencies also heretofore unknown. Let all seek to discover the excellencies rather than the defects. Often it is our own attitude, the atmosphere that surrounds ourselves, which determines what will be revealed to us in another. {CCh 129.4} [CCh 129.5] There are many who regard the expression of love as a weakness, and they maintain a reserve that repels others. This spirit checks the current of sympathy. As the social and generous impulses are repressed, they wither, and the heart becomes desolate and cold. We should beware of this error. Love cannot long exist without expression. Let not the heart of one connected with you starve for the want of kindness and sympathy. {CCh 129.5} [CCh 129.6] Let each give love rather than exact it. Cultivate that which is noblest in yourselves, and be quick to recognize the good qualities in each other. The consciousness of being appreciated is a wonderful stimulus and satisfaction. Sympathy and respect encourage the striving after excellence, and love itself increases as it stimulates to nobler aims. {CCh 129.6} [CCh 130.1] The Blending of Two Lives Though difficulties, perplexities, and discouragements may arise, let neither husband nor wife harbor the thought that their union is a mistake or a disappointment. Determine to be all that it is possible to be to each other. Continue the early attentions. In every way encourage each other in fighting the battles of life. Study to advance the happiness of each other. Let there be mutual love, mutual forbearance. Then marriage, instead of being the end of love, will be as it were the very beginning of love. The warmth of true friendship, the love that binds heart to heart, is a foretaste of the joys of heaven. {CCh 130.1} [CCh 130.2] All should cultivate patience by practicing patience. By being kind and forbearing, true love may be kept warm in the heart, and qualities will be developed that Heaven will approve. {CCh 130.2} [CCh 130.3] Satan is ever ready to take advantage when any matter of variance arises, and by moving upon the objectionable, hereditary traits of character in husband or wife, he will try to cause the alienation of those who have united their interests in a solemn covenant before God. In the marriage vows they have promised to be as one, the wife covenanting to love and obey her husband, the husband promising to love and cherish his wife. If the law of God is obeyed, the demon of strife will be kept out of the family, and no separation of interests will take place, no alienation of affection will be permitted. {CCh 130.3} [CCh 130.4] This is an important period in the history of the ones who have stood before you to unite their interests, their sympathies, their love, their labor, with each other in the ministry of the saving of souls. In the marriage relation there is a very important step taken—the blending of two lives into one. It is in accord with the will of God that man and wife should be linked together in His work, to carry it forward in a wholeness and a holiness. They can do this. {CCh 130.4} [CCh 130.5] The blessing of God in the home where this union shall exist is as the sunshine of heaven, because it is the Lord's ordained will that man and wife should be linked together in holy bonds of union, under Jesus Christ, with Him to control, and His spirit to guide. {CCh 130.5} [CCh 130.6] God wants the home to be the happiest place on earth, the very symbol of the home in heaven. Bearing the marriage responsibilities in the home, linking their interests with Jesus Christ, leaning upon His arm and His assurance, husband and wife may share a happiness in this union that angels of God commend. AH 101-107178 {CCh 130.6} [CCh 130.7] When Differences Arise It is a hard matter to adjust family difficulties, even when husband and wife seek to make a fair and just settlement in regard to their several duties, if they have failed to submit the heart to God. How can husband and wife divide the interests of their home life and still keep a loving, firm hold upon each other? They should have a united interest in 131 all that concerns their homemaking, and the wife, if a Christian, will have her interest with her husband as his companion; for the husband is to stand as the head of the household. {CCh 130.7} [CCh 131.1] Your spirit is wrong. When you take a position, you do not weigh the matter well and consider what must be the effect of your maintaining your views and in an independent manner weaving them into your prayers and conversation, when you know that your wife does not hold the same views that you do. Instead of respecting the feelings of your wife and kindly avoiding, as a gentleman would, those subjects upon which you know you differ, you have been forward to dwell upon objectionable points, and have manifested a persistency in expressing your views regardless of any around you. You have felt that others had no right to see matters differently from yourself. These fruits do not grow upon the Christian tree. {CCh 131.1} [CCh 131.2] My brother, my sister, open the door of the heart to receive Jesus. Invite him into the soul-temple. Help each other to overcome the obstacles which enter the married life of all. You will have a fierce conflict to overcome your adversary the devil, and if you expect God to help you in this battle, you must both unite in deciding to overcome, to seal your lips against speaking any words of wrong, even if you have to fall upon your knees and cry aloud, "Lord, rebuke the adversary of my soul." {CCh 131.2} [CCh 131.3] If the will of God is fulfilled, the husband and wife will respect each other and cultivate love and confidence. Anything that would mar the peace and unity of the family should be firmly repressed, and kindness and love should be cherished. He who manifests the spirit of tenderness, forbearance, and love will find that the same spirit will be reflected upon him. Where the Spirit of God reigns, there will be no talk of unsuitability in the marriage relation. If Christ indeed is formed within, the hope of glory, there will be union and love in the home. Christ abiding in the heart of the wife will be at agreement with Christ abiding in the heart of the husband. They will be striving together for the mansions Christ has gone to prepare for those who love Him. {CCh 131.3} [CCh 131.4] Those who regard the marriage relation as one of God's sacred ordinances, guarded by His holy precept, will be controlled by the dictates of reason. {CCh 131.4} [CCh 131.5] In the married life men and women sometimes act like undisciplined, perverse children. The husband wants his way, and the wife wants her way, and neither is willing to yield. Such a condition of things can bring only the greatest unhappiness. Both husband and wife should be willing to yield his or her way or opinion. There is no possibility of happiness while they both persists in doing as they please. AH 118-121179 {CCh 131.5} [CCh 131.6] Without mutual forbearance and love no earthly power can hold you and your husband in the bonds of Christian unity. Your companionship in the marriage relation should be close and tender, holy and elevated, breathing a spiritual power into your lives, that you may be everything 132 to each other that God's word requires. When you reach the condition that the Lord desires you to reach, you will find heaven below and God in your life. {CCh 131.6} [CCh 132.1] Remember, my dear brother and sister, that God is love and that by His grace you can succeed in making each other happy, as in your marriage pledge you promised to do. AH 112180 {CCh 132.1} [CCh 132.2] By the grace of Christ you can gain the victory over self and selfishness. As you live His life, showing self-sacrifice at every step, constantly revealing a stronger sympathy for those in need of help, you will gain victory after victory. Day by day you will learn better how to conquer self and how to strengthen your weak points of character. The Lord Jesus will be your light, your strength, your crown of rejoicing, because you yield your will to His will. 7T 49181 {CCh 132.2} [CCh 133.1] Chapter 22 —The Relationship Between Husband and Wife Those who regard the marriage relation as one of God's sacred ordinances, guarded by His holy precept, will be controlled by the dictates of reason. {CCh 133.1} [CCh 133.2] Jesus did not enforce celibacy upon any class of men. He came not to destroy the sacred relationship of marriage, but to exalt it and restore it to its original sanctity. He looks with pleasure upon the family relationship where sacred and unselfish love bears sway. {CCh 133.2} [CCh 133.3] Marriage Is Lawful and Holy There is in itself no sin in eating and drinking, or in marrying and giving in marriage. It was lawful to marry in the time of Noah, and it is lawful to marry now, if that which is lawful is properly treated and not carried to sinful excess. But in the days of Noah men married without consulting God or seeking His guidance and counsel. {CCh 133.3} [CCh 133.4] The fact that all the relations of life are of a transitory nature should have a modifying influence on all we do and say. In Noah's day it was the inordinate, excessive love of that which in itself was lawful, when properly used, that made marriage sinful before God. There are many who are losing their souls in this age of the world by becoming absorbed in the thoughts of marriage and in the marriage relation itself. {CCh 133.4} [CCh 133.5] The marriage relation is holy, but in this degenerate age it covers vileness of every description. It is abused and has become a crime which now constitutes one of the signs of the last days, even as marriages, managed as they were previous to the Flood, were then a crime. When the sacred nature and the claims of marriage are understood, it will even now be approved of Heaven; and the result will be happiness to both parties, and God will be glorified. {CCh 133.5} [CCh 133.6] The Privileges of Marriage Those professing to be Christians should duly consider the result of every privilege of the marriage relation, and sanctified principle should be the basis of every action. {CCh 133.6} [CCh 133.7] In very many cases the parents have abused their marriage privileges, and by indulgence have strengthened their animal passions. {CCh 133.7} [CCh 133.8] ［On another occasion Mrs. White speaks of the “privacy and privileges of the family relation.”］ {CCh 133.8} [CCh 134.1] 134 It is carrying that which is lawful to excess that makes it a grievous sin. {CCh 134.1} [CCh 134.2] Many parents do not obtain the knowledge that they should in the married life. They are not guarded lest Satan take advantage of them and control their minds and their lives. They do not see that God requires them to control their married lives from any excesses. But very few feel it to be a religious duty to govern their passions. They have united themselves in marriage to the object of their choice and, therefore, reason that marriage sanctifies the indulgence of the baser passions. Even men and women professing godliness give loose rein to their lustful passions and have no thought that God holds them accountable for the expenditure of vital energy, which weakens their hold on life and enervates the entire system. {CCh 134.2} [CCh 134.3] Practice Self-Denial and Temperance Oh, that I could make all understand their obligation to God to preserve the mental and physical organism in the best condition to render perfect service to their Maker! Let the Christian wife refrain, both in word and act, from exciting the animal passions of her husband. Many have no strength at all to waste in this direction. From their youth up they have weakened the brain and sapped the constitution by the gratification of animal passions. Self-denial and temperance should be the watchword in their married life. {CCh 134.3} [CCh 134.4] We are under solemn obligations to God to keep the spirit pure and the body healthy, that we may be a benefit to humanity and render to God perfect service. The apostle utters these words of warning: "Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof." He urges us onward by telling us that "every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things." He exhorts all who call themselves Christians to present their bodies "a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God." He says: "I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway." {CCh 134.4} [CCh 134.5] It is not pure love which actuates a man to make his wife an instrument to minister to his lust. It is the animal passions which clamor for indulgence. How few men show their love in the manner specified by the apostle: "Even as Christ also loved the church, and gave Himself for it; that He might ［not pollute it, but］ sanctify and cleanse it; . . . that it should be holy and without blemish." This is the quality of love in the marriage relation which God recognizes as holy. Love is a pure and holy principle, but lustful passion will not admit of restraint and will not be dictated to or controlled by reason. It is blind to consequences; it will not reason from cause to effect. {CCh 134.5} [CCh 134.6] Satan Seeks to Weaken Self-Control Satan seeks to lower the standard of purity and to weaken the self-control of those who enter the marriage relation, because he knows 135 that while the baser passions are in the ascendancy, the moral powers grow steadily weaker, and he need have no concern as to their spiritual growth. He knows, too, that in no way can he better stamp his own hateful image upon their offspring, and that he can thus mold their character even more readily than he can the character of the parents. {CCh 134.6} [CCh 135.1] Men and women, you will one day learn what is lust and the result of its gratification. Passion of just as base a quality may be found in the marriage relation as outside of it. {CCh 135.1} [CCh 135.2] What is the result of giving loose rein to the lower passions? The bedchamber, where angels of God should preside, is made unholy by unholy practices. And because shameful animalism rules, bodies are corrupted; loathsome practices lead to loathsome diseases. That which God has given as a blessing is made a curse. {CCh 135.2} [CCh 135.3] Sexual excess will effectually destroy a love for devotional exercises, will take from the brain the substance needed to nourish the system, and will most effectively exhaust the vitality. No woman should aid her husband in this work of self-destruction. She will not do it if she is enlightened and has true love for him. {CCh 135.3} [CCh 135.4] The more the animal passions are indulged, the stronger do they become, and the more violent will be their clamors for indulgence. Let God-fearing men and women awake to their duty. Many professed Christians are suffering with paralysis of nerve and brain because of their intemperance in this direction. {CCh 135.4} [CCh 135.5] Husbands to Be Considerate Husbands should be careful, attentive, constant, faithful, and compassionate. They should manifest love and sympathy. If they fulfill the words of Christ, their love will not be of a base, earthly, sensual character that will lead to the destruction of their own bodies and bring upon their wives debility and disease. They will not indulge in the gratification of base passions, while ringing in the ears of their wives that they must be subject to the husband in everything. When the husband has the nobility of character, purity of heart, elevation of mind that every true Christian must possess, it will be made manifest in the marriage relation. If he has the mind of Christ, he will not be a destroyer of the body, but will be full of tender love, seeking to reach the highest standard in Christ. {CCh 135.5} [CCh 135.6] No man can truly love his wife when she will patiently submit to become his slave and minister to his depraved passions. In her passive submission she loses the value she once possessed in his eyes. He sees her dragged down from everything elevating to a low level, and soon he suspects that she will as tamely submit to be degraded by another as by himself. He doubts her constancy and purity, tires of her, and seeks new objects to arouse and intensify his hellish passions. The law of God is not regarded. These men are worse than brutes; they are demons in 136 human form. They are unacquainted with the elevating, ennobling principles of true, sanctified love. {CCh 135.6} [CCh 136.1] The wife also becomes jealous of the husband and suspects that if opportunity should offer, he would just as readily pay his addresses to another as to her. She sees that he is not controlled by conscience or the fear of God; all these sanctified barriers are broken down by lustful passions; all that is Godlike in the husband is made the servant of low, brutish lust. {CCh 136.1} [CCh 136.2] When Unreasonable Demands Are Made The matter now to be settled is: Shall the wife feel bound to yield implicitly to the demands of her husband when she sees that nothing but base passions control him, and when her reason and judgment are convinced that she does it to the injury of her body, which God has enjoined upon her to possess in sanctification and honor, to preserve as a living sacrifice to God? {CCh 136.2} [CCh 136.3] It is not pure, holy love which leads the wife to gratify the animal propensities of her husband at the expense of health and life. If she possesses true love and wisdom, she will seek to divert his mind from the gratification of lustful passions to high and spiritual themes by dwelling upon interesting spiritual subjects. It may be necessary to humbly and affectionately urge, even at the risk of his displeasure, that she cannot debase her body by yielding to sexual excess. She should, in a tender, kind manner, remind him that God has the first and highest claim upon her entire being, and that she cannot disregard this claim, for she will be held accountable in the great day of God. {CCh 136.3} [CCh 136.4] If she will elevate her affections, and in sanctification and honor preserve her refined, womanly dignity, woman can do much by her judicious influence to sanctify her husband, and thus fulfill her high mission. In so doing she can save both her husband and herself, thus performing a double work. In this matter, so delicate and so difficult to manage, much wisdom and patience are necessary, as well as moral courage and fortitude. Strength and grace can be found in prayer. Sincere love is to be the ruling principle of the heart. Love to God and love to the husband can alone be the right ground of action. {CCh 136.4} [CCh 136.5] When the wife yields her body and mind to the control of her husband, being passive to his will in all things, sacrificing her conscience, her dignity, and even her identity, she loses the opportunity of exerting that mighty influence for good which she should possess to elevate her husband. She could soften his stern nature, and her sanctifying influence could be exerted in a manner to refine and purify, leading him to strive earnestly to govern his passions and be more spiritually minded, that they might be partakers together of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. The power of influence can be great to lead the mind to high and noble themes, above the low, sensual indulgences for which the heart unrenewed by grace 137 naturally seeks. If the wife feels that in order to please her husband she must come down to his standard, when animal passion is the principal basis of his love and controls his actions, she displeases God; for she fails to exert a sanctifying influence upon her husband. If she feels that she must submit to his animal passions without a word of remonstrance, she does not understand her duty to him or to her God. {CCh 136.5} [CCh 137.1] Ye Are Bought With a Price The lower passions have their seat in the body and work through it. The words "flesh" or "fleshly" or "carnal lusts" embrace the lower, corrupt nature; the flesh of itself cannot act contrary to the will of God. We are commanded to crucify the flesh, with the affections and lusts. How shall we do it? Shall we inflict pain on the body? No; but put to death the temptation to sin. The corrupt thought is to be expelled. Every thought is to be brought into captivity to Jesus Christ. All animal propensities are to be subjected to the higher powers of the soul. The love of God must reign supreme; Christ must occupy an undivided throne. Our bodies are to be regarded as His purchased possession. The members of the body are to become the instruments of righteousness. AH 121-128182 {CCh 137.1} [CCh 138.1] Chapter 23 —The Mother and Her Child Instead of sinking into a mere household drudge, let the wife and mother take time to read, to keep herself well informed, to be a companion to her husband, and to keep in touch with the developing minds of her children. Let her use wisely the opportunities now hers to influence her dear ones for the higher life. Let her take time to make the dear Saviour a daily Companion and familiar Friend. Let her take time for the study of His word, take time to go with the children into the fields and learn of God through the beauty of His works. {CCh 138.1} [CCh 138.2] Let her keep cheerful and buoyant. Instead of spending every moment in endless sewing, make the evening a pleasant social season, a family reunion after the day's duties. Many a man would thus be led to choose the society of his home before that of the clubhouse or the saloon. Many a boy would be kept from the street or the corner grocery. Many a girl would be saved from frivolous, misleading associations. The influence of the home would be to parents and children what God designed it should be, a lifelong blessing. {CCh 138.2} [CCh 138.3] The question is often asked, "Shall a wife have no will of her own?" The Bible plainly states that the husband is the head of the family. "Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands." If this injunction ended here, we might say that the position of the wife is not an enviable one; it is a very hard and trying position in very many cases, and it would be better were there fewer marriages. Many husbands stop at the words, "Wives, submit yourselves," but we will read the conclusion of the same injunction, which is. "As it is fit in the Lord." {CCh 138.3} [CCh 138.4] God requires that the wife shall keep the fear and glory of God ever before her. Entire submission is to be made only to the Lord Jesus Christ, who has purchased her as His own child by the infinite price of His life. God has given her a conscience, which she cannot violate with impunity. Her individuality cannot be merged into that of her husband, for she is the purchase of Christ. It is a mistake to imagine that with blind devotion she is to do exactly as her husband says in all things, when she knows that in so doing, injury would be worked for her body and her spirit, which have been ransomed from the slavery of Satan. There is One who stands higher than the husband to the wife; it is her Redeemer, and her submission to her husband is to be rendered as God has directed—"as it is fit in the Lord." {CCh 138.4} [CCh 138.5] We must have the Spirit of God, or we can never have harmony in the home. The wife, if she has the spirit of Christ, will be careful of her words; she will control her spirit, she will be submissive, and yet will not feel that she is a bondslave, but a companion to her husband. If the husband is a servant of God, he will not lord it over his wife; he will not be arbitrary and exacting. We cannot cherish home affection with too much care; for the home, if the Spirit of the Lord dwells there, is a type of heaven. If one errs, the other will exercise Christlike forbearance and not draw coldly away. AH 110-118183 {CCh 138.5} [CCh 138.6] Parenthood Every woman about to become a mother, whatever may be her surroundings, should encourage constantly a happy, cheerful, contented disposition, knowing that for all her efforts in this direction she will be repaid tenfold in the physical, as well as the moral, character of her 139 offspring. Nor is this all. She can, by habit, accustom herself to cheerful thinking, and thus encourage a happy state of mind and cast a cheerful reflection of her own happiness of spirit upon her family and those with whom she associates. And in a very great degree will her physical health be improved. A force will be imparted to the lifesprings, the blood will not move sluggishly, as would be the case if she were to yield to despondency and gloom. Her mental and moral health are invigorated by the buoyancy of her spirits. The power of the will can resist impressions of the mind and will prove a grand soother of the nerves. Children who are robbed of that vitality which they should have inherited of their parents should have the utmost care. By close attention to the laws of their being a much better condition of things can be established. {CCh 138.6} [CCh 139.1] She who expects to become a mother should keep her soul in the love of God. Her mind should be at peace; she should rest in the love of Jesus, practicing the words of Christ. She should remember that the mother is a laborer together with God. {CCh 139.1} [CCh 139.2] The husband and the wife are to co-operate. What a world we would have if all mothers would consecrate themselves on the altar of God, and would consecrate their offspring to God, both before and after its birth! {CCh 139.2} [CCh 139.3] The effect of prenatal influences is by many parents looked upon as a matter of little moment; but heaven does not so regard it. The message sent by an angel of God, and twice given in the most solemn manner, shows it to be deserving of our most careful thought. {CCh 139.3} [CCh 139.4] In the words spoken to the Hebrew mother ［the wife of Manoah］, God speaks to all mothers in every age. "Let her beware," the angel said; "all that I commanded her let her observe." The well-being of the child will be affected by the habits of the mother. Her appetites and passions are to be controlled by principle. There is something for her to shun, something for her to work against, if she fulfills God's purpose for her in giving her a child. {CCh 139.4} [CCh 139.5] The world is full of snares for the feet of the young. Multitudes are attracted by a life of selfish and sensual pleasure. They cannot discern the hidden dangers or the fearful ending of the path that seems to them the way of happiness. Through the indulgence of appetite and passion, their energies are wasted, and millions are ruined for this world and for the world to come. Parents should remember that their children must encounter these temptations. Even before the birth of the child, the preparation should begin that will enable it to fight successfully the battle against evil. {CCh 139.5} [CCh 139.6] If before the birth of her child she is self-indulgent, if she is selfish, impatient, and exacting, these traits will be reflected in the disposition of the child. Thus many children have received as a birthright almost unconquerable tendencies to evil. {CCh 139.6} [CCh 139.7] But if the mother unswervingly adheres to right principles, if she is 140 temperate and self-denying, if she is kind, gentle, and unselfish, she may give her child these same precious traits of character. {CCh 139.7} [CCh 140.1] Infant children are a mirror for the mother in which she may see reflected her own habits and deportment. How careful, then, should be her language and behavior in the presence of these little learners! Whatever traits of character she wishes to see developed in them she must cultivate in herself. {CCh 140.1} [CCh 140.2] When the Mother’s Duties Should Be Lightened It is an error generally committed to make no difference in the life of a woman previous to the birth of her children. At this important period the labor of the mother should be lightened. Great changes are going on in her system. It requires a greater amount of blood, and therefore an increase of food of the most nourishing quality to convert into blood. Unless she has an abundant supply of nutritious food, she cannot retain her physical strength, and her offspring is robbed of vitality. {CCh 140.2} [CCh 140.3] Her clothing also demands attention. Care should be taken to protect the body from a sense of chilliness. She should not call vitality unnecessarily to the surface to supply the want of sufficient clothing. If the mother is deprived of an abundance of wholesome, nutritious food, she will lack in the quantity and quality of blood. Her circulation will be poor, and her child will lack in the very same things. There will be an inability in the offspring to appropriate food which it can convert into good blood to nourish the system. The prosperity of mother and child depends much upon good, warm clothing and a supply of nourishing food. {CCh 140.3} [CCh 140.4] The Attitude of the Nursing Mother The best food for the infant is the food that nature provides. Of this it should not be needlessly deprived. It is a heartless thing for a mother, for the sake of convenience or social enjoyment, to seek to free herself from the tender office of nursing her little one. {CCh 140.4} [CCh 140.5] The period in which the infant receives its nourishment from the mother is critical. Many mothers, while nursing their infants, have been permitted to overlabor and to heat their blood in cooking; and the nursling has been seriously affected, not only with fevered nourishment from the mother's breast, but its blood has been poisoned by the unhealthy diet of the mother, which has fevered her whole system, thereby affecting the food of the infant. The infant will also be affected by the condition of the mother's mind. If she is unhappy, easily agitated, irritable, giving vent to outbursts of passion, the nourishment the infant receives from its mother will be inflamed, often producing colic, spasms, and in some instances causing convulsions and fits. {CCh 140.5} [CCh 140.6] The character also of the child is more or less affected by the nature of the nourishment received from the mother. How important then 141 that the mother, while nursing her infant, should preserve a happy state of mind, having the perfect control of her own spirit. By thus doing, the food of the child is not injured, and the calm, self-possessed course the mother pursues in the treatment of her child has very much to do in molding the mind of the infant. If it is nervous and easily agitated, the mother's careful, unhurried manner will have a soothing and correcting influence, and the health of the infant can be very much improved. {CCh 140.6} [CCh 141.1] Regularity in Tender, Loving Care Children are committed to their parents as a precious trust, which God will one day require at their hands. We should give to their training more time, more care, and more prayer. They need more of the right kind of instruction. {CCh 141.1} [CCh 141.2] In many cases the sickness of children can be traced to errors in management. Irregularities in eating, insufficient clothing in the chilly evening, lack of vigorous exercise to keep the blood in healthy circulation, or lack of abundance of air for its purification, may be the cause of the trouble. Let the parents study to find the causes of the sickness and then remedy the wrong conditions as soon as possible. {CCh 141.2} [CCh 141.3] Children are generally brought up from the cradle to indulge the appetite and are taught that they live to eat. The mother does much toward the formation of the character of her children in their childhood. She can teach them to control the appetite, or she can teach them to indulge the appetite and become gluttons. The mother often arranges her plans to accomplish a certain amount through the day; and when the children trouble her, instead of taking time to soothe their little sorrows and divert them, something is given them to eat to keep them still, which answers the purpose for a short time but eventually makes things worse. The children's stomachs have been pressed with food, when they had not the least want of it. All that was required was a little of the mother's time and attention. But she regarded her time as altogether too precious to devote to the amusement of her children. Perhaps the arrangement of her house in a tasteful manner for visitors to praise, and to have her food cooked in a fashionable style, are with her higher considerations than the happiness and health of her children. {CCh 141.3} [CCh 141.4] In the preparation of the baby's wardrobe, convenience, comfort, and health should be sought before fashion or a desire to excite admiration. The mother should not spend time in embroidery and fancywork to make the little garments beautiful, thus taxing herself with unnecessary labor at the expense of her own health and the health of her child. She should not bend over sewing that severely taxes eyes and nerves, at a time when she needs much rest and pleasant exercise. She should realize her obligation to cherish her strength, that she may be able to meet the demands that will be made upon her. AH 255-267184 {CCh 141.4} [CCh 142.1] Need of Self-Control in Child Discipline In the training of a child there are times when the firm, matured will of the mother meets the unreasoning, undisciplined will of the child. At such times there is need of great wisdom on the part of the mother. By unwise management, by stern compulsion, great harm may be done the child. {CCh 142.1} [CCh 142.2] Whenever possible, this crisis should be avoided; for it means a severe struggle for both mother and child. But once such a crisis is entered into, the child must be led to yield its will to the wiser will of the parent. {CCh 142.2} [CCh 142.3] The mother should keep herself under perfect control, doing nothing that will arouse in the child a spirit of defiance. She is to give no loud-voiced commands. She will gain much by keeping the voice low and gentle. She is to deal with the child in a way that will draw him to Jesus. She is to realize that God is her Helper; love, her power. {CCh 142.3} [CCh 142.4] If she is a wise Christian she does not attempt to force the child to submit. She prays earnestly that the enemy shall not obtain the victory, and, as she prays, she is conscious of a renewal of spiritual life. She sees that the same power that is working in her is working also in the child. He becomes more gentle, more submissive. The battle is won. Her patience, her kindness, her words of wise restraint, have done their work. There is peace after the storm, like the shining of the sun after rain. And the angels, who have been watching the scene, break forth into songs of joy. {CCh 142.4} [CCh 142.5] These crises come also in the life of husband and wife, who, unless controlled by the Spirit of God, will at such times manifest the impulsive, unreasoning spirit so often manifested by children. As flint striking flint will be the conflict of will with will. 7T 47, 48185 {CCh 142.5} [CCh 143.1] Chapter 24 —The Christian Father and Mother As you faithfully do your duty in the home, the father as a priest of the household, the mother as a home missionary, you are multiplying agencies for doing good outside of the home. As you improve your own powers, you are becoming better fitted to labor in the church and in the neighborhood. By binding your children to yourselves and to God, fathers and mothers and children become laborers together with God. 7T 67186 {CCh 143.1} [CCh 143.2] The Sacredness of a Mother’s Work Woman should fill the position which God originally designed for her, as her husband's equal. The world needs mothers who are mothers not merely in name but in every sense of the word. We may safely say that the distinctive duties of woman are more sacred, more holy, than those of man. Let woman realize the sacredness of her work and in the strength and fear of God take up her life mission. Let her educate her children for usefulness in this world and for a home in the better world. {CCh 143.2} [CCh 143.3] The wife and mother should not sacrifice her strength and allow her powers to lie dormant, leaning wholly upon her husband. Her individuality cannot be merged in his. She should feel that she is her husband's equal—to stand by his side, she faithful at her post of duty and he at his. Her work in the education of her children is in every respect as elevating and ennobling as any post of duty he may be called to fill, even if it is to be the chief magistrate of the nation. {CCh 143.3} [CCh 143.4] The king upon his throne has no higher work than has the mother. The mother is queen of her household. She has in her power the molding of her children's characters, that they may be fitted for the higher, immortal life. An angel could not ask for a higher mission; for in doing this work she is doing service for God. Let her only realize the high character of her task, and it will inspire her with courage. Let her realize the worth of her work and put on the whole armor of God, that she may resist the temptation to conform to the world's standard. Her work is for time and for eternity. {CCh 143.4} [CCh 143.5] If married men go into the work, leaving their wives to care for the children at home, the wife and mother is doing fully as great and important a work as the husband and father. Although one is in the missionary field, the other is a home missionary, whose cares and anxieties and burdens frequently far exceed those of the husband and father. Her work is a solemn and important one. The husband in the open missionary 144 field may receive the honors of men, while the home toiler may receive no earthly credit for her labor. But if she works for the best interest of her family, seeking to fashion their characters after the divine Model, the recording angel writes her name as one of the greatest missionaries in the world. God does not see things as man's finite vision views them. {CCh 143.5} [CCh 144.1] The world teems with corrupting influences. Fashion and custom exert a strong power over the young. If the mother fails in her duty to instruct, guide, and restrain, her children will naturally accept the evil and turn from the good. Let every mother go often to her Saviour with the prayer, "Teach us, how shall we order the child, and what shall we do unto him?" Let her heed the instruction which God has given in His word, and wisdom will be given her as she shall have need. {CCh 144.1} [CCh 144.2] Let every mother feel that her moments are priceless; her work will be tested in the solemn day of accounts. Then it will be found that many of the failures and crimes of men and women have resulted from the ignorance and neglect of those whose duty it was to guide their childish feet in the right way. Then it will be found that many who have blessed the world with the light of genius and truth and holiness owe the principles that were the mainspring of their influence and success to a praying, Christian mother. {CCh 144.2} [CCh 144.3] The Mother’s Power for Good The sphere of the mother may be humble; but her influence, united with the father's, is as abiding as eternity. Next to God, the mother's power for good is the strongest known on earth. {CCh 144.3} [CCh 144.4] A Christian mother will ever be wide-awake to discern the dangers that surround her children. She will keep her own soul in a pure, holy atmosphere; she will regulate her temper and principles by the word of God and will faithfully do her duty, living above the petty temptations which will always assail her. {CCh 144.4} [CCh 144.5] The perception of children is quick, and they discern patient, loving tones from the impatient, passionate command, which dries up the moisture of love and affection in the hearts of children. The true Christian mother will not drive her children from her presence by her fretfulness and lack of sympathizing love. {CCh 144.5} [CCh 144.6] Mothers, awake to the fact that your influence and example are affecting the character and destiny of your children; and in view of your responsibility, develop a well-balanced mind and a pure character, reflecting only the true, the good, and the beautiful. {CCh 144.6} [CCh 144.7] Very many husbands and children who find nothing attractive at home, who are continually greeted by scolding and murmuring, seek comfort and amusement away from home, in the dramshop or in other forbidden scenes of pleasure. The wife and mother, occupied with her household cares, frequently becomes thoughtless of the little courtesies that make home pleasant to the husband and children, even if she avoids 145 dwelling upon her peculiar vexations and difficulties in their presence. While she is absorbed in preparing something to eat or to wear, the husband and sons go in and come out as strangers. {CCh 144.7} [CCh 145.1] If mothers allow themselves to wear untidy garments at home, they are teaching their children to follow in the same slovenly way. Many mothers think that anything is good enough for home wear, be it ever so soiled and shabby. But they soon lose their influence in the family. The children draw comparisons between their mother's dress and that of others who dress neatly, and their respect for her is weakened. {CCh 145.1} [CCh 145.2] The true wife and mother will perform her duties with dignity and cheerfulness, not considering it degrading to do with her own hands whatever it is necessary to do in a well-ordered household. AH 231-254187 {CCh 145.2} [CCh 145.3] The Head of the Family to Imitate Christ All members of the family center in the father. He is the lawmaker, illustrating in his own manly bearing the sterner virtues: energy, integrity, honesty, patience, courage, diligence, and practical usefulness. The father is in one sense the priest of the household, laying upon the altar of God the morning and evening sacrifice. The wife and children should be encouraged to unite in this offering and also to engage in the song of praise. Morning and evening the father, as priest of the household, should confess to God the sins committed by himself and his children through the day. Those sins which have come to his knowledge and also those which are secret, of which God's eye alone has taken cognizance, should be confessed. This rule of action, zealously carried out by the father when he is present or by the mother when he is absent, will result in blessings to the family. {CCh 145.3} [CCh 145.4] To the man who is a husband and a father, I would say, Be sure that a pure, holy atmosphere surrounds your soul. You are to learn daily of Christ. Never, never are you to show a tyrannical spirit in the home. The man who does this is working in partnership with satanic agencies. Bring your will into submission to the will of God. Do all in your power to make the life of your wife pleasant and happy. Take the word of God as the man of your counsel. In the home live out the teachings of the word. Then you will live them out in the church and will take them with you to your place of business. The principles of heaven will ennoble all your transactions. Angels of God will cooperate with you, helping you to reveal Christ to the world. {CCh 145.4} [CCh 145.5] Do not allow the vexations of your business to bring darkness into your home life. If, when little things occur that are not exactly as you think they should be, you fail to reveal patience, long forbearance, kindness, and love, you show that you have not chosen as a companion Him who so loved you that He gave His life for you, that you might be one with Him. {CCh 145.5} [CCh 145.6] It is no evidence of manliness in the husband for him to dwell constantly upon his position as head of the family. It does not increase 146 respect for him to hear him quoting Scripture to sustain his claims to authority. It will not make him more manly to require his wife, the mother of his children, to act upon his plans as if they were infallible. The Lord has constituted the husband the head of the wife to be her protector; he is the house-band of the family, binding the members together, even as Christ is the head of the church and the Saviour of the mystical body. Let every husband who claims to love God carefully study the requirements of God in his position. Christ's authority is exercised in wisdom, in all kindness and gentleness; so let the husband exercise his power and imitate the great Head of the church. AH 212-215188 {CCh 145.6} [CCh 146.1] Parents, Labor Together for Your Children’s Salvation Could the veil be withdrawn and father and mother see as God sees the work of the day, and see how His infinite eye compares the work of the one with that of the other, they would be astonished at the heavenly revelation. The father would view his labors in a more modest light, while the mother would have new courage and energy to pursue her labor with wisdom, perseverance, and patience. Now she knows its value. While the father has been dealing with the things which must perish and pass away, the mother has been dealing with developing minds and character, working not only for time but for eternity. AH 233189 {CCh 146.1} [CCh 146.2] The father's duty to his children cannot be transferred to the mother. If she performs her own duty, she has burden enough to bear. Only by working in unison can the father and mother accomplish the work which God has committed to their hands. {CCh 146.2} [CCh 146.3] The father should not excuse himself from his part in the work of educating his children for life and immortality. He must share in the responsibility. There is obligation for both father and mother. There must be love and respect manifested by the parents for one another, if they would see these qualities developed in their children. {CCh 146.3} [CCh 146.4] The father of boys should come into close contact with his sons, giving them the benefit of his larger experience and talking with them in such simplicity and tenderness that he binds them to his heart. He should let them see that he has their best interest, their happiness, in view all the time. {CCh 146.4} [CCh 146.5] He who has a family of boys must understand that, whatever his calling, he is never to neglect the souls placed in his care. He has brought these children into the world and has made himself responsible to God to do everything in his power to keep them from unsanctified associations, from evil companionship. He should not leave his restless boys wholly to the care of the mother. This is too heavy a burden for her. He must arrange matters for the best interests of the mother and the children. It may be very hard for the mother to exercise self-control and to manage wisely in the training of her children. If this is the case, the father should take more of the burden upon his soul. He should be determined to make the most decided efforts to save his children. AH 216-221190 {CCh 146.5} [CCh 147.1] Counsel in the Number of Children Children are the heritage of the Lord, and we are answerable to Him for our management of His property. In love, faith, and prayer let parents work for their households, until with joy they can come to God saying, "Behold, I and the children whom the Lord hath given me." {CCh 147.1} [CCh 147.2] God would have parents act as rational beings and live in such a manner that each child may be properly educated, that the mother may have strength and time to employ her mental powers in disciplining her little ones for the society of the angels. She should have courage to act nobly her part and to do her work in the fear and love of God, that her children may prove a blessing to the family and to society. {CCh 147.2} [CCh 147.3] The husband and father should consider all these things lest the wife and mother of his children be overtaxed and thus overwhelmed with despondency. He should see to it that the mother of his children is not placed in a position where she cannot possibly do justice to her numerous little ones, so that they have to come up without proper training. {CCh 147.3} [CCh 147.4] There are parents who, without consideration as to whether or not they can do justice to a large family, fill their houses with these helpless little beings, who are wholly dependent upon their parents for care and instruction. This is a grievous wrong, not only to the mother, but to her children and to society. {CCh 147.4} [CCh 147.5] A child in the mother's arms from year to year is great injustice to her. It lessens, and often destroys, social enjoyment and increases domestic wretchedness. It robs their children of that care, education, and happiness which parents should feel it their duty to bestow upon them. {CCh 147.5} [CCh 147.6] ［Parents］ should calmly consider what provision can be made for their children. They have no right to bring children into the world to be a burden to others. {CCh 147.6} [CCh 147.7] How little is the destiny of the child considered! The gratification of passion is the only thought, and burdens are brought upon the wife and mother which undermine her vitality and paralyze her spiritual power. In broken health and with discouraged spirits she finds herself surrounded by a little flock whom she cannot care for as she should. Lacking the instruction they should have, they grow up to dishonor God and to communicate to others the evil of their own natures, and thus an army is raised up whom Satan manages as he pleases. AH 159-164191 {CCh 147.7} [CCh 148.1] Chapter 25 —The Christian Home In choosing a home, God would have us consider, first of all, the moral and religious influences that will surround us and our families. {CCh 148.1} [CCh 148.2] As the location for a home is sought, let this purpose direct the choice. Be not controlled by the desire for wealth, the dictates of fashion, or the customs of society. Consider what will tend most to simplicity, purity, health, and real worth. {CCh 148.2} [CCh 148.3] Instead of dwelling where only the works of men can be seen, where the sights and sounds frequently suggest thoughts of evil, where turmoil and confusion bring weariness and disquietude, go where you can look upon the works of God. Find rest of spirit in the beauty and quietude and peace of nature. Let the eye rest on the green fields, the groves, and the hills. Look up to the blue sky, unobscured by the city's dust and smoke, and breathe the invigorating air of heaven. {CCh 148.3} [CCh 148.4] The time has come when, as God opens the way, families should move out of the cities. The children should be taken into the country. The parents should get as suitable a place as their means will allow. Though the dwelling may be small, yet there should be land in connection with it that may be cultivated. {CCh 148.4} [CCh 148.5] Fathers and mothers who possess a piece of land and a comfortable home are kings and queens. {CCh 148.5} [CCh 148.6] If possible, the home should be out of the city, where the children can have ground to cultivate. Let them each have a piece of ground of their own; and as you teach them how to make a garden, how to prepare the soil for seed, and the importance of keeping all the weeds pulled out, teach them also how important it is to keep unsightly, injurious practices out of the life. Teach them to keep down wrong habits as they keep down the weeds in their gardens. It will take time to teach these lessons, but it will pay, greatly pay. {CCh 148.6} [CCh 148.7] The earth has blessings hidden in her depths for those who have courage and will and perseverance to gather her treasures. Many farmers have failed to secure adequate returns from their land because they have undertaken the work as though it was a degrading employment; they do not see that there is a blessing in it for themselves and their families. {CCh 148.7} [CCh 148.8] Parents are under obligation to God to make their surroundings such as will correspond to the truth they profess. They can then give correct lessons to their children, and the children will learn to associate the 149 home below with the home above. The family here must, as far as possible, be a model of the one in heaven. Then temptations to indulge in what is low and groveling will lose much of their force. Children should be taught that they are only probationers here, and educated to become inhabitants of the mansions which Christ is preparing for those who love Him and keep His commandments. This is the highest duty which parents have to perform. {CCh 148.8} [CCh 149.1] So far as possible, all buildings intended for human habitation should be placed on high, well-drained ground. This will ensure a dry site. This matter is often too lightly regarded. Continuous ill health, serious diseases, and many deaths result from the dampness and malaria of low-lying, ill-drained situations. {CCh 149.1} [CCh 149.2] In the building of houses it is especially important to secure thorough ventilation and plenty of sunlight. Let there be a current of air and an abundance of light in every room in the house. Sleeping rooms should be so arranged as to have a free circulation of air day and night. No room is fit to be occupied as a sleeping room unless it can be thrown open daily to the air and sunshine. {CCh 149.2} [CCh 149.3] A yard beautified with scattering trees and some shrubbery, at a proper distance from the house, has a happy influence upon the family, and, if well taken care of, will prove no injury to the health. But shade trees and shrubbery close and dense around a house make it unhealthful, for they prevent the free circulation of air and shut out the rays of the sun. In consequence, a dampness gathers in the house, especially in wet seasons. {CCh 149.3} [CCh 149.4] Furniture Should Be Simple and Inexpensive Furnish your home with things plain and simple, things that will bear handling, that can be easily kept clean, and that can be replaced without great expense. By exercising taste, you can make a very simple home attractive and inviting, if love and contentment are there. {CCh 149.4} [CCh 149.5] Happiness is not found in empty show. The more simple the order of a well-regulated household, the happier will that home be. It does not require costly surroundings and expensive furniture to make children contented and happy in their homes, but it is necessary that the parents give them tender love and careful attention. AH 131-154192 {CCh 149.5} [CCh 149.6] You are under obligation to God always to be patterns of propriety in your home. Remember that in heaven there is no disorder, and that your home should be a heaven here below. Remember that in doing faithfully from day to day the little things to be done in the home, you are a laborer together with God, perfecting a Christian character. {CCh 149.6} [CCh 149.7] Bear in mind, parents, that you are working for the salvation of your children. If your habits are correct, if you reveal neatness and order, virtue and righteousness, sanctification of soul, body, and spirit, you respond to the words of the Redeemer, "Ye are the light of the world." {CCh 149.7} [CCh 149.8] Begin early to teach the little ones to take care of their clothing. Let 150 them have a place to lay their things away and be taught to fold every article neatly and put it in its place. If you cannot afford even a cheap bureau, use a dry-goods box, fitting it with shelves and covering it with some bright, pretty-figured cloth. This work of teaching neatness and order will take a little time each day, but it will pay in the future of your children, and in the end will save you much time and care. {CCh 149.8} [CCh 150.1] Some parents allow their children to be destructive, to use as playthings things which they have no right to touch. Children should be taught that they must not handle the property of other people. For the comfort and happiness of the family, they must learn to observe the rules of propriety. Children are no happier when they are allowed to handle everything they see. If they are not educated to be caretaking, they will grow up with unlovely, destructive traits of character. {CCh 150.1} [CCh 150.2] Do not give the children playthings that are easily broken. To do this is to teach lessons in destructiveness. Let them have a few playthings, and let these be strong and durable. Such suggestions, small though they may seem, mean much in the education of the child. CG 110, 111; 101, 102193 {CCh 150.2} [CCh 151.1] Chapter 26 —Spiritual Influence in the Home We can have the salvation of God in our families; but we must believe for it, live for it, and have a continual, abiding faith and trust in God. The restraint which God's Word imposes upon us is for our own interest. It increases the happiness of our families, and of all around us. It refines our taste, sanctifies our judgment, and brings peace of mind, and in the end, everlasting life. Ministering angels will linger in our dwellings, and with joy carry heavenward the tidings of our advance in the divine life, and the recording angel will make a cheerful, happy record. {CCh 151.1} [CCh 151.2] The Spirit of Christ will be an abiding influence in the home life. If men and women will open their hearts to the heavenly influence of truth and love, these principles will flow forth again like streams in the desert, refreshing all and causing freshness to appear where now is barrenness and dearth. CG 484194 {CCh 151.2} [CCh 151.3] The neglect of home religion, the neglect to train your children, is most displeasing to God. If one of your children were in the river, battling with the waves and in imminent danger of drowning, what a stir there would be! What efforts would be made, what prayers offered, what enthusiasm manifested, to save the human life! But here are your children out of Christ, their souls unsaved. Perhaps they are even rude and uncourteous, a reproach to the Adventist name. They are perishing without hope and without God in the world, and you are careless and unconcerned. {CCh 151.3} [CCh 151.4] Satan makes every effort to lead people away from God; and he is successful in his purpose when the religious life is drowned in business cares, when he can so absorb their minds in business that they will not take time to read their Bibles, to pray in secret, and to keep the offering of praise and thanksgiving burning on the altar of sacrifice morning and evening. How few realize the wiles of the archdeceiver! how many are ignorant of his devices! 5T 424, 426195 {CCh 151.4} [CCh 151.5] Morning and Evening Worship Fathers and mothers, each morning and evening gather your children around you, and in humble supplication lift the heart to God for help. Your dear ones are exposed to temptation. Daily annoyances beset the path of young and old. Those who would live patient, loving, cheerful lives must pray. Only by receiving constant help from God can we gain 152 the victory over self. {CCh 151.5} [CCh 152.1] If ever there was a time when every house should be a house of prayer, it is now. Infidelity and skepticism prevail. Iniquity abounds. Corruption flows in the vital currents of the soul, and rebellion against God breaks out in the life. Enslaved by sin, the moral powers are under the tyranny of Satan. The soul is made the sport of his temptations; and unless some mighty arm is stretched out to rescue him, man goes where the arch-rebel leads the way. {CCh 152.1} [CCh 152.2] And yet, in this time of fearful peril, some who profess to be Christians have no family worship. They do not honor God in the home; they do not teach their children to love and fear Him. Many have separated themselves so far from Him that they feel under condemnation in approaching Him. They cannot "come boldly unto the throne of grace," "lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting." Hebrews 4:16; 1 Timothy 2:8. They have not a living connection with God. Theirs is a form of godliness without the power. {CCh 152.2} [CCh 152.3] The idea that prayer is not essential is one of Satan's most successful devices to ruin souls. Prayer is communion with God, the Fountain of wisdom, the Source of strength, and peace, and happiness. Jesus prayed to the Father "with strong crying and tears." Paul exhorts believers to "pray without ceasing," in everything, by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, making known their requests to God. "Pray one for another," James says. "The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." Hebrews 5:7; 1 Thessalonians 5:17; James 5:16. {CCh 152.3} [CCh 152.4] By sincere, earnest prayer parents should make a hedge about their children. They should pray with full faith that God will abide with them and that holy angels will guard them and their children from Satan's cruel power. {CCh 152.4} [CCh 152.5] In every family there should be a fixed time for morning and evening worship. How appropriate it is for parents to gather their children about them before the fast is broken, to thank the heavenly Father for His protection during the night, and to ask Him for His help and guidance and watchcare during the day! How fitting, also, when evening comes, for parents and children to gather once more before Him and thank Him for the blessings of the day that is past! {CCh 152.5} [CCh 152.6] Each morning consecrate yourselves and your children to God for that day. Make no calculation for months or years; these are not yours. One brief day is given you. As if it were your last on earth, work during its hours for the Master. Lay all your plans before God, to be carried out or given up, as His providence shall indicate. Accept His plans instead of your own, even though their acceptance requires the abandonment of cherished projects. Thus the life will be molded more and more after the divine example; and the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:7. {CCh 152.6} [CCh 152.7] The father, or, in his absence, the mother, should conduct the worship, 153 selecting a portion of Scripture that is interesting and easily understood. The service should be short. When a long chapter is read and a long prayer offered, the service is made wearisome, and at its close a sense of relief is felt. God is dishonored when the hour of worship is made dry and irksome, when it is so tedious, so lacking in interest, that the children dread it {CCh 152.7} [CCh 153.1] Fathers and mothers, make the hour of worship intensely interesting. There is no reason why this hour should not be the most pleasant and enjoyable of the day. A little thought given to preparation for it will enable you to make it full of interest and profit. From time to time let the service be varied. Questions may be asked on the portion of Scripture read, and a few earnest, timely remarks may be made. A song of praise may be sung. The prayer offered should be short and pointed. In simple, earnest words let the one who leads in prayer praise God for His goodness and ask Him for help. As circumstances permit, let the children join in the reading and the prayer. {CCh 153.1} [CCh 153.2] Eternity alone will reveal the good with which such seasons of worship are fraught. 7T 42-44196 {CCh 153.2} [CCh 154.1] Chapter 27 —Finance in the Home The Lord would have His people thoughtful and caretaking. He would have them study economy in everything, and waste nothing. {CCh 154.1} [CCh 154.2] You should learn to know when to spare and when to spend. We cannot be Christ's followers unless we deny self and lift the cross. We should pay up squarely as we go; gather up the dropped stitches; bind off your raveling edges, and know just what you can call your own. You should reckon up all the littles spent in self-gratification. You should notice what is used simply to gratify taste and in cultivating a perverted, epicurean appetite. The money expended for useless delicacies might be used to add to your substantial home comforts and conveniences. You are not to be penurious; you are to be honest with yourself and your brethren. Penuriousness is an abuse of God's bounties. Lavishness is also an abuse. The little outgoes that you think of as not worth mentioning amount to considerable in the end. {CCh 154.2} [CCh 154.3] When you are tempted to spend money for knickknacks, you should remember the self-denial and self-sacrifice that Christ endured to save fallen man. Our children should be taught to exercise self-denial and self-control. The reason so many ministers feel that they have a hard time in financial matters is that they do not bind about their tastes, their appetites and inclinations. The reason so many men become bankrupt and dishonestly appropriate means is because they seek to gratify the extravagant tastes of their wives and children. How careful should fathers and mothers be to teach economy by precept and example to their children! {CCh 154.3} [CCh 154.4] It is not best to pretend to be rich, or anything above what we are—humble followers of the meek and lowly Saviour. We are not to feel disturbed if our neighbors build and furnish their houses in a manner that we are not authorized to follow. How must Jesus look upon our selfish provision for the indulgence of appetite, to please our guests, or to gratify our own inclination! It is a snare to us to aim at making a display or to allow our children, under our control, to do so. AH 379-384197 {CCh 154.4} [CCh 154.5] Nothing that can be utilized should be thrown away. This will require wisdom, and forethought, and constant care. It has been presented to me that the inability to save, in little things, is one reason why so many families suffer for lack of the necessities of life. CG 135198 {CCh 154.5} [CCh 155.1] “Owe No Man Any Thing” Many poor families are poor because they spend their money as soon as they receive it. {CCh 155.1} [CCh 155.2] Abstracting and using money for any purpose, before it is earned, is a snare. AH 392199 {CCh 155.2} [CCh 155.3] The world has a right to expect strict integrity in those who profess to be Bible Christians. By one man's indifference in regard to paying his just dues, all our people are in danger of being regarded as unreliable. {CCh 155.3} [CCh 155.4] Those who make any pretensions to godliness should adorn the doctrine they profess and not give occasion for the truth to be reviled through their inconsiderate course of action. "Owe no man anything," says the apostle. 5T 179-182200 {CCh 155.4} [CCh 155.5] Many, very many, have not so educated themselves that they can keep their expenditures within the limit of their income. They do not learn to adapt themselves to circumstances, and they borrow and borrow again and again and become overwhelmed in debt, and consequently they become discouraged and disheartened. AH 374201 {CCh 155.5} [CCh 155.6] You must see that one should not manage his affairs in a way that will incur debt. When one becomes involved in debt, he is in one of Satan's nets, which he sets for souls. {CCh 155.6} [CCh 155.7] Be determined never to incur another debt. Deny yourself a thousand things rather than run in debt. This has been the curse of your life, getting into debt. Avoid it as you would the smallpox. AH 392, 393202 {CCh 155.7} [CCh 155.8] Neglect of Essentials Is Not Economy God is not honored when the body is neglected or abused and is thus unfitted for His service. To care for the body by providing for it food that is relishable and strengthening is one of the first duties of the householder. It is far better to have less expensive clothing and furniture than to stint the supply of food. {CCh 155.8} [CCh 155.9] Some householders stint the family table in order to provide expensive entertainment for visitors. This is unwise. In the entertainment of guests there should be greater simplicity. Let the needs of the family have first attention. {CCh 155.9} [CCh 155.10] Unwise economy and artificial customs often prevent the exercise of hospitality where it is needed and would be a blessing. The regular supply of food for our tables should be such that the unexpected guest can be made welcome without burdening the housewife to make extra preparation. MH 322203 {CCh 155.10} [CCh 155.11] Economy does not mean niggardliness, but a prudent expenditure of means because there is a great work to be done. {CCh 155.11} [CCh 155.12] God does not require that His people should deprive themselves of that which is really necessary for their health and comfort, but He does not approve of wantonness and extravagance and display. AH 378, 379204 {CCh 155.12} [CCh 156.1] Duty of Parents in Teaching the Children Teach your children that God has a claim upon all they possess, and that nothing can ever cancel this claim; all they have is theirs only in trust, to prove whether they will be obedient. Money is a needed treasure; let it not be lavished upon those who do not need it. Someone needs your willing gifts. If you have extravagant habits, cut them away from the life as soon as possible. Unless you do this, you will be bankrupt for eternity. CG 134205 {CCh 156.1} [CCh 156.2] The natural turn of youth in this age is to neglect and despise economy, and to confound it with stinginess and narrowness. But economy is consistent with the most broad and liberal views and feelings; there can be no true generosity where it is not practiced. No one should think it beneath him to study economy and the best means of taking care of the fragments. 5T 400206 {CCh 156.2} [CCh 156.3] In the study of figures the work should be made practical. Let every youth and every child be taught, not merely to solve imaginary problems, but to keep an accurate account of his own income and outgoes. Let him learn the right use of money by using it. Whether supplied by their parents or by their own earnings, let boys and girls learn to select and purchase their own clothing, their books, and other necessities; and by keeping an account of their expenses they will learn, as they could learn in no other way, the value and the use of money. CS 294207 {CCh 156.3} [CCh 156.4] There is such a thing as giving unwise help to our children. Those who work their way through college appreciate their advantages more than those who are provided with them at someone else's expense, for they know their cost. We must not carry our children until they become helpless burdens. {CCh 156.4} [CCh 156.5] Parents mistake their duty when they freely hand out money to any youth who has physical strength to enter on a course of study to become a minister or a physician before he has had an experience in useful, taxing labor. AH 387208 {CCh 156.5} [CCh 156.6] Habits of self-indulgence or a want of tact and skill on the part of the wife and mother may be a constant drain upon the treasury; and yet that mother may think she is doing her best because she has never been taught to restrict her wants or the wants of her children and has never acquired skill and tact in household matters. Hence one family may require for its support twice the amount that would suffice for another family of the same size. {CCh 156.6} [CCh 156.7] The Lord has been pleased to present before me the evils which result from spendthrift habits, that I might admonish parents to teach their children strict economy. Teach them that money spent for that which they do not need is perverted from its proper use. AH 374, 375209 {CCh 156.7} [CCh 156.8] Counsel to Husbands and Wives on Matters of Money All should learn how to keep accounts. Some neglect this work as 157 non-essential, but this is wrong. All expenses should be accurately stated. AH 374210 {CCh 156.8} [CCh 157.1] The means you have earned has not been wisely and economically expended so as to leave a margin should you be sick and your family deprived of the means you bring to sustain them. Your family should have something to rely upon if you should be brought into straitened places. AH 395, 396211 {CCh 157.1} [CCh 157.2] You must help each other. Do not look upon it as a virtue to hold fast the purse strings, refusing to give your wife money. {CCh 157.2} [CCh 157.3] You should allow your wife a certain sum weekly and should let her do what she please with this money. You have not given her opportunity to exercise her tact or her taste because you have not a proper realization of the position that a wife should occupy. Your wife has an excellent and a well-balanced mind. {CCh 157.3} [CCh 157.4] Give your wife a share of the money that you receive. Let her have this as her own, and let her use it as she desires. She should have been allowed to use the means that she earned as she in her judgment deemed best. If she had had a certain sum to use as her own, without being criticized, a great weight would have been lifted from her mind. AH 378212 {CCh 157.4} [CCh 158.1] Chapter 28 —Family Activities During Holidays and Anniversaries I saw that our holidays should not be spent in patterning after the world, yet they should not be passed by unnoticed, for this will bring dissatisfaction to our children. On these days when there is danger that our children will be exposed to evil influences and become corrupted by the pleasures and excitement of the world, let the parents study to get up something to take the place of more dangerous amusements. Give your children to understand that you have their good and happiness in view. {CCh 158.1} [CCh 158.2] Through the observance of holidays the people both of the world and of the churches have been educated to believe that these lazy days are essential to health and happiness, but the results reveal that they are full of evil. {CCh 158.2} [CCh 158.3] We have tried earnestly to make the holidays as interesting as possible to the youth and children, while changing this order of things. Our object has been to keep them away from scenes of amusement among unbelievers. {CCh 158.3} [CCh 158.4] After a day of pleasure seeking is ended, where is the satisfaction to the pleasure seeker? As Christian workers, whom have they helped to a better, higher, and purer life? What would they see if they should look over the record the angel wrote? A day lost! To their own souls a day lost, a day lost in the service of Christ, because no good was accomplished. They may have other days but never that day which was idled away in cheap, foolish talk, of girls with boys, and boys with girls. {CCh 158.4} [CCh 158.5] Never will these same opportunities offer themselves again. They had better been doing the hardest kind of labor on that holiday. They did not make the right use of their holiday, and it passed into eternity to confront them in the judgment as a day misspent. {CCh 158.5} [CCh 158.6] Making God’s Cause First Would it not be well for us to observe holidays unto God, when we could revive in our minds the memory of His dealing with us? Would it not be well to consider His past blessings, to remember the impressive warnings that have come home to our souls so that we shall not forget God? {CCh 158.6} [CCh 158.7] The world has many holidays, and men become engrossed with games, with horse races, with gambling, smoking, and drunkenness. {CCh 158.7} [CCh 158.8] Shall not the people of God more frequently have holy convocations in which to thank God for His rich blessings? {CCh 158.8} [CCh 159.1] 159 We want men in the church who have ability to develop in the line of organizing and giving practical work to young men and women in the line of relieving the wants of humanity and working for the salvation of the souls of men, women, youth, and children. It will not be possible for all to give their whole time to the work because of the labor they must do to earn their daily living. Yet these have their holidays and times that they can devote to Christian work and do good in this way if they cannot give much of their means. {CCh 159.1} [CCh 159.2] When you have a holiday, make it a pleasant and happy day for your children, and make it also a pleasant day for the poor and the afflicted. Do not let the day pass without bringing thanksgiving and thank offerings to Jesus. {CCh 159.2} [CCh 159.3] Birthdays—A Time to Praise God Under the Jewish economy on the birth of children an offering was made to God, by His own appointment. Now we see parents taking special pains to present gifts to their children upon their birthdays; they make this an occasion of honoring the child, as though honor were due to the human being. Satan has had his own way in these things; he has diverted the minds and the gifts to human beings; thus the thoughts of the children are turned to themselves, as if they were to be made the objects of special favor. {CCh 159.3} [CCh 159.4] On birthday occasions the children should be taught that they have reason for gratitude to God for His loving-kindness in preserving their lives for another year. Precious lessons might thus be given. For life, health, food, and clothing, no less than for the hope of eternal life, we are indebted to the Giver of all mercies; and it is due to God to recognize His gifts and to present our offerings of gratitude to our greatest benefactor. These birthday gifts are recognized of Heaven. {CCh 159.4} [CCh 159.5] Teach them to review the past year of their life, to consider whether they would be glad to meet its record just as it stands in the books of heaven. Encourage in them serious thoughts, whether their deportment, their words, their works, are of a character pleasing to God. Have they been making their lives more like Jesus, beautiful and lovely in the sight of God? Teach them the knowledge of the Lord, His ways, His precepts. {CCh 159.5} [CCh 159.6] I have said to my family and my friends, I desire that no one shall make me a birthday or Christmas gift, unless it be with permission to pass it on into the Lord's treasury, to be appropriated in the establishment of missions. AH 472-476213 {CCh 159.6} [CCh 160.1] Chapter 29 —Recreation Christians have many sources of happiness at their command, and they may tell with unerring accuracy what pleasures are lawful and right. They may enjoy such recreations as will not dissipate the mind or debase the soul, such as will not disappoint and leave a sad after-influence to destroy self-respect or bar the way to usefulness. If they can take Jesus with them and maintain a prayerful spirit, they are perfectly safe. {CCh 160.1} [CCh 160.2] Any amusement in which you can engage asking the blessing of God upon it in faith will not be dangerous. But any amusement which disqualifies you for secret prayer, for devotion at the altar of prayer, or for taking part in the prayer meeting is not safe, but dangerous. {CCh 160.2} [CCh 160.3] We are of that class who believe that it is our privilege every day of our lives to glorify God upon the earth, that we are not to live in this world merely for our own amusement, merely to please ourselves. We are here to benefit humanity and to be a blessing to society; and if we let our minds run in that low channel that many who are seeking only vanity and folly permit their minds to run in, how can we be a benefit to our race and generation? How can we be a blessing to society around us? We cannot innocently indulge in any amusement which will unfit us for the more faithful discharge of ordinary duties. {CCh 160.3} [CCh 160.4] There are many things which are right in themselves, but which, perverted by Satan, prove a snare to the unwary. {CCh 160.4} [CCh 160.5] There is great need of temperance in amusements, as in every other pursuit. And the character of these amusements should be carefully and thoroughly considered. Every youth should ask himself, What influence will these amusements have on physical, mental, and moral health? Will my mind become so infatuated as to forget God? Shall I cease to have His glory before me? AH 512-514214 {CCh 160.5} [CCh 160.6] It is the privilege and duty of Christians to seek to refresh their spirits and invigorate their bodies by innocent recreation, with the purpose of using their physical and mental powers to the glory of God. Our recreations should not be scenes of senseless mirth, taking the form of the nonsensical. We can conduct them in such a manner as will benefit and elevate those with whom we associate, and better qualify us and them to more successfully attend to the duties devolving upon us as Christians. AH 493215 {CCh 160.6} [CCh 160.7] The time spent in physical exercise is not lost. A proportionate exercise 161 of all the organs and faculties of the body is essential to the best work of each. When the brain is constantly taxed while the other organs of the living machinery are inactive, there is a loss of strength, physical and mental. The physical system is robbed of its healthful tone, the mind loses its freshness and vigor, and a morbid excitability is the result. {CCh 160.7} [CCh 161.1] Those who are engaged in study should have relaxation. The mind must not be constantly confined to close thought, for the delicate mental machinery becomes worn. The body as well as the mind must have exercise. AH 494, 495216 {CCh 161.1} [CCh 161.2] Recreation That May Be Enjoyed by Rich and Poor Alike Youth cannot be made as sedate and grave as old age, the child as sober as the sire. While sinful amusements are condemned, as they should be, let parents, teachers, and guardians of youth provide in their stead innocent pleasures, which will not taint or corrupt the morals. Do not bind down the young to rigid rules and restraints that will lead them to feel themselves oppressed and to break over and rush into paths of folly and destruction. With a firm, kind, considerate hand, hold the lines of government, guiding and controlling their minds and purposes, yet so gently, so wisely, so lovingly, that they will still know that you have their best good in view. CT 335217 {CCh 161.2} [CCh 161.3] There are modes of recreation which are highly beneficial to both mind and body. An enlightened, discriminating mind will find abundant means for the entertainment and diversion, from sources not only innocent, but instructive. Recreation in the open air, the contemplation of the works of God in nature, will be of highest benefit. 4T 653218 {CCh 161.3} [CCh 161.4] No recreation helpful only to themselves will prove so great a blessing to the children and youth as that which makes them helpful to others. Naturally enthusiastic and impressible, the young are quick to respond to suggestion. Ed 212219 {CCh 161.4} [CCh 161.5] God has provided for everyone pleasure that may be enjoyed by rich and poor alike—the pleasure found in cultivating pureness of thought and unselfishness of action, the pleasure that comes from speaking sympathizing words and doing kindly deeds. From those who perform such service, the light of Christ shines to brighten lives darkened by many sorrows. 9T 57220 {CCh 161.5} [CCh 161.6] There are plenty of necessary, useful things to do in our world that would make the pleasure amusement exercise almost wholly unnecessary. Brain, bone, and muscle will acquire solidity and strength in using them to a purpose, doing good, hard thinking, and devising plans which shall train them to develop powers of intellect and strength of the physical organs, which will be putting into practical use their God-given talents with which they may glorify God. AH 509221 {CCh 161.6} [CCh 161.7] I do not condemn the simple exercise of playing ball; but this, even in its simplicity, may be overdone. {CCh 161.7} [CCh 162.1] 162 I shrink always from the almost sure result which follows in the wake of these amusements. It leads to an outlay of means that should be expended in bringing the light of truth to souls that are perishing out of Christ. The amusements and expenditures of means for self-pleasing, which lead on step by step to self-glorifying, and the educating in these games for pleasure produce a love and passion for such things that is not favorable to the perfection of Christian character. AH 499222 {CCh 162.1} [CCh 162.2] Association and Correct Habits Young persons who are thrown into one another's society may make their association a blessing or a curse. They may edify, bless, and strengthen one another, improving in deportment, in disposition, in knowledge; or, by permitting themselves to become careless and unfaithful, they may exert only a demoralizing influence. {CCh 162.2} [CCh 162.3] Jesus will be the helper of all who put their trust in Him. Those who are connected with Christ have happiness at their command. They follow in the path where their Saviour leads, for His sake crucifying self with the affections and lusts. These persons have built their hopes on Christ, and the storms of earth are powerless to sweep them from the sure foundation. {CCh 162.3} [CCh 162.4] It rests with yourselves, young men and women, whether you will become persons of trust, of integrity and real usefulness. You should be ready and resolute to take your stand for the right, under all circumstances. Our wrong habits cannot be taken to heaven with us, and unless overcome here, they will shut us out of the abode of the righteous. Bad habits, when opposed, will offer the most vigorous resistance; but if the warfare is kept up with energy and perseverance, they may be conquered. {CCh 162.4} [CCh 162.5] In order to form correct habits, we should seek the company of persons of sound moral and religious influence. 4T 655223 {CCh 162.5} [CCh 162.6] If the youth could be persuaded to associate with the pure, the thoughtful, and the amiable, the effect would be most salutary. If choice is made of companions who fear the Lord, the influence will lead to truth, to duty, and to holiness. A truly Christian life is a power for good. But, on the other hand, those who associate with men and women of questionable morals, of bad principles and practices, will soon be walking in the same path. The tendencies of the natural heart are downward. He who associates with the skeptic will soon become skeptical; he who chooses the companionship of the vile will most assuredly become vile. To walk in the counsel of the ungodly is the first step toward standing in the way of sinners and sitting in the seat of the scornful. {CCh 162.6} [CCh 162.7] Let all who would form a right character choose associates who are of a serious, thoughtful turn of mind and who are religiously inclined. Those who have counted the cost and wish to build for eternity must put good material into their building. If they accept of rotten timbers, if they are content with deficiencies of character, the building is doomed to 163 ruin. Let all take heed how they build. The storm of temptation will sweep over the building, and unless it is firmly and faithfully constructed it will not stand the test. {CCh 162.7} [CCh 163.1] A good name is more precious than gold. There is an inclination with the youth to associate with those who are inferior in mind and morals. What real happiness can a young person expect from a voluntary connection with persons who have a low standard of thoughts, feelings, and deportment? Some are debased in taste and depraved in habits, and all who choose such companions will follow their example. 4T 587, 588224 {CCh 163.1} [CCh 163.2] You may see no real danger in taking the first step in frivolity and pleasure seeking, and think that when you desire to change your course you will be able to do right as easily as before you yielded yourselves to do wrong. But this is a mistake. By the choice of evil companions many have been led step by step from the path of virtue into depths of disobedience and dissipation to which at one time they would have thought it impossible for them to sink. CT 224225 {CCh 163.2} [CCh 163.3] Do not think that God wishes us to yield up everything which it is for our happiness here to retain. All He requires us to give up is that which would not be for our good and happiness to retain. AH 502226 {CCh 163.3} [CCh 163.4] Entire Rest and Self-Amusement Young men should remember that they are accountable for all the privileges they have enjoyed, for the improvement of their time, and for the right use of their abilities. They may inquire, Shall we have no amusement or recreation? Shall we work, work, work, without variation? CT 337227 {CCh 163.4} [CCh 163.5] A change from physical labor that has taxed the strength severely may be very necessary for a time, that they may again engage in labor, putting forth exertion with greater success. But entire rest may not be necessary, or even be attended with the best results so far as their physical strength is concerned. They need not, even when weary with one kind of labor, trifle away their precious moments. They may then seek to do something not so exhausting, but which will be a blessing to their mother and sisters. In lightening their cares by taking upon themselves the roughest burdens they have to bear, they can find that amusement which springs from principle and which will yield them true happiness, and their time will not be spent in trifling or in selfish indulgence. Their time may be ever employed to advantage, and they be constantly refreshed with variation, and yet be redeeming the time, so that every moment will tell with good account to someone. 3T 223228 {CCh 163.5} [CCh 163.6] Many claim that it is necessary for the preservation of physical health to indulge in selfish amusement. It is true that change is required for the best development of the body, for mind and body are refreshed and invigorated by change; but this object is not gained by indulgence in foolish amusements, to the neglect of daily duties which the youth should be required to do. AH 508229 {CCh 163.6} [CCh 164.1] 164 Among the most dangerous resorts for pleasure is the theater. Instead of being a school for morality and virtue, as is so often claimed, it is the very hotbed of immorality. Vicious habits and sinful propensities are strengthened and confirmed by these entertainments. Low songs, lewd gestures, expressions, and attitudes, deprave the imagination and debase the morals. Every youth who habitually attends such exhibitions will be corrupted in principle. There is no influence in our land more powerful to poison the imagination, to destroy religious impressions, and to blunt the relish for the tranquil pleasures and sober realities of life than theatrical amusements. The love for these scenes increases with every indulgence, as the desire for intoxicating drink strengthens with its use. The only safe course is to shun the theater, the circus, and every other questionable place of amusement. CT 334, 335230 {CCh 164.1} [CCh 164.2] David's dancing in reverent joy before God has been cited by pleasure lovers in justification of the fashionable modern dance, but there is no ground for such an argument. In our day dancing is associated with folly and midnight reveling. Health and morals are sacrificed to pleasure. By the frequenters of the ballroom God is not an object of thought and reverence; prayer or the song of praise would be felt to be out of place in their assemblies. This test should be decisive. Amusements that have a tendency to weaken the love for sacred things and lessen our joy in the service of God are not to be sought by Christians. The music and dancing in joyful praise to God at the removal of the ark had not the faintest resemblance to the dissipation of modern dancing. The one tended to the remembrance of God and exalted His holy name. The other is a device of Satan to cause men to forget God and to dishonor Him. PP 707231 {CCh 164.2} [CCh 164.3] The young generally conduct themselves as though the precious hours of probation, while mercy lingers, were one grand holiday, and they were placed in this world merely for their own amusement, to be gratified with a continued round of excitement. Satan has been making special efforts to lead them to find happiness in worldly amusements and to justify themselves by endeavoring to show that these amusements are harmless, innocent, and even important for health. 1T 501232 {CCh 164.3} [CCh 164.4] Many are eagerly participating in worldly, demoralizing amusements which God's word forbids. Thus they sever their connection with God and rank themselves with the pleasure lovers of the world. The sins that destroyed the antediluvians and the cities of the plain exist today—not merely in heathen lands, not only among popular professors of Christianity, but with some who profess to be looking for the coming of the Son of man. If God should present these sins before you as they appear in His sight, you would be filled with shame and terror. 5T 218233 {CCh 164.4} [CCh 164.5] The desire for excitement and pleasing entertainment is a temptation and a snare to God's people, and especially to the young. Satan is constantly preparing inducements to attract minds from the solemn work of preparation for scenes just in the future. Through the agency of 165 worldlings he keeps up a continual excitement to induce the unwary to join in worldly pleasures. There are shows, lectures, and an endless variety of entertainments that are calculated to lead to a love of the world; and through this union with the world, faith is weakened. {CCh 164.5} [CCh 165.1] God does not own the pleasure seeker as His follower. Those only who are self-denying, and who live lives of sobriety, humility, and holiness, are true followers of Jesus. And such cannot enjoy the frivolous, empty conversation of the lover of the world. CT 325, 328234 {CCh 165.1} [CCh 165.2] If you truly belong to Christ, you will have opportunities for witnessing for Him. You will be invited to attend places of amusement, and then it will be that you will have an opportunity to testify to your Lord. If you are true to Christ then, you will not try to form excuses for your nonattendance, but will plainly and modestly declare that you are a child of God, and your principles would not allow you to be in a place, even for one occasion, where you could not invite the presence of your Lord. AH 519235 {CCh 165.2} [CCh 165.3] Between the associations of the followers of Christ for Christian recreation and worldly gatherings for pleasure and amusement will exist a marked contrast. Instead of prayer and the mentioning of Christ and sacred things will be heard from the lips of worldlings the silly laugh and the trifling conversation. Their idea is to have a general high time. Their amusements commence in folly and end in vanity. AH 512236 {CCh 165.3} [CCh 166.1] Chapter 30 —The Avenues to the Mind Which Must Be Guarded All should guard the senses, lest Satan gain victory over them; for these are the avenues of the soul. {CCh 166.1} [CCh 166.2] You will have to become a faithful sentinel over your eyes, ears, and all your senses if you would control your mind and prevent vain and corrupt thoughts from staining your soul. The power of grace alone can accomplish this most desirable work. {CCh 166.2} [CCh 166.3] Satan and his angels are busy creating a paralyzed condition of the senses so that cautions, warnings, and reproofs shall not be heard; or, if heard, that they shall not take effect upon the heart and reform the life. {CCh 166.3} [CCh 166.4] Satan Cannot Enter the Mind Without Our Consent God has provided that we shall not be tempted above what we are able to bear, but that with every temptation He will make a way of escape. If we live wholly for God, we shall not allow the mind to indulge in selfish imaginings. {CCh 166.4} [CCh 166.5] If there is any way by which Satan can gain access to the mind, he will sow his tares and cause them to grow until they will yield an abundant harvest. In no case can Satan obtain dominion over the thoughts, words, and actions, unless we voluntarily open the door and invite him to enter. He will then come in and, by catching away the good seed sown in the heart, make of none effect the truth. {CCh 166.5} [CCh 166.6] It is not safe for us to linger to contemplate the advantages to be reaped through yielding to Satan's suggestions. Sin means dishonor and disaster to every soul that indulges in it; but it is blinding and deceiving in its nature, and it will entice us with flattering presentations. If we venture on Satan's ground, we have no assurance of protection from his power. So far as in us lies, we should close every avenue by which the tempter may find access to us. {CCh 166.6} [CCh 166.7] Every Christian must stand on guard continually, watching every avenue of the soul where Satan might find access. He must pray for divine help and at the same time resolutely resist every inclination to sin. By courage, by faith, by persevering toil, he can conquer. But let him remember that to gain the victory Christ must abide in him and he in Christ. {CCh 166.7} [CCh 166.8] Everything that can be done should be done to place ourselves and our children where we shall not see the iniquity that is practiced in the world. We should carefully guard the sight of our eyes and the hearing 167 of our ears so that these awful things shall not enter our minds. {CCh 166.8} [CCh 167.1] Do not see how close you can walk upon the brink of a precipice and be safe. Avoid the first approach to danger. The soul's interests cannot be trifled with. Your capital is your character. Cherish it as you would a golden treasure. Moral purity, self-respect, a strong power of resistance, must be firmly and constantly cherished. There should not be one departure from reserve; one act of familiarity, one indiscretion, may jeopardize the soul in opening the door to temptation, and the power of resistance becomes weakened. AH 410-404237 {CCh 167.1} [CCh 168.1] Chapter 31 —Choice of Reading Education is but a preparation of the physical, intellectual, and spiritual powers for the best performance of all the duties of life. The powers of endurance, and the strength and activity of the brain, are lessened or increased by the way in which they are employed. The mind should be so disciplined that all its powers will be symmetrically developed. {CCh 168.1} [CCh 168.2] Many youth are eager for books. They desire to read everything that they can obtain. Let them take heed what they read as well as what they hear. I have been instructed that they are in the greatest danger of being corrupted by improper reading. Satan has a thousand ways of unsettling the minds of youth. They cannot safely be off guard for a moment. They must set a watch upon their minds, that they may not be allured by the enemy's temptations. MYP 271238 {CCh 168.2} [CCh 168.3] Influence of Unwholesome Reading Satan knows that to a great degree the mind is affected by that upon which it feeds. He is seeking to lead both the youth and those of mature age to read story-books, tales, and other literature. The readers of such literature become unfitted for the duties lying before them. They live an unreal life, and have no desire to search the Scriptures, to feed upon the heavenly manna. The mind that needs strengthening is enfeebled, and loses its power to study the great truths that relate to the mission and work of Christ—truths that would fortify the mind, awaken the imagination, and kindle a strong, earnest desire to overcome as Christ overcame. {CCh 168.3} [CCh 168.4] Could a large share of the books published be consumed, a plague would be stayed that is doing a fearful work upon mind and heart. Love stories, frivolous and exciting tales, and even that class of books called religious novels—books in which the author attaches to his story a moral lesson—are a curse to the readers. Religious sentiments may be woven all through a story-book, but, in most cases, Satan is but clothed in angel-robes, the more effectively to deceive and allure. None are so confirmed in right principles, none so secure from temptation, that they are safe in reading these stories. {CCh 168.4} [CCh 168.5] The readers of fiction are indulging an evil that destroys spirituality, eclipsing the beauty of the sacred page. It creates an unhealthy excitement, fevers the imagination, unfits the mind for usefulness, weans the soul from prayer, and disqualifies it for any spiritual exercise. {CCh 168.5} [CCh 169.1] 169 God has endowed many of our youth with superior capabilities; but too often they have enervated their powers, confused and enfeebled their minds, so that for years they have made no growth in grace or in a knowledge of the reasons of our faith, because of their unwise choice of reading. Those who are looking for the Lord soon to come, looking for that wondrous change, when "this corruptible shall put on incorruption," should in this probationary time be standing upon a higher plane of action. {CCh 169.1} [CCh 169.2] My dear young friends, question your own experience as to the influence of exciting stories. Can you, after such reading, open the Bible and read with interest the words of life? Do you not find the Book of God uninteresting? The charm of that love story is upon the mind, destroying its healthy tone, and making it impossible for you to fix the attention upon the important, solemn truths that concern your eternal welfare. {CCh 169.2} [CCh 169.3] Resolutely discard all trashy reading. It will not strengthen your spirituality, but will introduce into the mind sentiments that pervert the imagination, causing you to think less of Jesus and to dwell less upon His precious lessons. Keep the mind free from everything that would lead it in a wrong direction. Do not encumber it with trashy stories, which impart no strength to the mental powers. The thoughts are of the same character as the food provided for the mind. MYP 271-273239 {CCh 169.3} [CCh 169.4] Reading That Destroys the Soul With the immense tide of printed matter constantly pouring from the press, old and young form the habit of reading hastily and superficially, and the mind loses its power of connected and vigorous thought. Furthermore, a large share of the periodicals and books that, like the frogs of Egypt, are overspreading the land, are not merely commonplace, idle, and enervating, but unclean and degrading. Their effect is not merely to intoxicate and ruin the mind, but to corrupt and destroy the soul Ed 189, 190240 {CCh 169.4} [CCh 169.5] In the education of children and youth, fairy tales, myths, and fictitious stories are now given a large place. Books of this character are used in schools, and they are to be found in many homes. How can Christian parents permit their children to use books so filled with falsehood? When the children ask the meaning of stories so contrary to the teaching of their parents, the answer is that the stories are not true; but this does not do away with the evil results of their use. The ideas presented in these books mislead the children. They impart false views of life and beget and foster a desire for the unreal. {CCh 169.5} [CCh 169.6] The widespread use of such books at this time is one of the cunning devices of Satan. He is seeking to divert the minds of old and young from the great work of character building. He means that our children and youth shall be swept away by the soul-destroying deceptions with which he is filling the world. Therefore he seeks to divert their minds from the word of God and thus prevent them from obtaining a knowledge of those truths that would be their safeguard. {CCh 169.6} [CCh 169.7] Never should books containing a perversion of truth be placed in the hands of children or youth. Let not our children, in the very process of obtaining an education, receive ideas that will prove to be seeds of sin. CT 384, 385241 {CCh 169.7} [CCh 169.8] Another source of danger against which we should be constantly on guard is the reading of infidel authors. Such works are inspired by the enemy of truth, and no one can read them without imperiling the soul. {CCh 169.8} [CCh 170.1] 170 It is true that some who are affected by them may finally recover; but all who tamper with their evil influence place themselves on Satan's ground, and he makes the most of his advantage. As they invite his temptations they have not wisdom to discern or strength to resist them. With a fascinating, bewitching power, unbelief and infidelity fasten themselves upon the mind. CT 135, 136242 {CCh 170.1} [CCh 170.2] Dangers in Reading Exciting Stories What shall our children read? This is a serious question and one that demands a serious answer. It troubles me to see in Sabbathkeeping families periodicals and newspapers containing continued stories which leave no impressions for good on the minds of children and youth. I have watched those whose taste for fiction was thus cultivated. They have had the privilege of listening to the truth, of becoming acquainted with the reasons of our faith; but they have grown to mature years destitute of true piety and practical godliness. {CCh 170.2} [CCh 170.3] Readers of frivolous, exciting tales become unfitted for the duties of practical life. They live in an unreal world. I have watched children who have been allowed to make a practice of reading such stories. Whether at home or abroad, they were restless, dreamy, unable to converse except upon the most commonplace subjects. Religious thought and conversation was entirely foreign to their minds. With the cultivation of an appetite for sensational stories, the mental taste is perverted, and the mind is not satisfied unless fed upon this unwholesome food. I can think of no more fitting name for those who indulge in such reading than mental inebriates. Intemperate habits of reading have an effect upon the brain similar to that which intemperate habits of eating and drinking have upon the body. CT 132-135243 {CCh 170.3} [CCh 170.4] Before accepting the present truth, some had formed the habit of novel reading. Upon uniting with the church, they made an effort to overcome this habit. To place before this class reading similar to that which they have discarded is like offering intoxicants to the inebriate. Yielding to the temptation continually before them, they soon lose their relish for solid reading. They have no interest in Bible study. Their moral power becomes enfeebled. Sin appears less and less repulsive. There is manifest an increasing unfaithfulness, a growing distaste for life's practical duties. As the mind becomes perverted, it is ready to grasp any reading of a stimulating character. Thus the way is open for Satan to bring the soul fully under his domination. 7T 203244 {CCh 170.4} [CCh 170.5] The Book of Books The nature of one's religious experience is revealed by the character of the books one chooses to read in one's leisure moments. In order to have a healthy tone of mind and sound religious principles, the youth must live in communion with God through His word. Pointing out the 171 way of salvation through Christ, the Bible is our guide to a higher, better life. It contains the most interesting and the most instructive history and biography that were ever written. Those whose imagination has not become perverted by the reading of fiction will find the Bible the most interesting of books. {CCh 170.5} [CCh 171.1] The Bible is the Book of books. If you love the Word of God, searching it as you have opportunity, that you may come into possession of its rich treasures, and be thoroughly furnished unto all good works, then you may be assured that Jesus is drawing you to Himself. But to read the Scriptures in a casual way, without seeking to comprehend Christ's lesson that you may comply with His requirements, is not enough. There are treasures in the word of God that can be discovered only by sinking the shaft deep into the mine of truth. {CCh 171.1} [CCh 171.2] The carnal mind rejects the truth; but the soul that is converted undergoes a marvelous change. The book that before was unattractive because it revealed truths which testified against the sinner, now becomes the food of the soul, the joy and consolation of the life. The Sun of righteousness illuminates the sacred pages, and the Holy Spirit speaks through them to the soul. {CCh 171.2} [CCh 171.3] Let all who have cultivated a love for light reading, now turn their attention to the sure word of prophecy. Take your Bibles, and begin to study with fresh interest the sacred records of the Old and New Testaments. The oftener and more diligently you study the Bible, the more beautiful will it appear, and the less relish you will have for light reading. Bind this precious volume to your hearts. It will be to you a friend and guide. MYP 273, 274245 {CCh 171.3} [CCh 172.1] Chapter 32 —Music The art of sacred melody was diligently cultivated ［in the schools of the prophets］. No frivolous waltz was heard, nor flippant song that should extol man and divert the attention from God; but sacred, solemn psalms of praise to the Creator, exalting His name and recounting His wondrous works. Thus music was made to serve a holy purpose, to lift the thoughts to that which was pure and noble and elevating, and to awaken in the soul devotion and gratitude to God. FE 97, 98246 {CCh 172.1} [CCh 172.2] Music forms a part of God's worship in the courts above, and we should endeavor, in our songs of praise, to approach as nearly as possible to the harmony of the heavenly choirs. The proper training of the voice is an important feature in education and should not be neglected. Singing, as a part of religious service, is as much an act of worship as is prayer. The heart must feel the spirit of the song to give it right expression. PP 594247 {CCh 172.2} [CCh 172.3] I have been shown the order, the perfect order, of heaven, and have been enraptured as I listened to the perfect music there. After coming out of vision, the singing here has sounded very harsh and discordant. I have seen companies of angels, who stood in a hollow square, everyone having a harp of gold. At the end of the harp was an instrument to turn to set the harp or change the tunes. Their fingers did not sweep over the strings carelessly, but they touched different strings to produce different sounds. There is one angel who always leads, who first touches the harp and strikes the note, then all join in the rich, perfect music of heaven. It cannot be described. It is melody, heavenly, divine, while from every countenance beams the image of Jesus, shining with glory unspeakable. 1T 146248 {CCh 172.3} [CCh 172.4] I was shown that the youth must take a higher stand and make the word of God the man of their counsel and their guide. Solemn responsibilities rest upon the young, which they lightly regard. The introduction of music into their homes, instead of inciting to holiness and spirituality, has been the means of diverting their minds from the truth. Frivolous songs and the popular sheet music of the day seem congenial to their taste. The instruments of music have taken time which should have been devoted to prayer. Music, when not abused, is a great blessing; but when put to a wrong use, it is a terrible curse. It excites, but does not impart that strength and courage which the Christian can find only at the throne of grace while humbly making known his wants and, 173 with strong cries and tears pleading for heavenly strength to be fortified against the powerful temptations of the evil one. Satan is leading the young captive. Oh, what can I say to lead them to break his power of infatuation! He is a skillful charmer, luring them on to perdition. 1T 496, 497249 {CCh 172.4} [CCh 174.1] Chapter 33 —Criticism and Its Effects Christians should be careful in regard to their words. They should never carry unfavorable reports from one of their friends to another, especially if they are aware that there is a lack of union between them. It is cruel to hint and insinuate, as though you knew a great deal in regard to this friend or that acquaintance of which others are ignorant. Such hints go further, and create more unfavorable impressions, than to frankly relate the facts in an unexaggerated manner. What harm has not the church of Christ suffered from these things! The inconsistent, unguarded course of her members has made her weak as water. Confidence has been betrayed by members of the same church, and yet the guilty did not design to do mischief. Lack of wisdom in the selection of subjects of conversation has done much harm. {CCh 174.1} [CCh 174.2] The conversation should be upon spiritual and divine things; but it has been otherwise. If the association with Christian friends is chiefly devoted to the improvement of the mind and heart, there will be no after regrets, and they can look back on the interview with a pleasant satisfaction. But if the hours are spent in levity and vain talking, and the precious time is employed in dissecting the lives and character of others, the friendly intercourse will prove a source of evil, and your influence will be a savor of death unto death. 2T 186, 187250 {CCh 174.2} [CCh 174.3] Think Well of All Men When we listen to a reproach against our brother, we take up that reproach. To the question, "Lord, who shall abide in Thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in Thy holy hill?" the psalmist answered, "He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbor, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor." Psalm 15:1-3. {CCh 174.3} [CCh 174.4] What a world of gossip would be prevented if every man would remember that those who tell him the faults of others will as freely publish his faults at a favorable opportunity. We should endeavor to think well of all men, especially our brethren, until compelled to think otherwise. We should not hastily credit evil reports. These are often the result of envy or misunderstanding, or they may proceed from exaggeration or a partial disclosure of facts. Jealousy and suspicion, once allowed a place, will sow themselves broadcast, like thistledown. Should 175 a brother go astray, then is the time to show your real interest in him. Go to him kindly, pray with and for him, remembering the infinite price which Christ has paid for his redemption. In this way you may save a soul from death, and hide a multitude of sins. {CCh 174.4} [CCh 175.1] A glance, a word, even an intonation of the voice, may be vital with falsehood, sinking like a barbed arrow into some heart, inflicting an incurable wound. Thus a doubt, a reproach, may be cast upon one by whom God would accomplish a good work, and his influence is blighted, his usefulness destroyed. Among some species of animals, if one of their number is wounded and falls, he is at once set upon and torn in pieces by his fellows. The same cruel spirit is indulged by men and women who bear the name of Christians. They manifest a pharisaical zeal to stone others less guilty than themselves. There are some who point to others' faults and failures to divert attention from their own, or to gain credit for great zeal for God and the church. 5T 58, 59251 {CCh 175.1} [CCh 175.2] The time spent in criticizing the motives and works of Christ's servants might better be spent in prayer. Often if those who find fault knew the truth in regard to those with whom they find fault, they would have an altogether different opinion of them. How much better it would be if, instead of criticizing and condemning others, everyone would say: "I must work out my own salvation. If I co-operate with Him who desires to save my soul, I must watch myself diligently. I must cut away every evil from my life. I must become a new creature in Christ. I must overcome every fault. Then, instead of weakening those who are striving against evil, I can strengthen them by encouraging words." 8T 83, 84252 {CCh 175.2} [CCh 175.3] The Envious Man Sees No Good in Others We are not to allow our perplexities and disappointments to eat into our souls and make us fretful and impatient. Let there be no strife, no evil thinking or evil-speaking, lest we offend God. My brother, if you open your heart to envy and evil surmising, the Holy Spirit cannot abide with you. Seek for the fullness that is in Christ. Labor in His lines. Let every thought and word and deed reveal Him. You need a daily baptism of the love that in the days of the apostles made them all of one accord. This love will bring health to body, mind, and soul. Surround your soul with an atmosphere that will strengthen spiritual life. Cultivate faith, hope, courage, and love. Let the peace of God rule in your heart. 8T 191253 {CCh 175.3} [CCh 175.4] Envy is not merely a perverseness of temper, but a distemper, which disorders all the faculties. It began with Satan. He desired to be first in heaven, and because he could not have all the power and glory he sought, he rebelled against the government of God. He envied our first parents and tempted them to sin and thus ruined them and all the human race. {CCh 175.4} [CCh 175.5] The envious man shuts his eyes to the good qualities and noble deeds of others. He is always ready to disparage and misrepresent that which is excellent. Men often confess and forsake other faults, but there is 176 little to be hoped for from the envious man. Since to envy a person is to admit that he is a superior, pride will not permit any concession. If an attempt be made to convince the envious person of his sin, he becomes even more bitter against the object of his passion, and too often he remains incurable. {CCh 175.5} [CCh 176.1] The envious man diffuses poison wherever he goes, alienating friends and stirring up hatred and rebellion against God and man. He seeks to be thought best and greatest, not by putting forth heroic, self-denying efforts to reach the goal of excellence himself, but by standing where he is and diminishing the merit due to the efforts of others. {CCh 176.1} [CCh 176.2] The tongue that delights in mischief, the babbling tongue that says, Report, and I will report it, is declared by the apostle James to be set on fire of hell. It scatters firebrands on every side. What cares the vendor of gossip that he defames the innocent? He will not stay his evil work, though he destroy hope and courage in those who are already sinking under their burdens. He cares only to indulge his scandal-loving propensity. Even professed Christians close their eyes to all that is pure, honest, noble, and lovely, and treasure up what ever is objectionable and disagreeable, and publish it to the world. 5T 56, 57254 {CCh 176.2} [CCh 176.3] Jealousy and Faultfinding It pains me to say that there are unruly tongues among church members. There are false tongues that feed on mischief. There are sly, whispering tongues. There is tattling, impertinent meddling, adroit quizzing. Among the lovers of gossip some are actuated by curiosity, others by jealousy, many by hatred against those through whom God has spoken to reprove them. All these discordant elements are at work. Some conceal their real sentiments, while others are eager to publish all they know, or even suspect, of evil against another. {CCh 176.3} [CCh 176.4] I saw that the very spirit of perjury, that would turn truth into falsehood, good into evil, and innocence into crime, is now active. Satan exults over the condition of God's professed people. While many are neglecting their own souls, they eagerly watch for an opportunity to criticize and condemn others. All have defects of character, and it is not hard to find something that jealousy can interpret to their injury. "Now," say these self-constituted judges, "we have facts. We will fasten upon them an accusation from which they can not clear themselves." They wait for a fitting opportunity and then produce their bundle of gossip and bring forth their tidbits. {CCh 176.4} [CCh 176.5] In their efforts to carry a point, persons who have naturally a strong imagination are in danger of deceiving themselves and deceiving others. They gather up unguarded expressions from another, not considering that words may be uttered hastily and hence may not reflect the real sentiments of the speaker. But those unpremeditated remarks, often so trifling as to be unworthy of notice, are viewed through Satan's magnifying glass, pondered, and repeated until molehills become mountains. {CCh 176.5} [CCh 177.1] 177 Is it Christian charity to gather up every floating report, to unearth everything that will cast suspicion on the character of another, and then take delight in using it to injure him? Satan exults when he can defame or wound a follower of Christ. He is "the accuser of our brethren." Shall Christians aid him in his work? {CCh 177.1} [CCh 177.2] God's all-seeing eye notes the defects of all and the ruling passion of each, yet He bears with our mistakes and pities our weakness. He bids His people cherish the same spirit of tenderness and forbearance. True Christians will not exult in exposing the faults and deficiencies of others. They will turn away from vileness and deformity, to fix the mind upon that which is attractive and lovely. To the Christian every act of faultfinding, every word of censure or condemnation, is painful. 5T 94-96255 {CCh 177.2} [CCh 177.3] The Effects of Criticism of Church and Institutional Leaders The spirit of gossip and talebearing is one of Satan's special agencies to sow discord and strife, to separate friends, and to undermine the faith of many in the truthfulness of our positions. Brethren and sisters are too ready to talk of the faults and errors that they think exist in others, and especially in those who have borne unflinchingly the messages of reproof and warning given them of God. {CCh 177.3} [CCh 177.4] The children of these complainers listen with open ears and receive the poison of disaffection. Parents are thus blindly closing the avenues through which the hearts of the children might be reached. How many families season their daily meals with doubt and questionings. They dissect the characters of their friends, and serve them up as a dainty dessert. A precious bit of slander is passed around the board to be commented upon, not only by adults, but by children. In this God is dishonored. Jesus said: "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these My brethren, ye have done it unto Me." Matthew 25:40. Therefore Christ is slighted and abused by those who slander His servants. {CCh 177.4} [CCh 177.5] The names of God's chosen servants have been handled with disrespect, and in some cases with absolute contempt, by certain persons whose duty it is to uphold them. The children have not failed to hear the disrespectful remarks of their parents in reference to the solemn reproofs and warnings of God's servants. They have understood the scornful jests and depreciatory speeches that from time to time have met their ears, and the tendency has been to bring sacred and eternal interests, in their minds, on a level with the common affairs of the world. What a work are these parents doing in making infidels of their children even in their childhood! This is the way that children are taught to be irreverent and to rebel against Heaven's reproof of sin. {CCh 177.5} [CCh 177.6] Spiritual declension can but prevail where such evils exist. These very fathers and mothers, blinded by the enemy, marvel why their children are so inclined to unbelief and to doubt the truth of the Bible. They wonder that it is so difficult to reach them by moral and religious influences. Had they spiritual eyesight, they would at once discover that this deplorable condition of things is the result of their own home influence, the offspring of their jealousy and distrust. Thus many infidels are educated in the family circles of professed Christians. {CCh 177.6} [CCh 178.1] 178 There are many who find special enjoyment in discoursing and dwelling upon the defects, whether real or imaginary, of those who bear heavy responsibilities in connection with the institutions of God's cause. They overlook the good that has been accomplished, the benefits that have resulted from arduous labor and unflinching devotion to the cause, and fasten their attention upon some apparent mistake, some matter that, after it has been done and the consequences have followed, they fancy could have been done in a better manner with fairer results, when the truth is, had they been left to do the work, they would either have refused to move at all under the attending discouragements of the case, or would have managed more indiscreetly than those who did do the work, following the opening of God's providence. {CCh 178.1} [CCh 178.2] But these unruly talkers will fasten upon the more disagreeable features of the work, even as the lichen clings to the roughness of the rock. These persons are spiritually dwarfed by continually dwelling upon the failings and faults of others. They are morally incapable of discerning good and noble actions, unselfish endeavors, true heroism, and self-sacrifice. They are not becoming nobler and loftier in their lives and hopes, more generous and broad in their ideas and plans. They are not cultivating that charity that should characterize the Christian's life. They are degenerating every day and are becoming narrower in their prejudices and views. Littleness is their element, and the atmosphere that surrounds them is poisonous to peace and happiness. 4T 195, 196256 {CCh 178.2} [CCh 178.3] Every institution will have to battle with difficulty. Trials are permitted in order to test the hearts of God's people. When adversity befalls one of the Lord's instrumentalities, it will be shown how much real faith we have in God and in His work. At such a time let none view matters in the worst light and give expression to doubt and unbelief. Do not criticize those who carry the burdens of responsibility. Let not the conversation in your homes be poisoned with criticism of the Lord's workers. Parents who indulge this criticizing spirit are not bringing before their children that which will make them wise unto salvation. Their words tend to unsettle the faith and confidence not only of the children, but of those older in years. 7T 183257 {CCh 178.3} [CCh 178.4] The managers of our institutions have a most difficult task to maintain order and to discipline wisely the youth under their care. The members of the church can do much to stay up their hands. When the youth are unwilling to submit to the discipline of the institution, or in any matter of difference with their superiors are determined to have their own way, let not parents blindly sustain and sympathize with their children. {CCh 178.4} [CCh 178.5] Better, far better might your children suffer, better lie in their graves, than be taught to treat lightly the principles that lie at the very foundation of loyalty to truth, to their fellow beings, and to God. 7T 185, 186258 {CCh 178.5} [CCh 179.1] Criticism of Self Alone is of Practical Value Would all professed Christians use their investigative powers to see what evils needed to be corrected in themselves, instead of talking of others' wrongs, there would be a more healthy condition in the church today. Some will be honest when it costs nothing; but when policy will pay best, honesty is forgotten. Honesty and policy will not work together in the same mind. In time, either policy will be expelled, and truth and honesty reign supreme, or, if policy is cherished, honesty will be forgotten. They are never in agreement; they have nothing in common. One is the prophet of Baal, the other is the true prophet of God. When the Lord makes up His jewels, the true, the frank, the honest, will be looked upon with pleasure. Angels are employed in making crowns for such ones, and upon these star-gemmed crowns will be reflected, with splendor, the light which radiates from the throne of God. {CCh 179.1} [CCh 179.2] The Lord is testing and proving His people. You may be just as severe and critical with your own defective character as you please; but be kind, pitiful, and courteous toward others. Inquire every day: Am I sound to the core, or am I false-hearted? Entreat the Lord to save you from all deception on this point. Eternal interests are involved. While so many are panting after honor and greedy of gain, do you, my beloved brethren, be eagerly seeking the assurance of the love of God and crying: Who will show me how to make my calling and election sure? {CCh 179.2} [CCh 179.3] Satan carefully studies the constitutional sins of men, and then he begins his work of alluring and ensnaring them. We are in the thickest of temptations, but there is victory for us if we fight manfully the battles of the Lord. All are in danger. But if you walk humbly and prayerfully you will come forth from the proving process more precious than fine gold, even than the golden wedge of Ophir. If careless and prayerless, you will be as sounding brass and a tinkling cymbal. 5T 96-98259 {CCh 179.3} [CCh 180.1] Chapter 34 —Counsel Concerning Dress In dress, as in all things else, it is our privilege to honor our Creator. He desires our clothing to be not only neat and healthful, but appropriate and becoming. {CCh 180.1} [CCh 180.2] We should seek to make the best of our appearance. In the tabernacle service God specified every detail concerning the garments of those who ministered before Him. Thus we are taught that He has a preference in regard to the dress of those who serve Him. Very specific were the directions given in regard to Aaron's robes, for his dress was symbolic. So the dress of Christ's followers should be symbolic. In all things we are to be representatives of Him. Our appearance in every respect should be characterized by neatness, modesty, and purity. {CCh 180.2} [CCh 180.3] By the things of nature ［the flowers, the lily］ Christ illustrates the beauty that Heaven values, the modest grace, the simplicity, the purity, the appropriateness, that would make our attire pleasing to Him. CG 413260 {CCh 180.3} [CCh 180.4] Guiding Principles in Dress The dress and its arrangement upon the person is generally found to be the index of the man or the woman. {CCh 180.4} [CCh 180.5] We judge of a person's character by the style of dress worn. A modest, godly woman will dress modestly. A refined taste, a cultivated mind, will be revealed in the choice of a simple, appropriate attire. The one who is simple and unpretending in her dress and in her manners shows that she understands that a true woman is characterized by moral worth. How charming, how interesting, is simplicity in dress, which in comeliness can be compared with the flowers of the field! {CCh 180.5} [CCh 180.6] I beg of our people to walk carefully and circumspectly before God. Follow the customs in dress so far as they conform to health principles. Let our sisters dress plainly, as many do, having the dress of good, durable material, appropriate for this age, and let not the dress question fill the mind. Our sisters should dress with simplicity. They should clothe themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety. Give to the world a living illustration of the inward adorning of the grace of God. {CCh 180.6} [CCh 180.7] If the world introduce a modest, convenient, and healthful mode of dress, which is in accordance with the Bible, it will not change our relation to God or to the world to adopt such a style of dress. Christians should follow Christ and make their dress conform to God's Word. {CCh 180.7} [CCh 181.1] 181 They should shun extremes. They should humbly pursue a straightforward course, irrespective of applause or of censure, and should cling to the right because of its own merits. {CCh 181.1} [CCh 181.2] Do not occupy your time by endeavoring to follow all the foolish fashions in dress. Dress neatly and becomingly, but do not make yourself the subject of remarks either by being overdressed or by dressing in a lax, untidy manner. Act as though you knew that the eye of heaven is upon you, and that you are living under the approbation or disapprobation of God. CG 413-415261 {CCh 181.2} [CCh 181.3] Biblical Instruction Christ noticed the devotion to dress, and He cautioned, yea, He commanded, His followers not to bestow too much thought upon it. "Why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin; yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these." Pride and extravagance in dress are sins to which woman is especially prone; hence these injunctions relate directly to her. Of how little value are gold or pearls or costly array, when compared with the meekness and loveliness of Christ! {CCh 181.3} [CCh 181.4] I was directed to the following scriptures. Said the angel, "They are to instruct God's people." 1 Timothy 2:9, 10: "In like manner also that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; but which becometh women professing godliness with good works." 1 Peter 3:3-5: "Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting of the hair and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, . . . adorned themselves." {CCh 181.4} [CCh 181.5] Many look upon these injunctions as too old-fashioned to be worthy of notice; but He who gave them to His disciples understood the dangers from the love of dress in our time, and sent to us the note of warning. Will we heed the warning and be wise? {CCh 181.5} [CCh 181.6] Those who are truly seeking to follow Christ will have conscientious scruples in regard to the dress they wear; they will strive to meet the requirements of this injunction ［1 Peter 3:3-5］ so plainly given by the Lord. CG 415, 416262 {CCh 181.6} [CCh 181.7] Self-denial in dress is a part of our Christian duty. To dress plainly, abstaining from display of jewelry and ornaments of every kind, is in keeping with our faith. 3T 366263 {CCh 181.7} [CCh 181.8] Many need instruction as to how they should appear in the assembly for worship on the Sabbath. They are not to enter the presence of God in the common clothing worn during the week. All should have a special Sabbath suit, to be worn when attending service in God's house. {CCh 181.8} [CCh 182.1] 182 While we should not conform to worldly fashions, we are not to be indifferent in regard to our outward appearance. We are to be neat and trim, though without adornment. The children of God should be pure within and without. 6T 355264 {CCh 182.1} [CCh 182.2] Especially should the wives of our ministers be careful not to depart from the plain teachings of the Bible on the point of dress. Many look upon these injunctions as too old-fashioned to be worthy of notice; but He who gave them to His disciples understood the dangers from the love of dress in our time and sent to us the note of warning. Will we heed the warning and be wise? Extravagance in dress is continually increasing. The end is not yet. Fashion is constantly changing, and our sisters follow in its wake, regardless of time or expense. There is a great amount of means expended upon dress, when it should be returned to God the giver. 4T 630, 631265 {CCh 182.2} [CCh 182.3] The Influence of the Mode of Dress The love of dress endangers the morals and makes woman the opposite of the Christian lady characterized by modesty and sobriety. Showy, extravagant dress too often encourages lust in the heart of the wearer and awakens base passions in the heart of the beholder. God sees that the ruin of the character is frequently preceded by the indulgence of pride and vanity in dress. He sees that the costly apparel stifles the desire to do good. 4T 645266 {CCh 182.3} [CCh 182.4] Simple, plain, unpretending dress will be a recommendation to my youthful sisters. In no better way can you let your light shine to others than in your simplicity of dress and deportment. You may show to all that, in comparison with eternal things, you place a proper estimate upon the things of this life. 3T 376267 {CCh 182.4} [CCh 182.5] Many dress like the world in order to have an influence over unbelievers, but here they make a sad mistake. If they would have a true and saving influence, let them live out their profession, show their faith by their righteous works, and make the distinction plain between the Christian and the worldling. The words, the dress, the actions, should tell for God. Then a holy influence will be shed upon all around them, and even unbelievers will take knowledge of them that they have been with Jesus. If any wish to have their influence tell in favor of truth, let them live out their profession and thus imitate the humble Pattern. 4T 633, 634268 {CCh 182.5} [CCh 182.6] My sisters, avoid even the appearance of evil. In this fast age, reeking with corruption, you are not safe unless you stand guarded. Virtue and modesty are rare. I appeal to you as followers of Christ, making an exalted profession, to cherish the precious, priceless gem of modesty. This will guard virtue. {CCh 182.6} [CCh 182.7] Chaste simplicity in dress, when united with modesty of demeanor, will go far toward surrounding a young woman with that atmosphere of sacred reserve which will be to her a shield from a thousand perils. CG 417269 {CCh 182.7} [CCh 183.1] 183 Simplicity of dress will make a sensible woman appear to the best advantage. {CCh 183.1} [CCh 183.2] Dress as Christians should dress—simply, plainly adorn yourselves as becometh women professing godliness, with good works. {CCh 183.2} [CCh 183.3] Many, in order to keep pace with absurd fashion, lose their taste for natural simplicity and are charmed with the artificial. They sacrifice time and money, the vigor of intellect, and true elevation of soul, and devote their entire being to the claims of fashionable life. {CCh 183.3} [CCh 183.4] Dear youth, a disposition in you to dress according to the fashion, and to wear lace, and gold, and artificials for display, will not recommend to others your religion or the truth that you profess. People of discernment will look upon your attempts to beautify the external as proof of weak minds and proud hearts. CG 421270 {CCh 183.4} [CCh 183.5] There is a dress which every child and youth may innocently seek to obtain. It is the righteousness of the saints. If they will only be as willing and persevering in obtaining this as they are in fashioning their garments after the standard of worldly society, they will very soon be clothed with the righteousness of Christ, and their names will not be blotted out of the book of life. Mothers, as well as youth and children, need to pray, "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me." Psalm 51:10. This purity of heart and loveliness of spirit are more precious than gold, both for time and for eternity. Only the pure in heart shall see God. CG 417, 418271 {CCh 183.5} [CCh 184.1] Chapter 35 —An Appeal to Youth Dear young friends, that which you sow, you will also reap. Now is the sowing time for you. What will the harvest be? What are you sowing? Every word you utter, every act you perform, is a seed which will bear good or evil fruit and will result in joy or sorrow to the sower. As is the seed sown, so will be the crop. God has given you great light and many privileges. After this light has been given, after your dangers have been plainly presented before you, the responsibility becomes yours. The manner in which you treat the light that God gives you will turn the scale for happiness or woe. You are shaping your destinies for yourselves. {CCh 184.1} [CCh 184.2] You all have an influence for good or for evil on the minds and characters of others. And just the influence which you exert is written in the book of records in heaven. An angel is attending you and taking record of your words and actions. When you rise in the morning, do you feel your helplessness and your need of strength from God? and do you humbly, heartily make known your wants to your heavenly Father? If so, angels mark your prayers, and if these prayers have not gone forth out of feigned lips, when you are in danger of unconsciously doing wrong and exerting an influence which will lead others to do wrong, your guardian angel will be by your side, prompting you to a better course, choosing your words for you, and influencing your actions. {CCh 184.2} [CCh 184.3] If you feel in no danger, and if you offer no prayer for help and strength to resist temptations, you will be sure to go astray; your neglect of duty will be marked in the book of God in heaven, and you will be found wanting in the trying day. {CCh 184.3} [CCh 184.4] There are some around you who have been religiously instructed, and some who have been indulged, petted, flattered, and praised until they have been literally spoiled for practical life. I am speaking in regard to persons that I know. Their characters are so warped by indulgence, flattery, and indolence that they are useless for this life. And if useless so far as this life is concerned, what may we hope for that life where all is purity and holiness, and where all have harmonious characters? I have prayed for these persons; I have addressed them personally. I could see the influence that they would exert over other minds in leading them to vanity, love of dress, and carelessness in regard to their eternal interests. The only hope for this class is for them to take heed to their ways, humble their proud, vain hearts before God, make confession 185 of their sins, and be converted. 3T 363, 364272 {CCh 184.4} [CCh 185.1] Develop a Taste for Spiritual Things The only safety for the young is in unceasing watchfulness and humble prayer. They need not flatter themselves that they can be Christians without these. Satan conceals his temptations and his devices under a cover of light, as when he approached Christ in the wilderness. He was then in appearance as one of the heavenly angels. The adversary of our souls will approach us as a heavenly guest, and the apostle recommends sobriety and vigilance as our only safety. The young who indulge in carelessness and levity, and who neglect Christian duties, are continually falling under the temptations of the enemy, instead of overcoming as Christ overcame. 3T 374273 {CCh 185.1} [CCh 185.2] Many profess to be on the Lord's side, but they are not; the weight of all their actions is on Satan's side. By what means shall we determine whose side we are on? Who has the heart? With whom are our thoughts? Upon whom do we love to converse? Who has our warmest affections and our best energies? If we are on the Lord's side, our thoughts are with Him, and our sweetest thoughts are of Him. We have no friendship with the world; we have consecrated all that we have and are to Him. We long to bear His image, breathe His Spirit, do His will, and please Him in all things. {CCh 185.2} [CCh 185.3] True education is the power of using our faculties so as to achieve beneficial results. Why is it that religion occupies so little of our attention, while the world has the strength of brain, bone, and muscle? It is because the whole force of our being is bent in that direction. We have trained ourselves to engage with earnestness and power in worldly business, until it is easy for the mind to take that turn. This is why Christians find a religious life so hard and a worldly life so easy. The faculties have been trained to exert their force in that direction. In religious life there has been an assent to the truths of God's word, but not a practical illustration of them in the life. {CCh 185.3} [CCh 185.4] To cultivate religious thoughts and devotional feelings is not made a part of education. These should influence and control the entire being. The habit of doing right is wanting. There is spasmodic action under favorable influences, but to think naturally and readily upon divine things is not the ruling principle of the mind. {CCh 185.4} [CCh 185.5] The mind must be educated and disciplined to love purity. A love for spiritual things should be encouraged; yea, must be encouraged, if you would grow in grace and in the knowledge of the truth. Desires for goodness and true holiness are right so far as they go; but if you stop here, they will avail nothing. Good purposes are right, but will prove of no avail unless resolutely carried out. Many will be lost while hoping and desiring to be Christians; but they made no earnest effort, therefore they will be weighed in the balances and found wanting. The will must be exercised in the right direction. I will be a wholehearted Christian. I will 186 know the length and breadth, the height and depth, of perfect love. Listen to the words of Jesus: "Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled." Matthew 5:6. Ample provisions are made by Christ to satisfy the soul that hungers and thirsts for righteousness. 2T 262-266274 {CCh 185.5} [CCh 186.1] Reach out for Higher Spiritual Attainments The pure element of love will expand the soul for higher attainments, for increased knowledge of divine things, so that it will not be satisfied short of the fullness. Most professed Christians have no sense of the spiritual strength they might obtain were they as ambitious, zealous, and persevering to gain a knowledge of divine things as they are to obtain the paltry, perishable things of this life. The masses professing to be Christians have been satisfied to be spiritual dwarfs. They have no disposition to make it their object to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness; hence godliness is a hidden mystery to them, they cannot understand it. They know not Christ by experimental knowledge. {CCh 186.1} [CCh 186.2] Let those men and women who are satisfied with their dwarfed, crippled condition in divine things be suddenly transported to heaven and for an instant witness the high, the holy state of perfection that ever abides there,—every soul filled with love; every countenance beaming with joy; enchanting music in melodious strains rising in honor of God and the Lamb; and ceaseless streams of light flowing upon the saints from the face of Him who sitteth upon the throne, and from the Lamb; and let them realize that there is higher and greater joy yet to experience, for the more they receive of the enjoyment of God, the more is their capacity increased to rise higher in eternal enjoyment, and thus continue to receive new and greater supplies from the ceaseless sources of glory and bliss inexpressible,—could such persons, I ask, mingle with the heavenly throng, participate in their songs, and endure the pure, exalted, transporting glory that emanates from God and the Lamb? Oh, no! their probation was lengthened for years that they might learn the language of heaven, that they might become "partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust." 2 Peter 1:4. But they had a selfish business of their own to engage the powers of their minds and the energies of their beings. They could not afford to serve God unreservedly and make this a business. Worldly enterprises must come first and take the best of their powers, and a transient thought is devoted to God. Are such to be transformed after the final decision: "He that is holy, let him be holy still," "he which is filthy, let him be filthy still"? Such a time is coming. {CCh 186.2} [CCh 186.3] Those who have trained the mind to delight in spiritual exercises are the ones who can be translated and not be overwhelmed with the purity and transcendent glory of heaven. You may have a good knowledge of the arts, you may have an acquaintance with the sciences, you may 187 excel in music and in penmanship, your manners may please your associates, but what have these things to do with a preparation for heaven? What have they to do to prepare you to stand before the tribunal of God? 2T 266, 267275 {CCh 186.3} [CCh 187.1] The Heavenly Character Must Be Acquired on Earth Be not deceived. God is not mocked. Nothing but holiness will prepare you for heaven. It is sincere, experimental piety alone that can give you a pure, elevated character and enable you to enter into the presence of God, who dwelleth in light unapproachable. The heavenly character must be acquired on earth, or it can never be acquired at all. Then begin at once. Flatter not yourself that a time will come when you can make an earnest effort easier than now. Every day increases your distance from God. Prepare for eternity with such zeal as you have not yet manifested. Educate your mind to love the Bible, to love the prayer meeting, to love the hour of meditation, and, above all, the hour when the soul communes with God. Become heavenly-minded if you would unite with the heavenly choir in the mansions above. 2T 267, 268276 {CCh 187.1} [CCh 187.2] Secure God’s Love While You Can My mind goes back to faithful Abraham, who, in obedience to the divine command given him in a night vision at Beersheba, pursues his journey with Isaac by his side. He sees before him the mountain which God had told him He would signalize as the one upon which he was to sacrifice. {CCh 187.2} [CCh 187.3] Isaac is bound by the trembling, loving hands of his pitying father because God has said it. The son submits to the sacrifice because he believes in the integrity of his father. But when everything is ready, when the faith of the father and the submission of the son are fully tested, the angel of God stays the uplifted hand of Abraham that is about to slay his son and tells him that it is enough. "Now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only son from Me." Genesis 22:12. {CCh 187.3} [CCh 187.4] This act of faith in Abraham is recorded for our benefit. It teaches us the great lesson of confidence in the requirements of God, however close and cutting they may be; and it teaches children perfect submission to their parents and to God. By Abraham's obedience we are taught that nothing is too precious for us to give to God. {CCh 187.4} [CCh 187.5] God gave His Son to a life of humiliation, self-denial, poverty, toil, reproach, and to the agonizing death of crucifixion. But there was no angel to bear the joyful message: "It is enough; You need not die, My well-beloved Son." Legions of angels were sorrowfully waiting, hoping that, as in the case of Isaac, God would at the last moment prevent His shameful death. But angels were not permitted to bear any such message to God's dear Son. The humiliation in the judgment hall and on the 188 way to Calvary went on. He was mocked, derided, and spit upon. He endured the jeers, taunts, and revilings of those who hated Him, until upon the cross He bowed His head and died. {CCh 187.5} [CCh 188.1] Could God give us any greater proof of His love than in thus giving His Son to pass through this scene of suffering? And as the gift of God to man was a free gift, His love infinite, so His claims upon our confidence, our obedience, our whole heart, and the wealth of our affections are correspondingly infinite. He requires all that it is possible for man to give. The submission on our part must be proportionate to the gift of God; it must be complete and wanting in nothing. We are all debtors to God. He has claims upon us that we cannot meet without giving ourselves a full and willing sacrifice. He claims prompt and willing obedience, and nothing short of this will He accept. We have opportunity now to secure the love and favor of God. This year may be the last year in the lives of some who read this. Are there any among the youth who read this appeal who would choose the pleasures of the world before that peace which Christ gives the earnest seeker and the cheerful doer of His will? 3T 368-370277 {CCh 188.1} [CCh 188.2] Weighed in the Balances God is weighing our characters, our conduct, and our motives in the balances of the sanctuary. It will be a fearful thing to be pronounced wanting in love and obedience by our Redeemer, who died upon the cross to draw our hearts unto Him. God has bestowed upon us great and precious gifts. He has given us light and a knowledge of His will, so that we need not err or walk in darkness. To be weighed in the balance and found wanting in the day of final settlement and rewards will be a fearful thing, a terrible mistake which can never be corrected. Young friends, shall the book of God be searched in vain for your names? {CCh 188.2} [CCh 188.3] God has appointed you a work to do for Him which will make you colaborers with Him. All around you there are souls to save. There are those whom you can encourage and bless by your earnest efforts. You may turn souls from sin to righteousness. When you have a sense of your accountability to God you will feel the need of faithfulness in prayer and faithfulness in watching against the temptations of Satan. You will, if you are indeed Christians, feel more like mourning over the moral darkness in the world than indulging in levity and pride of dress. You will be among those who are sighing and crying for the abominations that are done in the land. You will resist the temptations of Satan to indulge in vanity and in trimmings and ornaments for display. The mind is narrowed and the intellect dwarfed that can be gratified with these frivolous things to the neglect of high responsibilities. {CCh 188.3} [CCh 188.4] The youth in our day may be workers with Christ if they will; and in working, their faith will strengthen and their knowledge of the divine will will increase. Every true purpose and every act of right doing will be recorded in the book of life. I wish I could arouse the youth to see and 189 feel the sinfulness of living for their own gratification and dwarfing their intellects to the cheap, vain things of this life. If they would elevate their thoughts and words above the frivolous attractions of this world and make it their aim to glorify God, His peace, which passeth all understanding, would be theirs. 3T 370, 371278 {CCh 188.4} [CCh 189.1] God wants the youth to become men of earnest mind, to be prepared for action in His noble work, and fitted to bear responsibilities. God calls for young men with hearts uncorrupted, strong and brave, and determined to fight manfully in the struggle before them, that they may glorify God, and bless humanity. If the youth would but make the Bible their study, would but calm their impetuous desires, and listen to the voice of their Creator and Redeemer, they would not only be at peace with God, but would find themselves ennobled and elevated. {CCh 189.1} [CCh 189.2] Carry light wherever you go; show that you have strength of purpose, that you are not a person of indecision, easily swayed by the persuasions of evil associates. Do not yield a ready assent to the suggestions of those who dishonor God, but rather seek to reform, reclaim, and rescue souls from evil. {CCh 189.2} [CCh 189.3] Resort to prayer, persuade in meekness and lowliness of spirit those who oppose themselves. One soul saved from error, and brought under the banner of Christ, will cause joy in heaven, and place a star in your crown of rejoicing. A soul saved will, through his godly influence, bring other souls to a knowledge of salvation, and thus the work will multiply, and only the revealings of the day of judgment will make manifest the extent of the work. {CCh 189.3} [CCh 189.4] Do not hesitate to work for the Lord because you think you can do but little. Do your little with fidelity; for God will work with your efforts. He will write your name in the book of life as one worthy to enter into the joy of the Lord. MYP 21-23279 {CCh 189.4} [CCh 190.1] Chapter 36 —The Proper Discipline and Education of our Children The prevailing influence in the world is to suffer the youth to follow the natural turn of their own minds. And if very wild in youth, parents say they will come right after a while, and when sixteen or eighteen years of age, will reason for themselves, and leave off their wrong habits, and become at last useful men and women. What a mistake! For years they permit an enemy to sow the garden of the heart; they suffer wrong principles to grow, and in many cases all the labor afterward bestowed on that soil will avail nothing. {CCh 190.1} [CCh 190.2] Satan is an artful, persevering workman, a deadly foe. Whenever an incautious word is spoken to the injury of youth, whether in flattery or to cause them to look upon some sin with less abhorrence, Satan takes advantage of it and nourishes the evil seed that it may take root and yield a bountiful harvest. Some parents have suffered their children to form wrong habits, the marks of which may be seen all through life. Upon the parents lies this sin. These children may profess to be Christians, yet without a special work of grace upon the heart and a thorough reform in life their past habits will be seen in all their experience, and they will exhibit just the character which their parents allowed them to form. 1T 403280 {CCh 190.2} [CCh 190.3] Parents must govern their children, correct their passions, and subdue them, or God will surely destroy the children in the day of His fierce anger, and the parents who have not controlled their children will not be blameless. Especially should the servants of God govern their own families and have them in good subjection. I saw that they are not prepared to judge or decide in matters of the church, unless they can rule well their own house. They must first have order at home, and then their judgment and influence will tell in the church. 1T 119281 {CCh 190.3} [CCh 190.4] Every son and daughter should be called to account if absent from home at night. Parents should know what company their children are in and at whose house they spend their evenings. 4T 651282 {CCh 190.4} [CCh 190.5] Human philosophy has not discovered more than God knows or devised a wiser plan of dealing with children than that given by our Lord. Who can better understand all the needs of children than their Creator? Who can feel a deeper interest in their welfare than He who bought them with His own blood? If the word of God were carefully studied and faithfully obeyed, there would be less soul anguish over the perverse conduct of wicked children. {CCh 190.5} [CCh 190.6] Children have claims which their parents should acknowledge and 191 respect. They have a right to such an education and training as will make them useful, respected, and beloved members of society here, and give them a moral fitness for the society of the pure and holy hereafter. The young should be taught that both their present and their future well-being depend to a great degree on the habits they form in childhood and youth. AH 306283 {CCh 190.6} [CCh 191.1] Men and women professing to revere the Bible and follow its teachings fail in many respects to perform its requirements. In the training of children they follow their own perverse natures rather than the revealed will of God. This neglect of duty involves the loss of thousands of souls. The Bible lays down rules for the correct discipline of children. Were these requirements of God heeded by parents, we should today see a different class of youth coming upon the stage of action. But parents who profess to be Bible readers and Bible followers are going directly contrary to its teachings. We hear the cry of sorrow and anguish from fathers and mothers who bewail the conduct of their children, little realizing that they are bringing this sorrow and anguish upon themselves, and ruining their children, by their mistaken affection. They do not realize their God-given responsibilities to train their children to right habits from their babyhood. 4T 313284 {CCh 191.1} [CCh 191.2] Children who are Christians will prefer the love and approbation of their God-fearing parents above every earthly blessing. They will love and honor their parents. It should be one of the principal studies of their lives, how to make their parents happy. In this rebellious age, children who have not received right instruction and discipline have but little sense of their obligations to their parents. It is often the case that the more their parents do for them, the more ungrateful they are, and the less they respect them. {CCh 191.2} [CCh 191.3] To a great extent, parents hold in their own hands the future happiness of their children. Upon them rests the important work of forming the character of these children. The instructions given in childhood will follow them all through life. Parents sow the seed which will spring up and bear fruit either for good or evil. They can fit their sons and daughters for happiness or for misery. 1T 392, 393285 {CCh 191.3} [CCh 191.4] Parents Must Agree Children have sensitive, loving natures. They are easily pleased and easily made unhappy. By gentle discipline in loving words and acts, mothers may bind their children to their hearts. To manifest severity and to be exacting with children are great mistakes. Uniform firmness and unimpassioned control are necessary to the discipline of every family. Say what you mean calmly, move with consideration, and carry out what you say without deviation. 3T 532286 {CCh 191.4} [CCh 191.5] Parents should not forget their childhood years, how much they yearned for sympathy and love, and how unhappy they felt when censured and fretfully chided. They should be young again in their feelings 192 and bring their minds down to understand the wants of their children. Yet with firmness, mixed with love, they should require obedience from their children. The parents' word should be implicitly obeyed. 1T 388287 {CCh 191.5} [CCh 192.1] Unsteadiness in family government is productive of great harm, in fact is nearly as bad as no government at all. The question is often asked, Why are the children of religious parents so often headstrong, defiant, and rebellious? The reason is to be found in the home training. {CCh 192.1} [CCh 192.2] If parents do not agree, let them absent themselves from the presence of their children until an understanding can be arrived at. {CCh 192.2} [CCh 192.3] If parents are united in this work of discipline, the child will understand what is required of him. But if the father, by word or look, shows that he does not approve of the discipline the mother gives; if he feels that she is too strict and thinks that he must make up for the harshness by petting and indulgence, the child will be ruined. He will soon learn that he can do as he pleases. Parents who commit this sin against their children are accountable for the ruin of their souls. AH 310-315288 {CCh 192.3} [CCh 192.4] Parents should first learn to control themselves, then they can more successfully control their children. Every time they lose self-control, and speak and act impatiently, they sin against God. They should first reason with their children, clearly point out their wrongs, show them their sin, and impress upon them that they have not only sinned against their parents, but against God. With your own heart subdued and full of pity and sorrow for your erring children, pray with them before correcting them. Then your correction will not cause your children to hate you. They will love you. They will see that you do not punish them because they have put you to inconvenience, or because you wish to vent your displeasure upon them; but from a sense of duty, for their good, that they may not be left to grow up in sin. 1T 398289 {CCh 192.4} [CCh 192.5] The Danger of Too Severe Training There are many families of children who appear to be well trained while under the training discipline; but when the system which has held them to set rules is broken up, they seem to be incapable of thinking, acting, or deciding for themselves. {CCh 192.5} [CCh 192.6] The severe training of youth, without properly directing them to think and act for themselves as their own capacity and turn of mind will allow, that by this means they may have growth of thought, feelings of self-respect, and confidence in their own ability to perform, will ever produce a class who are weak in mental and moral power. And when they stand in the world to act for themselves they will reveal the fact that they were trained like the animals, and not educated. Their wills, instead of being guided, were forced into subjection by the harsh discipline of parents and teachers. {CCh 192.6} [CCh 192.7] Those parents and teachers who boast of having complete control of the minds and wills of the children under their care would cease their boastings could they trace out the future lives of the children who are 193 thus brought into subjection by force or through fear. These are almost wholly unprepared to share in the stern responsibilities of life. When these youth are no longer under their parents and teachers, and are compelled to think and act for themselves, they are almost sure to take a wrong course and yield to the power of temptation. They do not make this life a success, and the same deficiencies are seen in their religious life. Could the instructors of children and youth have the future result of their mistaken discipline mapped out before them, they would change their plan of education. That class of teachers who are gratified that they have almost complete control of the wills of their scholars are not the most successful teachers, although the appearance for the time being may be flattering. {CCh 192.7} [CCh 193.1] They often hold themselves too much reserved, and exercise their authority in a cold, unsympathizing manner which cannot win the hearts of their children and pupils. If they would gather the children close to them, and show that they love them, and would manifest an interest in all their efforts and even in their sports, sometimes even being a child among children, they would make the children very happy and would gain their love and win their confidence. And the children would sooner respect and love the authority of their parents and teachers. {CCh 193.1} [CCh 193.2] On the other hand, the young should not be left to think and act independently of the judgment of their parents and teachers. Children should be taught to respect experienced judgment and to be guided by their parents and teachers. They should be so educated that their minds will be united with the minds of their parents and teachers, and so instructed that they can see the propriety of heeding their counsel. Then when they go forth from the guiding hand of their parents and teachers, their characters will not be like the reed trembling in the wind. 3T 132-135290 {CCh 193.2} [CCh 193.3] To Allow Children to Grow Up in Ignorance Is a Sin Some parents have failed to give their children a religious education and have also neglected their school education. Neither should have been neglected. Children's minds will be active, and if not engaged in physical labor, or occupied with study, they will be exposed to evil influences. It is a sin for parents to allow their children to grow up in ignorance. They should supply them with useful and interesting books, and should teach them to work, to have hours for physical labor, and hours to devote to study and reading. Parents should seek to elevate the minds of their children and to improve their mental faculties. The mind left to itself, uncultivated, is generally low, sensual, and corrupt. Satan improves his opportunity and educates idle minds. 1T 398, 399291 {CCh 193.3} [CCh 193.4] The mother's work commences with the infant. She should subdue the will and temper of her child, and bring it into subjection, teach it to obey. As the child grows older, relax not the hand. Every mother should take time to reason with her children, to correct their errors, and patiently teach them the right way. Christian parents should know that they are instructing and fitting their children to become children of God. The entire religious experience of the children is influenced by the instructions given, and the character formed, in childhood. If the will is not then subdued and made to yield to the will of the parents, it will be a difficult task to learn the lesson in after years. What a severe struggle, what a conflict, to yield that will which never was subdued, to the requirements of God! Parents who neglect this important work commit 194 a great error, and sin against their poor children and against God. 1T 390, 391292 {CCh 193.4} [CCh 194.1] Parents, if you fail to give your children the education which God has made it your duty to give them, you must answer to Him for the results. These results will not be confined merely to your children. As the one thistle permitted to grow in the field produces a harvest of its kind, so the sins resulting from your neglect will work to ruin all who come within the sphere of their influence. CG 115293 {CCh 194.1} [CCh 194.2] The curse of God will surely rest upon unfaithful parents. Not only are they planting thorns which will wound them here, but they must meet their own unfaithfulness when the judgment shall sit. Many children will rise up in judgment and condemn their parents for not restraining them, and charge upon them their destruction. The false sympathy and blind love of parents causes them to excuse the faults of their children and pass them by without correction, and their children are lost in consequence, and the blood of their souls will rest upon the unfaithful parents. 1T 219294 {CCh 194.2} [CCh 194.3] The Evil of Idleness I have been shown that much sin has resulted from idleness. Active hands and minds do not find time to heed every temptation which the enemy suggests, but idle hands and brains are all ready for Satan to control. The mind, when not properly occupied, dwells upon improper things. Parents should teach their children that idleness is sin. 1T 395295 {CCh 194.3} [CCh 194.4] There is nothing which more surely leads to evil than to lift all burdens from children, leaving them to an idle, aimless life, to do nothing, or to occupy themselves as they please. The minds of children are active, and if not occupied with that which is good and useful, they will inevitably turn to what is bad. While it is right and necessary for them to have recreation, they should be taught to work, to have regular hours for physical labor and also for reading and study. See that they have employment suited to their years and are supplied with useful and interesting books. AH 284296 {CCh 194.4} [CCh 194.5] Children frequently begin a piece of work with enthusiasm, but, becoming perplexed or wearied with it, they wish to change and take hold of something new. Thus they may take hold of several things, meet with a little discouragement, and give them up; and so they pass from one thing to another, perfecting nothing. Parents should not allow the love of change to control their children. They should not be so much engaged with other things that they will have no time to patiently discipline the developing minds. A few words of encouragement, or a little help at the right time, may carry them over their trouble and discouragement, and the satisfaction they will derive from seeing the task completed that they undertook will stimulate them to greater exertion. 3T 147, 148297 {CCh 194.5} [CCh 194.6] Children who have been petted and waited upon, always expect it; and if their expectations are not met, they are disappointed and discouraged. This same disposition will be seen through their whole lives; 195 they will be helpless, leaning upon others for aid, expecting others to favor them and yield to them. And if they are opposed, even after they have grown to manhood and womanhood, they think themselves abused; and thus they worry their way through the world, hardly able to bear their own weight, often murmuring and fretting because everything does not suit them. 1T 392, 393298 {CCh 194.6} [CCh 195.1] A woman does herself and her family a serious wrong when she does her work and theirs too—when she brings the wood and water, and even takes the ax to prepare the wood, while her husband and sons sit about the fire having a social, easy time. God never designed that wives and mothers should be slaves to their families. Many a mother is overburdened with care while her children are not educated to share the domestic burdens. As the result, she grows old and dies prematurely, leaving her children just when a mother is most needed to guide their inexperienced feet. Who is to blame? {CCh 195.1} [CCh 195.2] Husbands should do all they can to save the wife care and keep her spirit cheerful. Never should idleness be fostered or permitted in children, for it soon becomes a habit. 5T 180, 181299 {CCh 195.2} [CCh 195.3] Parents, Lead Your Children to Christ Children may wish to do right, they may purpose in their hearts to be obedient and kind to their parents or guardians; but they need help and encouragement from them. They may make good resolutions; but unless their principles are strengthened by religion and their lives influenced by the renewing grace of God, they will fail to come up to the mark. {CCh 195.3} [CCh 195.4] Parents should redouble their efforts for the salvation of their children. They should faithfully instruct them, not leaving them to gather up their education as best they can. The young should not be suffered to learn good and evil indiscriminately, with the idea that at some future time the good will predominate and the evil lose its influence. The evil will increase faster than the good. {CCh 195.4} [CCh 195.5] Parents, you should commence to discipline the minds of your children while very young, to the end that they may be Christians. Let all your efforts be for their salvation. Act as though they were placed in your care to be fitted as precious jewels to shine in the kingdom of God. Beware how you lull them to sleep over the pit of destruction with the mistaken thought that they are not old enough to be accountable, not old enough to repent of their sins and profess Christ. {CCh 195.5} [CCh 195.6] Parents should explain and simplify the plan of salvation to their children that their young minds may comprehend it. Children of eight, ten, or twelve years are old enough to be addressed on the subject of personal religion. Do not teach your children with reference to some future period when they shall be old enough to repent and believe the truth. If properly instructed, very young children may have correct views of their state as sinners and of the way of salvation through Christ. Ministers are generally too indifferent to the salvation of children 196 and are not as personal as they should be. Golden opportunities to impress the minds of children frequently pass unimproved. 1T 396-400300 {CCh 195.6} [CCh 196.1] Fathers and mothers, do you realize the importance of the responsibility resting upon you? Do you realize the necessity of guarding your children from careless, demoralizing habits? Allow your children to form only such associations as will have a right influence upon their characters. Do not allow them to be out in the evening unless you know where they are and what they are doing. Instruct them in the principles of moral purity. If you have neglected to teach them line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little, begin at once to do your duty. Take up your responsibilities and work for time and for eternity. Let not another day pass without confessing your neglect to your children. Tell them that you mean now to do your God-appointed work. Ask them to take hold with you in the reform. Make diligent efforts to redeem the past. No longer remain in the condition of the Laodicean church. In the name of the Lord I call upon every family to show its true colors. Reform the church in your own home. 7T 66, 67301 {CCh 196.1} [CCh 196.2] Do Not Neglect the Wants of the Mind I have been shown that while parents who have the fear of God before them restrain their children, they should study their dispositions and temperaments, and seek to meet their wants. Some parents attend carefully to the temporal wants of their children; they kindly and faithfully nurse them in sickness, and then think their duty done. Here they mistake. Their work has but just begun. The wants of the mind should be cared for. It requires skill to apply the proper remedies to cure a wounded mind. {CCh 196.2} [CCh 196.3] Children have trials just as hard to bear, just as grievous in character, as those of older persons. Parents themselves do not feel the same at all times. Their minds are often perplexed. They labor under mistaken views and feelings. Satan buffets them, and they yield to his temptations. They speak irritably, and in a manner to excite wrath in their children, and are sometimes exacting and fretful. The poor children partake of the same spirit, and the parents are not prepared to help them, for they were the cause of the trouble. Sometimes everything seems to go wrong. There is fretfulness all around, and all have a very miserable, unhappy time. The parents lay the blame upon their poor children and think them very disobedient and unruly, the worst children in the world, when the cause of the disturbance is in themselves. {CCh 196.3} [CCh 196.4] Some parents raise many a storm by their lack of self-control. Instead of kindly asking the children to do this or that, they order them in a scolding tone, and at the same time a ensure or reproof is on their lips which the children have not merited. Parents, this course pursued toward your children destroys their cheerfulness and ambition. They do your bidding, not from love, but because they dare not do otherwise. Their heart is not in the matter. It is a drudgery, instead of a pleasure, 197 and this often leads them to forget to follow out all your directions, which increases your irritation, and makes it still worse for the children. The faultfinding is repeated, their bad conduct arrayed before them. {CCh 196.4} [CCh 197.1] Do not let your children see you with a clouded brow. If they yield to temptation, and afterward see and repent of their error, forgive them just as freely as you hope to be forgiven by your Father in heaven. Kindly instruct them, and bind them to your hearts. It is a critical time for children. Influences will be thrown around them to wean them from you, which you must counteract. Teach them to make you their confidant. Let them whisper in your ear their trials and joys. By encouraging this, you will save them from many a snare that Satan has prepared for their inexperienced feet. Do not treat your children only with sternness, forgetting your own childhood, and forgetting that they are but children. Do not expect them to be perfect or try to make them men and women in their acts at once. By so doing, you will close the door of access which you might otherwise have to them, and will drive them to open a door for injurious influences, for others to poison their young minds before you awake to their danger. 1T 384-387302 {CCh 197.1} [CCh 197.2] Never Correct a Child When Angry If your children are disobedient, they should be corrected. Before correcting them, go by yourself, and ask the Lord to soften and subdue the hearts of your children and to give you wisdom in dealing with them. Never in a single instance have I known this method to fail. You cannot make a child understand spiritual things when the heart ［the parent’s heart］ is stirred with passion. {CCh 197.2} [CCh 197.3] You should correct your children in love. Do not let them have their own way until you get angry, and then punish them. Such correction only helps on the evil, instead of remedying it. {CCh 197.3} [CCh 197.4] To manifest passion toward an erring child is to increase the evil. It arouses the worst passions of the child and leads him to feel that you do not care for him. He reasons with himself that you could not treat him so if you cared. {CCh 197.4} [CCh 197.5] And think you that God takes no cognizance of the way in which these children are corrected? He knows, and He knows also what might be the blessed results if the work of correction were done in a way to win rather than to repel. CG 244, 245303 {CCh 197.5} [CCh 197.6] The Importance of Strict Honesty With Children Parents should be models of truthfulness, for this is the daily lesson to be impressed upon the heart of the child. Undeviating principle should govern parents in all the affairs of life, especially in the education and training of their children. "Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right." {CCh 197.6} [CCh 197.7] A mother who lacks discernment, and who does not follow the guidance 198 of the Lord, may educate her children to be deceivers and hypocrites. The traits of character thus cherished may become so persistent that to lie will be as natural as to breathe. Pretense will be taken for sincerity and reality. {CCh 197.7} [CCh 198.1] Parents, never prevaricate; never tell an untruth in precept or in example. If you want your child to be truthful, be truthful yourself. Be straight and undeviating. Even a slight prevarication should not be allowed. Because mothers are accustomed to prevaricate and be untruthful, the child follows her example. {CCh 198.1} [CCh 198.2] It is essential that honesty be practiced in all the details of the mother's life, and it is important in the training of children to teach the youthful girls as well as boys never to prevaricate or to deceive in the least. CG 151, 152304 {CCh 198.2} [CCh 198.3] The Importance of Character Development God has given parents their work, to form the characters of their children after the divine Pattern. By His grace they can accomplish the task; but it will require patient, painstaking effort, no less than firmness and decision, to guide the will and restrain the passions. A field left to itself produces only thorns and briers. He who would secure a harvest for usefulness or beauty must first prepare the soil and sow the seed, then dig about the young shoots, removing the weeds and softening the earth, and the precious plants will flourish and richly repay his care and labor. {CCh 198.3} [CCh 198.4] Character building is the most important work ever entrusted to human beings, and never before was its diligent study so important as now. Never was any previous generation called to meet issues so momentous; never before were young men and young women confronted by perils so great as confront them today. CG 169305 {CCh 198.4} [CCh 198.5] Strength of character consists of two things—power of will and power of self-control. Many youth mistake strong, uncontrolled passion for strength of character; but the truth is that he who is mastered by his passions is a weak man. The real greatness and nobility of the man is measured by the power of the feelings that he subdues, not by the power of the feelings that subdue him. The strongest man is he, who, while sensitive to abuse, will yet restrain passion and forgive his enemies. Such men are true heroes. {CCh 198.5} [CCh 198.6] Many have such meager ideas of what they may become that they will ever remain dwarfed and narrow, when, if they would improve the powers which God has given them, they might develop a noble character and exert an influence that would win souls to Christ. Knowledge is power; but intellectual ability, without goodness of heart, is a power for evil. {CCh 198.6} [CCh 198.7] God has given us our intellectual and moral powers, but to a great extent every person is the architect of his own character. Every day the structure is going up. The word of God warns us to take heed how we build, to see that our building is founded upon the eternal Rock. The 199 time is coming when our work will stand revealed just as it is. Now is the time for all to cultivate the powers which God has given them, that they may form characters for usefulness here and for a higher life hereafter. {CCh 198.7} [CCh 199.1] Every act of life, however unimportant, has its influence in forming the character. A good character is more precious than worldly possessions, and the work of forming it is the noblest in which men can engage. {CCh 199.1} [CCh 199.2] Characters formed by circumstance are changeable and discordant—a mass of contraries. Their possessors have no high aim or purpose in life. They have no ennobling influence upon the characters of others. They are purposeless and powerless. {CCh 199.2} [CCh 199.3] The little span of life allotted us here should be wisely improved. God would have His church a living, devoted, working church. But our people, as a body, are far from this now. God calls for strong, brave souls, for active, living Christians, who are following the true Pattern, and who will exert a decided influence for God and the right. The Lord has committed to us, as a sacred trust, most important and solemn truths, and we should show their influence upon our lives and characters. 4T 656, 657306 {CCh 199.3} [CCh 199.4] A Personal Experience in Counseling Children Some mothers are not uniform in the treatment of their children. At times they indulge them to their injury, and again they refuse some innocent gratification that would make the childish heart very happy. In this they do not imitate Christ; He loved the children; He comprehended their feelings and sympathized with them in their pleasures and their trials. MH 389, 390307 {CCh 199.4} [CCh 199.5] When the children will beg that they may go to this company or join that party of amusement, say to them: "I cannot let you go, children; sit right down here, and I will tell you why. I am doing up work for eternity and for God. God has given you to me and entrusted you to my care. I am standing in the place of God to you, my children; therefore I must watch you as one who must give an account in the day of God. Do you want your mother's name written in the books of heaven as one who failed to do her duty to her children, as one who let the enemy come in and preoccupy the ground that I ought to have occupied? Children, I am going to tell you which is the right way, and then if you choose to turn away from your mother and go into the paths of wickedness, your mother will stand clear, but you will have to suffer for your own sins." {CCh 199.5} [CCh 199.6] This is the way I did with my children, and before I would get through, they would be weeping, and they would say, "Won't you pray for us?" Well, I never refused to pray for them. I knelt by their side and prayed with them. Then I have gone away and have pleaded with God until the sun was up in the heavens, the whole night long, that the spell of the enemy might be broken, and I have had the victory. Although it 200 cost me a night's labor, yet I felt richly paid when my children would hang about my neck and say, "Oh, Mother, we are so glad that you did not let us go when we wanted to. Now we see that it would have been wrong." {CCh 199.6} [CCh 200.1] Parents, this is the way you must work, as though you meant it. You must make a business of this work if you expect to save your children in the kingdom of God. AH 528, 529308 {CCh 200.1} [CCh 200.2] Never can the proper education be given to the youth in this country, or any other country, unless they are separated a wide distance from the cities. The customs and practices in the cities unfit the minds of the youth for the entrance of truth. FE 312309 {CCh 200.2} [CCh 200.3] Parents’ Need of More Divine Guidance You cannot with impunity neglect the proper training of your children. Their defective characters will publish your unfaithfulness. The evils that you permit to pass uncorrected, the coarse, rough manners, the disrespect and disobedience, the habits of indolence and inattention, will bring dishonor to your names and bitterness into your lives. The destiny of your children rests to a great extent in your hands. If you fail in duty you may place them in the ranks of the enemy and make them his agents in ruining others; on the other hand, if you faithfully instruct them, if in your own lives you set before them a godly example, you may lead them to Christ, and they in turn will influence others, and thus many may be saved through your instrumentality. 7T 66310 {CCh 200.3} [CCh 200.4] God desires us to deal with our children in simplicity. We are liable to forget that children have not had the advantage of the long years of training that older people have had. If the little ones do not act in accordance with our ideas in every respect, we sometimes think that they deserve a scolding. But this will not mend matters. Take them to the Saviour, and tell Him all about it; then believe that His blessing will rest upon them. CG 287311 {CCh 200.4} [CCh 200.5] Children should be taught to respect and reverence the hour of prayer. Before leaving the house for labor, all the family should be called together, and the father, or the mother in the father's absence, should plead fervently with God to keep them through the day. Come in humility with a heart full of tenderness and with a sense of the temptations and dangers before yourselves and your children; by faith bind them upon the altar, entreating for them the care of the Lord. Ministering angels will guard children who are thus dedicated to God. It is the duty of Christian parents, morning and evening, by earnest prayer and persevering faith, to make a hedge about their children. They should patiently instruct them, kindly and untiringly teach them how to live in order to please God. 1T 397, 398312 {CCh 200.5} [CCh 200.6] Teach your children that it is their privilege to receive every day the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Let Christ find you His helping hand to carry out His purposes. By prayer you may gain an experience that will 201 make your ministry for your children a perfect success. CT 131313 {CCh 200.6} [CCh 201.1] The power of a mother's prayers cannot be too highly estimated. She who kneels beside her son and daughter through the vicissitudes of childhood, through the perils of youth, will never know till the judgment the influence of her prayers upon the life of her children. If she is connected by faith with the Son of God, the mother's tender hand may hold back her son from the power of temptation, may restrain her daughter from indulging in sin. When passion is warring for the mastery, the power of love, the restraining, earnest, determined influence of the mother, may balance the soul on the side of right. AH 266314 {CCh 201.1} [CCh 201.2] After you have done your duty faithfully to your children, then carry them to God and ask Him to help you. Tell Him that you have done your part, and then in faith ask God to do His part, that which you cannot do. Ask Him to temper their dispositions, to make them mild and gentle by His Holy Spirit. He will hear you pray. He will love to answer your prayers. Through His Word He has enjoined it upon you to correct your children, to "spare not for their crying," and His Word is to be heeded in these things. CG 256, 257315 {CCh 201.2} [CCh 201.3] Teach Respect and Courtesy God has especially enjoined tender respect toward the aged. He says, "The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness." Proverbs 16:31. It tells of battles fought, and victories gained; of burdens borne, and temptations resisted. It tells of weary feet nearing their rest, of places soon to be vacant. Help the children to think of this, and they will smooth the path of the aged by their courtesy and respect, and will bring grace and beauty into their young lives as they heed the command to "rise up before the hoary head, and honor the face of the old man." Leviticus 19:32. Ed 244316 {CCh 201.3} [CCh 201.4] Courtesy, also, is one of the graces of the Spirit and should be cultivated by all. It has power to soften natures which without it would grow hard and rough. Those who profess to be followers of Christ, and are at the same time rough, unkind, and uncourteous, have not learned of Jesus. Their sincerity may not be doubted, their uprightness may not be questioned; but sincerity and uprightness will not atone for a lack of kindness and courtesy. PK 237317 {CCh 201.4} [CCh 202.1] Chapter 37 —Christian Education We are rapidly nearing the final crisis in this world's history, and it is important that we understand that the educational advantages offered by our schools are to be different from those offered by the schools of the world. CT 56318 {CCh 202.1} [CCh 202.2] Our ideas of education take too narrow and too low a range. There is need of a broader scope, a higher aim. True education means more than the perusal of a certain course of study. It means more than a preparation for the life that now is. It has to do with the whole being, and with the whole period of existence possible to man. It is the harmonious development of the physical, the mental, and the spiritual powers. It prepares the student for the joy of service in this world and for the higher joy of wider service in the world to come. Ed 13319 {CCh 202.2} [CCh 202.3] In the highest sense the work of education and the work of redemption are one, for in education, as in redemption, "other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ." 1 Corinthians 3:11. Ed 30320 {CCh 202.3} [CCh 202.4] To bring man back into harmony with God, so to elevate and ennoble his moral nature that he may again reflect the image of the Creator, is the great purpose of all the education and discipline of life. So important was this work that the Saviour left the courts of heaven and came in person to this earth, that He might teach men how to obtain a fitness for the higher life. CT 49321 {CCh 202.4} [CCh 202.5] It is so easy to drift into worldly plans, methods, and customs and have no more thought of the time in which we live, or of the great work to be accomplished, than had the people in Noah's day. There is constant danger that our educators will travel over the same ground as did the Jews, conforming to customs, practices, and traditions which God has not given. With tenacity and firmness some cling to old habits and a love of various studies which are not essential, as if their salvation depended upon these things. In doing this they turn away from the special work of God and give to the students a deficient, a wrong education. 6T 150, 151322 {CCh 202.5} [CCh 202.6] There should be men and women who are qualified to work in the churches and to train our young people for special lines of work, that souls may be brought to see Jesus. The schools established by us should have in view this object, and not be after the order of the denominational schools established by other churches, or after the order of worldly seminaries and colleges. They are to be of an altogether higher 203 order, where no phase of infidelity shall be originated, or countenanced. The students are to be educated in practical Christianity, and the Bible must be regarded as the highest, the most important textbook. FE 231323 {CCh 202.6} [CCh 203.1] The Church’s Responsibility In the night season I was in a large company where the subject of education was agitating the minds of all present. Many were bringing up objections to changing the character of the education which has long been in vogue. One who has long been our instructor was speaking to the people. He said: "The subject of education should interest the whole Seventh-day Adventist body.” 6T 162324 {CCh 203.1} [CCh 203.2] The church has a special work to do in educating and training its children that they may not, in attending school or in any other association, be influenced by those of corrupt habits. The world is full of iniquity and disregard of the requirements of God. The cities have become as Sodom, and our children are daily exposed to many evils. Those who attend the public schools often associate with others more neglected than they, those who, aside from the time spent in the schoolroom, are left to obtain a street education. The hearts of the young are easily impressed; and unless their surroundings are of the right character, Satan will use these neglected children to influence those who are more carefully trained. Thus, before Sabbathkeeping parents know what is being done, the lessons of depravity are learned, and the souls of their little ones are corrupted. {CCh 203.2} [CCh 203.3] Many families, who, for the purpose of educating their children, move to places where our large schools are established, would do better service for the Master by remaining where they are. They should encourage the church of which they are members to establish a church school where the children within their borders could receive an all-round, practical Christian education. It would be vastly better for their children, for themselves, and for the cause of God, if they would remain in the smaller churches, where their help is needed, instead of going to the larger churches, where, because they are not needed, there is a constant temptation to fall into spiritual inactivity. {CCh 203.3} [CCh 203.4] Wherever there are a few Sabbathkeepers, the parents should unite in providing a place for a day school where their children and youth can be instructed. They should employ a Christian teacher, who, as a consecrated missionary, shall educate the children in such a way as to lead them to become missionaries. CT 173, 174325 {CCh 203.4} [CCh 203.5] We are under solemn, sacred covenant to God to bring up our children for Him and not for the world; to teach them not to put their hands into the hand of the world, but to love and fear God, and to keep His commandments. They should be impressed with the thought that they are formed in the image of their Creator and that Christ is the pattern after which they are to be fashioned. Most earnest attention must be given to the education which will impart a knowledge of salvation, and will conform the life and character to the divine similitude. 6T 127326 {CCh 203.5} [CCh 203.6] To supply the need of laborers, God desires that educational centers 204 be established in different countries where students of promise may be educated in the practical branches of knowledge and in Bible truth. As these persons engage in labor, they will give character to the work of present truth in the new fields. {CCh 203.6} [CCh 204.1] Besides the education of those who are to be sent out from our older conferences as missionaries, persons in various parts of the world should be trained to work for their own countrymen and their own neighbors; and as far as possible it is better and safer for them to receive their education in the field where they are to labor. It is seldom best, either for the worker or for the advancement of the work, that he should go to distant lands for his education. 6T 137327 {CCh 204.1} [CCh 204.2] As a church, as individuals, if we would stand clear in the judgment, we must make more liberal efforts for the training of our young people, that they may be better fitted for the various branches of the great work committed to our hands. We should lay wise plans, in order that the ingenious minds of those who have talent may be strengthened and disciplined, and polished after the highest order, that the work of Christ may not be hindered for lack of skillful laborers, who will do their work with earnestness and fidelity. CT 43328 {CCh 204.2} [CCh 204.3] Moral Support of Our Institutions Fathers and mothers should co-operate with the teacher, laboring earnestly for the conversion of their children. Let them strive to keep the spiritual interest fresh and wholesome in the home and to bring up their children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. Let them devote a portion of each day to study and become learners with their children. Thus they may make the educational hour one of pleasure and profit, and their confidence will increase in this method of seeking for the salvation of their children. 6T 199329 {CCh 204.3} [CCh 204.4] Some of the students return home with murmuring and complaints, and parents and members of the church give an attentive ear to their exaggerated, one-sided statements. They would do well to consider that there are two sides to the story; but instead, they allow these garbled reports to build up a barrier between them and the college. They then begin to express fears, questionings, and suspicions in regard to the way the college is conducted. Such an influence does great harm. The words of dissatisfaction spread like a contagious disease, and the impression made upon minds is hard to efface. The story enlarges with every repetition, until it becomes of gigantic proportions, when investigation would reveal the fact that there was no fault with teachers or professors. They were simply doing their duty in enforcing the rules of the school, which must be carried out or the school will become demoralized. {CCh 204.4} [CCh 204.5] If parents would place themselves in the position of the teachers and see how difficult it must necessarily be to manage and discipline a school of hundreds of students of every grade and class of minds, they might upon reflection see things differently. They should consider that 205 some children have never been disciplined at home. Having always been indulged and never trained to obedience, it would be greatly for their advantage to be removed from their injudicious parents and placed under as severe regulations and drilling as soldiers in an army. Unless something shall be done for these children who have been so sadly neglected by unfaithful parents, they will never be accepted of Jesus; unless some power of control shall be brought to bear upon them, they will be worthless in this life and will have no part in the future life. 4T 428, 429330 {CCh 204.5} [CCh 205.1] Many fathers and mothers err in failing to second ［agree with］ the efforts of the faithful teacher. Youth and children, with their imperfect comprehension and undeveloped judgment, are not always able to understand all the teacher's plans and methods. Yet when they bring home reports of what is said and done at school, these are discussed by the parents in the family circle, and the course of the teacher is criticized without restraint. Here the children learn lessons that are not easily unlearned. Whenever they are subjected to unaccustomed restraint, or required to apply themselves to hard study, they appeal to their injudicious parents for sympathy and indulgence. Thus a spirit of unrest and discontent is encouraged, the school as a whole suffers from the demoralizing influence, and the teacher's burden is rendered much heavier. But the greatest loss is sustained by the victims of parental mismanagement. Defects of character which a right training would have corrected, are left to strengthen with years, to mar and perhaps destroy the usefulness of their possessor. FE 64, 65331 {CCh 205.1} [CCh 205.2] Teachers Under God The Lord works with every consecrated teacher; and it is for the teacher's own interest for him to realize this. Instructors who are under the discipline of God receive grace and truth and light through the Holy Spirit to communicate to the children. They are under the greatest Teacher the world has ever known, and how unbecoming it would be for them to have an unkind spirit, a sharp voice, full of irritation! In this they would perpetuate their own defects in the children. {CCh 205.2} [CCh 205.3] God will communicate by His own Spirit with the soul. Pray as you study, "Open Thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of Thy law," Psalm 119:18. When the teacher will rely upon God in prayer, the Spirit of Christ will come upon him, and God will work through him by the Holy Spirit upon the mind of the student. The Holy Spirit fills mind and heart with hope and courage and Bible imagery, which will be communicated to the student. The words of truth will grow in importance, and will assume a breadth and fullness of meaning of which he has never dreamed. The beauty and virtue of the word of God have a transforming influence upon mind and character; the sparks of heavenly love will fall upon the hearts of the children as an inspiration. We may bring hundreds and thousands of children to Christ if we will work for them. CT 171, 172332 {CCh 205.3} [CCh 205.4] Before men can be truly wise, they must realize their dependence upon God, and be filled with His wisdom. God is the source of intellectual as well as spiritual power. The greatest men who have reached 206 what the world regards as wonderful heights in science are not to be compared with the beloved John or the apostle Paul. It is when intellectual and spiritual power are combined that the highest standard of manhood is attained. Those who do this, God will accept as workers together with Him in the training of minds. CT 66333 {CCh 205.4} [CCh 206.1] The most important work of our educational institutions at this time is to set before the world an example that will honor God. Holy angels are to supervise the work through human agencies, and every department is to bear the mark of divine excellence. CT 57334 {CCh 206.1} [CCh 206.2] Qualifications of a School Teacher Secure a strong man to stand as principal of your school, a man whose physical strength will support him in doing thorough work as a disciplinarian; a man who is qualified to train the students in habits of order, neatness, and industry. Do thorough work in whatever you undertake. If you are faithful in teaching the common branches, many of your students could go directly into the work as canvassers, colporteurs, and evangelists. We need not feel that all workers must have an advanced education. CT 213, 214335 {CCh 206.2} [CCh 206.3] In selecting teachers, we should use every precaution, knowing that this is as solemn a matter as the selecting of persons for the ministry. Wise men who can discern character should make the selection; for the very best talent that can be secured is needed to educate and mold the minds of the young, and to carry on successfully the many lines of work that will need to be done by the teachers in our church schools. No person of an inferior or narrow cast of mind should be placed in charge of one of these schools. Do not place over the children young, inexperienced teachers who have no managing ability; for their efforts will tend to disorganization. CT 174, 175336 {CCh 206.3} [CCh 206.4] There should not be a teacher employed, unless you have evidence by test and trial, that he loves, and fears to offend God. If teachers are taught of God, if their lessons are daily learned in the school of Christ, they will work in Christ's lines. They will win and draw with Christ; for every child and youth is precious. FE 260337 {CCh 206.4} [CCh 206.5] The habits and principles of a teacher should be considered of even greater importance than his literary qualifications. If he is a sincere Christian, he will feel the necessity of having an equal interest in the physical, mental, moral, and spiritual education of his scholars. In order to exert the right influence, he should have perfect control over himself, and his own heart should be richly imbued with love for his pupils, which will be seen in his looks, words, and acts. FE 19338 {CCh 206.5} [CCh 206.6] The teacher should ever conduct himself as a Christian gentleman. He should stand in the attitude of a friend and counselor to his pupils. If all our people—teachers, ministers, and lay members—would cultivate the spirit of Christian courtesy, they would far more readily find access to the hearts of the people; many more would be led to examine and receive the truth. When every teacher shall forget self, and feel a deep interest in the success and prosperity of his pupils, realizing that they are God's property, and that he must render an account for his influence upon their minds and characters, then we shall have 207 a school in which angels will love to linger. CT 93, 94339 {CCh 206.6} [CCh 207.1] Our church schools need teachers who have high moral qualities; those who can be trusted; those who are sound in the faith and who have tact and patience; those who walk with God and abstain from the very appearance of evil. {CCh 207.1} [CCh 207.2] To place over young children, teachers who are proud and unloving is wicked. A teacher of this stamp will do great harm to those who are rapidly developing character. If teachers are not submissive to God, if they have no love for the children over whom they preside, or if they show partiality for those who please their fancy, and manifest indifference to those who are less attractive, or to those who are restless and nervous, they should not be employed; for the result of their work will be a loss of souls for Christ. {CCh 207.2} [CCh 207.3] Teachers are needed, especially for the children, who are calm and kind, manifesting forbearance and love for the very ones who most need it. CT 175, 176340 {CCh 207.3} [CCh 207.4] Unless the teacher realizes the need of prayer and humbles his heart before God, he will lose the very essence of education. CT 231341 {CCh 207.4} [CCh 207.5] The importance of the teacher's physical qualifications can hardly be overestimated; for the more perfect his health, the more perfect will be his labor. The mind cannot be clear to think and strong to act when the physical powers are suffering the results of feebleness or disease. The heart is impressed through the mind; but if, because of physical inability, the mind loses its vigor, the channel to the higher feelings and motives is to that extent obstructed, and the teacher is less able to discriminate between right and wrong. When suffering the results of ill health, it is not an easy matter to be patient and cheerful, or to act with integrity and justice. CT 177342 {CCh 207.5} [CCh 207.6] The Bible in Christian Education As a means of intellectual training, the Bible is more effective than any other book, or all other books combined. The greatness of its themes, the dignified simplicity of its utterances, the beauty of its imagery, quicken and uplift the thoughts as nothing else can. No other study can impart such mental power as does the effort to grasp the stupendous truths of revelation. The mind thus brought in contact with the thoughts of the Infinite cannot but expand and strengthen. {CCh 207.6} [CCh 207.7] And even greater is the power of the Bible in the development of the spiritual nature. Man, created for fellowship with God, can only in such fellowship find his real life and development. Created to find in God his highest joy, he can find in nothing else that which can quiet the cravings of the heart, can satisfy the hunger and thirst of the soul. He who with sincere and teachable spirit studies God's word, seeking to comprehend its truths, will be brought in touch with its Author; and, except by his own choice, there is no limit to the possibilities of his development. Ed 124, 125343 {CCh 207.7} [CCh 207.8] Let the more important passages of Scripture connected with the 208 lesson be committed to memory, not as a task, but as a privilege. Though at first the memory be defective, it will gain strength by exercise, so that after a time you will delight thus to treasure up the words of truth. And the habit will prove a most valuable aid to spiritual growth. CT 137, 138344 {CCh 207.8} [CCh 208.1] Dangers in Sending Children to School Too Young As the dwellers in Eden learned from nature's pages, as Moses discerned God's handwriting on the Arabian plains and mountains, and the child Jesus on the hillsides of Nazareth, so the children of today may learn of Him. The unseen is illustrated by the seen. {CCh 208.1} [CCh 208.2] So far as possible, let the child from his earliest years be placed where this wonderful lesson book shall be open before him. Ed 100, 101345 {CCh 208.2} [CCh 208.3] Do not send your little ones away to school too early. The mother should be careful how she trusts the molding of the infant mind to other hands. Parents ought to be the best teachers of their children until they have reached eight or ten years of age. Their schoolroom should be the open air, amid the flowers and birds, and their textbook the treasure of nature. As fast as their minds can comprehend it, the parents should open before them God's great book of nature. These lessons, given amid such surroundings, will not soon be forgotten. FE 156, 157346 {CCh 208.3} [CCh 208.4] Not only has the physical and mental health of children been endangered by being sent to school at too early a period, but they have been the losers in a moral point of view. They have had opportunities to become acquainted with children who were uncultivated in their manners. They were thrown into the society of the coarse and rough, who lie, swear, steal and deceive, and who delight to impart their knowledge of vice to those younger than themselves. Young children, if left to themselves, learn the bad more readily than the good. Bad habits agree best with the natural heart, and the things which they see and hear in infancy and childhood are deeply imprinted upon their minds; and the bad seed sown in their young hearts will take root and will become sharp thorns to wound the hearts of their parents. CG 302347 {CCh 208.4} [CCh 208.5] Importance of Training in Duties of Practical Life Now, as in the days of Israel, every youth should be instructed in the duties of practical life. Each should acquire a knowledge of some branch of manual labor by which, if need be, he may obtain a livelihood. This is essential, not only as a safeguard against the vicissitudes of life, but from its bearing upon physical, mental, and moral development. {CCh 208.5} [CCh 208.6] Various industries should be carried on in our schools. The industrial instruction given should include the keeping of accounts, carpentry, and all that is comprehended in farming. Preparation should be made for the teaching of blacksmithing, painting, shoemaking, and for cooking, baking, 209 washing, mending, typewriting, and printing. Every power at our command is to be brought into this training work, that students may go forth well equipped for the duties of practical life. {CCh 208.6} [CCh 209.1] For the lady students there are many employments which should be provided, that they may have a comprehensive and practical education. They should be taught dressmaking and gardening. Flowers should be cultivated and strawberries planted. Thus, while being educated in useful labor, they will have healthful outdoor exercise. CT 307-312348 {CCh 209.1} [CCh 209.2] The influence of the mind on the body, as well as of the body on the mind, should be emphasized. The electric power of the brain, promoted by mental activity, vitalizes the whole system, and is thus an invaluable aid in resisting disease. {CCh 209.2} [CCh 209.3] There is a physiological truth—truth that we need to consider—in the scripture, "A merry ［rejoicing］ heart doeth good like a medicine." Proverbs 17:22. Ed 197349 {CCh 209.3} [CCh 209.4] In order for children and youth to have health, cheerfulness, vivacity, and well-developed muscles and brains, they should be much in the open air, and have well-regulated employment and amusement. Children and youth who are kept at school and confined to books cannot have sound physical constitutions. The exercise of the brain in study, without corresponding physical exercise, has a tendency to attract the blood to the brain, and the circulation of the blood through the system becomes unbalanced. The brain has too much blood, and the extremities too little. There should be rules regulating the studies of children and youth to certain hours, and then a portion of their time should be spent in physical labor. And if their habits of eating, dressing, and sleeping are in accordance with physical law, they can obtain an education without sacrificing physical and mental health. CT 83350 {CCh 209.4} [CCh 209.5] The Dignity of Labor The youth should be led to see the true dignity of labor. Show them that God is a constant worker. All things in nature do their allotted work. Action pervades the whole creation, and in order to fulfill our mission we, too, must be active. Ed 214351 {CCh 209.5} [CCh 209.6] Physical labor that is combined with mental taxation for usefulness, is a discipline in practical life, sweetened always by the reflection that it is qualifying and educating the mind and body better to perform the work God designs men shall do in various lines. FE 229352 {CCh 209.6} [CCh 209.7] None of us should be ashamed of work, however small and servile it may appear. Labor is ennobling. All who toil with head or hands are workingmen or workingwomen. And all are doing their duty and honoring their religion as much while working at the washtub or washing the dishes as they are in going to meeting. While the hands are engaged in the most common labor, the mind may be elevated and ennobled by pure and holy thoughts. 4T 590353 {CCh 209.7} [CCh 209.8] One great reason why physical toil is looked down on is the slipshod, 210 unthinking way in which it is so often performed. It is done from necessity, not from choice. The worker puts no heart into it, and he neither preserves self-respect nor wins the respect of others. Manual training should correct this error. It should develop habits of accuracy and thoroughness. Pupils should learn tact and system; they should learn to economize time and to make every move count. They should not only be taught the best methods, but be inspired with ambition constantly to improve. Let it be their aim to make their work as nearly perfect as human brains and hands can make it. Ed 222354 {CCh 209.8} [CCh 210.1] It is a sin to let children grow up in idleness. Let them exercise their limbs and muscles, even if it wearies them. If they are not overworked, how can weariness harm them more than it harms you? There is quite a difference between weariness and exhaustion. Children need more frequent change of employment and intervals of rest than grown persons do; but even when quite young, they may begin learning to work, and they will be happy in the thought that they are making themselves useful. Their sleep will be sweet after healthful labor, and they will be refreshed for the next day's work. AH 289355 {CCh 210.1} [CCh 210.2] One’s Mother Tongue Should Not Be Ignored And in every branch of education there are objects to be gained more important than those secured by mere technical knowledge. Take language, for example. More important than the acquirement of foreign languages, living or dead, is the ability to write and speak one's mother tongue with ease and accuracy; but no training gained through a knowledge of grammatical rules can compare in importance with the study of language from a higher point of view. With this study, to a great degree, is bound up life's weal or woe. Ed 234356 {CCh 210.2} [CCh 210.3] The Works of Skeptics Forbidden by God Is it the Lord's purpose that false principles, false reasoning, and the sophistries of Satan should be kept before the minds of our youth and children? Shall pagan and infidel sentiments be presented to our students as valuable additions to their store of knowledge? The works of the most intellectual skeptic are the works of a mind prostituted to the service of the enemy; and shall those who claim to be reformers, who seek to lead the children and youth in the right way, in the path cast up for the ransomed of the Lord to walk in, imagine that God would have them present to the youth for their study that which will misrepresent His character and place Him in a false light? Shall the sentiments of unbelievers, the expressions of dissolute men, be advocated as worthy of the student's attention, because they are the productions of men whom the world admires as great thinkers? Shall men professing to believe in God gather from these unsanctified authors their expressions and sentiments, and treasure them up as precious jewels to be stored away among the riches of the mind? God forbid! CT 25, 26357 {CCh 210.3} [CCh 210.4] The Results of Christian Education As the children sang in the temple courts, "Hosanna; Blessed is He that cometh in the name of the Lord" Mark 11:9, so in these last days children's voices will be raised to give the last message of warning to a 211 perishing world. When heavenly intelligences see that men are no longer permitted to present the truth, the Spirit of God will come upon the children, and they will do a work in the proclamation of the truth which the older workers cannot do, because their way will be hedged up. {CCh 210.4} [CCh 211.1] Our church schools are ordained by God to prepare the children for this great work. Here children are to be instructed in the special truths for this time and in practical missionary work. They are to enlist in the army of workers to help the sick and the suffering. Children can take part in the medical missionary work and by their jots and tittles can help to carry it forward. Their investments may be small, but every little helps, and by their efforts many souls will be won to the truth. By them God's message will be made known and His saving health to all nations. Then let the church carry a burden for the lambs of the flock. Let the children be educated and trained to do service for God, for they are the Lord's heritage. {CCh 211.1} [CCh 211.2] When properly conducted, church schools will be the means of lifting the standard of truth in the places where they are established; for children who are receiving a Christian education will be witnesses for Christ. As Jesus in the temple solved the mysteries which priests and rulers had not discerned, so in the closing work of this earth children who have been rightly educated will in their simplicity speak words which will be an astonishment to men who now talk of "higher education." 6T 202, 203358 {CCh 211.2} [CCh 211.3] I was shown that our college was designed of God to accomplish the great work of saving souls. It is only when brought under full control of the Spirit of God that the talents of an individual are rendered useful to the fullest extent. The precepts and principles of religion are the first steps in the acquisition of knowledge, and lie at the very foundation of true education. Knowledge and science must be vitalized by the Spirit of God in order to serve the noblest purposes. The Christian alone can make the right use of knowledge. Science, in order to be fully appreciated, must be viewed from a religious standpoint. The heart which is ennobled by the grace of God can best comprehend the real value of education. The attributes of God, as seen in His created works, can be appreciated only as we have a knowledge of the Creator. In order to lead the youth to the fountain of truth, to the Lamb of God who taketh away the sins of the world, the teachers must not only be acquainted with the theory of the truth, but must have an experimental knowledge of the way of holiness. Knowledge is power when united with true piety. 4T 427359 {CCh 211.3} [CCh 211.4] Student’s Responsibility to Uphold His School Those students who profess to love God and obey the truth should possess that degree of self-control and strength of religious principle that will enable them to remain unmoved amid temptations and to stand 212 up for Jesus in the college, at their boardinghouses, or wherever they may be. Religion is not to be worn merely as a cloak in the house of God, but religious principle must characterize the entire life. {CCh 211.4} [CCh 212.1] Those who are drinking at the fountain of life will not, like the worldling, manifest a longing desire for change and pleasure. In their deportment and character will be seen the rest and peace and happiness that they have found in Jesus by daily laying their perplexities and burdens at His feet. They will show that there is contentment and even joy in the path of obedience and duty. Such will exert an influence over their fellow students which will tell upon the entire school. {CCh 212.1} [CCh 212.2] Those who compose this faithful army will refresh and strengthen the teachers and professors in their efforts by discouraging every species of unfaithfulness, of discord, and of neglect to comply with the rules and regulations. Their influence will be saving, and their works will not perish in the great day of God, but will follow them into the future world; and the influence of their life here will tell throughout the ceaseless ages of eternity. {CCh 212.2} [CCh 212.3] One earnest, conscientious, faithful young man in school is an inestimable treasure. Angels of heaven look lovingly upon him. His precious Saviour loves him, and in the Ledger of Heaven will be recorded every work of righteousness, every temptation resisted, every evil overcome. He will thus be laying up a good foundation against the time to come, that he may lay hold on eternal life. {CCh 212.3} [CCh 212.4] Upon Christian youth depend in a great measure the preservation and perpetuity of the institutions which God has devised as means by which to advance His work. This grave responsibility rests upon the youth of today who are coming upon the stage of action. Never was there a period when results so important depended upon a generation of men; then how important that the young should be qualified for the great work, that God may use them as His instruments. Their Maker has claims upon them which are paramount to all others. {CCh 212.4} [CCh 212.5] It is God that has given life and every physical and mental endowment they possess. He has bestowed upon them capabilities for wise improvement, that they may be entrusted with a work which will be as enduring as eternity. In return for His great gifts He claims a due cultivation and exercise of their intellectual and moral faculties. He did not give them these faculties merely for their amusement, or to be abused in working against His will and His providence, but that they might use them to advance the knowledge of truth and holiness in the world. He claims their gratitude, their veneration and love, for His continued kindness and infinite mercies. He justly requires obedience to His laws and to all wise regulations which will restrain and guard the youth from Satan's devices and lead them in paths of peace. {CCh 212.5} [CCh 212.6] If youth could see that in complying with the laws and regulations of our institutions they are only doing that which will improve their standing in society, elevate the character, ennoble the mind, and increase 213 their happiness, they would not rebel against just rules and wholesome requirements, nor engage in creating suspicion and prejudice against these institutions. Our youth should have a spirit of energy and fidelity to meet the demands upon them, and this will be a guaranty of success. The wild, reckless character of many of the youth in this age of the world is heartsickening. Much of the blame lies upon their parents at home. Without the fear of God no one can be truly happy. 4T 432-435360 {CCh 212.6} [CCh 214.1] Chapter 38 —The Call to Temperate Living Health is an inestimable blessing and one more closely related to conscience and religion than many realize. It has a great deal to do with one's capability for service and should be as sacredly guarded as the character, for the more perfect the health the more perfect will be our efforts for the advancement of God's cause and for the blessing of humanity. CT 294361 {CCh 214.1} [CCh 214.2] December 10, 1871, I was again shown that the health reform is one branch of the great work which is to fit a people for the coming of the Lord. It is as closely connected with the third angel's message as the hand is with the body. The law of Ten Commandments has been lightly regarded by man, but the Lord would not come to punish the transgressors of that law without first sending them a message of warning. The third angel proclaims that message. Had men ever been obedient to the law of Ten Commandments, carrying out in their lives the principles of those precepts, the curse of disease now flooding the world would not be. {CCh 214.2} [CCh 214.3] Men and women cannot violate natural law by indulging depraved appetite and lustful passions, and not violate the law of God. Therefore He has permitted the light of health reform to shine upon us, that we may see our sin in violating the laws which He has established in our being. All our enjoyment or suffering may be traced to obedience or transgression of natural law. Our gracious heavenly Father sees the deplorable condition of men who, some knowingly but many ignorantly, are living in violation of the laws that He has established. And in love and pity to the race, He causes the light to shine upon health reform. He publishes His law and the penalty that will follow the transgression of it, that all may learn and be careful to live in harmony with natural law. He proclaims His law so distinctly and makes it so prominent that it is like a city set on a hill. All accountable beings can understand it if they will. Idiots will not be responsible. To make plain natural law, and urge the obedience of it, is the work that accompanies the third angel's message to prepare a people for the coming of the Lord. 3T 161362 {CCh 214.3} [CCh 214.4] “Ye Are Not Your Own” We believe without a doubt that Christ is soon coming. This is not a fable to us; it is a reality. When He comes He is not to cleanse us of our 215 sins, to remove from us the defects in our characters, or to cure us of the infirmities of our tempers and dispositions. If wrought for us at all, this work will all be accomplished before that time. {CCh 214.4} [CCh 215.1] When the Lord comes, those who are holy will be holy still. Those who have preserved their bodies and spirits in holiness, in sanctification and honor, will then receive the finishing touch of immortality. But those who are unjust, unsanctified, and filthy will remain so forever. No work will then be done for them to remove their defects and give them holy characters. The Refiner does not then sit to pursue His refining process and remove their sins and their corruption. This is all to be done in these hours of probation. It is now that this work is to be accomplished for us. {CCh 215.1} [CCh 215.2] We are in a world that is opposed to righteousness and purity of character, and to a growth in grace. Wherever we look we see corruption and defilement, deformity and sin. And what is the work that we are to undertake here just previous to receiving immortality? It is to preserve our bodies holy, our spirits pure, that we may stand forth unstained amid the corruptions teeming around us in these last days. {CCh 215.2} [CCh 215.3] "Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's." 1 Corinthians 6:19, 20. {CCh 215.3} [CCh 215.4] We are not our own. We have been purchased with a dear price, even the sufferings and death of the Son of God. If we could understand this, and fully realize it, we would feel a great responsibility resting upon us to keep ourselves in the very best condition of health, that we might render to God perfect service. But when we take any course which expends our vitality, decreases our strength, or beclouds the intellect we sin against God. In pursuing this course we are not glorifying Him in our bodies and spirits which are His, but are committing a great wrong in His sight. 2T 354-356363 {CCh 215.4} [CCh 215.5] Obedience a Matter of Personal Duty The Creator of man has arranged the living machinery of our bodies. Every function is wonderfully and wisely made. And God pledged Himself to keep this human machinery in healthful action if the human agent will obey His laws and cooperate with God. Every law governing the human machinery is to be considered just as truly divine in origin, in character, and in importance as the word of God. Every careless, inattentive action, any abuse put upon the Lord's wonderful mechanism, by disregarding His specified laws in the human habitation, is a violation of God's law. We may behold and admire the work of God in the natural world, but the human habitation is the most wonderful. CD 17364 {CCh 215.5} [CCh 215.6] Since the laws of nature are the laws of God, it is plainly our duty to give these laws careful study. We should study their requirements in regard to our own bodies and conform to them. Ignorance in these things is sin. {CCh 215.6} [CCh 215.7] When men and women are truly converted, they will conscientiously 216 regard the laws of life that God has established in their being, thus seeking to avoid physical, mental, and moral feebleness. Obedience to these laws must be made a matter of personal duty. We ourselves must suffer the ills of violated law. We must answer to God for our habits and practices. Therefore the question for us is not, "What will the world say?" but, "How shall I, claiming to be a Christian, treat the habitation God has given me? Shall I work for my highest temporal and spiritual good by keeping my body as a temple for the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, or shall I sacrifice myself to the world's ideas and practices?" 6T 369, 370365 {CCh 215.7} [CCh 216.1] The Life of God in the Soul Is Man’s Only Hope The religion of the Bible is not detrimental to the health of either body or mind. The influence of the Spirit of God is the very best medicine for disease. Heaven is all health; and the more deeply heavenly influences are realized, the more sure will be the recovery of the believing invalid. The true principles of Christianity open before all a source of inestimable happiness. Religion is a continual wellspring, from which the Christian can drink at will and never exhaust the fountain. {CCh 216.1} [CCh 216.2] The condition of the mind affects the health of the physical system. If the mind is free and happy, from a consciousness of rightdoing and a sense of satisfaction in causing happiness to others, it creates a cheerfulness that will react upon the whole system, causing a freer circulation of the blood and a toning up of the entire body. The blessing of God is a healing power, and those who are abundant in benefiting others will realize that wondrous blessing in both heart and life. {CCh 216.2} [CCh 216.3] When men who have indulged in wrong habits and sinful practices yield to the power of divine truth, the application of that truth to the heart revives the moral powers, which had seemed to be paralyzed. The receiver possesses stronger, clearer understanding than before he riveted his soul to the eternal Rock. Even his physical health improves by the realization of his security in Christ. CH 28366 {CCh 216.3} [CCh 216.4] Men need to learn that the blessings of obedience, in their fullness, can be theirs only as they receive the grace of Christ. It is His grace that gives man power to obey the laws of God. It is this that enables him to break the bondage of evil habit. This is the only power that can make him and keep him steadfast in the right path. {CCh 216.4} [CCh 216.5] When the gospel is received in its purity and power, it is a cure for the maladies that originated in sin. The Sun of Righteousness arises, "with healing in His wings." Malachi 4:2. Not all this world bestows can heal a broken heart, or impart peace of mind, or remove care, or banish disease. Fame, genius, talent—all are powerless to gladden the sorrowful heart or to restore the wasted life. The life of God in the soul is man's only hope. {CCh 216.5} [CCh 216.6] The love which Christ diffuses through the whole being is a vitalizing 217 power. Every vital part—the brain, the heart, the nerves—it touches with healing. By it the highest energies of the being are roused to activity. It frees the soul from the guilt and sorrow, the anxiety and care, that crush the life forces. With it come serenity and composure. It implants in the soul, joy that nothing earthly can destroy—joy in the Holy Spirit—health-giving, life-giving joy. {CCh 216.6} [CCh 217.1] Our Saviour's words, "Come unto Me, . . . and I will give you rest" Matthew 11:28, are a prescription for the healing of physical, mental, and spiritual ills. Though men have brought suffering upon themselves by their own wrongdoing, He regards them with pity. In Him they may find help. He will do great things for those who trust in Him. MH 115367 {CCh 217.1} [CCh 217.2] Present Health Reform In our work more attention should be given to the temperance reform. Every duty that calls for reform involves repentance, faith, and obedience. It means the uplifting of the soul to a new and nobler life. Thus every true reform has its place in the work of the third angel's message. Especially does the temperance reform demand our attention and support. At our camp meetings ［annual meetings］ we should call attention to this work and make it a living issue. We should present to the people the principles of true temperance and call for signers to the temperance pledge. Careful attention should be given to those who are enslaved by evil habits. We must lead them to the cross of Christ. {CCh 217.2} [CCh 217.3] As we near the close of time we must rise higher and still higher upon the question of health reform and Christian temperance, presenting it in a more positive and decided manner. We must strive continually to educate the people, not only by our words, but by our practice. Precept and practice combined have a telling influence. 6T 110, 112368 {CCh 217.3} [CCh 218.1] Chapter 39 —The Importance of Cleanliness In order to have good health, we must have good blood; for the blood is the current of life. It repairs waste and nourishes the body. When supplied with the proper food elements and when cleansed and vitalized by contact with pure air, it carries life and vigor to every part of the system. The more perfect the circulation, the better will this work be accomplished. MH 271369 {CCh 218.1} [CCh 218.2] The external application of water is one of the easiest and most satisfactory ways of regulating the circulation of the blood. A cold or cool bath is an excellent tonic. Warm baths open the pores and thus aid in the elimination of impurities. Both warm and neutral baths soothe the nerves and equalize the circulation. {CCh 218.2} [CCh 218.3] Exercise quickens and equalizes the circulation of the blood, but in idleness the blood does not circulate freely, and the changes in it, so necessary to life and health, do not take place. The skin, too, becomes inactive. Impurities are not expelled as they would be if the circulation had been quickened by vigorous exercise, the skin kept in a healthy condition, and the lungs fed with plenty of pure, fresh air. MH 237, 238370 {CCh 218.3} [CCh 218.4] The lungs should be allowed the greatest freedom possible. Their capacity is developed by free action; it diminishes if they are cramped and compressed. Hence the ill effects of the practice so common, especially in sedentary pursuits, of stooping at one's work. In this position it is impossible to breathe deeply. Superficial breathing soon becomes a habit, and the lungs lose their power to expand. {CCh 218.4} [CCh 218.5] Thus an insufficient supply of oxygen is received. The blood moves sluggishly. The waste, poisonous matter, which should be thrown off in the exhalations from the lungs, is retained, and the blood becomes impure. Not only the lungs, but the stomach, liver, and brain are affected. The skin becomes sallow, digestion is retarded; the heart is depressed; the brain is clouded; the thoughts are confused; gloom settles upon the spirits; the whole system becomes depressed and inactive, and peculiarly susceptible to disease. {CCh 218.5} [CCh 218.6] The lungs are constantly throwing off impurities, and they need to be constantly supplied with fresh air. Impure air does not afford the necessary supply of oxygen, and the blood passes to the brain and other organs without being vitalized. Hence the necessity of thorough ventilation. To live in close, ill-ventilated rooms, where the air is dead and vitiated, weakens the entire system. It becomes peculiarly sensitive 219 to the influence of cold, and a slight exposure induces disease. It is close confinement indoors that makes many women pale and feeble. They breathe the same air over and over until it becomes laden with poisonous matter thrown off through the lungs and pores, and impurities are thus conveyed back to the blood. MH 272-274371 {CCh 218.6} [CCh 219.1] Many are suffering from disease because they refuse to receive into their rooms at night the pure night air. The free, pure air of heaven is one of the richest blessings we can enjoy. 2T 528372 {CCh 219.1} [CCh 219.2] Scrupulous cleanliness is essential to both physical and mental health. Impurities are constantly thrown off from the body through the skin. Its millions of pores are quickly clogged unless kept clean by frequent bathing, and the impurities which should pass off through the skin become an additional burden to the other eliminating organs. {CCh 219.2} [CCh 219.3] Most persons would receive benefit from a cool or tepid bath every day, morning or evening. Instead of increasing the liability to take cold, a bath, properly taken, fortifies against cold, because it improves the circulation; the blood is brought to the surface, and a more easy and regular flow is obtained. The mind and the body are alike invigorated. The muscles become more flexible, the intellect is made brighter. The bath is a soother of the nerves. Bathing helps the bowels, the stomach, and the liver, giving health and energy to each, and it promotes digestion. {CCh 219.3} [CCh 219.4] It is important also that the clothing be kept clean. The garments worn absorb the waste matter that passes off through the pores; if they are not frequently changed and washed, the impurities will be reabsorbed. {CCh 219.4} [CCh 219.5] Every form of uncleanliness tends to disease. Death-producing germs abound in dark, neglected corners, in decaying refuse, in dampness and mold and must. No waste vegetables or heaps of fallen leaves should be allowed to remain near the house to decay and poison the air. Nothing unclean or decaying should be tolerated within the home. In towns or cities regarded perfectly healthful, many an epidemic of fever has been traced to decaying matter about the dwelling of some careless householder. {CCh 219.5} [CCh 219.6] Perfect cleanliness, plenty of sunlight, careful attention to sanitation in every detail of the home life, are essential to freedom from disease and to the cheerfulness and vigor of the inmates of the home. MH 276373 {CCh 219.6} [CCh 219.7] Teach the little ones that God is not pleased to see them with unclean bodies and untidy, torn garments. Having the clothing neat and clean will be one means of keeping the thoughts pure and sweet. Especially should every article which comes in contact with the skin be kept clean. {CCh 219.7} [CCh 219.8] Truth never places her delicate feet in a path of uncleanness or impurity. He who was so particular that the children of Israel should cherish habits of cleanliness will not sanction any impurity in the homes of His people today. God looks with disfavor on uncleanness of any kind. {CCh 219.8} [CCh 219.9] Unclean, neglected corners in the house will tend to make impure, neglected corners in the soul. {CCh 219.9} [CCh 220.1] 220 Heaven is pure and holy, and those who pass through the gates of the city of God must here be clothed with inward and outward purity. ML 129374 {CCh 220.1} [CCh 221.1] Chapter 40 —The Food We Eat Our bodies are built up from the food we eat. There is a constant breaking down of the tissues of the body; every movement of every organ involves waste, and this waste is repaired from our food. Each organ of the body requires its share of nutrition. The brain must be supplied with its portion; the bones, muscles, and nerves demand theirs. It is a wonderful process that transforms the food into blood and uses this blood to build up the varied parts of the body; but this process is going on continually, supplying with life and strength each nerve, muscle, and tissue. {CCh 221.1} [CCh 221.2] Those foods should be chosen that best supply the elements needed for building up the body. In this choice, appetite is not a safe guide. Through wrong habits of eating, the appetite has become perverted. Often it demands food that impairs health and causes weakness instead of strength. We cannot safely be guided by the customs of society. The disease and suffering that everywhere prevail are largely due to popular errors in regard to diet. {CCh 221.2} [CCh 221.3] But not all foods wholesome in themselves are equally suited to our needs under all circumstances. Care should be taken in the selection of food. Our diet should be suited to the season, to the climate in which we live, and to the occupation we follow. Some foods that are adapted for use at one season or in one climate are not suited to another. So there are different foods best suited for persons in different occupations. Often food that can be used with benefit by those engaged in hard physical labor is unsuitable for persons of sedentary pursuits or intense mental application. God has given us an ample variety of healthful foods, and each person should choose from it the things that experience and sound judgment prove to be best suited to his own necessities. MH 295-297375 {CCh 221.3} [CCh 221.4] God’s Original Plan for Man’s Diet In order to know what are the best foods, we must study God's original plan for man's diet. He who created man and who understands his needs appointed Adam his food. "Behold," He said, "I have given you every herb yielding seed, . . . and every tree, in which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for food." Genesis 1:29, A.R.V. Upon leaving Eden to gain his livelihood by tilling the earth under the curse of sin, man received permission to eat also 222 "the herb of the field." Genesis 3:18. {CCh 221.4} [CCh 222.1] Grains, fruits, nuts, and vegetables constitute the diet chosen for us by our Creator. These foods, prepared in as simple and natural a manner as possible, are the most healthful and nourishing. They impart a strength, a power of endurance, and a vigor of intellect that are not afforded by a more complex and stimulating diet. MH 295, 296376 {CCh 222.1} [CCh 222.2] In order to maintain health, a sufficient supply of good, nourishing food is needed. {CCh 222.2} [CCh 222.3] If we plan wisely, that which is most conducive to health can be secured in almost every land. The various preparations of rice, wheat, corn, and oats are sent abroad everywhere, also beans, peas, and lentils. These, with native or imported fruits, and the variety of vegetables that grow in each locality, give an opportunity to select a dietary that is complete without the use of flesh meats. {CCh 222.3} [CCh 222.4] Wherever dried fruits, such as raisins, prunes, apples, pears, peaches, and apricots are obtainable at moderate prices, it will be found that they can be used as staple articles of diet much more freely than is customary, with the best results to the health and vigor of all classes of workers. MH 299377 {CCh 222.4} [CCh 222.5] The Science of Cooking Cooking is no mean science, and it is one of the most essential in practical life. It is a science that all women should learn, and it should be taught in a way to benefit the poorer classes. To make food appetizing and at the same time simple and nourishing, requires skill; but it can be done. Cooks should know how to prepare simple food in a simple and healthful manner, and so that it will be found more palatable, as well as more wholesome, because of its simplicity. MH 302, 303378 {CCh 222.5} [CCh 222.6] Let us make intelligent advancement in simplifying our diet. In the providence of God, every country produces articles of food containing the nourishment necessary for the upbuilding of the system. These may be made into healthful, appetizing dishes. CD 94379 {CCh 222.6} [CCh 222.7] Many do not feel that this is a matter of duty, hence they do not try to prepare food properly. This can be done in a simple, healthful, and easy manner, without the use of lard, butter, or flesh meats. Skill must be united with simplicity. To do this, women must read, and then patiently reduce what they read to practice. 1T 681380 {CCh 222.7} [CCh 222.8] Fruits, grains, and vegetables, prepared in a simple way, free from spice and grease * ［Grease is defined as “animal fat, especially when soft; any fatty, oily, or unctuous substance.” Ellen White stated that olives, properly prepared, may be eaten with benefit at every meal, the oil in them providing a substitute for animal oil and butter. See MH 298; 7T 134. This seems to indicate that a limited amount of fat, particularly from vegetable sources, is a part of a healthy diet.］381of all kinds, make, with milk or cream, the most healthful diet. CH 115382 {CCh 222.8} [CCh 223.1] 223 Grains and fruits prepared free from grease, and in as natural a condition as possible, should be the food for the tables of all who claim to be preparing for translation to heaven. 2T 352383 {CCh 223.1} [CCh 223.2] Far too much sugar is ordinarily used in food. Cakes, sweet puddings, pastries, jellies, jams, are active causes of indigestion. Especially harmful are the custards and puddings in which milk, eggs, and sugar are the chief ingredients. The free use of milk and sugar taken together should be avoided. MH 302384 {CCh 223.2} [CCh 223.3] The less sugar introduced into the food in its preparation, the less difficulty will be experienced because of the heat of the climate. CD 95385 {CCh 223.3} [CCh 223.4] If milk is used, it should be thoroughly sterilized; with this precaution, there is less danger of contracting disease from its use. MH 302386 {CCh 223.4} [CCh 223.5] The time may come when it will not be safe to use milk. But if the cows are healthy and the milk thoroughly cooked, there is no necessity of creating a time of trouble beforehand. CD 357387 {CCh 223.5} [CCh 223.6] Highly Seasoned Foods Condiments, so frequently used by those of the world, are ruinous to the digestion. CD 339388 {CCh 223.6} [CCh 223.7] In this fast age, the less exciting the food, the better. Condiments are injurious in their nature. Mustard, pepper, spices, pickles, and other things of a like character, irritate the stomach and make the blood feverish and impure. The inflamed condition of the drunkard's stomach is often pictured as illustrating the effect of alcoholic liquors. A similarly inflamed condition is produced by the use of irritating condiments. Soon ordinary food does not satisfy the appetite. The system feels a want, a craving, for something more stimulating. MH 325389 {CCh 223.7} [CCh 223.8] Some have so indulged their taste, that unless they have the very article of food it calls for, they find no pleasure in eating. If condiments and spiced foods are placed before them, they make the stomach work by applying this fiery whip; for it has been so treated that it will not acknowledge unstimulating food. CD 340390 {CCh 223.8} [CCh 223.9] Spices at first irritate the tender coating of the stomach, but finally destroy the natural sensitiveness of this delicate membrane. The blood becomes fevered, the animal propensities are aroused, while the moral and intellectual powers are weakened and become servants to the baser passions. The mother should study to set a simple yet nutritious diet before her family. CH 114391 {CCh 223.9} [CCh 223.10] Regularity in Eating After the regular meal is eaten, the stomach should be allowed to rest for five hours. Not a particle of food should be introduced into the stomach till the next meal. In this interval the stomach will perform its work, and will then be in a condition to receive more food. CD 179392 {CCh 223.10} [CCh 223.11] Regularity in eating should be carefully observed. Nothing should be 224 eaten between meals, no confectionery, nuts, fruits, or food of any kind. Irregularities in eating destroy the healthful tone of the digestive organs, to the detriment of health and cheerfulness. And when the children come to the table, they do not relish wholesome food; their appetites crave that which is hurtful for them. MH 384393 {CCh 223.11} [CCh 224.1] When we lie down to rest, the stomach should have its work all done, that it, as well as the other organs of the body, may enjoy rest. For persons of sedentary habits, late suppers are particularly harmful. {CCh 224.1} [CCh 224.2] In many cases the faintness that leads to a desire for food is felt because the digestive organs have been too severely taxed during the day. After disposing of one meal, the digestive organs need rest. At least five or six hours should intervene between the meals, and most persons who give the plan a trial will find that two meals a day are better than three. MH 304394 {CCh 224.2} [CCh 224.3] The practice of eating but two meals a day is generally found a benefit to health; yet under some circumstances persons may require a third meal. This should, however, if taken at all, be very light, and of food most easily digested. MH 321395 {CCh 224.3} [CCh 224.4] When students combine physical and mental taxation the objection to the third meal is to a great extent removed. Let the students have the third meal, prepared without vegetables, but with simple, wholesome food, such as fruit and bread. CD 178396 {CCh 224.4} [CCh 224.5] Food should not be eaten very hot or very cold. If food is cold, the vital force of the stomach is drawn upon in order to warm it before digestion can take place. Cold drinks are injurious for the same reason; while the free use of hot drinks is debilitating. In fact, the more liquid there is taken with the meals, the more difficult it is for the food to digest; for the liquid must be absorbed before digestion can begin. Do not eat largely of salt, avoid the use of pickles and spiced foods, eat an abundance of fruit, and the irritation that calls for so much drink at mealtime will largely disappear. Food should be eaten slowly and should be thoroughly masticated. This is necessary in order that the saliva may be properly mixed with the food and the digestive fluids be called into action. MH 305, 306397 {CCh 224.5} [CCh 224.6] Application of Health Reform Principles There is real common sense in dietetic reform. The subject should be studied broadly and deeply, and no one should criticize others because their practice is not, in all things, in harmony with his own. It is impossible to make an unvarying rule to regulate everyone's habits, and no one should think himself a criterion for all. Not all can eat the same things. Foods that are palatable and wholesome to one person may be distasteful, and even harmful, to another. Some cannot use milk, while others thrive on it. Some persons cannot digest peas and beans; others find them wholesome. For some the coarser grain preparations are good food, while others cannot use them. MH 319, 320398 {CCh 224.6} [CCh 225.1] 225 Where wrong habits of diet have been indulged, there should be no delay in reform. When dyspepsia has resulted from abuse of the stomach, efforts should be made carefully to preserve the remaining strength of the vital forces by removing every overtaxing burden. The stomach may never entirely recover health after long abuse; but a proper course of diet will save further debility, and many will recover more or less fully. {CCh 225.1} [CCh 225.2] Strong men who are engaged in active physical labor are not compelled to be as careful as to the quantity or quality of their food as are persons of sedentary habits; but even these would have better health if they would practice self-control in eating and drinking. {CCh 225.2} [CCh 225.3] Some wish that an exact rule could be prescribed for their diet. They overeat, and then regret it, and so they keep thinking about what they eat and drink. This is not as it should be. One person cannot lay down an exact rule for another. Everyone should exercise reason and self-control, and should act from principle. MH 308, 310399 {CCh 225.3} [CCh 225.4] The diet reform should be progressive. As disease in animals increases, the use of milk and eggs will become more and more unsafe. An effort should be made to supply their place with other things that are healthful and inexpensive. The people everywhere should be taught how to cook without milk and eggs, so far as possible, and yet have their food wholesome and palatable. {CCh 225.4} [CCh 225.5] God is not honored when the body is neglected or abused and is thus unfitted for His service. To care for the body by providing for it food that is relishable and strengthening is one of the first duties of the householder. It is far better to have less expensive clothing and furniture than to stint the supply of food. {CCh 225.5} [CCh 225.6] Some householders stint the family table in order to provide expensive entertainment for visitors. This is unwise. In the entertainment of guests there should be greater simplicity. Let the needs of the family have first attention. {CCh 225.6} [CCh 225.7] Unwise economy and artificial customs often prevent the exercise of hospitality where it is needed and would be a blessing. The regular supply of food for our tables should be such that the unexpected guest can be made welcome without burdening the housewife to make extra preparation. {CCh 225.7} [CCh 225.8] Carefully consider your diet. Study from cause to effect. Cultivate self-control. Keep appetite under the control of reason. Never abuse the stomach by overeating, but do not deprive yourself of the wholesome, palatable food that health demands. {CCh 225.8} [CCh 225.9] Those who understand the laws of health and who are governed by principle, will shun the extremes, both of indulgence and of restriction. Their diet is chosen, not for the mere gratification of appetite, but for the upbuilding of the body. They seek to preserve every power in the best condition for highest service to God and man. The appetite is under the control of reason and conscience, and they are rewarded with health of body and mind. While they do not urge their views offensively upon others, their example is a testimony in favor of right 226 principles. These persons have a wide influence for good. MH 310-323400 {CCh 225.9} [CCh 226.1] We should not provide for the Sabbath a more liberal supply or a greater variety of food than for other days. Instead of this the food should be more simple, and less should be eaten in order that the mind may be clear and vigorous to comprehend spiritual things. {CCh 226.1} [CCh 226.2] Cooking on the Sabbath should be avoided; but it is not therefore necessary to eat cold food. In cold weather the food prepared the day before should be heated. And let the meals, however simple, be palatable and attractive. Especially in families where there are children, it is well, on the Sabbath, to provide something that will be regarded as a treat, something the family do not have every day. MH 307401 {CCh 226.2} [CCh 226.3] Control of Appetite and Passions One of the strongest temptations that man has to meet is upon the point of appetite. Between the mind and the body there is a mysterious and wonderful relation. They react upon each other. To keep the body in a healthy condition to develop its strength, that every part of the living machinery may act harmoniously, should be the first study of our life. To neglect the body is to neglect the mind. It cannot be to the glory of God for His children to have sickly bodies or dwarfed minds. To indulge the taste at the expense of health is a wicked abuse of the senses. Those who engage in any species of intemperance, either in eating or drinking, waste their physical energies and weaken moral power. They will feel the retribution which follows the transgression of physical law. 3T 485, 486402 {CCh 226.3} [CCh 226.4] Many are incapacitated for labor both mentally and physically by overeating and the gratification of the lustful passions. The animal propensities are strengthened, while the moral and spiritual nature is enfeebled. When we shall stand around the great white throne, what a record will the lives of many then present. Then will they see what they might have done had they not debased their God-given powers. Then will they realize what height of intellectual greatness they might have attained had they given to God all the physical and mental strength He had entrusted to them. In their agony of remorse they will long to have their lives to live over again. 5T 135403 {CCh 226.4} [CCh 226.5] Every true Christian will have control of his appetite and passions. Unless he is free from the bondage and slavery of appetite he cannot be a true, obedient servant of Christ. It is the indulgence of appetite and passion which makes the truth of none effect upon the heart. It is impossible for the spirit and power of the truth to sanctify a man, soul, body, and spirit, when he is controlled by appetite and passion. 3T 569, 570404 {CCh 226.5} [CCh 226.6] The great end for which Christ endured that long fast in the wilderness was to teach us the necessity of self-denial and temperance. This work should commence at our tables and should be strictly carried out in all the concerns of life. The Redeemer of the world came from heaven to help man in his weakness, that, in the power which 227 Jesus came to bring him, he might become strong to overcome appetite and passion, and might be victor on every point. 3T 488405 {CCh 226.6} [CCh 228.1] Chapter 41 —Flesh Foods God gave our first parents the food He designed that the race should eat. It was contrary to His plan to have the life of any creature taken. There was to be no death in Eden. The fruit of the trees in the garden, was the food man's wants required. God gave man no permission to eat animal food until after the flood. Everything had been destroyed upon which man could subsist, and therefore the Lord in their necessity gave Noah permission to eat of the clean animals which he had taken with him into the ark. But animal food was not the most healthful article of food for man. {CCh 228.1} [CCh 228.2] After the Flood the people ate largely of animal food. God saw that the ways of man were corrupt, and that he was disposed to exalt himself proudly against his Creator and to follow the inclinations of his own heart. And He permitted that long-lived race to eat animal food to shorten their sinful lives. Soon after the Flood the race began to rapidly decrease in size, and in length of years. CD 373406 {CCh 228.2} [CCh 228.3] In choosing man's food in Eden, the Lord showed what was the best diet; in the choice made for Israel He taught the same lesson. He brought the Israelites out of Egypt and undertook their training, that they might be a people for His own possession. Through them He desired to bless and teach the world. He provided them with the food best adapted for this purpose, not flesh, but manna, "the bread of heaven." It was only because of their discontent and their murmuring for the fleshpots of Egypt that animal food was granted them, and this only for a short time. Its use brought disease and death to thousands. Yet the restriction to a non-flesh diet was never heartily accepted. It continued to be the cause of discontent and murmuring, open or secret, and it was not made permanent. {CCh 228.3} [CCh 228.4] Upon their settlement in Canaan, the Israelites were permitted the use of animal food, but under careful restrictions which tended to lessen the evil results. The use of swine's flesh was prohibited, as also of other animals and of birds and fish whose flesh was pronounced unclean. Of the meats permitted, the eating of the fat and the blood was strictly forbidden. {CCh 228.4} [CCh 228.5] Only such animals could be used for food as were in good condition. No creature that was torn, that had died of itself, or from which the blood had not been carefully drained, could be used as food. {CCh 228.5} [CCh 228.6] By departing from the plan divinely appointed for their diet, the Israelites suffered great loss. They desired a flesh diet, and they reaped its results. They did not reach God's ideal of character or fulfill His 229 purpose. The Lord "gave them their request; but sent leanness into their soul." Psalm 106:15. They valued the earthly above the spiritual, and the sacred pre-eminence which was His purpose for them they did not attain. {CCh 228.6} [CCh 229.1] Those who eat flesh are but eating grains and vegetables at second hand; for the animal receives from these things the nutrition that produces growth. The life that was in the grains and vegetables passes into the eater. We receive it by eating the flesh of the animal. How much better to get it direct, by eating the food that God provided for our use! MH 311-313407 {CCh 229.1} [CCh 229.2] The Cause of Much Disease and Sickness Flesh was never the best food; but its use is now doubly objectionable, since disease in animals is so rapidly increasing. Those who use flesh foods little know what they are eating. Often if they could see the animals when living and know the quality of the meat they eat, they would turn from it with loathing. People are continually eating flesh that is filled with tuberculous and cancerous germs. Tuberculosis, cancer, and other fatal diseases are thus communicated. MH 313408 {CCh 229.2} [CCh 229.3] The liability to take disease is increased tenfold by meat eating. 2T 64409 {CCh 229.3} [CCh 229.4] The animals are diseased, and by partaking of their flesh, we plant the seeds of disease in our own tissue and blood. Then when exposed to the changes in a malarious atmosphere, these are more sensibly felt; also when we are exposed to prevailing epidemics and contagious diseases, the system is not in a condition to resist the disease. {CCh 229.4} [CCh 229.5] From the light God has given me, the prevalence of cancer and tumors is largely due to gross living on dead flesh. CD 386-388410 {CCh 229.5} [CCh 229.6] In many places fish become so contaminated by the filth on which they feed as to be a cause of disease. This is especially the case where the fish come in contact with the sewage of large cities. The fish that are fed on the contents of the drains may pass into distant waters and may be caught where the water is pure and fresh. Thus when used as food they bring disease and death on those who do not suspect the danger. {CCh 229.6} [CCh 229.7] The effects of a flesh diet may not be immediately realized; but this is no evidence that it is not harmful. Few can be made to believe that it is the meat they have eaten which has poisoned their blood and caused their suffering. Many die of diseases wholly due to meat eating, while the real cause is not suspected by themselves or by others. MH 314, 315411 {CCh 229.7} [CCh 229.8] The Swine is Unclean Unto You The tissues of the swine swarm with parasites. Of the swine God said, "It is unclean unto you: ye shall not eat of their flesh, nor touch their dead carcass." Deuteronomy 14:8. This command was given because swine's flesh is unfit for food. Swine are scavengers, and this is the only use they were intended to serve. Never, under any circumstances, 230 was their flesh to be eaten by human beings. It is impossible for the flesh of any living creature to be wholesome when filth is its natural element and when it feeds upon every detestable thing. MH 313, 314412 {CCh 229.8} [CCh 230.1] Pork, although one of the most common articles of diet, is one of the most injurious. God did not prohibit the Hebrews from eating swine's flesh merely to show His authority, but because it was not a proper article of food for man. It would fill the system with scrofula, and especially in that warm climate produced leprosy, and disease of various kinds. Its influence upon the system in that climate was far more injurious than in a colder climate…. Swine's flesh would not be palatable to the taste in its natural state. It is made agreeable to the appetite by high seasoning, which makes a very bad thing worse. Swine's flesh above all other flesh meats, produces a bad state of the blood. Those who eat freely of pork can but be diseased. CD 392, 393413 {CCh 230.1} [CCh 230.2] Especially would the fine, sensitive nerves of the brain become enfeebled and so beclouded that sacred things would not be discerned, but be placed upon the low level with common things. 2T 96414 {CCh 230.2} [CCh 230.3] Those who have much outdoor exercise do not realize the bad effects of pork eating, as those do whose life is mostly indoors, and whose habits are sedentary, and whose labor is mental. CD 393415 {CCh 230.3} [CCh 230.4] The Effects of a Flesh Diet on the Mind and Soul The moral evils of a flesh diet are not less marked than are the physical ills. Flesh food is injurious to health, and whatever affects the body has a corresponding effect on the mind and the soul. MH 315416 {CCh 230.4} [CCh 230.5] A meat diet changes the disposition and strengthens animalism. We are composed of what we eat, and eating much flesh will diminish intellectual activity. Students would accomplish much more in their studies if they never tasted meat. When the animal part of the human agent is strengthened by meat eating, the intellectual powers diminish proportionately. CD 389417 {CCh 230.5} [CCh 230.6] If ever there was a time when the diet should be of the most simple kind, it is now. Meat should not be placed before our children. Its influence is to excite and strengthen the lower passions, and has a tendency to deaden the moral powers. 2T 352418 {CCh 230.6} [CCh 230.7] Greater reforms should be seen among the people who claim to be looking for the soon appearing of Christ. Health reform is to do among our people a work which it has not yet done. There are those who ought to be awake to the danger of meat eating, who are still eating the flesh of animals, thus endangering the physical, mental, and spiritual health. Many who are now only half converted on the question of meat eating will go from God's people, to walk no more with them. CH 575419 {CCh 230.7} [CCh 230.8] Those who claim to believe the truth are to guard carefully the powers of body and mind, so that God and His cause will not be in any way dishonored by their words or actions. The habits and practices are to be brought into subjection to the will of God. We are to give careful attention to our diet. It has been clearly presented to me that God's people are to take a firm stand against meat eating. Would 231 God for thirty years give His people the message that if they desire to have pure blood and clear minds, they must give up the use of flesh meat, if He did not want them to heed this message? By the use of flesh meats the animal nature is strengthened and the spiritual nature weakened. CD 383420 {CCh 230.8} [CCh 231.1] Instruction Concerning a Change in Diet It is a mistake to suppose that muscular strength depends on the use of animal food. The needs of the system can be better supplied, and more vigorous health can be enjoyed, without its use. The grains, with fruits, nuts, and vegetables, contain all the nutritive properties necessary to make good blood. These elements are not so well or so fully supplied by a flesh diet. Had the use of flesh been essential to health and strength, animal food would have been included in the diet appointed man in the beginning. {CCh 231.1} [CCh 231.2] When the use of flesh food is discontinued, there is often a sense of weakness, a lack of vigor. Many urge this as evidence that flesh food is essential; but it is because foods of this class are stimulating, because they fever the blood and excite the nerves, that they are so missed. Some will find it as difficult to leave off flesh eating as it is for the drunkard to give up his dram; but they will be the better for the change. {CCh 231.2} [CCh 231.3] When flesh food is discarded, its place should be supplied with a variety of grains, nuts, vegetables, and fruits that will be both nourishing and appetizing. This is especially necessary in the case of those who are weak or who are taxed with continuous labor. MH 316421 {CCh 231.3} [CCh 231.4] Especially where meat is not made a principal article of food is good cooking an essential requirement. Something must be prepared to take the place of meat, and these substitutes for meat must be well prepared, so that meat will not be desired. CG 384422 {CCh 231.4} [CCh 231.5] I am acquainted with families who have changed from a meat diet to one that is impoverished. Their food is so poorly prepared that the stomach loathes it; and such have told me that the health reform did not agree with them, that they were decreasing in physical strength. Food should be prepared with simplicity, yet with a nicety which will invite the appetite. 2T 63423 {CCh 231.5} [CCh 231.6] It is for their own good that the Lord counsels the remnant church to discard the use of flesh meats, tea, and coffee, and other harmful foods. There are plenty of other things on which we can subsist that are wholesome and good. {CCh 231.6} [CCh 231.7] Among those who are waiting for the coming of the Lord, meat eating will eventually be done away; flesh will cease to form a part of their diet. We should ever keep this end in view, and endeavor to work steadily toward it. CD 380, 381424 {CCh 231.7} [CCh 231.8] The intellectual, the moral, and the physical powers are depreciated by the habitual use of flesh meats. Meat eating deranges the system, 232 beclouds the intellect, and blunts the moral sensibilities. We say to you, dear brother and sister, your safest course is to let meat alone. 2T 64425 {CCh 231.8} [CCh 233.1] Chapter 42 —Faithfulness in Health Reform ［Note: This message reviewing the essential points in health reform was given by Mrs. White at the General conference of 1909, the last such session she attended.–Compilers.］ {CCh 233.1} [CCh 233.2] I am instructed to bear a message to all our people on the subject of health reform, for many have backslidden from their former loyalty to health reform principles. {CCh 233.2} [CCh 233.3] God's purpose for His children is that they shall grow up to the full stature of men and women in Christ. In order to do this, they must use aright every power of mind, soul, and body. They cannot afford to waste any mental or physical strength. {CCh 233.3} [CCh 233.4] The question of how to preserve the health is one of primary importance. When we study this question in the fear of God we shall learn that it is best, for both our physical and our spiritual advancement, to observe simplicity in diet. Let us patiently study this question. We need knowledge and judgment in order to move wisely in this matter. Nature's laws are not to be resisted, but obeyed. {CCh 233.4} [CCh 233.5] Those who have received instruction regarding the evils of the use of flesh foods, tea and coffee, and rich and unhealthful food preparations, and who are determined to make a covenant with God by sacrifice, will not continue to indulge their appetite for food that they know to be unhealthful. God demands that the appetites be cleansed, and that self-denial be practiced in regard to those things which are not good. This is a work that will have to be done before His people can stand before Him a perfected people. {CCh 233.5} [CCh 233.6] The remnant people of God must be a converted people. The presentation of this message is to result in the conversion and sanctification of souls. We are to feel the power of the Spirit of God in this movement. This is a wonderful, definite message; it means everything to the receiver, and it is to be proclaimed with a loud cry. We must have a true, abiding faith that this message will go forth with increasing importance till the close of time. {CCh 233.6} [CCh 233.7] There are some professed believers who accept certain portions of the Testimonies as the message of God, while they reject those portions that condemn their favorite indulgences. Such persons are working contrary to their own welfare and the welfare of the church. It is essential that we walk in the light while we have the light. Those who claim to 234 believe in health reform, and yet work counter to its principles in the daily life practice, are hurting their own souls and are leaving wrong impressions upon the minds of believers and unbelievers. {CCh 233.7} [CCh 234.1] Strength Through Obedience A solemn responsibility rests upon those who know the truth, that all their works shall correspond with their faith, and that their lives shall be refined and sanctified, and they be prepared for the work that must rapidly be done in these closing days of the message. They have no time or strength to spend in the indulgence of appetite. The words should come to us now with impelling earnestness: "Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord." Acts 3:19. There are many among us who are deficient in spirituality and who, unless they are wholly converted, will certainly be lost. Can you afford to run the risk? {CCh 234.1} [CCh 234.2] God requires of His people continual advancement. We need to learn that indulged appetite is the greatest hindrance to mental improvement and soul sanctification. With all our profession of health reform, many of us eat improperly. Indulgence of appetite is the greatest cause of physical and mental debility, and lies largely at the foundation of feebleness and premature death. Let the individual who is seeking to possess purity of spirit bear in mind that in Christ there is power to control the appetite. {CCh 234.2} [CCh 234.3] If we could be benefited by indulging the desire for flesh foods, I would not make this appeal to you; but I know we cannot. Flesh foods are injurious to the physical well-being, and we should learn to do without them. Those who are in a position where it is possible to secure a vegetarian diet, but who choose to follow their own preferences in this matter, eating and drinking as they please, will gradually grow careless of the instruction the Lord has given regarding other phases of the present truth and will lose their perception of what is truth; they will surely reap as they have sown. {CCh 234.3} [CCh 234.4] I have been instructed that the students in our schools are not to be served with flesh foods or with food preparations that are known to be unhealthful. Nothing that will serve to encourage a desire for stimulants should be placed on the tables. I appeal to old and young and to middle-aged. Deny your appetite of those things that are doing you injury. Serve the Lord by sacrifice. {CCh 234.4} [CCh 234.5] There are many who feel that they cannot get along without flesh food; but if these would place themselves on the Lord's side, resolutely resolved to walk in the way of His guidance, they would receive strength and wisdom as did Daniel and his fellows. They would find that the Lord would give them sound judgment. Many would be surprised to see how much could be saved for the cause of God by acts of self-denial. The small sums saved by deeds of sacrifice will do more for 235 the upbuilding of the cause of God than larger gifts will accomplish that have not called for denial of self. {CCh 234.5} [CCh 235.1] An Appeal for a Firm Stand Seventh-day Adventists are handling momentous truths. More than forty years ago ［in 1863］ the Lord gave us special light on health reform, but how are we walking in that light? How many have refused to live in harmony with the counsels of God! As a people, we should make advancement proportionate to the light received. It is our duty to understand and respect the principles of health reform. On the subject of temperance we should be in advance of all other people; and yet there are among us well-instructed members of the church, and even ministers of the gospel, who have little respect for the light that God has given upon this subject. They eat as they please and work as they please. {CCh 235.1} [CCh 235.2] Let those who are teachers and leaders in our cause take their stand firmly on Bible ground in regard to health reform, and give a straight testimony to those who believe we are living in the last days of this earth's history. A line of distinction must be drawn between those who serve God and those who serve themselves. {CCh 235.2} [CCh 235.3] I have been shown that the principles that were given us in the early days of the message are as important and should be regarded just as conscientiously today as they were then. There are some who have never followed the light given on the question of diet. It is now time to take the light from under the bushel and let it shine forth in clear, bright rays. {CCh 235.3} [CCh 235.4] The principles of healthful living mean a great deal to us individually and as a people. When the message of health reform first came to me, I was weak and feeble, subject to frequent fainting spells. I was pleading with God for help, and He opened before me the great subject of health reform. He instructed me that those who are keeping His commandments must be brought into sacred relation to Himself, and that by temperance in eating and drinking they must keep mind and body in the most favorable condition for service. This light has been a great blessing to me. I took my stand as a health reformer, knowing that the Lord would strengthen me. I have better health today, notwithstanding my age, than I had in my younger days. {CCh 235.4} [CCh 235.5] It is reported by some that I have not followed the principles of health reform as I have advocated them with my pen; but I can say that I have been a faithful health reformer. Those who have been members of my family know that this is true. {CCh 235.5} [CCh 235.6] "Do All To the Glory of God" We do not mark out any precise line to be followed in diet; but we do say that in countries where there are fruits, grains, and nuts in abundance, 236 flesh food is not the right food for God's people. I have been instructed that flesh food has a tendency to animalize the nature, to rob men and women of that love and sympathy which they should feel for everyone, and to give the lower passions control over the higher powers of the being. If meat eating was ever healthful, it is not safe now. Cancers, tumors, and pulmonary diseases are largely caused by meat eating. {CCh 235.6} [CCh 236.1] We are not to make the use of flesh food a test of fellowship, but we should consider the influence that professed believers who use flesh foods have over others. As God's messengers, shall we not say to the people: "Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God"? 1 Corinthians 10:31. Shall we not bear a decided testimony against the indulgence of perverted appetite? Will any who are ministers of the gospel, proclaiming the most solemn truth ever given to mortals, set an example in returning to the fleshpots of Egypt? Will those who are supported by the tithe from God's storehouse permit themselves by self-indulgence to poison the life-giving current flowing through their veins? Will they disregard the light and warnings that God has given them? The health of the body is to be regarded as essential for growth in grace and the acquirement of an even temper. If the stomach is not properly cared for, the formation of an upright, moral character will be hindered. The brain and nerves are in sympathy with the stomach. Erroneous eating and drinking result in erroneous thinking and acting. {CCh 236.1} [CCh 236.2] All are now being tested and proved. We have been baptized into Christ, and if we will act our part by separating from everything that would drag us down and make us what we ought not to be, there will be given us strength to grow up into Christ, who is our living head, and we shall see the salvation of God. {CCh 236.2} [CCh 236.3] Only when we are intelligent in regard to the principles of healthful living can we be fully aroused to see the evils resulting from improper diet. Those who, after seeing their mistakes, have courage to change their habits, will find that the reformatory process requires a struggle and much perseverance; but when correct tastes are once formed, they will realize that the use of the food which they formerly regarded as harmless was slowly but surely laying the foundation for dyspepsia and other diseases. {CCh 236.3} [CCh 236.4] Fathers and mothers, watch unto prayer. Guard strictly against intemperance in every form. Teach your children the principles of true health reform. Teach them what things to avoid in order to preserve health. Already the wrath of God has begun to be visited upon the children of disobedience. What crimes, what sins, what iniquitous practices, are being revealed on every hand! As a people we are to exercise great care in guarding our children against depraved associates. {CCh 236.4} [CCh 236.5] Educate the People Greater efforts should be put forth to educate the people in the principles of health reform. Cooking schools should be established, and 237 house-to-house instruction should be given in the art of cooking wholesome food. Old and young should learn how to cook more simply. Wherever the truth is presented, the people are to be taught how to prepare food in a simple, yet appetizing way. They are to be shown that a nourishing diet can be provided without the use of flesh foods. {CCh 236.5} [CCh 237.1] Teach the people that it is better to know how to keep well than how to cure disease. Our physicians should be wise educators, warning all against self-indulgence and showing that abstinence from the things that God has prohibited is the only way to prevent ruin of body and mind. {CCh 237.1} [CCh 237.2] Much tact and discretion should be employed in preparing nourishing food to take the place of that which has formerly constituted the diet of those who are learning to be health reformers. Faith in God, earnestness of purpose, and a willingness to help one another will be required. A diet lacking in the proper elements of nutrition brings reproach upon the cause of health reform. We are mortal and must supply ourselves with food that will give proper nourishment to the body. {CCh 237.2} [CCh 237.3] Extremes Injure Health Reform Some of our people, while conscientiously abstaining from eating improper foods, neglect to supply themselves with the elements necessary for the sustenance of the body. Those who take an extreme view of health reform are in danger of preparing tasteless dishes, making them so insipid that they are not satisfying. Food should be prepared in such a way that it will be appetizing as well as nourishing. It should not be robbed of that which the system needs. I use some salt, and always have, because salt, instead of being deleterious, is actually essential for the blood. Vegetables should be made palatable with a little milk or cream, or something equivalent. {CCh 237.3} [CCh 237.4] While warnings have been given regarding the dangers of disease through butter, and the evil of the free use of eggs by small children, yet we should not consider it a violation of principle to use eggs from hens that are well cared for and suitably fed. Eggs contain properties that are remedial agencies in counteracting certain poisons. {CCh 237.4} [CCh 237.5] Some, in abstaining from milk, eggs, and butter, have failed to supply the system with proper nourishment, and as a consequence have become weak and unable to work. Thus health reform is brought into disrepute. The work that we have tried to build up solidly is confused with strange things that God has not required, and the energies of the church are crippled. But God will interfere to prevent the results of these too strenuous ideas. The gospel is to harmonize the sinful race. It is to bring the rich and poor together at the feet of Jesus. {CCh 237.5} [CCh 237.6] The time will come when we may have to discard some of the articles of diet we now use, such as milk and cream and eggs; but it is not necessary to bring upon ourselves perplexity by premature and extreme restrictions. Wait until the circumstances demand it and the Lord prepares the way for it. {CCh 237.6} [CCh 238.1] 238 Those who would be successful in proclaiming the principles of health reform must make the Word of God their guide and counselor. Only as the teachers of health reform principles do this can they stand on vantage ground. Let us never bear a testimony against health reform by failing to use wholesome, palatable food in place of the harmful articles of diet that we have discarded. Do not in any way encourage an appetite for stimulants. Eat only plain, simple, wholesome food, and thank God constantly for the principles of health reform. In all things be true and upright, and you will gain precious victories. {CCh 238.1} [CCh 238.2] Local Conditions to Be Considered While working against gluttony and intemperance, we must recognize the condition to which the human family is subjected. God has made provision for those who live in the different countries of the world. Those who desire to be co-workers with God must consider carefully before they specify just what foods should and should not be eaten. We are to be brought into connection with the masses. Should health reform in its most extreme form be taught to those whose circumstances forbid its adoption, more harm than good would be done. As I preach the gospel to the poor, I am instructed to tell them to eat that food which is most nourishing. I cannot say to them: "You must not eat eggs, or milk, or cream. You must use no butter in the preparation of food." The gospel must be preached to the poor, but the time has not yet come to prescribe the strictest diet. {CCh 238.2} [CCh 238.3] Then God Can Bless Those ministers who feel at liberty to indulge the appetite are falling far short of the mark. God wants them to be health reformers. He wants them to live up to the light that has been given on this subject. I feel sad when I see those who ought to be zealous for our health principles, not yet converted to the right way of living. I pray that the Lord may impress their minds that they are meeting with great loss. If things were as they should be in the households that make up our churches, we might do double work for the Lord. {CCh 238.3} [CCh 238.4] In order to be purified and to remain pure, Seventh-day Adventists must have the Holy Spirit in their hearts and in their homes. The Lord has given me light that when the Israel of today humble themselves before Him, and cleanse the soul-temple from all defilement, He will hear their prayers in behalf of the sick and will bless in the use of His remedies for disease. When in faith the human agent does all he can to combat disease, using the simple methods of treatment that God has provided, his efforts will be blessed of God. {CCh 238.4} [CCh 238.5] If, after so much light has been given, God's people will cherish wrong habits, indulging self and refusing to reform, they will suffer the sure consequences of transgression. If they are determined to gratify 239 perverted appetite at any cost, God will not miraculously save them from the consequences of their indulgence. They "shall lie down in sorrow." Isaiah 50:11. {CCh 238.5} [CCh 239.1] Oh, how many lose the richest blessings that God has in store for them in health and spiritual endowments! There are many souls who wrestle for special victories and special blessings that they may do some great thing. To this end they are always feeling that they must make an agonizing struggle in prayer and tears. When these persons search the Scriptures with prayer to know the expressed will of God, and then do His will from the heart without one reservation or self-indulgence, they will find rest. All the agonizing, all the tears and struggles, will not bring them the blessing they long for. Self must be entirely surrendered. They must do the work that presents itself, appropriating the abundance of the grace of God which is promised to all who ask in faith. {CCh 239.1} [CCh 239.2] "If any man will come after Me," said Jesus, "let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me." Luke 9:23. Let us follow the Saviour in His simplicity and self-denial. Let us lift up the Man of Calvary by word and by holy living. The Saviour comes very near to those who consecrate themselves to God. If ever there was a time when we needed the working of the Spirit of God upon our hearts and lives, it is now. Let us lay hold of this divine power for strength to live a life of holiness and self-surrender. 9T 153-166426 {CCh 239.2} [CCh 240.1] Chapter 43 —The Church on Earth God has a church upon the earth who are His chosen people, who keep His commandments. He is leading, not stray offshoots, not one here and one there, but a people. The truth is a sanctifying power; but the church militant is not the church triumphant. There are tares among the wheat. “Wilt thou then that we . . . gather them up?” was the question of the servant; but the master answered, “Nay; lest while ye gather up the tares, ye root up also the wheat with them.” The gospel net draws not only good fish, but bad ones as well, and the Lord only knows who are His. {CCh 240.1} [CCh 240.2] It is our individual duty to walk humbly with God. We are not to seek any strange, new message. We are not to think that the chosen ones of God who are trying to walk in the light compose Babylon. TM 61427 {CCh 240.2} [CCh 240.3] Although there are evils existing in the church, and will be until the end of the world, the church in these last days is to be the light of the world that is polluted and demoralized by sin. The church, enfeebled and defective, needing to be reproved, warned, and counseled, is the only object upon earth upon which Christ bestows His supreme regard. The world is a workshop in which, through the cooperation of human and divine agencies, Jesus is making experiments by His grace and divine mercy upon human hearts. TM 49, 50428 {CCh 240.3} [CCh 240.4] God has a distinct people, a church on earth, second to none, but superior to all in their facilities to teach the truth, to vindicate the law of God. God has divinely appointed agencies—men whom He is leading, who have borne the heat and burden of the day, who are cooperating with heavenly instrumentalities to advance the kingdom of Christ in our world. Let all unite with these chosen agents, and be found at last among those who have the patience of the saints, who keep the commandments of God, and have the faith of Jesus. TM 58429 {CCh 240.4} [CCh 240.5] United With the church Above The church of God below is one with the church of God above. Believers on the earth and the beings in heaven who have never fallen constitute one church. Every heavenly intelligence is interested in the assemblies of the saints who on earth meet to worship God. In the inner court of heaven they listen to the testimony of the witnesses for Christ in the outer court on earth, and the praise and thanksgiving from the worshipers below is taken up in the heavenly anthem, and praise and rejoicing 241 sound through the heavenly courts because Christ has not died in vain for the fallen sons of Adam. While angels drink from the fountainhead, the saints on earth drink of the pure streams flowing from the throne, the streams that make glad the city of our God. {CCh 240.5} [CCh 241.1] Oh, that we could all realize the nearness of heaven to earth! When the earthborn children know it not, they have angels of light as their companions. A silent witness guards every soul that lives, seeking to draw that soul to Christ. As long as there is hope, until men resist the Holy Spirit to their eternal ruin, they are guarded by heavenly intelligences. Let us all bear in mind that in every assembly of the saints below are angels of God, listening to the testimonies, songs, and prayers. Let us remember that our praises are supplemented by the choirs of the angelic host above. {CCh 241.1} [CCh 241.2] Then as you meet from Sabbath to Sabbath, sing praises to Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. "Unto Him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in His own blood" let the heart's adoration be given. Let the love of Christ be the burden of the speaker's utterance. Let it be expressed in simple language in every song of praise. Let the inspiration of the Spirit of God dictate your prayers. As the word of life is spoken, let your heartfelt response testify that you receive the message as from heaven. {CCh 241.2} [CCh 241.3] God teaches that we should assemble in His house to cultivate the attributes of perfect love. This will fit the dwellers of earth for the mansions that Christ has gone to prepare for all who love Him. There they will assemble in the sanctuary from Sabbath to Sabbath, from one new moon to another, to unite in loftiest strains of song, in praise and thanksgiving to Him who sits upon the throne, and to the Lamb for ever and ever. 6T 366-368430 {CCh 241.3} [CCh 241.4] The Authority Invested in the Church Christ gives power to the voice of the church. "Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven." No such thing is countenanced as one man's starting out upon his own individual responsibility and advocating what views he chooses, irrespective of the judgment of the church. God has bestowed the highest power under heaven upon His church. It is the voice of God in His united people in church capacity which is to be respected. 3T 450, 451431 {CCh 241.4} [CCh 241.5] The Word of God does not give license for one man to set up his judgment in opposition to the judgment of the church, neither is he allowed to urge his opinions against the opinions of the church. If there were no church discipline and government, the church would go to fragments; it could not hold together as a body. There have ever been individuals of independent minds who have claimed that they were right, that God had especially taught, impressed, and led them. Each has a theory of his own, views peculiar to himself, and each claims that his 242 views are in accordance with the word of God. Each one has a different theory and faith, yet each claims special light from God. These draw away from the body, and each one is a separate church of himself. All these cannot be right, yet they all claim to be led of the Lord. {CCh 241.5} [CCh 242.1] Our Saviour follows His lessons of instruction with a promise that if two or three should be united in asking anything of God it should be given them. Christ here shows that there must be union with others, even in our desires for a given object. Great importance is attached to the united prayer, the union of purpose. God hears the prayers of individuals, but on this occasion Jesus was giving especial and important lessons that were to have a special bearing upon His newly organized church on the earth. There must be an agreement in the things which they desire and for which they pray. It was not merely the thoughts and exercises of one mind, liable to deception; but the petition was to be the earnest desire of several minds centered on the same point. 3T 428, 429432 {CCh 242.1} [CCh 242.2] The church is God's appointed agency for the salvation of men. It was organized for service, and its mission is to carry the gospel to the world. From the beginning it has been God's plan that through His church shall be reflected to the world His fullness and His sufficiency. The members of the church, those whom He has called out of darkness into His marvelous light, are to show forth His glory. The church is the repository of the riches of the grace of Christ; and through the church will eventually be made manifest, even to "the principalities and powers in heavenly places," the final and full display of the love of God. AA 9433 {CCh 242.2} [CCh 242.3] Paul Directed to the Church for Instruction Many have the idea that they are responsible to Christ alone for their light and experience, independent of His acknowledged followers in the world. But this is condemned by Jesus in His teachings and in the examples, the facts, which He has given for our instruction. Here was Paul, one whom Christ was to fit for a most important work, one who was to be a chosen vessel unto Him, brought directly into the presence of Christ; yet He does not teach him the lessons of truth. He arrests his course and convicts him; and when he asks, "What wilt Thou have me to do?" the Saviour does not tell him directly, but places him in connection with His church. They will tell thee what thou must do. Jesus is the sinner's friend, His heart is ever open, ever touched with human woe; He has all power, both in heaven and upon earth; but He respects the means which He has ordained for the enlightenment and salvation of men. He directs Saul to the church, thus acknowledging the power that He has invested in it as a channel of light to the world. It is Christ's organized body upon the earth, and respect is required to be paid to His ordinances. In the case of Saul, Ananias represents Christ, and he also represents Christ's ministers upon the earth who are appointed to act in Christ's stead. {CCh 242.3} [CCh 242.4] In the conversion of Paul are given us important principles which we 243 should ever bear in mind. The Redeemer of the world does not sanction experience and exercise in religious matters independent of His organized and acknowledged church, where He has a church. {CCh 242.4} [CCh 243.1] The Son of God identified Himself with the office and authority of His organized church. His blessings were to come through the agencies that He has ordained, thus connecting man with the channel through which His blessings come. Paul's being strictly conscientious in his work of persecuting the saints does not make him guiltless when the knowledge of his cruel work is impressed upon him by the Spirit of God. He is to become a learner of the disciples. 3T 432, 433434 {CCh 243.1} [CCh 243.2] All the members of the church, if they are sons and daughters of God, will have to undergo a process of discipline before they can be lights in the world. God will not make men and women channels of light while they are in darkness and are content to remain so, making no special efforts to connect with the Source of light. Those who feel their own need, and arouse themselves to the deepest thought and the most earnest, persevering prayer and action, will receive divine aid. There is much for each to unlearn with respect to himself, as well as much to learn. Old habits and customs must be shaken off, and it is only by earnest struggles to correct these errors, and a full reception of the truth in carrying out its principles, by the grace of God, that the victory can be gained. 4T 485, 486435 {CCh 243.2} [CCh 243.3] Counsel to One Dissemination Error Those who start up to proclaim a message on their own individual responsibility, who, while claiming to be taught and led of God, still make it their special work to tear down that which God has been for years building up, are not doing the will of God. Be it known that these men are on the side of the great deceiver. Believe them not. {CCh 243.3} [CCh 243.4] As those who have been made stewards of means and ability, you have been misapplying your Lord's goods in disseminating error. The whole world is filled with hatred of those who proclaim the binding claims of the law of God, and the church who are loyal to Jehovah must engage in no ordinary conflict. "We wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places." Ephesians 6:12. Those who have any realization of what this warfare means will not turn their weapons against the church militant, but with all their powers will wrestle with the people of God against the confederacy of evil. TM 51436 {CCh 243.4} [CCh 244.1] Chapter 44 —Church Organization Someone must fulfill the commission of Christ; someone must carry on the work which He began to do on earth; and the church has been given this privilege. For this purpose it has been organized. 6T 295437 {CCh 244.1} [CCh 244.2] Ministers should love order and should discipline themselves, and then they can successfully discipline the church of God and teach them to work harmoniously like a well-drilled company of soldiers. If discipline and order are necessary for successful action on the battlefield, the same are as much more needful in the warfare in which we are engaged as the object to be gained is of greater value and more elevated in character than those for which opposing forces contend upon the field of battle. In the conflict in which we are engaged, eternal interests are at stake. {CCh 244.2} [CCh 244.3] Angels work harmoniously. Perfect order characterizes all their movements. The more closely we imitate the harmony and order of the angelic host, the more successful will be the efforts of these heavenly agents in our behalf. If we see no necessity for harmonious action, and are disorderly, undisciplined, and disorganized in our course of action, angels, who are thoroughly organized and move in perfect order, cannot work for us successfully. They turn away in grief, for they are not authorized to bless confusion, distraction, and disorganization. All who desire the co-operation of the heavenly messengers must work in unison with them. Those who have the unction from on high will in all their efforts encourage order, discipline, and union of action, and then the angels of God can co-operate with them. But never, never will these heavenly messengers place their endorsement upon irregularity, disorganization, and disorder. All these evils are the result of Satan's efforts to weaken our forces, to destroy courage, and prevent successful action. {CCh 244.3} [CCh 244.4] Satan well knows that success can only attend order and harmonious action. He well knows that everything connected with heaven is in perfect order, that subjection and thorough discipline mark the movements of the angelic host. It is his studied effort to lead professed Christians just as far from heaven's arrangement as he can; therefore he deceives even the professed people of God and makes them believe that order and discipline are enemies to spirituality, that the only safety for them is to let each pursue his own course, and to remain especially distinct from bodies of Christians who are united and are laboring to establish discipline and harmony of action. All the efforts made to establish order are considered dangerous, a restriction of rightful liberty, and hence are feared as popery. These deceived souls consider it a virtue to boast of their freedom to think and act independently. They will not take any man's say-so. They are amenable to no man. I was shown that it is Satan's special work to lead men to feel that it is in God's 245 order for them to strike out for themselves and choose their own course, independent of their brethren. 1T 649, 650438 {CCh 244.4} [CCh 245.1] God has made His church on the earth a channel of light, and through it He communicates His purposes and His will. He does not give to one of His servants an experience independent of and contrary to the experience of the church itself. Neither does He give one man a knowledge of His will for the entire church while the church—Christ's body—is left in darkness. In His providence He places His servants in close connection with His church in order that they may have less confidence in themselves and greater confidence in others whom He is leading out to advance His work. AA 163439 {CCh 245.1} [CCh 245.2] Churches Organized by the Prophets The organization of the church at Jerusalem was to serve as a model for the organization of churches in every other place where messengers of truth should win converts to the gospel. Those to whom was given the responsibility of the general oversight of the church were not to lord it over God's heritage, but, as wise shepherds, were to "feed the flock of God, . . . being ensamples to the flock" 1 Peter 5:2, 3; and the deacons were to be "men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom." These men were to take their position unitedly on the side of right and to maintain it with firmness and decision. Thus they would have a uniting influence upon the entire flock. AA 91440 {CCh 245.2} [CCh 245.3] As an important factor in the spiritual growth of the new converts the apostles were careful to surround them with the safeguards of gospel order. Churches were duly organized in all places in Lycaonia and Pisidia where there were believers. Officers were appointed in each church, and proper order and system were established for the conduct of all the affairs pertaining to the spiritual welfare of the believers. {CCh 245.3} [CCh 245.4] This was in harmony with the gospel plan of uniting in one body all believers in Christ, and this plan Paul was careful to follow throughout his ministry. Those who in any place were by his labor led to accept Christ as the Saviour were at the proper time organized into a church. Even when the believers were but few in number, this was done. The Christians were thus taught to help one another, remembering the promise, "Where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them." Matthew 18:20. AA 185, 186441 {CCh 245.4} [CCh 245.5] Meeting Dissension in the Church At Jerusalem the delegates from Antioch met the brethren of the various churches, who had gathered for a general meeting, and to them they related the success that had attended their ministry among the Gentiles. They then gave a clear outline of the confusion that had resulted because certain converted Pharisees had gone to Antioch declaring that, in order to be saved, the Gentile converts must be circumcised and keep the law of Moses. This question was warmly discussed in the assembly. {CCh 245.5} [CCh 246.1] 246 The Holy Spirit saw good not to impose the ceremonial law on the Gentile converts, and the mind of the apostles regarding this matter was as the mind of the Spirit of God. James presided at the council, and his final decision was, "Wherefore my sentence is, that we trouble not them, which from among the Gentiles are turned to God." This ended the discussion. {CCh 246.1} [CCh 246.2] In this instance James seems to have been chosen as the one to announce the decision arrived at by the council. The Gentile converts, however, were to give up the customs that were inconsistent with the principles of Christianity. The apostles and elders therefore agreed to instruct the Gentiles by letter to abstain from meats offered to idols, from fornication, from things strangled, and from blood. They were to be urged to keep the commandments and to lead holy lives. They were also to be assured that the men who had declared circumcision to be binding were not authorized to do so by the apostles. AA 190-195442 {CCh 246.2} [CCh 246.3] The council which decided this case was composed of apostles and teachers who had been prominent in raising up the Jewish and Gentile Christian churches, with chosen delegates from various places. Elders from Jerusalem and deputies from Antioch were present, and the most influential churches were represented. The council moved in accordance with the dictates of enlightened judgment, and with the dignity of a church established by the divine will. As a result of their deliberations they all saw that God Himself had answered the question at issue by bestowing upon the Gentiles the Holy Ghost; and they realized that it was their part to follow the guidance of the Spirit. {CCh 246.3} [CCh 246.4] The entire body of Christians was not called to vote upon the question. The "apostles and elders," men of influence and judgment, framed and issued the decree, which was thereupon generally accepted by the Christian churches. Not all, however, were pleased with the decision; there was a faction of ambitious and self-confident brethren who disagreed with it. These men assumed to engage in the work on their own responsibility. They indulged in much murmuring and faultfinding, proposing new plans and seeking to pull down the work of the men whom God had ordained to teach the gospel message. From the first the church has had such obstacles to meet and ever will have till the close of time. AA 196, 197443 {CCh 246.4} [CCh 246.5] Danger of Regarding Individual Judgment as Supreme Those who are inclined to regard their individual judgment as supreme are in grave peril. It is Satan's studied effort to separate such ones from those who are channels of light, through whom God has wrought to build up and extend His work in the earth. To neglect or despise those whom God has appointed to bear the responsibilities of leadership in connection with the advancement of the truth, is to reject the means that He has ordained for the help, encouragement, and strength of His people. For any worker in the Lord's cause to pass these 247 by, and to think that his light must come through no other channel than directly from God, is to place himself in a position where he is liable to be deceived by the enemy and overthrown. {CCh 246.5} [CCh 247.1] The Lord in His wisdom has arranged that by means of the close relationship that should be maintained by all believers, Christian shall be united to Christian and church to church. Thus the human instrumentality will be enabled to co-operate with the divine. Every agency will be subordinate to the Holy Spirit, and all the believers will be united in an organized and well-directed effort to give to the world the glad tidings of the grace of God. AA 164444 {CCh 247.1} [CCh 247.2] As all the different members of the human system unite to form the entire body, and each performs its office in obedience to the intelligence that governs the whole, so the members of the church of Christ should be united in one symmetrical body, subject to the sanctified intelligence of the whole. 4T 16445 {CCh 247.2} [CCh 247.3] Election and Ordination of Local Church Officers The Apostle Paul writes to Titus: "Set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee: if any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly. For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God." Titus 1:5-7. Lay hands suddenly on no man." 1 Timothy 5:22. {CCh 247.3} [CCh 247.4] In some of our churches the work of organizing and of ordaining elders has been premature; the Bible rule has been disregarded, and consequently grievous trouble has been brought upon the church. There should not be so great haste in electing leaders as to ordain men who are in no way fitted for the responsible work—men who need to be converted, elevated, ennobled, and refined before they can serve the cause of God in any capacity. 5T 617, 618446 {CCh 247.4} [CCh 247.5] Church Property When an interest is aroused in any town or city, that interest should be followed up. The place should be thoroughly worked until a humble house of worship stands as a sign, a memorial of God's Sabbath, a light amid the moral darkness. These memorials are to stand in many places as witnesses to the truth. 6T 100447 {CCh 247.5} [CCh 247.6] Matters pertaining to the church should not be left in an unsettled condition. Steps should be taken to secure church property for the cause of God, that the work may not be retarded in its progress, and that the means which persons wish to dedicate to God's cause may not slip into the enemy's ranks. {CCh 247.6} [CCh 247.7] I saw that God's people should act wisely, and leave nothing undone on their part to place the business of the church in a secure state. Then after all is done that they can do, they should trust the Lord to overrule 248 these things for them, that Satan take no advantage of God's remnant people. It is Satan's time to work. A stormy future is before us; and the church should be awake to make an advance move that they may stand securely against his plans. It is time that something was done. God is not pleased to have His people leave the matters of the church at loose ends, and suffer the enemy to have the whole advantage and control affairs as best pleases him. 1T 210, 211448 {CCh 247.7} [CCh 248.1] Regional Meetings Put forth extra exertion to attend the gathering of God's people. {CCh 248.1} [CCh 248.2] Brethren and sisters, it would be far better for you to let your business suffer than to neglect the opportunity of hearing the message God has for you. Make no excuse that will keep you from gaining every spiritual advantage possible. You need every ray of light. You need to become qualified to give a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear. You cannot afford to lose one such privilege. {CCh 248.2} [CCh 248.3] None of us should go to the camp meeting ［regional meetings］ depending on the ministers or the Bible workers to make the meeting a blessing to us. God does not want His people to hang their weight on the minister. He does not want them to be weakened by depending on human beings for help. They are not to lean, like helpless children, upon someone else as a prop. As a steward of the grace of God, every church member should feel personal responsibility to have life and root in himself. {CCh 248.3} [CCh 248.4] The success of the meeting depends on the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. For the outpouring of the Spirit every lover of the cause of truth should pray. And as far as lies in our power, we are to remove every hindrance to His working. The Spirit can never be poured out while variance and bitterness toward one another are cherished by the members of the church. Envy, jealousy, evil surmising, and evilspeaking are of Satan, and they effectually bar the way against the Holy Spirit's working. {CCh 248.4} [CCh 248.5] Nothing else in this world is so dear to God as His church. Nothing is guarded by Him with such jealous care. Nothing so offends God as an act that injures the influence of those who are doing His service. He will call to account all who aid Satan in his work of criticizing and discouraging. 6T 39-42449 {CCh 248.5} [CCh 249.1] Chapter 45 —The House of God To the humble, believing soul, the house of God on earth is the gate of heaven. The song of praise, the prayer, the words spoken by Christ's representatives, are God's appointed agencies to prepare a people for the church above, for that loftier worship into which there can enter nothing that defileth. {CCh 249.1} [CCh 249.2] The house is the sanctuary for the family, and the closet or the grove the most retired place for individual worship; but the church is the sanctuary for the congregation. There should be rules in regard to the time, the place, and the manner of worshiping. Nothing that is sacred, nothing that pertains to the worship of God, should be treated with carelessness or indifference. In order that men may do their best work in showing forth the praises of God, their associations must be such as will keep the sacred distinct from the common, in their minds. Those who have broad ideas, noble thoughts and aspirations, are those who have associations that strengthen all thoughts of divine things. Happy are those who have a sanctuary, be it high or low, in the city or among the rugged mountain caves, in the lowly cabin or in the wilderness. If it is the best they can secure for the Master, He will hallow the place with His presence, and it will be holy unto the Lord of hosts. {CCh 249.2} [CCh 249.3] Attitude of Prayer in the House of God When the worshipers enter the place of meeting, they should do so with decorum, passing quietly to their seats. If there is a stove in the room, it is not proper to crowd about it in an indolent, careless attitude. Common talking, whispering, and laughing should not be permitted in the house of worship, either before or after the service. Ardent, active piety should characterize the worshipers. {CCh 249.3} [CCh 249.4] If some have to wait a few minutes before the meeting begins, let them maintain a true spirit of devotion by silent meditation, keeping the heart uplifted to God in prayer that the service may be of special benefit to their own hearts and lead to the conviction and conversion of other souls. They should remember that heavenly messengers are in the house. We all lose much sweet communion with God by our restlessness, by not encouraging moments of reflection and prayer. The spiritual condition needs to be often reviewed and the mind and heart drawn toward the Sun of Righteousness. {CCh 249.4} [CCh 249.5] If when the people come into the house of worship, they have genuine 250 reverence for the Lord and bear in mind that they are in His presence, there will be a sweet eloquence in silence. The whispering and laughing and talking which might be without sin in a common business place should find no sanction in the house where God is worshiped. The mind should be prepared to hear the word of God, that it may have due weight and suitably impress the heart. {CCh 249.5} [CCh 250.1] When the minister enters, it should be with dignified, solemn mien. He should bow down in silent prayer as soon as he steps into the pulpit, and earnestly ask help of God. What an impression this will make! There will be solemnity and awe upon the people. Their minister is communing with God; he is committing himself to God before he dares to stand before the people. Solemnity rests upon all, and angels of God are brought very near. Every one of the congregation, also, who fears God should with bowed head unite in silent prayer with him that God may grace the meeting with His presence and give power to His truth proclaimed from human lips. 5T 491-493450 {CCh 250.1} [CCh 250.2] Meetings for conference and prayer should not be made tedious. If possible, all should be prompt to the hour appointed; and if there are dilatory ones, who are half an hour or even fifteen minutes behind the time, there should be no waiting. If there are but two present, they can claim the promise. The meeting should open at the appointed hour if possible, be there few or many present. 2T 577, 578451 {CCh 250.2} [CCh 250.3] Act as if in the Visible Presence of God True reverence for God is inspired by a sense of His infinite greatness and a realization of His presence. With this sense of the Unseen, every heart should be deeply impressed. The hour and place of prayer are sacred, because God is there; and as reverence is manifested in attitude and demeanor, the feeling that inspires it will be deepened. "Holy and reverend is His name," the psalmist declares. Psalm 111:9. GW 176-178452 {CCh 250.3} [CCh 250.4] When the meeting is opened by prayer, every knee should bow in the presence of the Holy One, and every heart should ascend to God in silent devotion. The prayers of faithful worshipers will be heard, and the ministry of the word will prove effectual. The lifeless attitude of the worshipers in the house of God is one great reason why the ministry is not more productive of good. The melody of song, poured forth from many hearts in clear, distinct utterance, is one of God's instrumentalities in the work of saving souls. All the service should be conducted with solemnity and awe, as if in the visible presence of the Master of assemblies. {CCh 250.4} [CCh 250.5] When the word is spoken, you should remember, brethren, that you are listening to the voice of God through His delegated servant. Listen attentively. Sleep not for one instant, because by this slumber you may lose the very words that you need most—the very words which, if heeded, would save your feet from straying into wrong paths. Satan and his angels are busy creating a paralyzed condition of the senses so that 251 cautions, warnings, and reproofs shall not be heard; or if heard, that they shall not take effect upon the heart and reform the life. Sometimes a little child may so attract the attention of the hearers that the precious seed does not fall into good ground and bring forth fruit. Sometimes young men and women have so little reverence for the house and worship of God that they keep up a continual communication with each other during the sermon. Could these see the angels of God looking upon them and marking their doings, they would be filled with shame, with abhorrence of themselves. God wants attentive hearers. It was while men slept that Satan sowed his tares. {CCh 250.5} [CCh 251.1] When the benediction is pronounced, all should still be quiet, as if fearful of losing the peace of Christ. Let all pass out without jostling or loud talking, feeling that they are in the presence of God, that His eye is resting upon them, and that they must act as in His visible presence. Let there be no stopping in the aisles to visit or gossip, thus blocking them up so that others cannot pass out. The precincts of the church should be invested with a sacred reverence. It should not be made a place to meet old friends and visit and introduce common thoughts and worldly business transactions. These should be left outside the church. God and angels have been dishonored by the careless, noisy laughing and shuffling of feet heard in some places. {CCh 251.1} [CCh 251.2] Children to Be Reverent Parents, elevate the standard of Christianity in the minds of your children; help them to weave Jesus into their experience; teach them to have the highest reverence for the house of God and to understand that when they enter the Lord's house it should be with hearts that are softened and subdued by such thoughts as these: "God is here; this is His house. I must have pure thoughts and the holiest motives. I must have no pride, envy, jealousy, evil surmising, hatred, or deception in my heart, for I am coming into the presence of the holy God. This is the place where God meets with and blesses His people. The high and holy One who inhabiteth eternity looks upon me, searches my heart, and reads the most secret thoughts and acts of my life." {CCh 251.2} [CCh 251.3] The delicate and susceptible minds of the youth obtain their estimate of the labors of God's servants by the way their parents treat the matter. Many heads of families make the service a subject of criticism at home, approving a few things and condemning others. Thus the message of God to men is criticized and questioned, and made a subject of levity. What impressions are thus made upon the young by these careless, irreverent remarks the books of heaven alone will reveal. The children see and understand these things very much quicker than parents are apt to think. Their moral senses receive a wrong bias that time will never fully change. The parents mourn over the hardness of heart in their children and the difficulty in arousing their moral sensibility to answer to the claims of God. 5T 493-497453 {CCh 251.3} [CCh 252.1] 252 Reverence should be shown also for the name of God. Never should that name be spoken lightly or thoughtlessly. Even in prayer its frequent or needless repetition should be avoided. "Holy and reverend is His name." Psalm 111:9. Angels, as they speak it, veil their faces. With what reverence should we, who are fallen and sinful, take it upon your lips! Ed 243454 {CCh 252.1} [CCh 252.2] I saw that God's holy name should be used with reverence and awe. The words God Almighty are coupled together and used by some in prayer in a careless, thoughtless manner, which is displeasing to Him. Such have no realizing sense of God or the truth, or they would not speak so irreverently of the great and dreadful God, who is soon to judge them in the last day. Said the angel, "Couple them not together; for fearful is His name." Those who realize the greatness and majesty of God, will take His name on their lips with holy awe. He dwelleth in light unapproachable; no man can see Him and live. I saw that these things will have to be understood and corrected before the church can prosper. EW 122455 {CCh 252.2} [CCh 252.3] We should reverence God's word. For the printed volume we should show respect, never putting it to common uses, or handling it carelessly. And never should Scripture be quoted in a jest, or paraphrased to point a witty saying. "Every word of God is pure;" "as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times." Proverbs 30:5; Psalm 12:6. {CCh 252.3} [CCh 252.4] Above all, let children be taught that true reverence is shown by obedience. God has commanded nothing that is unessential, and there is no other way of manifesting reverence so pleasing to Him as obedience to that which He has spoken. {CCh 252.4} [CCh 252.5] Reverence should be shown for God's representatives—for ministers, teachers, and parents who are called to speak and act in His stead. In the respect shown to them He is honored. Ed 244456 {CCh 252.5} [CCh 252.6] Well would it be for old and young to ponder those words of Scripture that show how the place marked by God's special presence should be regarded. "Put off thy shoes from off thy feet," He commanded Moses at the burning bush, "for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground." Exodus 3:5. Jacob, after beholding the vision of the angels, exclaimed, "The Lord is in this place; and I knew it not. . . . This is none other but the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven." Genesis 28:16, 17. GW 178, 179457 {CCh 252.6} [CCh 252.7] By example as well as precept, you must show that you reverence your faith, speaking reverently of sacred things. Never allow one expression of lightness and trifling to escape your lips when quoting Scripture. As you take the Bible in your hands, remember that you are on holy ground. Angels are around you, and could your eyes be opened, you would behold them. Let your conduct be such that you will leave the impression upon every soul with whom you associate that a pure and holy atmosphere surrounds you. One vain word, one trifling laugh, may balance a soul in the wrong direction. Terrible are the 253 consequences of not having a constant connection with God. FE 194, 195458 {CCh 252.7} [CCh 253.1] Dress So That God Is the Subject of Thought All should be taught to be neat, clean, and orderly in their dress, but not to indulge in that external adorning which is wholly inappropriate for the sanctuary. There should be no display of the apparel; for this encourages irreverence. The attention of the people is often called to this or that fine article of dress, and thus thoughts are intruded that should have no place in the hearts of the worshipers. God is to be the subject of thought, the object of worship; and anything that attracts the mind from the solemn, sacred service is an offense to Him. {CCh 253.1} [CCh 253.2] All matters of dress should be strictly guarded, following closely the Bible rule. Fashion has been the goddess who has ruled the outside world, and she often insinuates herself into the church. The church should make the word of God her standard, and parents should think intelligently upon this subject. When they see their children inclined to follow worldly fashions, they should, like Abraham, resolutely command their households after them. Instead of uniting them with the world, connect them with God. Let none dishonor God's sanctuary by their showy apparel. God and angels are there. The Holy One of Israel has spoken through His apostle: "Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price." 1 Peter 3:3, 4. 5T 499, 500459 {CCh 253.2} [CCh 254.1] Chapter 46 —Treatment of the Erring Christ came to bring salvation within the reach of all. Upon the cross of Calvary He paid the infinite redemption price for a lost world. His self-denial and self-sacrifice, His unselfish labor, His humiliation, above all, the offering up of His life, testifies to the depth of His love for fallen man. It was to seek and to save the lost that He came to earth. His mission was to sinners, sinners of every grade, of every tongue and nation. He paid the price for all, to ransom them and bring them into union and sympathy with Himself. The most erring, the most sinful, were not passed by; His labors were especially for those who most needed the salvation He came to bring. The greater their need of reform, the deeper was His interest, the greater His sympathy, and the more earnest His labors. His great heart of love was stirred to its depths for the ones whose condition was most hopeless and who most needed His transforming grace. {CCh 254.1} [CCh 254.2] But there has been among us as a people a lack of deep, earnest, soul-touching sympathy and love for the tempted and the erring. Many have manifested great coldness and sinful neglect, represented by Christ as passing by on the other side, keeping as far as possible from those who most need help. The newly converted soul often has fierce conflicts with established habits or with some special form of temptation, and, being overcome by some master passion or tendency, he is guilty of indiscretion or actual wrong. It is then that energy, tact, and wisdom are required of his brethren, that he may be restored to spiritual health. In such cases the instructions of God's word apply: "Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in a spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted." "We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves." Romans 15:1. 5T 603-605460 {CCh 254.2} [CCh 254.3] Mild measures, soft answers, and pleasant words are much better fitted to reform and save, than severity and harshness. A little too much unkindness may place persons beyond your reach, while a conciliatory spirit would be the means of binding them to you, and you might then establish them in the right way. You should be actuated by a forgiving spirit also, and give due credit to every good purpose and action of those around you. 4T 65461 {CCh 254.3} [CCh 254.4] “Love One Another as I Have Loved You” God has done His part of the work for the salvation of men, and now 255 He calls for the co-operation of the church. There are the blood of Christ, the word of truth, the Holy Spirit, on one hand, and there are the perishing souls on the other. Every follower of Christ has a part to act to bring men to accept the blessings heaven has provided. Let us closely examine ourselves and see if we have done this work. Let us question our motives and every action of our lives. {CCh 254.4} [CCh 255.1] Are there not many unpleasant pictures hanging in memory's halls? Often have you needed the forgiveness of Jesus. You have been constantly dependent upon His compassion and love. Yet have you not failed to manifest toward others the spirit which Christ has exercised toward you? Have you felt a burden for the one whom you saw venturing into forbidden paths? Have you kindly admonished him? Have you wept for him and prayed with him and for him? Have you shown by words of tenderness and kindly acts that you love him and desire to save him? {CCh 255.1} [CCh 255.2] As you have associated with those who were faltering and staggering under the load of their own infirmities of disposition and faulty habits, have you left them to fight the battles alone when you might have given them help? Have you not passed these sorely tempted ones by on the other side while the world has stood ready to give them sympathy and to allure them into Satan's nets? Have you not, like Cain, been ready to say: "Am I my brother's keeper?" Genesis 4:9. {CCh 255.2} [CCh 255.3] How must the great Head of the church regard the work of your life? How does He to whom every soul is precious, as the purchase of His blood, look upon your indifference to those who stray from the right path? Are you not afraid that He will leave you just as you leave them? Be sure that He who is the true Watchman of the Lord's house has marked every neglect. {CCh 255.3} [CCh 255.4] It is not yet too late to redeem the neglects of the past. Let there be a revival of the first love, the first ardor. Search out the ones you have driven away, bind up by confession the wounds you have made. Come close to the great Heart of pitying love, and let the current of that divine compassion flow into your heart and from you to the hearts of others. Let the tenderness and mercy that Jesus has revealed in His own precious life be an example to us of the manner in which we should treat our fellow beings, especially those who are our brethren in Christ. {CCh 255.4} [CCh 255.5] Many have fainted and become discouraged in the great struggle of life, whom one word of kindly cheer and courage would have strengthened to overcome. Never, never become heartless, cold, unsympathetic, and censorious. Never lose an opportunity to say a word to encourage and inspire hope. We cannot tell how far-reaching may be our tender words of kindness, our Christlike efforts to lighten some burden. The erring can be restored in no other way than in the spirit of meekness, gentleness, and tender love. 5T 610-613462 {CCh 255.5} [CCh 255.6] Christ’s Methods in Church Discipline In dealing with erring church members, God's people are carefully to 256 follow the instruction given by the Saviour in the eighteenth chapter of Matthew. {CCh 255.6} [CCh 256.1] Human beings are Christ's property, purchased by Him at an infinite price, bound to Him by the love that He and His Father have manifested for them. How careful, then, we should be in our dealing with one another! Men have no right to surmise evil in regard to their fellow men. Church members have no right to follow their own impulses and inclinations in dealing with fellow members who have erred. They should not even express their prejudices regarding the erring, for thus they place in other minds the leaven of evil. Reports unfavorable to a brother or sister in the church are communicated from one to another of the church members. Mistakes are made and injustice is done because of an unwillingness on the part of someone to follow the directions given by the Lord Jesus. {CCh 256.1} [CCh 256.2] "If thy brother shall trespass against thee," Christ declared, "go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone." Matthew 18:15. Do not tell others of the wrong. One person is told, then another, and still another; and continually the report grows, and the evil increases, till the whole church is made to suffer. Settle the matter "between thee and him alone." This is God's plan. "Go not forth hastily to strive, lest thou know not what to do in the end thereof, when thy neighbor hath put thee to shame. Debate thy cause with thy neighbor himself; and discover not a secret to another." Proverbs 25:8, 9. Do not suffer sin upon your brother; but do not expose him, and thus increase the difficulty, making the reproof seem like a revenge. Correct him in the way outlined in the Word of God. {CCh 256.2} [CCh 256.3] Do not suffer resentment to ripen into malice. Do not allow the wound to fester and break out in poisoned words, which taint the minds of those who hear. Do not allow bitter thoughts to continue to fill your mind and his. Go to your brother, and in humility and sincerity talk with him about the matter. {CCh 256.3} [CCh 256.4] Whatever the character of the offense, this does not change the plan that God has made for the settlement of misunderstandings and personal injuries. Speaking alone and in the spirit of Christ to the one who is in fault will often remove the difficulty. Go to the erring one, with a heart filled with Christ's love and sympathy, and seek to adjust the matter. Reason with him calmly and quietly. Let no angry words escape your lips. Speak in a way that will appeal to his better judgment. Remember the words: "He which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins." James 5:20. {CCh 256.4} [CCh 256.5] Take to your brother the remedy that will cure the disease of disaffection. Do your part to help him. For the sake of the peace and unity of the church, feel it a privilege as well as a duty to do this. If he will hear you, you have gained him as a friend. {CCh 256.5} [CCh 256.6] All heaven is interested in the interview between the one who has 257 been injured and the one who is in error. As the erring one accepts the reproof offered in the love of Christ, and acknowledges his wrong, asking forgiveness from God and from his brother, the sunshine of heaven fills his heart. The controversy is ended; friendship and confidence are restored. The oil of love removes the soreness caused by the wrong. The Spirit of God binds heart to heart, and there is music in heaven over the union brought about. {CCh 256.6} [CCh 257.1] As those thus united in Christian fellowship offer prayer to God and pledge themselves to deal justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with God, great blessing comes to them. If they have wronged others they continue the work of repentance, confession, and restitution, fully set to do good to one another. This is the fulfilling of the law of Christ. {CCh 257.1} [CCh 257.2] "But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established." Matthew 18:16. Take with you those who are spiritually minded, and talk with the one in error in regard to the wrong. He may yield to the united appeals of his brethren. As he sees their agreement in the matter, his mind may be enlightened. {CCh 257.2} [CCh 257.3] "And if he shall neglect to hear them," what then shall be done? Shall a few persons in a board meeting take upon themselves the responsibility of disfellowshiping the erring one? "If he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church." Verse 17. Let the church take action in regard to its members. {CCh 257.3} [CCh 257.4] "But if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican." Verse 17. If he will not heed the voice of the church, if he refuses all the efforts made to reclaim him, upon the church rests the responsibility of separating him from fellowship. His name should then be stricken from the books. 7T 260-262463 {CCh 257.4} [CCh 257.5] Church’s Duty to Those Who Refuse Its Counsel No church officer should advise, no committee should recommend, nor should any church vote, that the name of a wrongdoer shall be removed from the church books, until the instruction given by Christ has been faithfully followed. When this instruction has been followed, the church has cleared herself before God. The evil must then be made to appear as it is, and must be removed, that it may not become more and more widespread. The health and purity of the church must be preserved, that she may stand before God unsullied, clad in the robes of Christ's righteousness. {CCh 257.5} [CCh 257.6] If the erring one repents and submits to Christ's discipline, he is to be given another trial. And even if he does not repent, even if he stands outside the church, God's servants still have a work to do for him. They are to seek earnestly to win him to repentance. And, however aggravated may have been his offense, if he yields to the striving of the Holy Spirit and, by confessing and forsaking his sin, gives evidence of 258 repentance, he is to be forgiven and welcomed to the fold again. His brethren are to encourage him in the right way, treating him as they would wish to be treated were they in his place, considering themselves lest they also be tempted. {CCh 257.6} [CCh 258.1] "Verily I say unto you," Christ continued, "whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven." Verse 18. {CCh 258.1} [CCh 258.2] This statement holds its force in all ages. On the church has been conferred the power to act in Christ's stead. It is God's instrumentality for the preservation of order and discipline among His people. To it the Lord has delegated the power to settle all questions respecting its prosperity, purity, and order. Upon it rests the responsibility of excluding from its fellowship those who are unworthy, who by their un-Christlike conduct would bring dishonor on the truth. Whatever the church does that is in accordance with the directions given in God's word will be ratified in heaven. {CCh 258.2} [CCh 258.3] Matters of grave import come up for settlement by the church. God's ministers, ordained by Him as guides of His people, after doing their part are to submit the whole matter to the church, that there may be unity in the decision made. {CCh 258.3} [CCh 258.4] The Lord desires His followers to exercise great care in dealing with one another. They are to lift up, to restore, to heal. But there is to be in the church no neglect of proper discipline. The members are to regard themselves as pupils in a school, learning how to form characters worthy of their high calling. In the church here below, God's children are to be prepared for the great reunion in the church above. Those who here live in harmony with Christ may look forward to an endless life in the family of the redeemed. 7T 262-264464 {CCh 258.4} [CCh 258.5] To Whom Should Confession Be Made? All who endeavor to excuse or conceal their sins, and permit them to remain upon the books of heaven, unconfessed and unforgiven, will be overcome by Satan. The more exalted their profession and the more honorable the position which they hold, the more grievous is their course in the sight of God and the more sure the triumph of their great adversary. Those who delay a preparation for the day of God cannot obtain it in the time of trouble or at any subsequent time. The case of all such is hopeless. GC 620465 {CCh 258.5} [CCh 258.6] It is not required of you to confess to those who know not your sin and errors. It is not your duty to publish a confession which will lead unbelievers to triumph; but to those to whom it is proper, who will take no advantage of your wrong, confess according to the word of God, and let them pray for you, and God will accept your work, and will heal you. For your soul's sake, be entreated to make thorough work for eternity. Lay aside your pride, your vanity, and make straight work. Come back again to the fold. The Shepherd is waiting to receive 259 you. Repent, and do your first works, and again come into favor with God. 2T 296466 {CCh 258.6} [CCh 259.1] Christ is your Redeemer; He will take no advantage of your humiliating confessions. If you have sin of a private character, confess it to Christ, who is the only Mediator between God and man. "If any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous." 1 John 2:1. If you have sinned by withholding from God His own in tithes and offerings, confess your guilt to God and to the church, and heed the injunction that He has given you: "Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse." Malachi 3:10. CH 374467 {CCh 259.1} [CCh 259.2] The people of God must move understandingly. They should not be satisfied until every known sin is confessed; then it is their privilege and duty to believe that Jesus accepts them. They must not wait for others to press through the darkness and obtain the victory for them to enjoy. Such enjoyment will last only till the meeting closes. But God must be served from principle instead of from feeling. Morning and night obtain the victory for yourselves in your own family. Let not your daily labor keep you from this. Take time to pray, and as you pray, believe that God hears you. Have faith mixed with your prayers. You may not at all times feel the immediate answer; but then it is that faith is tried. 1T 167468 {CCh 259.2} [CCh 259.3] Christ Only Can Judge Man Christ humbled Himself to stand at the head of humanity, to meet the temptations and endure the trials that humanity must meet and endure. He must know what humanity has to meet from the fallen foe, that He might know how to succor those who are tempted. {CCh 259.3} [CCh 259.4] And Christ has been made our Judge. The Father is not the Judge. The angels are not. He who took humanity upon Himself, and in this world lived a perfect life, is to judge us. He only can be our Judge. Will you remember this, brethren? Will you remember it, ministers? Will you remember it, fathers and mothers? Christ took humanity that He might be our Judge. No one of you has been appointed to be a judge of others. It is all that you can do to discipline yourselves. In the name of Christ I entreat you to heed the injunction that He gives you never to place yourselves on the judgment seat. From day to day this message has been sounded in my ears: "Come down from the judgment seat. Come down in humility." 9T 185, 186469 {CCh 259.4} [CCh 259.5] God does not regard all sins as of equal magnitude; there are degrees of guilt in His estimation as well as in that of finite man. But however trifling this or that wrong in their course may seem in the eyes of men, no sin is small in the sight of God. The sins which man is disposed to look upon as small may be the very ones which God accounts as great crimes. The drunkard is despised and is told that his sin will exclude him from heaven, while pride, selfishness, and covetousness go unrebuked. But these are sins that are especially offensive 260 to God. He "resisteth the proud," and Paul tells us that covetousness is idolatry. Those who are familiar with the denunciations against idolatry in the word of God will at once see how grave an offense this sin is. 5T 337470 {CCh 259.5} [CCh 261.1] Chapter 47 —The Observance of God’s Holy Sabbath Great blessings are enfolded in the observance of the Sabbath, and God desires that the Sabbath day shall be to us a day of joy. There was joy at the institution of the Sabbath. God looked with satisfaction upon the work of His hands. All things that He had made He pronounced "very good." Genesis 1:31. Heaven and earth were filled with rejoicing. "The morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy." Job 38:7. Though sin has entered the world to mar His perfect work, God still gives to us the Sabbath as a witness that One omnipotent, infinite in goodness and mercy, created all things. Our heavenly Father desires through the observance of the Sabbath to preserve among men a knowledge of Himself. He desires that the Sabbath shall direct our minds to Him as the true and living God, and that through knowing Him we may have life and peace. {CCh 261.1} [CCh 261.2] When the Lord delivered His people Israel from Egypt and committed to them His law, He taught them that by the observance of the Sabbath they were to be distinguished from idolaters. It was this that made the distinction between those who acknowledge the sovereignty of God and those who refuse to accept Him as their Creator and King. "It is a sign between Me and the children of Israel forever," the Lord said. "Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant." Exodus 31:17, 16. {CCh 261.2} [CCh 261.3] As the Sabbath was the sign that distinguished Israel when they came out of Egypt to enter the earthly Canaan, so it is the sign that now distinguishes God's people as they come out from the world to enter the heavenly rest. The Sabbath is a sign of the relationship existing between God and His people, a sign that they honor His law. It distinguishes between His loyal subjects and transgressors. {CCh 261.3} [CCh 261.4] From the pillar of cloud Christ declared concerning the Sabbath: "Verily My Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you." Exodus 31:13. The Sabbath given to the world as the sign of God as the Creator is also the sign of Him as the Sanctifier. The power that created all things is the power that re-creates the soul in His own likeness. To those who keep holy the Sabbath day it is the sign of sanctification. True sanctification is harmony with God, oneness with Him in character. It is received through obedience to those principles 262 that are the transcript of His character. And the Sabbath is the sign of obedience. He who from the heart obeys the fourth commandment will obey the whole law. He is sanctified through obedience. {CCh 261.4} [CCh 262.1] To us as to Israel the Sabbath is given "for a perpetual covenant." To those who reverence His holy day the Sabbath is a sign that God recognizes them as His chosen people. It is a pledge that He will fulfill to them His covenant. Every soul who accepts the sign of God's government places himself under the divine, everlasting covenant. He fastens himself to the golden chain of obedience, every link of which is a promise. 6T 349, 350471 {CCh 262.1} [CCh 262.2] Remember the Sabbath Day At the very beginning of the fourth commandment the Lord said: "Remember." He knew that amid the multitude of cares and perplexities man would be tempted to excuse himself from meeting the full requirement of the law, or would forget its sacred importance. Therefore He said: "Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy." Exodus 20:8. {CCh 262.2} [CCh 262.3] All through the week we are to have the Sabbath in mind and be making preparation to keep it according to the commandment. We are not merely to observe the Sabbath as a legal matter. We are to understand its spiritual bearing upon all the transactions of life. All who regard the Sabbath as a sign between them and God, showing that He is the God who sanctifies them, will represent the principles of His government. They will bring into daily practice the laws of His kingdom. Daily it will be their prayer that the sanctification of the Sabbath may rest upon them. Every day they will have the companionship of Christ and will exemplify the perfection of His character. Every day their light will shine forth to others in good works. {CCh 262.3} [CCh 262.4] In all that pertains to the success of God's work, the very first victories are to be won in the home life. Here the preparation for the Sabbath must begin. Throughout the week let parents remember that their home is to be a school in which their children shall be prepared for the courts above. Let their words be right words. No words which their children should not hear are to escape their lips. Let the spirit be kept free from irritation. Parents, during the week live as in the sight of a holy God, who has given you children to train for Him. Train for Him the little church in your home, that on the Sabbath all may be prepared to worship in the Lord's sanctuary. Each morning and evening present your children to God as His blood-bought heritage. Teach them that it is their highest duty and privilege to love and serve God. {CCh 262.4} [CCh 262.5] When the Sabbath is thus remembered, the temporal will not be allowed to encroach upon the spiritual. No duty pertaining to the six working days will be left for the Sabbath. During the week our energies will not be so exhausted in temporal labor that on the day when the Lord rested and was refreshed we shall be too weary to engage in His service. {CCh 262.5} [CCh 263.1] 263 While preparation for the Sabbath is to be made all through the week, Friday is to be the special preparation day. Through Moses the Lord said to the children of Israel: "Tomorrow is the rest of the holy Sabbath unto the Lord: bake that which ye will bake today, and seethe that ye will seethe; and that which remaineth over lay up for you to be kept until the morning." "And the people went about, and gathered it ［the manna］, and ground it in mills, or beat it in a mortar, and baked it in pans, and made cakes of it." Exodus 16:23; Numbers 11:8. There was something to be done in preparing the heaven-sent bread for the children of Israel. The Lord told them that this work must be done on Friday, the preparation day. {CCh 263.1} [CCh 263.2] On Friday let the preparation for the Sabbath be completed. See that all the clothing is in readiness and that all the cooking is done. Let the boots be blacked and the baths be taken. It is possible to do this. If you make it a rule you can do it. The Sabbath is not to be given to the repairing of garments, to the cooking of food, to pleasure seeking, or to any other worldly employment. Before the setting of the sun let all secular work be laid aside and all secular papers be put out of sight. Parents, explain your work and its purpose to your children, and let them share in your preparation to keep the Sabbath according to the commandment. {CCh 263.2} [CCh 263.3] We should jealously guard the edges of the Sabbath. Remember that every moment is consecrated, holy time. Whenever it is possible, employers should give their workers the hours from Friday noon until the beginning of the Sabbath. Give them time for preparation, that they may welcome the Lord's day with quietness of mind. By such a course you will suffer no loss even in temporal things. {CCh 263.3} [CCh 263.4] There is another work that should receive attention on the preparation day. On this day all differences between brethren, whether in the family or in the church, should be put away. Let all bitterness and wrath and malice be expelled from the soul. In a humble spirit, "confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed." James 5:16. 6T 353-356472 {CCh 263.4} [CCh 263.5] Nothing which will in the sight of Heaven be regarded as a violation of the holy Sabbath should be left unsaid or undone, to be said or done upon the Sabbath. God requires not only that we refrain from physical labor upon the Sabbath, but that the mind be disciplined to dwell upon sacred themes. The fourth commandment is virtually transgressed by conversing upon worldly things or by engaging in light and trifling conversation. Talking upon anything or everything which may come into the mind is speaking our own words. Every deviation from right brings us into bondage and condemnation. 2T 703473 {CCh 263.5} [CCh 263.6] Sundown Worship Far more sacredness is attached to the Sabbath than is given it by many professed Sabbathkeepers. The Lord has been greatly dishonored 264 by those who have not kept the Sabbath according to the commandment, either in the letter or in the spirit. He calls for a reform in the observance of the Sabbath. {CCh 263.6} [CCh 264.1] Before the setting of the sun let the members of the family assemble to read God's word, to sing and pray. There is need of reform here, for many have been remiss. We need to confess to God and to one another. We should begin anew to make special arrangements that every member of the family may be prepared to honor the day which God has blessed and sanctified. {CCh 264.1} [CCh 264.2] At family worship let the children take a part. Let all bring their Bibles and each read a verse or two. Then let some familiar hymn be sung, followed by prayer. For this, Christ has given a model. The Lord's Prayer was not intended to be repeated merely as a form, but it is an illustration of what our prayers should be—simple, earnest, and comprehensive. In a simple petition tell the Lord your needs and express gratitude for His mercies. Thus you invite Jesus as a welcome guest into your home and heart. In the family long prayers concerning remote objects are not in place. They make the hour of prayer a weariness, when it should be regarded as a privilege and blessing. Make the season one of interest and joy. {CCh 264.2} [CCh 264.3] As the sun goes down ［at the close of the Sabbath］, let the voice of prayer and the hymn of praise mark the close of the sacred hours and invite God's presence through the cares of the week of labor. {CCh 264.3} [CCh 264.4] It means eternal salvation to keep the Sabbath holy unto the Lord. God says: "Them that honor Me I will honor." 1 Samuel 2:30. 6T 353-359474 {CCh 264.4} [CCh 264.5] The Family’s Most Sacred Hours The Sabbath school and the meeting for worship occupy only a part of the Sabbath. The portion remaining to the family may be made the most sacred and precious season of all the Sabbath hours. Much of this time parents should spend with their children. In many families the younger children are left to themselves to find entertainment as best they can. Left alone, the children soon be come restless and begin to play or engage in some kind of mischief. Thus the Sabbath has to them no sacred significance. {CCh 264.5} [CCh 264.6] In pleasant weather let parents walk with their children in the fields and groves. Amid the beautiful things of nature tell them the reason for the institution of the Sabbath. Describe to them God's great work of creation. Tell them that when the earth came from His hand, it was holy and beautiful. Every flower, every shrub, every tree, answered the purpose of its Creator. Everything upon which the eye rested was lovely and filled the mind with thoughts of the love of God. Every sound was music in harmony with the voice of God. Show that it was sin which marred God's perfect work; that thorns and thistles, sorrow and pain and death, are all the result of disobedience to God. Bid them see how the earth, though marred with the curse of sin, still reveals God's goodness. 265 The green fields, the lofty trees, the glad sunshine, the clouds, the dew, the solemn stillness of the night, the glory of the starry heavens, and the moon in its beauty all bear witness of the Creator. Not a drop of rain falls, not a ray of light is shed on our unthankful world, but it testifies to the forbearance and love of God. {CCh 264.6} [CCh 265.1] Tell them of the way of salvation; how "God so loved the world, that He gave His only-begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:16. Let the sweet story of Bethlehem be repeated. Present before the children Jesus, as a child obedient to His parents, as a youth faithful and industrious, helping to support the family. Thus you can teach them that the Saviour knows the trials, perplexities, and temptations, the hopes and joys, of the young, and that He can give them sympathy and help. From time to time read with them the interesting stories in Bible history. Question as to what they have learned in the Sabbath school, and study with them the next Sabbath's lesson. 6T 358, 359475 {CCh 265.1} [CCh 265.2] Upon the Sabbath there should be a solemn dedication of the family to God. The commandment includes all within our gates; all the inmates of the house are to lay aside their worldly business, and employ the sacred hours in devotion. Let all unite to honor God by cheerful service upon his holy day. HS 218476 {CCh 265.2} [CCh 265.3] “O Come Let Us Worship the Lord” Christ has said: "Where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them." Matthew 18:20. Wherever there are as many as two or three believers, let them meet together on the Sabbath to claim the Lord's promise. {CCh 265.3} [CCh 265.4] The little companies assembled to worship God on His holy day have a right to claim the rich blessing of Jehovah. They should believe that the Lord Jesus is an honored guest in their assemblies. Every true worshiper who keeps holy the Sabbath should claim the promise: "That ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you." Exodus 31:13. 6T 360, 361477 {CCh 265.4} [CCh 265.5] The Sabbath was made for man, to be a blessing to him by calling his mind from secular labor to contemplate the goodness and glory of God. It is necessary that the people of God assemble to talk of Him, to interchange thoughts and ideas in regard to the truths contained in His word, and to devote a portion of time to appropriate prayer. But these seasons, even upon the Sabbath, should not be made tedious by their length and lack of interest. 2T 583478 {CCh 265.5} [CCh 265.6] When the church is without a minister, someone should be appointed as leader of the meeting. But it is not necessary for him to preach a sermon or to occupy a large part of the time of service. A short, interesting Bible reading will often be of greater benefit than a sermon. And this can be followed by a meeting for prayer and testimony. {CCh 265.6} [CCh 265.7] Everyone should feel that he has a part to act in making the Sabbath 266 meetings interesting. You are not to come together simply as a matter of form, but for the interchange of thought, for the relation of your daily experiences, for the expression of thanksgiving, for the utterance of your sincere desire for divine enlightenment, that you may know God, and Jesus Christ, whom He has sent. Communing together in regard to Christ will strengthen the soul for life's trials and conflicts. Never think that you can be Christians and yet withdraw yourselves within yourselves. Each one is a part of the great web of humanity, and the experience of each will be largely determined by the experience of his associates. 6T 361, 362479 {CCh 265.7} [CCh 266.1] The Sabbath School The object of Sabbath school work should be the ingathering of souls. The order of working may be faultless, the facilities all that could be desired; but if the children and youth are not brought to Christ, the school is a failure; for unless souls are drawn to Christ, they become more and more unimpressionable under the influence of a formal religion. The teacher should cooperate, as he knocks at the door of the heart of those who need help. If pupils respond to the pleading of the Spirit, and open the door of the heart, that Jesus may come in, He will open their understanding, that they may comprehend the things of God. The teacher's work is simple work, but if it is done in the Spirit of Jesus, depth and efficiency will be added to it by the operation of the Spirit of God. {CCh 266.1} [CCh 266.2] Parents, set apart a little time each day for the study of the Sabbath school lesson with your children. Give up the social visit if need be, rather than sacrifice the hour devoted to the precious lessons of sacred history. Parents, as well as children, will receive benefit from this study. Let the more important passages of Scripture connected with the lesson be committed to memory, not as a task, but as a privilege. Though at first the memory may be defective, it will gain strength by exercise, so that after a time you will delight thus to treasure up the precious words of truth. And the habit will prove a most valuable aid to religious growth…. {CCh 266.2} [CCh 266.3] Observe system in the study of the Scriptures in your families. Neglect anything of a temporal nature; dispense with all unnecessary sewing and with needless provision for the table, but be sure that the soul is fed with the bread of life. It is impossible to estimate the good results of one hour or even half an hour each day devoted in a cheerful, social manner to the word of God. Make the Bible its own expositor, bringing together all that is said concerning a given subject at different times and under varied circumstances. Do not break up your home class for callers or visitors. If they come in during the exercise, invite them to take part in it. Let it be seen that you consider it more important to obtain a knowledge of God's word than to secure the gains or pleasures of the world. {CCh 266.3} [CCh 267.1] 267 In some ［Sabbath］ schools, I am sorry to say, the custom prevails of reading the lesson from the lesson sheet. This should not be. It need not be, if the time that is often needlessly and even sinfully employed, were given to the study of the Scriptures. There is no reason why Sabbath school lessons should be less perfectly learned by teachers or pupils than are the lessons of the day school. They should be better learned, as they treat of subjects infinitely more important. A neglect here is displeasing to God. {CCh 267.1} [CCh 267.2] Those who teach in Sabbath school must have their hearts warmed and invigorated by the truth of God, being not hearers only, but also doers of the Word. They should be nourished in Christ as the branches are nourished in the vine. The dews of heavenly grace should fall upon them, that their hearts may be like precious plants, whose buds open and expand and give forth a grateful fragrance, as flowers in the garden of God. Teachers should be diligent students of the word of God, and ever reveal the fact that they are learning daily lessons in the school of Christ, and are able to communicate to others the light they have received from Him who is the Great Teacher, the Light of the world. In selecting officers from time to time, be sure that personal preferences do not rule, but place in positions of trust those whom you are convinced love and fear God, and who will make God their counselor. CSW 61, 41-43480 {CCh 267.2} [CCh 267.3] “It Is Lawful to Do Good on the Sabbath” Both in the home and in the church a spirit of service is to be manifested. He who gave us six days for our temporal work has blessed and sanctified the seventh day and set it apart for Himself. On this day He will in a special manner bless all who consecrate themselves to His service. {CCh 267.3} [CCh 267.4] All heaven is keeping the Sabbath, but not in a listless, do-nothing way. On this day every energy of the soul should be awake, for are we not to meet with God and with Christ our Saviour? We may behold Him by faith. He is longing to refresh and bless every soul. 6T 361, 362481 {CCh 267.4} [CCh 267.5] Divine mercy has directed that the sick and suffering should be cared for; the labor required to make them comfortable is a work of necessity, and no violation of the Sabbath. But all unnecessary work should be avoided. Many carelessly put off till the beginning of the Sabbath little things that should have been done on the day of preparation. This should not be. Any work that is neglected until the commencement of holy time should remain undone until the Sabbath is past. HS 217, 218482 {CCh 267.5} [CCh 267.6] While cooking upon the Sabbath should be avoided, it is not necessary to eat cold food. In cold weather let the food prepared the day before be heated. And let the meals, though simple, be palatable and attractive. Provide something that will be regarded as a treat, something the family do not have every day. {CCh 267.6} [CCh 267.7] If we desire the blessing promised to the obedient, we must observe the Sabbath more strictly. I fear that we often travel on this day when it 268 might be avoided. In harmony with the light which the Lord has given in regard to the observance of the Sabbath, we should be more careful about traveling on the boats or cars on this day. In these matters we should set a right example before our children and youth. In order to reach the churches that need our help, and to give them the message that God desires them to hear, it may be necessary for us to travel on the Sabbath; but so far as possible we should secure our tickets and make all necessary arrangements on some other day. When starting on a journey we should make every possible effort to plan so as to avoid reaching our destination on the Sabbath. {CCh 267.7} [CCh 268.1] When compelled to travel on the Sabbath we should try to avoid the company of those who would draw our attention to worldly things. We should keep our minds stayed upon God and commune with Him. Whenever there is opportunity we should speak to others in regard to the truth. We should always be ready to relieve suffering and to help those in need. In such cases God desires that the knowledge and wisdom He has given us should be put to use. But we should not talk about matters of business or engage in any common, worldly conversation. At all times and in all places God requires us to prove our loyalty to Him by honoring the Sabbath. 6T 357-360483 {CCh 268.1} [CCh 268.2] Attending School on Sabbath Whoever obeys the fourth commandment will find that a separating line is drawn between him and the world. The Sabbath is a test, not a human requirement, but God's test. It is that which will distinguish between those who serve God and those who serve him not; and upon this point will come the last great conflict of the controversy between truth and error. {CCh 268.2} [CCh 268.3] Some of our people have sent their children to school on the Sabbath. They were not compelled to do this, but the school authorities objected to receiving the children unless they should attend six days. In some of these schools, pupils are not only instructed in the usual branches of study, but are taught to do various kinds of work; and here the children of professed commandment-keepers have been sent upon the Sabbath. Some parents have tried to justify their course by quoting the words of Christ, that it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath day. But the same reasoning would prove that men may labor on the Sabbath because they must earn bread for their children; and there is no limit, no boundary line, to show what should and what should not be done. {CCh 268.3} [CCh 268.4] Our brethren cannot expect the approval of God while they place their children where it is impossible for them to obey the fourth commandment. They should endeavor to make some arrangement with the authorities whereby the children shall be excused from attendance at school upon the seventh day. If this fails, then their duty is plain, to obey God's requirements at whatever cost. {CCh 268.4} [CCh 268.5] Some will urge that the Lord is not so particular in his requirements; 269 that it is not their duty to keep the Sabbath strictly at so great loss, or to place themselves where they will be brought in conflict with the laws of the land. But here is just where the test is coming, whether we will honor the law of God above the requirements of men. This is what will distinguish between those who honor God and those who dishonor him. Here is where we are to prove our loyalty. The history of God's dealings with his people in all ages shows that he demands exact obedience. {CCh 268.5} [CCh 269.1] If parents allow their children to receive an education with the world, and make the Sabbath a common day, then the seal of God cannot be placed upon them. They will be destroyed with the world; and will not their blood rest upon the parents? But if we faithfully teach our children God's commandments, bring them into subjection to parental authority, and then by faith and prayer commit them to God, he will work with our efforts; for he has promised it. And when the overflowing scourge shall pass through the land, they with us may be hidden in the secret of the Lord's pavilion. HS 215-217484 {CCh 269.1} [CCh 269.2] A Day of Rest From Worldly Pursuits It is the grossest presumption for mortal man to venture upon a compromise with the Almighty in order to secure his own petty, temporal interests. It is as ruthless a violation of the law to occasionally use the Sabbath for secular business as to entirely reject it; for it is making the Lord's commandments a matter of convenience. "I the Lord thy God am a jealous God," is thundered from Sinai. No partial obedience, no divided interest, is accepted by Him who declares that the iniquities of the fathers shall be visited upon the children to the third and fourth generation of them that hate Him, and that He will show mercy unto thousands of them that love Him and keep His commandments. It is not a small matter to rob a neighbor, and great is the stigma attached to one who is found guilty of such an act; yet he who would scorn to defraud his fellow man will without shame rob his heavenly Father of the time that He has blessed and set apart for a special purpose. 4T 249, 250485 {CCh 269.2} [CCh 269.3] The words and thoughts should be guarded. Those who discuss business matters and lay plans on the Sabbath, are regarded of God as though they engaged in the actual transaction of business. To keep the Sabbath holy, we should not even allow our minds to dwell upon things of a worldly character. HS 218486 {CCh 269.3} [CCh 269.4] God has spoken, and He means that man shall obey. He does not inquire if it is convenient for him to do so. The Lord of life and glory did not consult His convenience or pleasure when He left His station of high command to become a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief, accepting ignominy and death in order to deliver man from the consequence of his disobedience. Jesus died, not to save man in his sins, but from his sins. Man is to leave the error of his ways, to follow the example of Christ, to take up his cross and follow Him, denying self, 270 and obeying God at any cost. {CCh 269.4} [CCh 270.1] Circumstances will not justify anyone in working upon the Sabbath for the sake of worldly profit. If God excuses one man, He may excuse all. Why may not Brother L, who is a poor man, work upon the Sabbath to earn means for a livelihood when he might by so doing be better able to support his family? Why may not other brethren, or all of us, keep the Sabbath only when it is convenient to do so? The voice from Sinai makes answer: "Six days shalt thou labor, and do all thy work: but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God." Exodus 20:9,10. {CCh 270.1} [CCh 270.2] Your age does not excuse you from obeying the divine commands. Abraham was sorely tested in his old age. The words of the Lord seemed terrible and uncalled-for to the stricken old man, yet he never questioned their justice or hesitated in his obedience. He might have pleaded that he was old and feeble, and could not sacrifice the son who was the joy of his life. He might have reminded the Lord that this command conflicted with the promises that had been given in regard to this son. But the obedience of Abraham was without a murmur or a reproach. His trust in God was implicit. 4T 250-253487 {CCh 270.2} [CCh 270.3] Ministers of Jesus should stand as reprovers to those who fail to remember the Sabbath to keep it holy. They should kindly and solemnly reprove those who engage in worldly conversation upon the Sabbath and at the same time claim to be Sabbathkeepers. They should encourage devotion to God upon His holy day. {CCh 270.3} [CCh 270.4] None should feel at liberty to spend sanctified time in an unprofitable manner. It is displeasing to God for Sabbathkeepers to sleep during much of the Sabbath. They dishonor their Creator in so doing, and, by their example, say that the six days are too precious for them to spend in resting. They must make money, although it be by robbing themselves of needed sleep, which they make up by sleeping away holy time. They then excuse themselves by saying: "The Sabbath was given for a day of rest. I will not deprive myself of rest to attend meeting, for I need rest." Such make a wrong use of the sanctified day. They should, upon that day especially, interest their families in its observance and assemble at the house of prayer with the few or with the many, as the case may be. They should devote their time and energies to spiritual exercises, that the divine influence resting upon the Sabbath may attend them through the week. Of all the days in the week, none are so favorable for devotional thoughts and feelings as the Sabbath. 2T 704488 {CCh 270.4} [CCh 270.5] Had the Sabbath always been sacredly observed, there could never have been an atheist or an idolater. The Sabbath institution, which originated in Eden, is as old as the world itself. It was observed by all the patriarchs, from creation down. During the bondage in Egypt, the Israelites were forced by their taskmasters to violate the Sabbath, and to a great extent they lost the knowledge of its sacredness. When the law was proclaimed at Sinai the very first words of the fourth commandment were, "Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy"—showing 271 that the Sabbath was not then instituted; we are pointed back for its origin to creation. In order to obliterate God from the minds of men, Satan aimed to tear down this great memorial. If men could be led to forget their Creator, they would make no effort to resist the power of evil, and Satan would be sure of his prey. PP 336489 {CCh 270.5} [CCh 271.1] The Blessings of Sabbath Observance All heaven was represented to me as beholding and watching upon the Sabbath those who acknowledge the claims of the fourth commandment and are observing the Sabbath. Angels were marking their interest in, and high regard for, this divine institution. Those who sanctified the Lord God in their hearts by a strictly devotional frame of mind, and who sought to improve the sacred hours in keeping the Sabbath to the best of their ability, and to honor God by calling the Sabbath a delight—these the angels were specially blessing with light and health, and special strength was given them. 2T 704, 705490 {CCh 271.1} [CCh 271.2] Strict compliance with the requirements of Heaven brings temporal as well as spiritual blessings. PK 546491 {CCh 271.2} [CCh 271.3] Blessed is the man that doeth this, and the son of man that layeth hold on it; that keepeth the Sabbath from polluting it, and keepeth his hand from doing any evil." "The sons of the stranger, that join themselves to the Lord, to serve Him, and to love the name of the Lord, to be His servants, everyone that keepeth the Sabbath from polluting it, and taketh hold of My covenant; even them will I bring to My holy mountain, and make them joyful in My house of prayer." Isaiah 56:1, 2, 6, 7. GC 451492 {CCh 271.3} [CCh 271.4] So long as the heavens and the earth endure, the Sabbath will continue as a sign of the Creator's power. And when Eden shall bloom on earth again, God's holy rest day will be honored by all beneath the sun. "From one Sabbath to another" the inhabitants of the glorified new earth shall go up "to worship before Me, saith the Lord." Matthew 5:18; Isaiah 66:23. DA 283493 {CCh 271.4} [CCh 272.1] Chapter 48 —Counsels on Stewardship The spirit of liberality is the spirit of heaven. Christ's self-sacrificing love is revealed upon the cross. That man might be saved, He gave all that He had and then gave Himself. The cross of Christ appeals to the benevolence of every follower of the blessed Saviour. The principle there illustrated is to give, give. This, carried out in actual benevolence and good works, is the true fruit of the Christian life. The principle of worldlings is to get, get, and thus they expect to secure happiness; but carried out in all its bearings, the fruit is misery and death. {CCh 272.1} [CCh 272.2] The light of the gospel shining from the cross of Christ rebukes selfishness and encourages liberality and benevolence. It should not be a lamented fact that there are increasing calls to give. God in His providence is calling His people out from their limited sphere of action, to enter upon greater enterprises. Unlimited effort is demanded at this time when moral darkness is covering the world. Many of God's people are in danger of being ensnared by worldliness and covetousness. They should understand that it is His mercy that multiplies the demands for their means. Objects that call benevolence into action must be placed before them, or they cannot pattern after the character of the great Exemplar. {CCh 272.2} [CCh 272.3] In commissioning His disciples to go "into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature," Christ assigned to men the work of extending the knowledge of His grace. But while some go forth to preach, He calls upon others to answer His claims upon them for offerings with which to support His cause in the earth. He has placed means in the hands of men, that His divine gifts may flow through human channels in doing the work appointed us in saving our fellow men. This is one of God's ways of exalting man. It is just the work that man needs, for it will stir the deepest sympathies of his heart and call into exercise the highest capabilities of the mind. 9T 254, 255494 {CCh 272.3} [CCh 272.4] Rightly directed benevolence draws upon the mental and moral energies of men, and excites them to most healthful action in blessing the needy and in advancing the cause of God. 3T 401495 {CCh 272.4} [CCh 272.5] Every opportunity to help a brother in need, or to aid the cause of God in the spread of the truth, is a pearl that you can send beforehand and deposit in the bank of heaven for safekeeping. 3T 249496 {CCh 272.5} [CCh 273.1] “Of Every Man That Giveth It Willingly” The only means which God has ordained to advance His cause is to bless men with property. He gives them the sunshine and the rain; He causes vegetation to flourish; He gives health and ability to acquire means. All our blessings come from His bountiful hand. In turn He would have men and women show their gratitude by returning Him a portion in tithes and offerings—in thank offerings, in freewill offerings, in trespass offerings. 5T 150497 {CCh 273.1} [CCh 273.2] The liberality of the Jews in the construction of the tabernacle and the erection of the temple illustrates a spirit of benevolence which has not been equaled by Christians of any later date. They had just been freed from their long bondage in Egypt and were wanderers in the wilderness; yet scarcely were they delivered from the armies of the Egyptians who pursued them in their hasty journey, when the word of the Lord came to Moses, saying: "Speak unto the children of Israel, that they bring Me an offering: of every man that giveth it willingly with his heart ye shall take My offering." Exodus 25:2. {CCh 273.2} [CCh 273.3] His people had small possessions and no flattering prospect of adding to them; but an object was before them—to build a tabernacle for God. The Lord had spoken, and they must obey His voice. They withheld nothing. All gave with a willing hand, not a certain amount of their increase, but a large portion of their actual possessions. They devoted it gladly and heartily to the Lord, and pleased Him by so doing. Was it not all His? Had He not given them all they possessed? If He called for it, was it not their duty to give back to the Lender His own? {CCh 273.3} [CCh 273.4] No urging was needed. The people brought even more than was required, and were told to desist, for there was already more than could be appropriated. Again, in building the temple, the call for means met with a hearty response. The people did not give reluctantly. They rejoiced in the prospect of a building being erected for the worship of God, and donated more than enough for the purpose. {CCh 273.4} [CCh 273.5] Can Christians, who boast of a broader light than had the Hebrews, give less than they? Can Christians living near the close of time be satisfied with their offerings when not half so large as were those of the Jews? 4T 77-79498 {CCh 273.5} [CCh 273.6] The Lord has made the diffusion of light and truth in the earth dependent on the voluntary efforts and offerings of those who have been partakers of the heavenly gifts. Comparatively few are called to travel as ministers or missionaries, but multitudes are to co-operate in spreading the truth with their means {CCh 273.6} [CCh 273.7] Well, says one, the calls keep coming to give to the cause; I am weary of giving. Are you? Then let me ask: Are you weary of receiving from God's beneficent hand? Not until He ceases to bless you will you cease to be under bonds to return to Him the portion He claims. He blesses you that it may be in your power to bless others. When you are weary of receiving, then you may say: I am weary of so many calls to 274 give. God reserves to Himself a portion of all that we receive. When this is returned to Him, the remaining portion is blessed, but when it is withheld, the whole is sooner or later cursed. God's claim is first; every other is secondary. 5T 148, 150499 {CCh 273.7} [CCh 274.1] Tithing Is Ordained by God Voluntary offerings and the tithe constitute the revenue of the gospel. Of the means which is entrusted to man, God claims a certain portion—a tithe. 5T 149500 {CCh 274.1} [CCh 274.2] All should remember that God's claims upon us underlie every other claim. He gives to us bountifully, and the contract which He has made with man is that a tenth of his possessions shall be returned to God. The Lord graciously entrusts to His stewards His treasures, but of the tenth He says: This is Mine. Just in proportion as God has given His property to man, so man is to return to God a faithful tithe of all his substance. This distinct arrangement was made by Jesus Christ Himself. 6T 384501 {CCh 274.2} [CCh 274.3] The truth for this time must be carried into the dark corners of the earth, and this work may begin at home. The followers of Christ should not live selfish lives; but, imbued with the Spirit of Christ, they should work in harmony with Him. 3T 381502 {CCh 274.3} [CCh 274.4] The great work which Jesus announced that He came to do was entrusted to His followers upon the earth. He has given His people a plan for raising sums sufficient to make the enterprise self-sustaining. God's plan in the tithing system is beautiful in its simplicity and equality. All may take hold of it in faith and courage, for it is divine in its origin. In it are combined simplicity and utility, and it does not require depth of learning to understand and execute it. All may feel that they can act a part in carrying forward the precious work of salvation. Every man, woman, and youth may become a treasurer for the Lord and may be an agent to meet the demands upon the treasury. Says the apostle: "Let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him."1 Corinthians 16:2. {CCh 274.4} [CCh 274.5] Great objects are accomplished by this system. If one and all would accept it, each would be made a vigilant and faithful treasurer for God, and there would be no want of means with which to carry forward the great work of sounding the last message of warning to the world. The treasury will be full if all adopt this system, and the contributors will not be left the poorer. Through every investment made they will become more wedded to the cause of present truth. They will be "laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life." 1 Timothy 6:19. {CCh 274.5} [CCh 274.6] As the persevering, systematic workers see that the tendency of their benevolent efforts is to nourish love to God and their fellow men, and that their personal efforts are extending their sphere of usefulness, they will realize that it is a great blessing to be co-workers with Christ. The Christian church, as a general thing, are disowning the claims of God 275 upon them to give alms of the things which they possess to support the warfare against the moral darkness which is flooding the world. Never can the work of God advance as it should until the followers of Christ become active, zealous workers. 3T 388, 389503 {CCh 274.6} [CCh 275.1] The Privilege of Being a Co-laborer With God God is not dependent upon man for the support of His cause. He could have sent means direct from heaven to supply His treasury, if His providence had seen that this was best for man. He might have devised means whereby angels would have been sent to publish the truth to the world without the agency of men. He might have written the truth upon the heavens, and let that declare to the world His requirements in living characters. God is not dependent upon any man's gold or silver. He says: "Every beast of the forest is Mine, and the cattle upon a thousand hills." "If I were hungry, I would not tell thee: for the world is Mine, and the fullness thereof." Psalm 50:10, 12. Whatever necessity there is for our agency in the advancement of the cause of God, He has purposely arranged for our good. He has honored us by making us co-workers with Him. He has ordained that there should be a necessity for the co-operation of men, that they may keep in exercise their benevolence. {CCh 275.1} [CCh 275.2] The moral law enjoined the observance of the Sabbath, which was not a burden except when that law was transgressed and they were bound by the penalties involved in breaking it. The tithing system was no burden to those who did not depart from the plan. The system enjoined upon the Hebrews has not been repealed or relaxed by the One who originated it. Instead of being of no force now, it was to be more fully carried out and more extended, as salvation through Christ alone should be more fully brought to light in the Christian age. {CCh 275.2} [CCh 275.3] The gospel, extending and widening, required greater provisions to sustain the warfare after the death of Christ, and this made the law of almsgiving a more urgent necessity than under the Hebrew government. Now God requires, not less, but greater gifts than at any other period of the world. The principle laid down by Christ is that the gifts and offerings should be in proportion to the light and blessings enjoyed. He has said: "For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required." Luke 12:48. 3T 390-392504 {CCh 275.3} [CCh 275.4] A flood of light is shining from the word of God, and there must be an awakening to neglected opportunities. When all are faithful in giving back to God His own in tithes and offerings, the way will be opened for the world to hear the message for this time. If the hearts of God's people were filled with love for Christ, if every church member were thoroughly imbued with the spirit of self-sacrifice, if all manifested thorough earnestness, there would be no lack of funds for home or foreign missions. Our resources would be multiplied; a thousand doors of usefulness would be opened, and we should be invited to enter. Had the purpose of God been carried out by His people in giving to the 276 world the message of mercy, Christ would, ere this, have come to the earth, and the saints would have received their welcome into the city of God. 6T 449, 450505 {CCh 275.4} [CCh 276.1] God Asks for One-tenth of the Increase He Gives The tithing system reaches back beyond the days of Moses. Men were required to offer to God gifts for religious purposes before the definite system was given to Moses, even as far back as the days of Adam. In complying with God's requirements, they were to manifest in offerings their appreciation of His mercies and blessings to them. This was continued through successive generations, and was carried out by Abraham, who gave tithes to Melchizedek, the priest of the most high God. The same principle existed in the days of Job. Jacob, when at Bethel, an exile and penniless wanderer, lay down at night, solitary and alone, with a rock for his pillow, and there promised the Lord: "Of all that Thou shalt give me I will surely give the tenth unto Thee." God does not compel men to give. All that they give must be voluntary. He will not have His treasury replenished with unwilling offerings. {CCh 276.1} [CCh 276.2] As to the amount required, God has specified one tenth of the increase. This is left to the conscience and benevolence of men, whose judgment in this tithing system should have free play. And while it is left free to the conscience, a plan has been laid out definite enough for all. No compulsion is required. {CCh 276.2} [CCh 276.3] God called for men in the Mosaic dispensation to give the tenth of all their increase. He committed to their trust the things of this life, talents to be improved and returned to Him. He has required a tenth, and this He claims as the very least that man should return to Him. He says: I give you nine tenths, while I require one tenth; that is Mine. When men withhold the one tenth, they rob God. Sin offerings, peace offerings, and thank offerings were also required in addition to the tenth of the increase. {CCh 276.3} [CCh 276.4] All that is withheld of that which God claims, the tenth of the increase, is recorded in the books of heaven against the withholders, as robbery. Such defraud their Creator; and when this sin of neglect is brought before them, it is not enough for them to change their course and begin to work from that time upon the right principle. This will not correct the figures made in the heavenly record for embezzling the property committed to them in trust to be returned to the Lender. Repentance for unfaithful dealing with God, and for base ingratitude, is required. {CCh 276.4} [CCh 276.5] Whenever God's people, in any period of the world, have cheerfully and willingly carried out His plan in systematic benevolence and in gifts and offerings, they have realized the standing promise that prosperity should attend all their labors just in proportion as they obeyed His requirements. When they acknowledged the claims of God and complied with His requirements, honoring Him with their substance, their barns were filled with plenty. But when they robbed God in tithes and in offerings they were made to realize that they were not only robbing Him but themselves, for He 277 limited His blessings to them just in proportion as they limited their offerings to Him. 3T 393-395506 {CCh 276.5} [CCh 277.1] The man who has been unfortunate, and finds himself in debt, should not take the Lord's portion to cancel his debts to his fellow men. He should consider that in these transactions he is being tested, and that in reserving the Lord's portion for his own use he is robbing the Giver. He is debtor to God for all that he has, but he becomes a double debtor when he uses the Lord's reserved fund in paying debts to human beings. "Unfaithfulness to God" is written against his name in the books of heaven. He has an account to settle with God for appropriating the Lord's means for his own convenience. And the want of principle shown in his misappropriation of God's means will be revealed in his management of other matters. It will be seen in all matters connected with his own business. The man who will rob God is cultivating traits of character that will cut him off from admittance into the family of God above. 6T 391507 {CCh 277.1} [CCh 277.2] God Evaluates Gifts by the Love Which Prompts the Sacrifice In the balances of the sanctuary the gifts of the poor, made from love to Christ, are not estimated according to the amount given, but according to the love which prompts the sacrifice. The promises of Jesus will as surely be realized by the liberal poor man, who has but little to offer, but who gives that little freely, as by the wealthy man who gives of his abundance. The poor man makes a sacrifice of his little, which he really feels. He really denies himself of some things that he needs for his own comfort, while the wealthy man gives of his abundance, and feels no want, denies himself nothing that he really needs. Therefore there is a sacredness in the poor man's offering that is not found in the rich man's gift, for the rich give of their abundance. God's providence has arranged the entire plan of systematic benevolence for the benefit of man. His providence never stands still. If God's servants follow His opening providence, all will be active workers. 3T 398, 399508 {CCh 277.2} [CCh 277.3] The offerings of little children may be acceptable and pleasing to God. In accordance with the spirit that prompts the gifts will be the value of the offering. The poor, by following the rule of the apostle and laying by a small sum every week, help to swell the treasury, and their gifts are wholly acceptable to God; for they make just as great, and even greater, sacrifices than their more wealthy brethren. The plan of systematic benevolence will prove a safeguard to every family against temptations to spend means for needless things, and especially will it prove a blessing to the rich by guarding them from indulging in extravagances. 3T 412509 {CCh 277.3} [CCh 277.4] The reward of whole-souled liberality is the leading of mind and heart to a closer fellowship with the Spirit. 6T 390510 {CCh 277.4} [CCh 277.5] Paul lays down a rule for giving to God's cause, and tells us what the result will be both in regard to ourselves and to God. "Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, 278 or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver." "This I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully." "God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work: . . . Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness; being enriched in everything to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God." 2 Corinthians 9:6-11. 5T 735511 {CCh 277.5} [CCh 278.1] The Proper Disposition of Property While they have sound minds and good judgment, parents should, with prayerful consideration, and with the help of proper counselors who have experience in the truth and a knowledge of the divine will, make disposition of their property. {CCh 278.1} [CCh 278.2] If they have children who are afflicted or are struggling in poverty, and who will make a judicious use of means, they should be considered. But if they have unbelieving children who have abundance of this world, and who are serving the world, they commit a sin against the Master, who has made them His stewards, by placing means in their hands merely because they are their children. God's claims are not to be lightly regarded. {CCh 278.2} [CCh 278.3] And it should be distinctly understood that because parents have made their will, this will not prevent them from giving means to the cause of God while they live. This they should do. They should have the satisfaction here, and the reward hereafter, of disposing of their surplus means while they live. They should do their part to advance the cause of God. They should use the means lent them by the Master to carry on the work which needs to be done in His vineyard. 3T 121512 {CCh 278.3} [CCh 278.4] Those who withhold from the treasury of God and hoard their means for their children, endanger the spiritual interest of their children. They place their property, which is a stumbling block to themselves, in the pathway of their children, that they may stumble over it to perdition. Many are making a great mistake in regard to the things of this life. They economize, withholding from themselves and others the good they might receive from a right use of the means which God has lent them, and become selfish and avaricious. They neglect their spiritual interests and become dwarfs in religious growth, all for the sake of accumulating wealth which they cannot use. They leave their property to their children, and nine times out of ten it is even a greater curse to their heirs than it has been to themselves. Children, relying upon the property of their parents, often fail to make a success of this life, and generally utterly fail to secure the life to come. {CCh 278.4} [CCh 278.5] The very best legacy which parents can leave their children is a knowledge of useful labor and the example of a life characterized by disinterested benevolence. By such a life they show the true value of 279 money, that it is only to be appreciated for the good that it will accomplish in relieving their own wants and the necessities of others, and in advancing the cause of God. 3T 399513 {CCh 278.5} [CCh 279.1] “If Riches Increase, Set Not Your Heart Upon Them” The special system of tithing was founded upon a principle which is as enduring as the law of God. This system of tithing was a blessing to the Jews, else God would not have given it them. So also will it be a blessing to those who carry it out to the end of time. {CCh 279.1} [CCh 279.2] Those churches who are the most systematic and liberal in sustaining the cause of God are the most prosperous spiritually. True liberality in the follower of Christ identifies his interest with that of his Master. If those who have means should realize that they are accountable to God for every dollar that they expend, their supposed wants would be much less. If conscience were alive, she would testify of needless appropriations to the gratification of appetite, of pride, vanity, and love of amusements, and would report the squandering of the Lord's money, which should have been devoted to His cause. Those who waste their Lord's goods will by and by have to give an account of their course to the Master. {CCh 279.2} [CCh 279.3] If professed Christians would use less of their wealth in adorning the body and in beautifying their own houses, and would consume less in extravagant, health-destroying luxuries upon their tables, they could place much larger sums in the treasury of God. They would thus imitate their Redeemer, who left heaven, His riches, and His glory, and for our sakes became poor, that we might have eternal riches. {CCh 279.3} [CCh 279.4] But many, when they begin to gather earthly riches, commence to calculate how long it will be before they can be in possession of a certain sum. In their anxiety to amass wealth for themselves they fail to become rich toward God. Their benevolence does not keep pace with their accumulation. As their passion for riches increases, their affections are bound up with their treasure. The increase of their property strengthens the eager desire for more, until some consider that their giving to the Lord a tenth is a severe and unjust tax. {CCh 279.4} [CCh 279.5] Inspiration has said: "If riches increase, set not your heart upon them." Psalm 62:10. Many have said: "If I were as rich as such a one, I would multiply my gifts to the treasury of God. I would do nothing else with my wealth but use it for the advancement of the cause of God." God has tested some of these by giving them riches, but with the riches came the fiercer temptation, and their benevolence was far less than in the days of their poverty. A grasping desire for greater riches absorbed their minds and hearts, and they committed idolatry. 3T 401-405514 {CCh 279.5} [CCh 279.6] A Pledge Made to God Is Binding and Sacred Everyone is to be his own assessor and is left to give as he purposes in his heart. But there are those who are guilty of the same sin as 280 Ananias and Sapphira, thinking that if they withhold a portion of what God claims in the tithing system the brethren will never know it. Thus thought the guilty couple whose example is given us as a warning. God in this case proves that He searches the heart. The motives and purposes of man cannot be hidden from Him. He has left a perpetual warning to Christians of all ages to beware of the sin to which the hearts of men are continually inclined. {CCh 279.6} [CCh 280.1] When a verbal or written pledge has been made in the presence of our brethren to give a certain amount, they are the visible witnesses of a contract made between ourselves and God. The pledge is not made to man, but to God, and is as a written note given to a neighbor. No legal bond is more binding upon the Christian for the payment of money than a pledge made to God. {CCh 280.1} [CCh 280.2] Persons who thus pledge to their fellow men do not generally think of asking to be released from their pledges. A vow made to God, the Giver of all favors, is of still greater importance; then why should we seek to be released from our vows to God? Will man consider his promise less binding because made to God? Because his vow will not be put to trial in courts of justice, is it less valid? Will a man who professes to be saved by the blood of the infinite sacrifice of Jesus Christ, "rob God"? Are not his vows and his actions weighed in the balances of justice in the heavenly courts? {CCh 280.2} [CCh 280.3] A church is responsible for the pledges of its individual members. If they see that there is a brother who is neglecting to fulfill his vows, they should labor with him kindly but plainly. If he is not in circumstances which render it possible for him to pay his vow, and he is a worthy member and has a willing heart, then let the church compassionately help him. Thus they can bridge over the difficulty and receive a blessing themselves. 4T 469-476515 {CCh 280.3} [CCh 280.4] Offerings of Thanksgiving to Be Set Aside for the Poor In every church there should be established a treasury for the poor. Then let each member present a thank offering to God once a week or once a month, as is most convenient. This offering will express our gratitude for the gifts of health, of food, and of comfortable clothing. And according as God has blessed us with these comforts will we lay by for the poor, the suffering, and the distressed. I would call the attention of our brethren especially to this point. Remember the poor. Forego some of your luxuries, yea, even comforts, and help those who can obtain only the most meager food and clothing. In doing for them you are doing for Jesus in the person of His saints. He identifies Himself with suffering humanity. Do not wait until your imaginary wants are all satisfied. Do not trust to your feelings and give when you feel like it and withhold when you do not feel like it. Give regularly, … as you would like to see upon the heavenly record in the day of God. 5T 150, 151516 {CCh 280.4} [CCh 281.1] Our Property and the Support of God’s Work To those who love God sincerely and have means, I am bidden to say: Now is the time for you to invest your means in sustaining the work of the Lord. Now is the time to uphold the hands of the ministers in their self-denying efforts to save perishing souls. When you meet in the heavenly courts the souls you have helped to save, will you not have a glorious reward? {CCh 281.1} [CCh 281.2] Let none withhold their mites, and let those who have much rejoice that they can lay up in heaven a treasure that faileth not. The money that we refuse to invest in the work of the Lord, will perish. On it no interest will accumulate in the bank of heaven. {CCh 281.2} [CCh 281.3] The Lord now calls upon Seventh-day Adventists in every locality to consecrate themselves to Him and to do their very best, according to their circumstances, to assist in His work. By their liberality in making gifts and offerings, He desires them to reveal their appreciation of His blessings and their gratitude for His mercy. 9T 131, 132517 {CCh 281.3} [CCh 281.4] The Lord has shown me repeatedly that it is contrary to the Bible to make any provision for our temporal wants in the time of trouble. I saw that if the saints had food laid up by them or in the field in the time of trouble, when sword, famine, and pestilence are in the land, it would be taken from them by violent hands and strangers would reap their fields. Then will be the time for us to trust wholly in God, and He will sustain us. I saw that our bread and water will be sure at that time, and that we shall not lack or suffer hunger; for God is able to spread a table for us in the wilderness. If necessary He would send ravens to feed us, as He did to feed Elijah, or rain manna from heaven, as He did for the Israelites. {CCh 281.4} [CCh 281.5] Houses and lands will be of no use to the saints in the time of trouble, for they will then have to flee before infuriated mobs, and at that time their possessions cannot be disposed of to advance the cause of present truth. I was shown that it is the will of God that the saints should cut loose from every encumbrance before the time of trouble comes, and make a covenant with God through sacrifice. If they have their property on the altar and earnestly inquire of God for duty, He will teach them when to dispose of these things. Then they will be free in the time of trouble and have no clogs to weigh them down. EW 56, 57518 {CCh 281.5} [CCh 281.6] The Spirit of Self-denial and Sacrifice The plan of salvation was laid by the infinite sacrifice of the Son of God. The light of the gospel shining from the cross of Christ rebukes selfishness and encourages liberality and benevolence. It is not to be a lamented fact that there are increasing calls to give. God in His providence is calling His people out from their limited sphere of action to enter upon greater enterprises. Unlimited effort is demanded at this time when moral darkness is covering the world. Worldliness and covetousness 282 are eating out the vitals of God's people. They should understand that it is His mercy which multiplies the demands for their means. The angel of God places benevolent acts close beside prayer. He said to Cornelius: "Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God." Acts 10:4. 3T 405519 {CCh 281.6} [CCh 282.1] Practice economy in your homes. By many, idols are cherished and worshiped. Put away your idols. Give up your selfish pleasures. Do not, I entreat you, absorb means in embellishing your houses, for it is God's money, and it will be required of you again. Parents, for Christ's sake do not use the Lord's money in pleasing the fancies of your children. Do not teach them to seek after style and ostentation in order to gain influence in the world. Will this incline them to save the souls for whom Christ died? No; it will create envy, jealousy, and evil surmising. Your children will be led to compete with the show and extravagance of the world, and to spend the Lord’s money for that which is not essential to health or happiness. {CCh 282.1} [CCh 282.2] Do not educate your children to think that your love for them must be expressed by indulgence of their pride, extravagance, and love of display. There is no time now to invent ways for using up money. Use your inventive faculties in seeking to economize. Instead of gratifying selfish inclination, spending money for those things that destroy the reasoning faculties, study how to deny self, that you may have something to invest in lifting the standard of truth in new fields. The intellect is a talent; use it in studying how best to employ your means for the salvation of souls. 6T 450, 451520 {CCh 282.2} [CCh 282.3] Those who deny self to do others good, and who devote themselves and all they have to Christ's service, will realize the happiness which the selfish man seeks for in vain. Said our Saviour: "Whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be My disciple." Luke 14:33. Charity "seeketh not her own." This is the fruit of that disinterested love and benevolence which characterized the life of Christ. The law of God in our hearts will bring our own interests in subordination to high and eternal considerations. 3T 397521 {CCh 282.3} [CCh 283.1] Chapter 49 —The Christian Attitude Toward Want and Suffering Today God gives men opportunity to show whether they love their neighbor. He who truly loves God and his fellow man is he who shows mercy to the destitute, the suffering, the wounded, those who are ready to die. God calls upon every man to take up his neglected work, to seek to restore the moral image of the Creator in humanity. WM 49522 {CCh 283.1} [CCh 283.2] Work for others will require effort, self-denial, and self-sacrifice. But what is the little sacrifice that we can make in comparison with the sacrifice which God has made for us in the gift of His only-begotten Son? 6T 283523 {CCh 283.2} [CCh 283.3] The conditions of inheriting eternal life are plainly stated by our Saviour in the most simple manner. The man who was wounded and robbed Luke 10:30-37 represents those who are subjects of our interest, sympathy, and charity. If we neglect the cases of the needy and the unfortunate that are brought under our notice, no matter who they may be, we have no assurance of eternal life; for we do not answer the claims that God has upon us. We are not compassionate and pitiful to humanity, because they may not be kith or kin to us. You have been found transgressors of the second great commandment, upon which the last six commandments depend. Whosoever offendeth in one point, is guilty of all. Those who do not open their hearts to the wants and sufferings of humanity will not open their hearts to the claims of God as stated in the first four precepts of the Decalogue. Idols claim the heart and affections, and God is not honored and does not reign supreme. 3T 524524 {CCh 283.3} [CCh 283.4] It should be written upon the conscience as with a pen of iron upon a rock, that he who disregards mercy, compassion, and righteousness, he who neglects the poor, who ignores the needs of suffering humanity, who is not kind and courteous, is so conducting himself that God cannot co-operate with him in the development of character. The culture of the mind and heart is more easily accomplished when we feel such tender sympathy for others that we bestow our benefits and privileges to relieve their necessities. Getting and holding all that we can for ourselves tends to poverty of soul. But all the attributes of Christ await the reception of those who will do the very work that God has appointed them to do, working in Christ's lines. 6T 262525 {CCh 283.4} [CCh 283.5] The Saviour ignores both rank and caste, worldly honor and riches. It is character and devotedness of purpose that are of high value with 284 Him. He does not take sides with the strong and worldly favored. He, the Son of the living God, stoops to uplift the fallen. By pledges and words of assurance He seeks to win to Himself the lost, perishing soul. Angels of God are watching to see who of His followers will exercise tender pity and sympathy. They are watching to see who of God's people will manifest the love of Jesus. 6T 268526 {CCh 283.5} [CCh 284.1] God calls not only for your benevolence, but for your cheerful countenance, your hopeful words, the grasp of your hand. As you visit the Lord's afflicted ones, you will find some from whom hope has departed; bring back the sunshine to them. There are those who need the bread of life; read to them from the word of God. Upon others there is a soul sickness that no earthly balm can reach or physician heal; pray for these, and bring them to Jesus. 6T 277527 {CCh 284.1} [CCh 284.2] Our Duty to the Poor in the Church There are two classes of poor whom we have always within our borders—those who ruin themselves by their own independent course of action and continue in their transgression, and those who for the truth's sake have been brought into straitened circumstances. We are to love our neighbor as ourselves, and then toward both these classes we shall do the right thing under the guidance and counsel of sound wisdom. {CCh 284.2} [CCh 284.3] There is no question in regard to the Lord's poor. They are to be helped in every case where it will be for their benefit. {CCh 284.3} [CCh 284.4] God wants His people to reveal to a sinful world that He has not left them to perish. Special pains should be taken to help those who for the truth's sake are cast out from their homes and are obliged to suffer. More and more there will be need of large, open, generous hearts, those who will deny self and will take hold of the cases of these very ones whom the Lord loves. The poor among God's people must not be left without provision for their wants. Some way must be found whereby they may obtain a livelihood. Some will need to be taught to work. Others who work hard and are taxed to the utmost of their ability to support their families will need special assistance. We should take an interest in these cases and help them to secure employment. There should be a fund to aid such worthy poor families who love God and keep His commandments. {CCh 284.4} [CCh 284.5] Through circumstances some who love and obey God become poor. Some are not careful; they do not know how to manage. Others are poor through sickness and misfortune. Whatever the cause, they are in need, and to help them is an important line of missionary work. {CCh 284.5} [CCh 284.6] Wherever a church is established, its members are to do a faithful work for the needy believers. But they are not to stop here. They are also to aid others, irrespective of their faith. As the result of such effort, some of these will receive the special truths for this time. 6T 269-271528 {CCh 284.6} [CCh 285.1] How to Help the Needy Methods of helping the needy should be carefully and prayerfully considered. We are to seek God for wisdom, for He knows better than shortsighted mortals how to care for the creatures He has made. There are some who give indiscriminately to everyone who solicits their aid. In this they err. In trying to help the needy, we should be careful to give them the right kind of help. There are those who when helped will continue to make themselves special objects of need. They will be dependent as long as they see anything on which to depend. By giving undue time and attention to these, we may encourage idleness, helplessness, extravagance, and intemperance. {CCh 285.1} [CCh 285.2] When we give to the poor we should consider: "Am I encouraging prodigality? Am I helping or injuring them?" No man who can earn his own livelihood has a right to depend on others. {CCh 285.2} [CCh 285.3] Men and women of God, persons of discernment and wisdom, should be appointed to look after the poor and needy, the household of faith first. These should report to the church and counsel as to what should be done. 6T 277, 278529 {CCh 285.3} [CCh 285.4] God does not require our brethren to take charge of every poor family that shall embrace this message. If they should do this, the ministers must cease to enter new fields, for the funds would be exhausted. Many are poor from their own lack of diligence and economy; they know not how to use means aright. If they should be helped, it would hurt them. Some will always be poor. If they should have the very best advantages, their cases would not be helped. They have not good calculation and would use all the means they could obtain, were it much or little. {CCh 285.4} [CCh 285.5] When such embrace the message, they feel that they are entitled to assistance from their more wealthy brethren; and if their expectations are not met, they complain of the church and accuse them of not living out their faith. Who must be the sufferers in this case? Must the cause of God be sapped, and the treasury in different places exhausted, to take care of these large families of poor? No. The parents must be the sufferers. They will not, as a general thing, suffer any greater lack after they embrace the Sabbath than they did before. 1T 272, 273530 {CCh 285.5} [CCh 285.6] God suffers His poor to be in the borders of every church. They are always to be among us, and the Lord places upon the members of every church a personal responsibility to care for them. We are not to lay our responsibility upon others. Toward those within our own borders we are to manifest the same love and sympathy that Christ would manifest were He in our place. Thus we are to be disciplined, that we may be prepared to work in Christ's lines. 6T 272531 {CCh 285.6} [CCh 285.7] Care of Orphans Among all whose needs demand our interest, the widow and the fatherless have the strongest claims upon our tender sympathy. They are 286 the objects of the Lord's special care. They are lent to Christians in trust for God. "Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world." James 1:27. {CCh 285.7} [CCh 286.1] Many a father who has died in the faith, resting upon the eternal promise of God, has left his loved ones in full trust that the Lord would care for them. And how does the Lord provide for these bereaved ones? He does not work a miracle in sending manna from heaven; He does not send ravens to bring them food; but He works a miracle upon human hearts, expelling selfishness from the soul and unsealing the fountains of benevolence. He tests the love of His professed followers by committing to their tender mercies the afflicted and bereaved ones. {CCh 286.1} [CCh 286.2] Let those who have the love of God open their hearts and homes to take in these children. It is not the best plan to care for the orphans in large institutions. If they have no relatives able to provide for them, the members of our churches should either adopt these little ones into their families or find suitable homes for them in other households. {CCh 286.2} [CCh 286.3] These children are in a special sense the ones whom Christ looks upon, whom it is an offense to Him to neglect. Every kind act done to them in the name of Jesus is accepted by Him as done to Himself. 6T 281532 {CCh 286.3} [CCh 287.1] Chapter 50 —Christians in All the World Become One in Christ ［Much of the counsel of this chapter was given by Mrs. White in a meeting where workers had gathered from several countries representing divergent languages and customs. Some of these workers had mistakenly reasoned that the counsel which the Lord had given His people thought Mrs. E. G. White was appropriate only for the nationality to which Mrs. White belonged.— White Trustees.］ {CCh 287.1} [CCh 287.2] If we would come to Christ with the simplicity of a child coming to its earthly parents, and ask for the things that He has promised, believing that we receive them, we should have them. If all of us had exercised the faith we should we would have been blessed with far more of the Spirit of God in our meetings than we have yet received. I am glad that a few days of the meeting still remain. Now the question is: Will we come to the fountain and drink? Will the teachers of truth set the example? God will do great things for us if we by faith take Him at His word. Oh, that we might see here a general humbling of the heart before God! {CCh 287.2} [CCh 287.3] Since these meetings began, I have felt urged to dwell much upon love and faith. This is because you need this testimony. Some who have entered these missionary fields have said: "You do not understand the French people; you do not understand the Germans. They have to be met in just such a way." {CCh 287.3} [CCh 287.4] But I inquire: Does not God understand them? Is it not He who gives His servants a message for the people? He knows just what they need; and if the message comes directly from Him through His servants to the people, it will accomplish the work whereunto it is sent; it will make all one in Christ. Though some are decidedly French, others decidedly German, and others decidedly American, they will be just as decidedly Christlike. {CCh 287.4} [CCh 287.5] The Jewish temple was built of hewn stones quarried out of the mountains; and every stone was fitted for its place in the temple, hewed, polished, and tested before it was brought to Jerusalem. And when all were brought to the ground, the building went together without the sound of ax or hammer. This building represents God's spiritual temple, which is composed of material gathered out of every nation, and tongue, and people, of all grades, high and low, rich and poor, learned and unlearned. These are not dead substances to be fitted by hammer 288 and chisel. They are living stones, quarried out from the world by the truth; and the great Master Builder, the Lord of the temple, is now hewing and polishing them, and fitting them for their respective places in the spiritual temple. When completed, this temple will be perfect in all its parts, the admiration of angels and of men; for its Builder and Maker is God. Let no one think that there need not be a stroke placed upon him. {CCh 287.5} [CCh 288.1] There is no person, no nation, that is perfect in every habit and thought. One must learn of another. Therefore God wants the different nationalities to mingle together, to be one in judgment, one in purpose. Then the union that there is in Christ will be exemplified. {CCh 288.1} [CCh 288.2] I was almost afraid to come to this country because I heard so many say that the different nationalities of Europe were peculiar and had to be reached in a certain way. But the wisdom of God is promised to those who feel their need and who ask for it. God can bring the people where they will receive the truth. Let the Lord take possession of the mind and mold it as the clay is molded in the hands of the potter, and these differences will not exist. Look to Jesus, brethren; copy His manners and spirit, and you will have no trouble in reaching these different classes. {CCh 288.2} [CCh 288.3] We have not six patterns to follow, nor five; we have only one, and that is Christ Jesus. If the Italian brethren, the French brethren, and the German brethren try to be like Him, they will plant their feet upon the same foundation of truth; the same spirit that dwells in one will dwell in the other—Christ in them, the hope of glory. I warn you, brethren and sisters, not to build up a wall of partition between different nationalities. On the contrary, seek to break it down wherever it exists. We should endeavor to bring all into the harmony that there is in Jesus, laboring for the one object, the salvation of our fellow men. {CCh 288.3} [CCh 288.4] Will you, my ministering brethren, grasp the rich promises of God? Will you put self out of sight and let Jesus appear? Self must die before God can work through you. I feel alarmed as I see self cropping out in one and another here and there. I tell you, in the name of Jesus of Nazareth, your wills must die; they must become as God's will. He wants to melt you over and to cleanse you from every defilement. There is a great work to be done for you before you can be filled with the power of God. I beseech you to draw nigh to Him, that you may realize His rich blessing before this meeting closes. 9T 179-182533 {CCh 288.4} [CCh 288.5] Christ’s Relation to Nationality Christ recognized no distinction of nationality or rank or creed. The scribes and Pharisees desired to make a local and a national benefit of all the gifts of heaven and to exclude the rest of God's family in the world. But Christ came to break down every wall of partition. He came to show that His gift of mercy and love is as unconfined as the air, the light, or the showers of rain that refresh the earth. {CCh 288.5} [CCh 289.1] 289 The life of Christ established a religion in which there is no caste, a religion by which Jew and Gentile, free and bond, are linked in a common brotherhood, equal before God. No question of policy influenced His movements. He made no difference between neighbors and strangers, friends and enemies. That which appealed to His heart was a soul thirsting for the waters of life. {CCh 289.1} [CCh 289.2] He passed no human being by as worthless, but sought to apply the healing remedy to every soul. In whatever company He found Himself, He presented a lesson appropriate to the time and the circumstances. Every neglect or insult shown by men to their fellow men only made Him more conscious of their need of His divine-human sympathy. He sought to inspire with hope the roughest and most unpromising, setting before them the assurance that they might become blameless and harmless, attaining such a character as would make them the children of God. 9T 190, 191534 {CCh 289.2} [CCh 289.3] As the children of God are one in Christ, how does Jesus look upon caste, upon society distinctions, upon the division of man from his fellow-man, because of color, race, position, wealth, birth, or attainments? The secret of unity is found in the equality of believers in Christ. RH Dec. 22, 1891535 {CCh 289.3} [CCh 289.4] An Illustration of Bringing About Unity Years ago, when the company of believers in the soon coming of Christ was very small, the Sabbathkeepers at Topsham, Maine, met for worship in the large kitchen in the home of Brother Stockbridge Howland. One Sabbath morning Brother Howland was absent. We were surprised at this, because he was always so punctual. Soon he came in, his face aglow, shining with the glory of God. "Brethren," he said, "I have found it. I have found that we can pursue a course of action regarding which the guarantee of God's word is: 'Ye shall never fall.' I am going to tell you about it." {CCh 289.4} [CCh 289.5] He then told us that he had noticed that one brother, a poor fisherman, had been feeling that he was not as highly respected as he ought to be and that Brother Howland and others thought themselves above him. This was not true, but it seemed true to him; and for several weeks he had not attended the meetings. So Brother Howland went to his house and knelt before him, saying: "My brother, forgive me. What is it that I have done?" The man took him by the arm and tried to raise him to his feet. "No," said Brother Howland, "what have you against me?" "I have nothing against you." "But you must have," said Brother Howland, "because once we could speak to one another, but now you do not speak to me at all, and I want to know what is the matter." {CCh 289.5} [CCh 289.6] "Get up, Brother Howland," he said. "No," said Brother Howland, "I will not." "Then I must get down," he said, and he fell on his knees, and confessed how childish he had been and how many evil 290 surmisings he had cherished. "And now," he said, "I will put them all away." {CCh 289.6} [CCh 290.1] As Brother Howland told this story, his face shone with the glory of the Lord. Just as he had finished, the fisherman and his family came in, and we had an excellent meeting. Suppose that some of us should follow the course pursued by Brother Howland. If when our brethren surmise evil, we would go to them, saying, "Forgive me if I have done anything to harm you," we might break the spell of Satan and set our brethren free from their temptations. Do not let anything interpose between you and your brethren. If there is anything that you can do by sacrifice to clear away the rubbish of suspicion, do it. God wants us to love one another as brethren. He wants us to be pitiful and courteous. He wants us to educate ourselves to believe that our brethren love us, and to believe that Christ loves us. Love begets love. {CCh 290.1} [CCh 290.2] Do we expect to meet our brethren in heaven? If we can live with them here in peace and harmony we could live with them there. But how could we live with them in heaven if we cannot live with them here without continued contention and strife? Those who are following a course of action that separates them from their brethren and brings in discord and dissension, need a thorough conversion. Our hearts must be melted and subdued by the love of Christ. We must cherish the love that He showed in dying for us on the cross of Calvary. We need to draw closer and closer to the Saviour. We should be much in prayer, and we must learn to exercise faith. We must be more tenderhearted, more pitiful and courteous. We shall pass through this world but once. Shall we not strive to leave on those with whom we associate the impress of the character of Christ? {CCh 290.2} [CCh 290.3] Our hard hearts need to be broken. We need to come together in perfect unity, and we need to realize that we are the purchase of the blood of Jesus Christ of Nazareth. Let each one say: "He gave His life for me, and He wants me, as I go through this world, to reveal the love that He revealed in giving Himself for me." Christ bore our sins in His own body on the cross, that God might be just and yet the justifier of those who believe in Him. There is life, eternal life, for all who will surrender to Christ. 9T 191-193536 {CCh 290.3} [CCh 290.4] In Unity There Is Strength Strive earnestly for unity. Pray for it, work for it. It will bring spiritual health, elevation of thought, nobility of character, heavenly-mindedness, enabling you to overcome selfishness and evil surmisings, and to be more than conquerors through Him that loved you and gave Himself for you. Crucify self; esteem others better than yourselves. Thus you will be brought into oneness with Christ. Before the heavenly universe, and before the church and the world, you will bear unmistakable evidence that you are God's sons and daughters. God will be glorified in the example that you set. {CCh 290.4} [CCh 291.1] 291 The world needs to see worked out before it the miracle that binds the hearts of God's people together in Christian love. It needs to see the Lord's people sitting together in heavenly places in Christ. Will you not give in your lives an evidence of what the truth of God can do for those who love and serve Him? God knows what you can be. He knows what divine grace can do for you if you will be partakers of the divine nature. 9T 188537 {CCh 291.1} [CCh 291.2] "I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment." 1 Corinthians 1:10. {CCh 291.2} [CCh 291.3] Union is strength; division is weakness. When those who believe present truth are united, they exert a telling influence. Satan well understands this. Never was he more determined than now to make of none effect the truth of God by causing bitterness and dissension among the Lord's people. 5T 236538 {CCh 291.3} [CCh 292.1] Chapter 51 —The Prayer Meeting The prayer meetings should be the most interesting gatherings that are held, but these are frequently poorly managed. Many attend preaching, but neglect the prayer meeting. Here, again, thought is required. Wisdom should be sought of God, and plans should be laid to conduct the meetings so that they will be interesting and attractive. The people hunger for the bread of life. If they find it at the prayer meeting they will go there to receive it. {CCh 292.1} [CCh 292.2] Long, prosy talks and prayers are out of place anywhere, and especially in the social meeting. Those who are forward and ever ready to speak are allowed to crowd out the testimony of the timid and retiring. Those who are most superficial generally have the most to say. Their prayers are long and mechanical. They weary the angels and the people who listen to them. Our prayers should be short and right to the point. Let the long, tiresome petitions be left for the closet, if any have such to offer. Let the Spirit of God into your hearts, and it will sweep away all dry formality. 4T 70, 71539 {CCh 292.2} [CCh 292.3] Public Prayers Should Not Be Long Christ impressed upon His disciples the idea that their prayers should be short, expressing just what they wanted, and no more. He gives the length and substance of their prayers, expressing their desires for temporal and spiritual blessings, and their gratitude for the same. How comprehensive this sample prayer! It covers the actual need of all. One or two minutes is long enough for any ordinary prayer. There may be instances where prayer is in a special manner indited by the Spirit of God, where supplication is made in the Spirit. The yearning soul becomes agonized and groans after God. The spirit wrestles as did Jacob and will not be at rest without special manifestations of the power of God. This is as God would have it. {CCh 292.3} [CCh 292.4] But many offer prayer in a dry, sermonizing manner. These pray to men, not to God. If they were praying to God, and really understood what they were doing, they would be alarmed at their audacity; for they deliver a discourse to the Lord in the mode of prayer, as though the Creator of the universe needed special information upon general questions in relation to things transpiring in the world. All such prayers are as sounding brass and a tinkling cymbal. They are made no account of in heaven. Angels of God are wearied with them, as well as mortals 293 who are compelled to listen to them. {CCh 292.4} [CCh 293.1] Jesus was often found in prayer. He resorted to the lonely groves or to the mountains to make His requests known to His Father. When the business and cares of the day were ended, and the weary were seeking rest, Jesus devoted the time to prayer. We would not discourage prayer, for there is far too little praying and watching thereunto. And there is still less praying with the Spirit and the understanding also. Fervent and effectual prayer is always in place, and will never weary. Such prayer interests and refreshes all who have a love for devotion. {CCh 293.1} [CCh 293.2] Secret prayer is neglected, and this is why many offer such long, tedious, backslidden prayers when they assemble to worship God. They go over in their prayers a week of neglected duties, and pray round and round, hoping to make up for their neglect and pacify their condemned consciences, which are scourging them. They hope to pray themselves into the favor of God. But frequently these prayers result in bringing other minds down to their own low level in spiritual darkness. If Christians would take home the teachings of Christ in regard to watching and praying, they would become more intelligent in their worship of God. 2T 581, 582540 {CCh 293.2} [CCh 293.3] More Praise in Prayer "Let everything that hath breath praise the Lord." Have any of us duly considered how much we have to be thankful for? Do we remember that the mercies of the Lord are new every morning and that His faithfulness faileth not? Do we acknowledge our dependence upon Him and express gratitude for all His favors? On the contrary, we too often forget that "every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights." {CCh 293.3} [CCh 293.4] How often those who are in health forget the wonderful mercies that are continued to them day by day, year after year. They render no tribute of praise to God for all His benefits. But when sickness comes, God is remembered. The strong desire for recovery leads to earnest prayer, and this is right. God is our refuge in sickness as in health. But many do not leave their cases with Him; they encourage weakness and disease by worrying about themselves. If they would cease repining and rise above depression and gloom, their recovery would be more sure. They should remember with gratitude how long they enjoyed the blessing of health; and should this precious boon be restored to them, they should not forget that they are under renewed obligations to their Creator. When the ten lepers were healed, only one returned to find Jesus and give Him glory. Let us not be like the unthinking nine, whose hearts were untouched by the mercy of God. 5T 315541 {CCh 293.4} [CCh 293.5] The habit of brooding over anticipated evils is unwise and unchristian. In thus doing we fail to enjoy the blessings and to improve the opportunities of the present. The Lord requires us to perform the duties of today and to endure its trials. We are today to watch that we offend not in word or deed. We must today praise and honor God. By the 294 exercise of living faith today we are to conquer the enemy. We must today seek God and be determined that we will not rest satisfied without His presence. We should watch and work and pray as though this were the last day that would be granted us. How intensely earnest, then, would be our life. How closely would we follow Jesus in all our words and deeds! {CCh 293.5} [CCh 294.1] God’s Interest in Little Things There are few who rightly appreciate or improve the precious privilege of prayer. We should go to Jesus and tell Him all our needs. We may bring Him our little cares and perplexities as well as our greater troubles. Whatever arises to disturb or distress us, we should take it to the Lord in prayer. When we feel that we need the presence of Christ at every step, Satan will have little opportunity to intrude his temptations. It is his studied effort to keep us away from our best and most sympathizing friend. We should make no one our confidant but Jesus. We can safely commune with Him of all that is in our hearts. Brethren and sisters, when you assemble for social worship, believe that Jesus meets with you; believe that He is willing to bless you. Turn the eye away from self; look unto Jesus, talk of His matchless love. By beholding Him you will become changed into His likeness. When you pray, be brief, come right to the point. Do not preach the Lord a sermon in your long prayers. Ask for the bread of life as a hungry child asks bread of his earthly father. God will bestow upon us every needed blessing if we ask Him in simplicity and faith. {CCh 294.1} [CCh 294.2] Prayer is the most holy exercise of the soul. It should be sincere, humble, earnest—the desires of a renewed heart breathed in the presence of a holy God. When the suppliant feels that he is in the divine presence, self will be forgotten. He will have no desire to display human talent; he will not seek to please the ear of men, but to obtain the blessing which the soul craves. 5T 200, 201542 {CCh 294.2} [CCh 294.3] Both in public and in private worship, it is our privilege to bow on our knees before the Lord when we offer our petitions to Him. Jesus, our example, "kneeled down, and prayed." Luke 22:41. Of His disciples it is recorded that they, too, "kneeled down, and prayed." Acts 9:40; 20:36; 21:5. Paul declared, "I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ." Ephesians 3:14. In confessing before God the sins of Israel, Ezra knelt. Ezra 9:5. Daniel "kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God." Daniel 6:10. GW 178543 {CCh 294.3} [CCh 295.1] Chapter 52 —Baptism The ordinances of baptism and the Lord's Supper are two monumental pillars, one without and one within the church. Upon these ordinances Christ has inscribed the name of the true God. {CCh 295.1} [CCh 295.2] Christ has made baptism the sign of entrance to His spiritual kingdom. He has made this a positive condition with which all must comply who wish to be acknowledged as under the authority of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Before man can find a home in the church, before passing the threshold of God's spiritual kingdom, he is to receive the impress of the divine name, "The Lord Our Righteousness." Jeremiah 23:6. {CCh 295.2} [CCh 295.3] Baptism is a most solemn renunciation of the world. Those who are baptized in the threefold name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, at the very entrance of their Christian life declare publicly that they have forsaken the service of Satan and have become members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King. They have obeyed the command: "Come out from among them, and be ye separate, . . . and touch not the unclean thing." And to them is fulfilled the promise: "I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty." 2 Corinthians 6:17, 18. {CCh 295.3} [CCh 295.4] The vows which we take upon ourselves in baptism embrace much. In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit we are buried in the likeness of Christ's death and raised in the likeness of His resurrection, and we are to live a new life. Our life is to be bound up with the life of Christ. Henceforth the believer is to bear in mind that he is dedicated to God, to Christ, and to the Holy Spirit. He is to make all worldly considerations secondary to this new relation. Publicly he has declared that he will no longer live in pride and self-indulgence. He is no longer to live a careless, indifferent life. He has made a covenant with God. He has died to the world. He is to live to the Lord, to use for Him all his entrusted capabilities, never losing the realization that he bears God's signature, that he is a subject of Christ's kingdom, a partaker of the divine nature. He is to surrender to God all that he is and all that he has, employing all his gifts to His name's glory. {CCh 295.4} [CCh 295.5] Candidates to Be Thoroughly Prepared There is need of a more thorough preparation on the part of candidates for baptism. They are in need of more faithful instruction than has 296 usually been given them. The principles of the Christian life should be made plain to those who have newly come to the truth. None can depend upon their profession of faith as proof that they have a saving connection with Christ. We are not only to say, "I believe," but to practice the truth. It is by conformity to the will of God in our words, our deportment, our character, that we prove our connection with Him. Whenever one renounces sin, which is the transgression of the law, his life will be brought into conformity to the law, into perfect obedience. This is the work of the Holy Spirit. The light of the word carefully studied, the voice of conscience, the strivings of the Spirit, produce in the heart genuine love for Christ, who gave Himself a whole sacrifice to redeem the whole person, body, soul, and spirit. And love is manifested in obedience. The line of demarcation will be plain and distinct between those who love God and keep His commandments, and those who love Him not and disregard His precepts. {CCh 295.5} [CCh 296.1] Satan does not want anyone to see the necessity of an entire surrender to God. When the soul fails to make this surrender, sin is not forsaken; the appetites and passions are striving for the mastery; temptations confuse the conscience, so that true conversion does not take place. If all had a sense of the conflict which each soul must wage with satanic agencies that are seeking to ensnare, entice, and deceive, there would be much more diligent labor for those who are young in the faith. {CCh 296.1} [CCh 296.2] The Preparation of Children for Baptism Parents whose children desire to be baptized have a work to do, both in self-examination and in giving faithful instruction to their children. Baptism is a most sacred and important ordinance, and there should be a thorough understanding as to its meaning. It means repentance for sin, and the entrance upon a new life in Christ Jesus. There should be no undue haste to receive the ordinance. Let both parents and children count the cost. In consenting to the baptism of their children, parents sacredly pledge themselves to be faithful stewards over these children, to guide them in their character building. They pledge themselves to guard with special interest these lambs of the flock, that they may not dishonor the faith they profess. {CCh 296.2} [CCh 296.3] Religious instruction should be given to children from their earliest years. It should be given, not in a condemnatory spirit, but in a cheerful, happy spirit. Mothers need to be on the watch constantly, lest temptation shall come to the children in such a form as not to be recognized by them. The parents are to guard their children with wise, pleasant instruction. As the very best friends of these inexperienced ones, they should help them in the work of overcoming, for it means everything to them to be victorious. They should consider that their own dear children who are seeking to do right are younger members of the Lord's family, and they should feel an intense interest in helping them to make straight paths in the King's highway of obedience. With loving interest they 297 should teach them day by day what it means to be children of God and to yield the will in obedience to Him. Teach them that obedience to God involves obedience to their parents. This must be a daily, hourly work. Parents, watch, watch and pray, and make your children your companions. {CCh 296.3} [CCh 297.1] When the happiest period of their life has come, and they in their hearts love Jesus and wish to be baptized, then deal faithfully with them. Before they receive the ordinance, ask them if it is to be their first purpose in life to work for God. Then tell them how to begin. It is the first lessons that mean so much. In simplicity teach them how to do their first service for God. Make the work as easy to be understood as possible. Explain what it means to give up self to the Lord, to do just as His word directs, under the counsel of Christian parents. {CCh 297.1} [CCh 297.2] After faithful labor, if you are satisfied that your children understand the meaning of conversion and baptism, and are truly converted, let them be baptized. But, I repeat, first of all prepare yourselves to act as faithful shepherds in guiding their inexperienced feet in the narrow way of obedience. God must work in the parents that they may give to their children a right example, in love, courtesy, and Christian humility, and in an entire giving up of self to Christ. If you consent to the baptism of your children and then leave them to do as they choose, feeling no special duty to keep their feet in the straight path, you yourselves are responsible if they lose faith and courage and interest in the truth. {CCh 297.2} [CCh 297.3] Candidates who have grown to manhood and womanhood should understand their duty better than do the younger ones; but the pastor of the church has a duty to do for these souls. Have they wrong habits and practices? It is the duty of the pastor to have special meetings with them. Give them Bible readings, converse and pray with them, and plainly show the claims of the Lord upon them. Read to them the teaching of the Bible in regard to conversion. Show what is the fruit of conversion, the evidence that they love God. Show that true conversion is a change of heart, of thoughts and purposes. Evil habits are to be given up. The sins of evil-speaking, of jealousy, of disobedience, are to be put away. A warfare must be waged against every evil trait of character. Then the believing one can understandingly take to himself the promise: "Ask, and it shall be given you." Matthew 7:7. 6T 91-99544 {CCh 297.3} [CCh 298.1] Chapter 53 —The Lord’s Supper The symbols of the Lord's house are simple and plainly understood, and the truths represented by them are of the deepest significance to us. Ev 273545 {CCh 298.1} [CCh 298.2] Christ was standing at the point of transition between two economies and their two great festivals. He, the spotless Lamb of God, was about to present Himself as a sin offering, that He would thus bring to an end the system of types and ceremonies that for four thousand years had pointed to His death. As He ate the Passover with His disciples, He instituted in its place the service that was to be the memorial of His great sacrifice. The national festival of the Jews was to pass away forever. The service which Christ established was to be observed by His followers in all lands and through all ages. {CCh 298.2} [CCh 298.3] The Passover was ordained as a commemoration of the deliverance of Israel from Egyptian bondage. God had directed that, year by year, as the children should ask the meaning of this ordinance, the history should be repeated. Thus the wonderful deliverance was to be kept fresh in the minds of all. The ordinance of the Lord's Supper was given to commemorate the great deliverance wrought out as the result of the death of Christ. Till He shall come the second time in power and glory, this ordinance is to be celebrated. It is the means by which His great work for us is to be kept fresh in our minds. {CCh 298.3} [CCh 298.4] Christ's example forbids exclusiveness at the Lord's Supper. It is true that open sin excludes the guilty. This the Holy Spirit plainly teaches. 1 Corinthians 5:11. But beyond this none are to pass judgment. God has not left it with men to say who shall present themselves on these occasions. For who can read the heart? Who can distinguish the tares from the wheat? "Let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup." For "whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord." "He that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord's body." 1 Corinthians 11:28, 27, 29. {CCh 298.4} [CCh 298.5] None should exclude themselves from the Communion because some who are unworthy may be present. Every disciple is called upon to participate publicly, and thus bear witness that he accepts Christ as a personal Saviour. {CCh 298.5} [CCh 298.6] In partaking with His disciples of the bread and wine, Christ pledged 299 Himself to them as their Redeemer. He committed to them the new covenant, by which all who receive Him become children of God, and joint heirs with Christ. By this covenant every blessing that heaven could bestow for this life and the life to come was theirs. This covenant deed was to be ratified with the blood of Christ. And the administration of the Sacrament was to keep before the disciples the infinite sacrifice made for each of them individually as a part of the great whole of fallen humanity. {CCh 298.6} [CCh 299.1] The Servant of Servants When the disciples entered the supper room, their hearts were full of resentful feelings. Judas pressed next to Christ on the left side; John was on the right. If there was a highest place, Judas was determined to have it, and that place was thought to be next to Christ. And Judas was a traitor. {CCh 299.1} [CCh 299.2] Another cause of dissension had arisen. At a feast it was customary for a servant to wash the feet of the guests, and on this occasion preparation had been made for the service. The pitcher, the basin, and the towel were there, in readiness for the feet washing; but no servant was present, and it was the disciples' part to perform it. But each of the disciples, yielding to wounded pride, determined not to act the part of a servant. All manifested a stoical unconcern, seeming unconscious that there was anything for them to do. By their silence they refused to humble themselves. {CCh 299.2} [CCh 299.3] The disciples made no move toward serving one another. Jesus waited for a time to see what they would do. Then He, the divine Teacher, rose from the table. Laying aside the outer garment that would have impeded His movements, He took a towel, and girded Himself. With surprised interest the disciples looked on, and in silence waited to see what was to follow. "After that He poureth water into a basin, and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith He was girded." This action opened the eyes of the disciples. Bitter shame and humiliation filled their hearts. They understood the unspoken rebuke, and saw themselves in altogether a new light. {CCh 299.3} [CCh 299.4] So Christ expressed His love for His disciples. Their selfish spirit filled Him with sorrow, but He entered into no controversy with them regarding their difficulty. Instead He gave them an example they would never forget. His love for them was not easily disturbed or quenched. He knew that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He came from God, and went to God. He had a full consciousness of His divinity; but He had laid aside His royal crown and kingly robes, and had taken the form of a servant. One of the last acts of His life on earth was to gird Himself as a servant, and perform a servant's part. {CCh 299.4} [CCh 299.5] Christ would have His disciples understand that although He had washed their feet, this did not in the least detract from His dignity. "Ye call Me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am." And being so 300 infinitely superior, He imparted grace and significance to the service. No one was so exalted as Christ, and yet He stooped to the humblest duty. That His people might not be misled by the selfishness which dwells in the natural heart, and which strengthens by self-serving, Christ Himself set the example of humility. He would not leave this great subject in man's charge. Of so much consequence did He regard it, that He Himself, One equal with God, acted as servant to His disciples. While they were contending for the highest place, He to whom every knee shall bow, He whom the angels of glory count it honor to serve, bowed down to wash the feet of those who called Him Lord. He washed the feet of His betrayer. {CCh 299.5} [CCh 300.1] Now, having washed the disciples' feet, He said, "I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you." In these words Christ was not merely enjoining the practice of hospitality. More was meant than the washing of the feet of guests to remove the dust of travel. Christ was here instituting a religious service. By the act of our Lord this humiliating ceremony was made a consecrated ordinance. It was to be observed by the disciples, that they might ever keep in mind His lessons of humility and service. {CCh 300.1} [CCh 300.2] The Ordinance of Preparation This ordinance is Christ's appointed preparation for the sacramental service. While pride, variance, and strife for supremacy are cherished, the heart cannot enter into fellowship with Christ. We are not prepared to receive the communion of His body and His blood. Therefore it was that Jesus appointed the memorial of His humiliation to be first observed. {CCh 300.2} [CCh 300.3] As they come to this ordinance, the children of God should bring to remembrance the words of the Lord of life and glory: "Know ye what I have done to you? Ye call Me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you. Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him. If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them." John 13:12-17. {CCh 300.3} [CCh 300.4] There is in man a disposition to esteem himself more highly than his brother, to work for self, to seek the highest place; and often this results in evil surmisings and bitterness of spirit. The ordinance preceding the Lord's Supper is to clear away these misunderstandings, to bring man out of his selfishness, down from his stilts of self-exaltation, to the humility of heart that will lead him to serve his brother. {CCh 300.4} [CCh 300.5] The holy Watcher from heaven is present at this season to make it one of soul searching, of conviction of sin, and of the blessed assurance of sins forgiven. Christ in the fullness of His grace is there to change the current of the thoughts that have been running in selfish channels. The 301 Holy Spirit quickens the sensibilities of those who follow the example of their Lord. As the Saviour's humiliation for us is remembered, thought links with thought; a chain of memories is called up, memories of God's great goodness and of the favor and tenderness of earthly friends. {CCh 300.5} [CCh 301.1] Whenever this ordinance is rightly celebrated, the children of God are brought into a holy relationship, to help and bless each other. They covenant that the life shall be given to unselfish ministry. And this, not only for one another. Their field of labor is as wide as their Master's was. The world is full of those who need our ministry. The poor, the helpless, the ignorant, are on every hand. Those who have communed with Christ in the upper chamber will go forth to minister as He did. {CCh 301.1} [CCh 301.2] Jesus, the served of all, came to be the servant of all. And because He ministered to all, He will again be served and honored by all. And those who would partake of His divine attributes, and share with Him the joy of seeing souls redeemed, must follow His example of unselfish ministry. {CCh 301.2} [CCh 301.3] A Reminder of Christ’s Second Coming As they were gathered about the table, He said in tones of touching sadness, "With desire I have desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer: for I say unto you, I will not any more eat thereof, until it be fulfilled in the kingdom of God. And He took the cup, and gave thanks, and said, Take this, and divide it among yourselves: for I say unto you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine, until the kingdom of God shall come." Luke 22:15-18. {CCh 301.3} [CCh 301.4] But the Communion service was not to be a season of sorrowing. This was not its purpose. As the Lord's disciples gather about His table, they are not to remember and lament their shortcomings. They are not to dwell upon their past religious experience, whether that experience has been elevating or depressing. They are not to recall the differences between them and their brethren. The preparatory service has embraced all this. The self-examination, the confession of sin, the reconciling of differences, has all been done. {CCh 301.4} [CCh 301.5] Now they come to meet with Christ. They are not to stand in the shadow of the cross, but in its saving light. They are to open the soul to the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness. With hearts cleansed by Christ's most precious blood, in full consciousness of His presence, although unseen, they are to hear His words, "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you." John 14:27. {CCh 301.5} [CCh 301.6] As we receive the bread and wine symbolizing Christ's broken body and spilled blood, we in imagination join in the scene of Communion in the upper chamber. We seem to be passing through the garden consecrated by the agony of Him who bore the sins of the world. We witness the struggle by which our reconciliation with God was obtained. Christ 302 is set forth crucified among us. {CCh 301.6} [CCh 302.1] Looking upon the crucified Redeemer, we more fully comprehend the magnitude and meaning of the sacrifice made by the Majesty of heaven. The plan of salvation is glorified before us, and the thought of Calvary awakens living and sacred emotions in our hearts. Praise to God and the Lamb will be in our hearts and on our lips; for pride and self-worship cannot flourish in the soul that keeps fresh in memory the scenes of Calvary. {CCh 302.1} [CCh 302.2] As faith contemplates our Lord's great sacrifice, the soul assimilates the spiritual life of Christ. That soul will receive spiritual strength from every Communion. The service forms a living connection by which the believer is bound up with Christ, and thus bound up with the Father. In a special sense it forms a connection between dependent human beings and God. {CCh 302.2} [CCh 302.3] The Communion service points to Christ's second coming. It was designed to keep this hope vivid in the minds of the disciples. Whenever they met together to commemorate His death, they recounted how "He took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; for this is My blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. But I say unto you, I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you in My Father's kingdom." In their tribulation they found comfort in the hope of their Lord's return. Unspeakably precious to them was the thought, "As often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do show the Lord's death till He come." 1 Corinthians 11:26. {CCh 302.3} [CCh 302.4] These are the things we are never to forget. The love of Jesus, with its constraining power, is to be kept fresh in our memory. Christ has instituted this service that it may speak to our senses of the love of God that has been expressed in our behalf. There can be no union between our souls and God except through Christ. The union and love between brother and brother must be cemented and rendered eternal by the love of Jesus. And nothing less than the death of Christ could make His love efficacious for us. It is only because of His death that we can look with joy to His second coming. His sacrifice is the center of our hope. Upon this we must fix our faith. DA 643-661546 {CCh 302.4} [CCh 303.1] Chapter 54 —Prayer for the Sick The Scripture says that "men ought always to pray, and not to faint" Luke 18:1; and if ever there is a time when they feel their need of prayer, it is when strength fails and life itself seems slipping from their grasp. Often those who are in health forget the wonderful mercies continued to them day by day, year after year, and they render no tribute of praise to God for His benefits. But when sickness comes, God is remembered. When human strength fails, men feel their need of divine help. And never does our merciful God turn from the soul that in sincerity seeks Him for help. He is our refuge in sickness as in health. {CCh 303.1} [CCh 303.2] Christ is the same compassionate physician now that He was during His earthly ministry. In Him there is healing balm for every disease, restoring power for every infirmity. His disciples in this time are to pray for the sick as verily as the disciples of old prayed. And recoveries will follow; for "the prayer of faith shall save the sick." We have the Holy Spirit's power, the calm assurance of faith, that can claim God's promises. The Lord's promise, "They shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover" Mark 16:18, is just as trustworthy now as in the days of the apostles. It presents the privilege of God's children, and our faith should lay hold of all that it embraces. Christ's servants are the channel of His working, and through them He desires to exercise His healing power. It is our work to present the sick and suffering to God in the arms of our faith. We should teach them to believe in the Great Healer. The Saviour would have us encourage the sick, the hopeless, the afflicted, to take hold upon His strength. {CCh 303.2} [CCh 303.3] Conditions of Answered Prayer But only as we live in obedience to His word can we claim the fulfillment of His promises. The psalmist says, "If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me." Psalm 66:18. If we render to Him only a partial, halfhearted obedience, His promises will not be fulfilled to us. {CCh 303.3} [CCh 303.4] In the word of God we have instruction relative to special prayer for the recovery of the sick. But the offering of such prayer is a most solemn act, and should not be entered upon without careful consideration. In many cases of prayer for the healing of the sick, that which is called faith is nothing less than presumption. {CCh 303.4} [CCh 304.1] 304 Many persons bring disease upon themselves by their self-indulgence. They have not lived in accordance with natural law or the principles of strict purity. Others have disregarded the laws of health in their habits of eating and drinking, dressing, or working. Often some form of vice is the cause of feebleness of mind or body. Should these persons gain the blessing of health, many of them would continue to pursue the same course of heedless transgression of God's natural and spiritual laws, reasoning that if God heals them in answer to prayer, they are at liberty to continue their unhealthful practices and to indulge perverted appetite without restraint. If God were to work a miracle in restoring these persons to health, He would be encouraging sin. {CCh 304.1} [CCh 304.2] It is labor lost to teach people to look to God as a healer of their infirmities, unless they are taught also to lay aside unhealthful practices. In order to receive His blessing in answer to prayer, they must cease to do evil and learn to do well. Their surroundings must be sanitary, their habits of life correct. They must live in harmony with the law of God, both natural and spiritual. {CCh 304.2} [CCh 304.3] To those who desire prayer for their restoration to health, it should be made plain that the violation of God's law, either natural or spiritual, is sin, and that in order for them to receive His blessing, sin must be confessed and forsaken. {CCh 304.3} [CCh 304.4] The Scripture bids us, "Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed." James 5:16. To the one asking for prayer, let thoughts like these be presented: "We cannot read the heart, or know the secrets of your life. These are known only to yourself and to God. If you repent of your sins, it is your duty to make confession of them." Sin of a private character is to be confessed to Christ, the only mediator between God and man. For "if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous." 1 John 2:1. Every sin is an offense against God and is to be confessed to Him through Christ. Every open sin should be as openly confessed. Wrong done to a fellow being should be made right with the one who has been offended. If any who are seeking health have been guilty of evilspeaking, if they have sowed discord in the home, the neighborhood, or the church, and have stirred up alienation and dissension, if by any wrong practice they have led others into sin, these things should be confessed before God and before those who have been offended. "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." 1 John 1:9. {CCh 304.4} [CCh 304.5] When wrongs have been righted, we may present the needs of the sick to the Lord in calm faith, as His Spirit may indicate. He knows each individual by name, and cares for each as if there were not another upon the earth for whom He gave His beloved Son. Because God's love is so great and so unfailing, the sick should be encouraged to trust in Him and be cheerful. To be anxious about themselves tends to cause 305 weakness and disease. If they will rise above depression and gloom, their prospect of recovery will be better; for "the eye of the Lord is upon them" "that hope in His mercy." Psalm 33:18. {CCh 304.5} [CCh 305.1] In prayer for the sick it should be remembered that "we know not what we should pray for as we ought." Romans 8:26. We do not know whether the blessing we desire will be best or not. Therefore our prayers should include this thought: "Lord, thou knowest every secret of the soul. Thou art acquainted with these persons. Jesus, their Advocate, gave His life for them. His love for them is greater than ours can possibly be. If, therefore, it is for Thy glory and the good of the afflicted ones, we ask, in the name of Jesus, that they may be restored to health. If it be not Thy will that they may be restored, we ask that Thy grace may comfort and Thy presence sustain them in their sufferings." {CCh 305.1} [CCh 305.2] God knows the end from the beginning. He is acquainted with the hearts of all men. He reads every secret of the soul. He knows whether those for whom prayer is offered would or would not be able to endure the trials that would come upon them should they live. He knows whether their lives would be a blessing or a curse to themselves and to the world. This is one reason why, while presenting our petitions with earnestness, we should say, "Nevertheless not my will, but Thine, be done." Luke 22:42. Jesus added these words of submission to the wisdom and will of God when in the Garden of Gethsemane He pleaded, "O My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from Me." Matthew 26:39. And if they were appropriate for Him, the Son of God, how much more are they becoming on the lips of finite, erring mortals! {CCh 305.2} [CCh 305.3] The consistent course is to commit our desires to our all-wise heavenly Father, and then, in perfect confidence, trust all to Him. We know that God hears us if we ask according to His will. But to press our petitions without a submissive spirit is not right; our prayers must take the form, not of command, but of intercession. {CCh 305.3} [CCh 305.4] There are cases where God works decidedly by His divine power in the restoration of health. But not all the sick are healed. Many are laid away to sleep in Jesus. John on the Isle of Patmos was bidden to write: "Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors; and their works do follow them." Revelation 14:13. From this we see that if persons are not raised to health, they should not on this account be judged as wanting in faith. {CCh 305.4} [CCh 305.5] We all desire immediate and direct answers to our prayers, and are tempted to become discouraged when the answer is delayed or comes in an unlooked-for form. But God is too wise and good to answer our prayers always at just the time and in just the manner we desire. He will do more and better for us than to accomplish all our wishes. And because we can trust His wisdom and love, we should not ask Him to concede to our will, but should seek to enter into and accomplish His 306 purpose. Our desires and interests should be lost in His will. These experiences that test faith are for our benefit. By them it is made manifest whether our faith is true and sincere, resting on the word of God alone, or whether depending on circumstances, it is uncertain and changeable. Faith is strengthened by exercise. We must let patience have its perfect work, remembering that there are precious promises in the Scriptures for those who wait upon the Lord. {CCh 305.5} [CCh 306.1] Not all understand these principles. Many who seek the Lord's healing mercy think that they must have a direct and immediate answer to their prayers or their faith is defective. For this reason, those who are weakened by disease need to be counseled wisely, that they may act with discretion. They should not disregard their duty to the friends who may survive them, or neglect to employ nature's agencies for the restoration of health. {CCh 306.1} [CCh 306.2] Often there is danger of error here. Believing that they will be healed in answer to prayer, some fear to do anything that might seem to indicate a lack of faith. But they should not neglect to set their affairs in order as they would desire to do if they expected to be removed by death. Nor should they fear to utter words of encouragement or counsel which at the parting hour they wish to speak to their loved ones. {CCh 306.2} [CCh 306.3] Those who seek healing by prayer should not neglect to make use of the remedial agencies within their reach. It is not a denial of faith to use such remedies as God has provided to alleviate pain and to aid nature in her work of restoration. It is no denial of faith to co-operate with God, and to place themselves in the condition most favorable to recovery. God has put it in our power to obtain a knowledge of the laws of life. This knowledge has been placed within our reach for use. We should employ every facility for the restoration of health, taking every advantage possible, working in harmony with natural laws. When we have prayed for the recovery of the sick, we can work with all the more energy, thanking God that we have the privilege of co-operating with Him, and asking His blessing on the means which He Himself has provided. {CCh 306.3} [CCh 306.4] We have the sanction of the word of God for the use of remedial agencies. Hezekiah, king of Israel, was sick, and a prophet of God brought him the message that he should die. He cried unto the Lord, and the Lord heard His servant and sent him a message that fifteen years should be added to his life. Now, one word from God would have healed Hezekiah instantly; but special directions were given, "Let them take a lump of figs, and lay it for a plaster upon the boil, and he shall recover." Isaiah 38:21. {CCh 306.4} [CCh 306.5] When we have prayed for the recovery of the sick, whatever the outcome of the case, let us not lose faith in God. If we are called upon to meet bereavement, let us accept the bitter cup, remembering that a Father's hand holds it to our lips. But should health be restored, it should not be forgotten that the recipient of healing mercy is placed 307 under renewed obligation to the Creator. When the ten lepers were cleansed, only one returned to find Jesus and give Him glory. Let none of us be like the unthinking nine, whose hearts were untouched by the mercy of God. "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning." James 1:17. MH 225-233547 {CCh 306.5} [CCh 308.1] Chapter 55 —The Medical Work Medical missionary work is the pioneer work of the gospel, the door through which the truth for this time is to find entrance to many homes. God's people are to be genuine medical missionaries, for they are to learn to minister to the needs of both soul and body. The purest unselfishness is to be shown by our workers as, with the knowledge and experience gained by practical work, they go out to give treatments to the sick. As they go from house to house they will find access to many hearts. Many will be reached who otherwise never would have heard the gospel message. A demonstration of the principles of health reform will do much toward removing prejudice against our evangelical work. The Great Physician, the originator of medical missionary work, will bless all who thus seek to impart the truth for this time. {CCh 308.1} [CCh 308.2] Physical healing is bound up with the gospel commission. When Christ sent His disciples out on their first missionary journey, He bade them, "As ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give." Matthew 10:7, 8. {CCh 308.2} [CCh 308.3] The divine commission needs no reform. Christ's way of presenting truth cannot be improved upon. The Saviour gave the disciples practical lessons, teaching them how to work in such a way as to make souls glad in the truth. He sympathized with the weary, the heavy-laden, the oppressed. He fed the hungry and healed the sick. Constantly He went about doing good. By the good He accomplished, by His loving words and kindly deeds, He interpreted the gospel to men. {CCh 308.3} [CCh 308.4] Christ's work in behalf of man is not finished. It continues today. In like manner His ambassadors are to preach the gospel and to reveal His pitying love for lost and perishing souls. By an unselfish interest in those who need help they are to give a practical demonstration of the truth of the gospel. Much more than mere sermonizing is included in this work. The evangelization of the world is the work God has given to those who go forth in His name. They are to be colaborers with Christ, revealing to those ready to perish His tender, pitying love. God calls for thousands to work for Him, not by preaching to those who know the truth for this time, but by warning those who have never heard the last message of mercy. Work with a heart filled with an earnest longing for souls. Do medical missionary work. Thus you will gain access to the hearts of people, and the way will be prepared 309 for a more decided proclamation of the truth. CH 497-499548 {CCh 308.4} [CCh 309.1] Institutions to Be Established There are many places that need gospel medical missionary work, and there small plants should be established. God designs that our sanitariums shall be a means of reaching high and low, rich and poor. They are to be so conducted that by their work attention may be called to the message God has sent to the world. CH 501549 {CCh 309.1} [CCh 309.2] The ministry to the physical and the spiritual are to blend, leading the afflicted ones to trust in the power of the heavenly Physician. Those who, while giving the proper treatments, will also pray for the healing grace of Christ, will inspire faith in the minds of the patients. Their own course will be an inspiration to those who supposed their cases to be hopeless. {CCh 309.2} [CCh 309.3] This is why our sanitariums were established—to give courage to the hopeless by uniting the prayer of faith with proper treatment, and instruction in physical and spiritual right living. Through such ministrations many are to be converted. The physicians in our sanitariums are to give the clear gospel message of soul healing. MM 248550 {CCh 309.3} [CCh 309.4] The Pioneer Work of the Gospel If we would elevate the moral standard in any country where we may be called to go, we must begin by correcting their physical habits. CH 505551 {CCh 309.4} [CCh 309.5] Medical missionary work brings to humanity the gospel of release from suffering. It is the pioneer work of the gospel. It is the gospel practiced, the compassion of Christ revealed. Of this work there is great need, and the world is open for it. God grant that the importance of medical missionary work shall be understood, and that new fields may be immediately entered. Then will the work of the ministry be after the Lord's order; the sick will be healed, and poor, suffering humanity will be blessed. MM 239552 {CCh 309.5} [CCh 309.6] You will meet with much prejudice, a great deal of false zeal and miscalled piety; but in both the home and the foreign field you will find more hearts that God has been preparing for the seed of truth than you imagine, and they will hail with joy the divine message when it is presented to them. CH 502553 {CCh 309.6} [CCh 309.7] The medical missionary work has never been presented to me in any other way than as bearing the same relation to the work as a whole as the arm does to the body. The gospel ministry is an organization for the proclamation of the truth and the carrying forward of the work for sick and well. This is the body, the medical missionary work is the arm, and Christ is the head over all. Thus the matter has been presented to me. {CCh 309.7} [CCh 309.8] Begin to do medical missionary work with the conveniences which you have at hand. You will find that thus the way will open for you to hold Bible readings. The heavenly Father will place you in connection 310 with those who need to know how to treat their sick ones. Put into practice what you know regarding the treatment of disease. Thus suffering will be relieved, and you will have opportunity to break the bread of life to starving souls. MM 237, 239554 {CCh 309.8} [CCh 310.1] A Work in Which All Are to Unite Ministers of the gospel are to unite with the medical missionary work, which has ever been presented to me as the work which is to break down the prejudice which exists in our world against the truth. {CCh 310.1} [CCh 310.2] A gospel minister will be twice as successful in his work if he understands how to treat disease. {CCh 310.2} [CCh 310.3] To take people right where they are, whatever their position, whatever their condition, and help them in every way possible—this is gospel ministry. It may be necessary for ministers to go into the homes of the sick and say, "I am ready to help you, and I will do the best I can. I am not a physician, but I am a minister, and I like to minister to the sick and afflicted." Those who are sick in body are nearly always sick in soul, and when the soul is sick, the body is made sick. {CCh 310.3} [CCh 310.4] There is to be no division between the ministry and the medical work. The physician should labor equally with the minister, and with as much earnestness and thoroughness for the salvation of the soul as well as for the restoration of the body. Some, who do not see the advantage of educating the youth to be physicians both of the mind and of the body, say that the tithe should not be used to support medical missionaries, who devote their time to treating the sick. In response to such statements as these, I am instructed to say that the mind must not become so narrowed down that it cannot take in the truth of the situation. A minister of the gospel who is also a medical missionary, who can cure physical ailments, is a much more efficient worker than one who cannot do this. His work as a minister of the gospel is much more complete. {CCh 310.4} [CCh 310.5] The Lord has declared that the educated physician will find entrance in our cities where other men cannot. Teach the message of health reform. This will have an influence with the people. {CCh 310.5} [CCh 310.6] The presenting of Bible principles by an intelligent physician will have great weight with many people. There is efficiency and power with one who can combine in his influence the work of a physician and of a gospel minister. His work commends itself to the good judgment of the people. {CCh 310.6} [CCh 310.7] And thus should our physicians labor. They are doing the Lord's work when they labor as evangelists, giving instruction as to how the soul may be healed by the Lord Jesus. Every physician should know how to pray in faith for the sick, as well as to administer the proper treatment. At the same time he should labor as one of God's ministers, to teach repentance and conversion, and the salvation of soul and body. Such a combination of labor will broaden his experience, and greatly enlarge his influence. MM 237-247555 {CCh 310.7} [CCh 311.1] The Medical Work Will Open Doors to the Truth There are many lines of work to be carried forward by the missionary nurse. There are openings for well-trained nurses to go among families and seek to awaken an interest in the truth. In almost every community there are large numbers who do not attend any religious service. If they are reached by the gospel, is must be carried to their homes. Often the relief of their physical needs is the only avenue by which they can be approached. As missionary nurses care for the sick and relieve the distress of the poor, they will find many opportunities to pray with them, to read to them from God's word, to speak of the Saviour. They can pray with and for the helpless ones who have not strength of will to control the appetites that passion has degraded. They can bring a ray of hope into the lives of the defeated and disheartened. Their unselfish love, manifested in acts of disinterested kindness, will make it easier for these suffering ones to believe in the love of Christ. {CCh 311.1} [CCh 311.2] I have been shown that the medical missionary work will discover, in the very depths of degradation, men who once possessed fine minds, richest qualifications, who will be rescued by proper labor from their fallen condition. It is the truth as it is in Jesus that is to be brought before human minds after they have been sympathetically cared for and their physical necessities met. The Holy Spirit is working and cooperating with the human agencies that are laboring for such souls, and some will appreciate the foundation upon a rock for their religious faith. {CCh 311.2} [CCh 311.3] The right hand is used to open doors through which the body may find entrance. This is the part the medical missionary work is to act. It is to largely prepare the way for the reception of the truth for this time. A body without hands is useless. In giving honor to the body, honor must also be given to the helping hands, which are agencies of such importance that without them the body can do nothing. Therefore the body which treats indifferently the right hand, refusing its aid, is able to accomplish nothing. {CCh 311.3} [CCh 311.4] Living the gospel, maintaining its principles—this is a savor of life unto life. Doors that have been closed to him who merely preaches the gospel, will be opened to the intelligent medical missionary. God reaches hearts through the relief of physical suffering. A seed of truth is dropped into the mind, and is watered by God. Much patience may be required before this seed shows signs of life, but at last it springs up, and bears fruit unto eternal life. MM 238-247556 {CCh 311.4} [CCh 312.1] Chapter 56 —Relations With Those Not of Our Persuasion The question may be asked, Are we to have no union whatever with the world? The word of the Lord is to be our guide. Any connection with infidels and unbelievers that would identify us with them, is forbidden by the Word. We are to come out from among them, and be separate. In no case are we to link ourselves with them in their plans of work. But we are not to live reclusive lives. We are to do worldlings all the good we possibly can. {CCh 312.1} [CCh 312.2] Christ has given us an example of this. When invited to eat with publicans and sinners, He did not refuse; for in no other way than by mingling with them could He reach this class. But on every occasion He opened up themes of conversation which brought things of eternal interest to their minds. And He enjoins us, "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." Matthew 5:16. GW 394557 {CCh 312.2} [CCh 312.3] The society of unbelievers will do us no harm if we mingle with them for the purpose of connecting them with God and are strong enough spiritually to withstand their influence. {CCh 312.3} [CCh 312.4] Christ came into the world to save it, to connect fallen man with the infinite God. Christ's followers are to be channels of light. Maintaining communion with God, they are to transmit to those in darkness and error the choice blessings which they receive of heaven. Enoch did not become polluted with the iniquities existing in his day; why need we in our day? But we may, like our Master, have compassion for suffering humanity, pity for the unfortunate, and a generous consideration for the feelings and necessities of the needy, the troubled, and the despairing. 5T 113558 {CCh 312.4} [CCh 312.5] I pray that my brethren may realize that the third angel's message means much to us and that the observance of the true Sabbath is to be the sign that distinguishes those who serve God from those who serve Him not. Let those who have become sleepy and indifferent awake. {CCh 312.5} [CCh 312.6] We are called to be holy, and we should carefully avoid giving the impression that it is of little consequence whether or not we retain the peculiar features of our faith. Upon us rests the solemn obligation of taking a more decided stand for truth and righteousness than we have taken in the past. The line of demarcation between those who keep the commandments of God and those who do not is to be revealed with unmistakable clearness. We are conscientiously to honor God, diligently using every means of keeping in covenant relation with Him, that 313 we may receive His blessings, the blessings so essential for the people who are to be so severely tried. {CCh 312.6} [CCh 313.1] To give the impression that our faith, our religion, is not a dominating power in our lives is greatly to dishonor God. Thus we turn from His commandments, which are our life, denying that He is our God and that we are His people. 7T 108559 {CCh 313.1} [CCh 313.2] Speaking to Ministers and Groups of Other Denominations You may have opportunity to speak in other churches. In improving these opportunities, remember the words of the Saviour, "Be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves." Do not arouse the malignity of the enemy by making denunciatory speeches. Thus you will close doors against the entrance of truth. Clear-cut messages are to be borne. But guard against arousing antagonism. There are many souls to be saved. Restrain all harsh expressions. In word and deed be wise unto salvation, representing Christ to all with whom you come in contact. Let all see that your feet are shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace and good will to men. Wonderful are the results we shall see if we enter into the work imbued with the Spirit of Christ. Help will come in our necessity if we carry the work forward in righteousness, mercy, and love. Truth will triumph, and bear away the victory. Ev 563, 564560 {CCh 313.2} [CCh 313.3] We have a work to do for the ministers of other churches. God wants them to be saved. They, like ourselves, can have immortality only through faith and obedience. We must labor for them earnestly that they may obtain it. God wants them to have a part in His special work for this time. He wants them to be among the number who are giving to His household meat in due season. Why should they not be engaged in this work? Our ministers should seek to come near to the ministers of other denominations. Pray for and with these men, for whom Christ is interceding. A solemn responsibility is theirs. As Christ's messengers we should manifest a deep, earnest interest in these shepherds of the flock. 6T 77, 78561 {CCh 313.3} [CCh 313.4] Our ministers are to make it their special work to labor for ministers. They are not to get into controversy with them, but, with their Bible in their hand, urge them to study the Word. If this is done, there are many ministers now preaching error, who will preach the truth for this time. Ev 562 562 {CCh 313.4} [CCh 314.1] Chapter 57 —Our Relations to Civil Rulers and Laws The apostle plainly outlined the attitude that believers should sustain toward the civil authorities: "Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. For so is the will of God, that with well-doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men: as free, and not using your liberty for a cloak of maliciousness, but as the servants of God. Honor all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king." 1 Peter 2:13-17. AA 522563 {CCh 314.1} [CCh 314.2] We have men placed over us for rulers, and laws to govern the people. Were it not for these laws, the condition of the world would be worse than it is now. Some of these laws are good, others are bad. The bad have been increasing, and we are yet to be brought into strait places. But God will sustain His people in being firm and living up to the principles of His Word. 1T 201564 {CCh 314.2} [CCh 314.3] I saw that it is our duty in every case to obey the laws of our land, unless they conflict with the higher law which God spoke with an audible voice from Sinai, and afterward engraved on stone with His own finger. "I will put My laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to Me a people." He who has God's law written in the heart will obey God rather than men, and will sooner disobey all men than deviate in the least from the commandment of God. God's people, taught by the inspiration of truth, and led by a good conscience to live by every word of God, will take His law, written in their hearts, as the only authority which they can acknowledge or consent to obey. The wisdom and authority of the divine law are supreme. 1T 361565 {CCh 314.3} [CCh 314.4] The government under which Jesus lived was corrupt and oppressive; on every hand were crying abuses—extortion, intolerance, and grinding cruelty. Yet the Saviour attempted no civil reforms. He attacked no national abuses, nor condemned the national enemies. He did not interfere with the authority or administration of those in power. He who was our example kept aloof from earthly governments. Not because He was indifferent to the woes of men, but because the remedy did not lie in merely human and external measures. To be efficient, the cure must reach men individually, and must regenerate the heart. DA 509566 {CCh 314.4} [CCh 314.5] Again and again Christ had been asked to decide legal and political 315 questions. But He refused to interfere in temporal matters. Christ stood in our world as the Head of the great spiritual kingdom that He came to our world to establish—the kingdom of righteousness. His teaching made plain the ennobling, sanctifying principles that govern this kingdom. He showed that justice and mercy and love are the controlling powers in Jehovah's kingdom. 9T 218567 {CCh 314.5} [CCh 315.1] The spies came to Him, and with apparent sincerity, as though desiring to know their duty, said, "Master, we know that Thou sayest and teachest rightly, neither acceptest Thou the person of any, but teachest the way of God truly: is it lawful for us to give tribute unto Caesar, or no?" {CCh 315.1} [CCh 315.2] Christ's reply was no evasion, but a candid answer to the question. Holding in His hand the Roman coin, upon which were stamped the name and image of Caesar, He declared that since they were living under the protection of the Roman power, they should render to that power the support it claimed, so long as this did not conflict with a higher duty. {CCh 315.2} [CCh 315.3] When the Pharisees heard Christ's answer, "they marveled, and left Him, and went their way." He had rebuked their hypocrisy and presumption, and in doing this He had stated a great principle, a principle that clearly defines the limits of man's duty to the civil government and his duty to God. DA 601-603568 {CCh 315.3} [CCh 315.4] Oath Taking I saw that some of God's children have made a mistake in regard to oath taking, and Satan has taken advantage of this to oppress them, and take from them their Lord's money. I saw that the words of our Lord, "Swear not at all," do not touch the judicial oath. "Let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil." This refers to common conversation. Some exaggerate in their language. Some swear by their own life; others swear by their head—as sure as they live; as sure as they have a head. Some take heaven and earth to witness that such things are so. Some hope that God will strike them out of existence if what they are saying is not true. It is this kind of common swearing against which Jesus warns His disciples. {CCh 315.4} [CCh 315.5] I saw that the Lord still has something to do with the laws of the land. While Jesus is in the sanctuary, God's restraining Spirit is felt by rulers and people. But Satan controls to a great extent the mass of the world, and were it not for the laws of the land, we should experience much suffering. I was shown that when it is actually necessary, and they are called upon to testify in a lawful manner, it is no violation of God's word for His children to solemnly take God to witness that what they say is the truth, and nothing but the truth. {CCh 315.5} [CCh 315.6] I saw that if there is anyone on earth who can consistently testify under oath, it is the Christian. He lives in the light of God's countenance. 316 He grows strong in His strength. And when matters of importance must be decided by law, there is no one who can so well appeal to God as the Christian. I was bidden by the angel to notice that God swears by Himself. 1T 201-203569 {CCh 315.6} [CCh 316.1] Excitement Concerning Politics Those who teach the Bible in our churches and our schools are not at liberty to unite in making apparent their prejudices for or against political men or measures, because by so doing they stir up the minds of others, leading each to advocate his favorite theory. There are among those professing to believe present truth, some who will thus be stirred up to express their sentiments and political preferences, so that division will be brought into the church. {CCh 316.1} [CCh 316.2] The Lord would have His people bury political questions. On these themes silence is eloquence. Christ calls upon His followers to come into unity on the pure gospel principles which are plainly revealed in the word of God. We cannot with safety vote for political parties; for we do not know whom we are voting for. We cannot with safety take part in any political scheme. {CCh 316.2} [CCh 316.3] Those who are Christians indeed will be branches of the true vine, and will bear the same fruit as the vine. They will act in harmony, in Christian fellowship. They will not wear political badges, but the badge of Christ. {CCh 316.3} [CCh 316.4] What are we to do, then?—Let political questions alone. {CCh 316.4} [CCh 316.5] There is a large vineyard to be cultivated; but while Christians are to work among unbelievers, they are not to appear like worldlings. They are not to spend their time talking politics or acting politics; for by so doing they give the enemy opportunity to come in and cause variance and discord. {CCh 316.5} [CCh 316.6] God's children are to separate themselves from politics, from any alliance with unbelievers. Do not take part in political strife. Separate from the world, and refrain from bringing into the church or school ideas that will lead to contention and disorder. Dissension is the moral poison taken into the system by human beings who are selfish. GW 391-395570 {CCh 316.6} [CCh 316.7] Danger in Making Unguarded Statements Teach the people to conform in all things to the laws of their state when they can do so without conflicting with the law of God. 9T 238571 {CCh 316.7} [CCh 316.8] By some of our brethren many things have been spoken and written that are interpreted as expressing antagonism to government and law. It is a mistake thus to lay ourselves open to misunderstanding. It is not wise to find fault continually with what is done by the rulers of government. It is not our work to attack individuals or institutions. We should exercise great care lest we be understood as putting ourselves in opposition to the civil authorities. It is true that our warfare is aggressive, but 317 our weapons are to be those found in a plain "Thus saith the Lord." Our work is to prepare a people to stand in the great day of God. We should not be turned aside to lines that will encourage controversy or arouse antagonism in those not of our faith. {CCh 316.8} [CCh 317.1] The time will come when unguarded expressions of a denunciatory character, that have been carelessly spoken or written by our brethren, will be used by our enemies to condemn us. These will not be used merely to condemn those who made the statements, but will be charged upon the whole body of Adventists. Our accusers will say that on such and such a day one of our responsible men said thus and so against the administration of the laws of this government. Many will be astonished to see how many things have been cherished and remembered that will give point to the arguments of our adversaries. Many will be surprised to hear their own words strained into a meaning that they did not intend them to have. Then let our workers be careful to speak guardedly at all times and under all circumstances. Let all beware lest by reckless expressions they bring on a time of trouble before the great crisis which is to try men's souls. {CCh 317.1} [CCh 317.2] We should remember that the world will judge us by what we appear to be. Let those who are seeking to represent Christ be careful not to exhibit inconsistent features of character. Before we come fully to the front, let us see to it that the Holy Spirit is poured upon us from on high. When this is the case, we shall give a decided message, but it will be of a far less condemnatory character than that which some have been giving; and all who believe will be far more earnest for the salvation of our opponents. Let God have the matter of condemning authorities and governments wholly in His own keeping. In meekness and love let us as faithful sentinels defend the principles of truth as it is in Jesus. 6T 394-397572 {CCh 317.2} [CCh 317.3] Sunday Laws Religious powers, allied to heaven by profession, and claiming to have the characteristics of a lamb, will show by their acts that they have the heart of a dragon and that they are instigated and controlled by Satan. The time is coming when God's people will feel the hand of persecution because they keep holy the seventh day. Satan has caused the change of the Sabbath in the hope of carrying out his purpose for the defeat of God's plans. He seeks to make the commands of God of less force in the world than human laws. The man of sin, who thought to change times and laws, and who has always oppressed the people of God, will cause laws to be made enforcing the observance of the first day of the week. But God's people are to stand firm for Him. And the Lord will work in their behalf, showing plainly that He is the God of gods. {CCh 317.3} [CCh 317.4] The law for the observance of the first day of the week is the production of an apostate Christendom. Sunday is a child of the papacy, exalted by the Christian world above the sacred day of God's rest. In no 318 case are God's people to pay it homage. But I wish them to understand that they are not doing God's will by braving opposition when He wishes them to avoid it. Thus they create prejudice so bitter that it is impossible for the truth to be proclaimed. Make no demonstration on Sunday in defiance of law. If this is done in one place, and you are humiliated, the same thing will be done in another place. We can use Sunday as a day on which to carry forward work that will tell on the side of Christ. We are to do our best, working with all meekness and lowliness. {CCh 317.4} [CCh 318.1] When we devote Sunday to missionary work, the whip will be taken out of the hands of the arbitrary zealots who would be well pleased to humiliate Seventh-day Adventists. When they see that we employ ourselves on Sunday in visiting the people and opening the Scriptures to them, they will know that it is useless for them to try to hinder our work by making Sunday laws. {CCh 318.1} [CCh 318.2] Sunday can be used for carrying forward various lines of work that will accomplish much for the Lord. On this day open-air meetings and cottage meetings can be held. House-to-house work can be done. Those who write can devote this day to writing their articles. Whenever it is possible, let religious services be held on Sunday. Make these meetings intensely interesting. Sing genuine revival hymns, and speak with power and assurance of the Saviour's love. Speak on temperance and on true religious experience. You will thus learn much about how to work, and will reach many souls. {CCh 318.2} [CCh 318.3] Let the teachers in our schools devote Sunday to missionary effort. I was instructed that they would thus be able to defeat the purposes of the enemy. Let the teachers take the students with them to hold meetings for those who know not the truth. Thus they will accomplish much more than they could in any other way. {CCh 318.3} [CCh 318.4] The people must be given the truth, straightforward, positive truth. But this truth is to be presented in the spirit of Christ. We are to be as sheep in the midst of wolves. Those who will not, for Christ's sake, observe the cautions He has given, who will not exercise patience and self-control, will lose precious opportunities of working for the Master. The Lord has not given His people the work of making a tirade against those who are transgressing His law. In no case are we to make a raid on the other churches. {CCh 318.4} [CCh 318.5] We are to do all we can to remove the prejudice that exists in the minds of many against our work and against the Bible Sabbath. 9T 229-238573 {CCh 318.5} [CCh 319.1] Chapter 58 —Satan’s Deceptive Work I saw evil angels contending for souls, and angels of God resisting them. The conflict was severe. Evil angels were corrupting the atmosphere with their poisonous influence, and crowding about these souls to stupefy their sensibilities. Holy angels were anxiously watching and waiting to drive back Satan's host. But it is not the work of good angels to control the minds of men against their will. If they yield to the enemy, and make no effort to resist him, then the angels of God can do but little more than hold in check the host of Satan, that they shall not destroy, until further light be given to those in peril, to move them to arouse and look to heaven for help. Jesus will not commission holy angels to extricate those who make no effort to help themselves. {CCh 319.1} [CCh 319.2] If Satan sees that he is in danger of losing one soul, he will exert himself to the utmost to keep that one. And when the individual is aroused to his danger, and, with distress and fervor, looks to Jesus for strength, Satan fears that he will lose a captive, and he calls a reinforcement of his angels to hedge in the poor soul, and form a wall of darkness around him, that heaven's light may not reach him. But if the one in danger perseveres, and in his helplessness casts himself upon the merits of the blood of Christ, our Saviour listens to the earnest prayer of faith, and sends a reinforcement of those angels that excel in strength to deliver him. {CCh 319.2} [CCh 319.3] Satan cannot endure to have his powerful rival appealed to, for he fears and trembles before His strength and majesty. At the sound of fervent prayer, Satan's whole host trembles. He continues to call legions of evil angels to accomplish his object. And when angels, all-powerful, clothed with the armory of heaven, come to the help of the fainting, pursued soul, Satan and his host fall back, well knowing that their battle is lost. The willing subjects of Satan are faithful, active, and united in one object. And although they hate and war with one another, yet they improve every opportunity to advance their common interest. But the great Commander in heaven and earth has limited Satan's power. 1T 345, 346574 {CCh 319.3} [CCh 319.4] Danger in Venturing From the Protection of Heaven Angels of God will preserve His people while they walk in the path of duty, but there is no assurance of such protection for those who deliberately venture upon Satan's ground. An agent of the great deceiver 320 will say and do anything to gain his object. It matters little whether he calls himself a spiritualist, an "electric physician," or a "magnetic healer." By specious pretenses he wins the confidence of the unwary. He pretends to read the life history and to understand all the difficulties and afflictions of those who resort to him. Disguising himself as an angel of light, while the blackness of the pit is in his heart, he manifests great interest in women who seek his counsel. He tells them that all their troubles are due to an unhappy marriage. This may be too true, but such a counselor does not better their condition. He tells them that they need love and sympathy. Pretending great interest in their welfare, he casts a spell over his unsuspecting victims, charming them as the serpent charms the trembling bird. Soon they are completely in his power; sin, disgrace, and ruin are the terrible sequel. {CCh 319.4} [CCh 320.1] These workers of iniquity are not few. Their path is marked by desolated homes, blasted reputations, and broken hearts. But of all this the world knows little; still they go on making fresh victims, and Satan exults in the ruin he has wrought. 5T 198575 {CCh 320.1} [CCh 320.2] "Ahaziah fell down through a lattice in his upper chamber that was in Samaria, and was sick: and he sent messengers, and said unto them, Go, inquire of Baal-zebub the god of Ekron whether I shall recover of this disease. But the angel of the Lord said to Elijah the Tishbite, Arise, go up to meet the messengers of the king of Samaria, and say unto them, Is it not because there is not a God in Israel, that ye go to inquire of Baal-zebub the god of Ekron? Now therefore thus saith the Lord, Thou shalt not come down from that bed on which thou art gone up, but shalt surely die." 2 Kings 1:2-4. {CCh 320.2} [CCh 320.3] The history of King Ahaziah's sin and punishment has a lesson of warning which none can disregard with impunity. Though we do not pay homage to heathen gods, yet thousands are worshiping at Satan's shrine as verily as did the king of Israel. The very spirit of heathen idolatry is rife today, though under the influence of science and education it has assumed a more refined and attractive form. Every day adds sorrowful evidence that faith in the sure word of prophecy is fast decreasing, and that in its stead superstition and satanic witchery are captivating the minds of men. All who do not earnestly search the Scriptures and submit every desire and purpose of life to that unerring test, all who do not seek God in prayer for a knowledge of His will, will surely wander from the right path and fall under the deception of Satan. {CCh 320.3} [CCh 320.4] The Hebrews were the only nation favored with a knowledge of the true God. When the king of Israel sent to inquire of a pagan oracle, he proclaimed to the heathen that he had more confidence in their idols than in the God of his people, the Creator of the heavens and the earth. In the same manner do those who profess to have a knowledge of God's word dishonor Him when they turn from the Source of strength and wisdom to ask help or counsel from the powers of darkness. If God's wrath was kindled by such a course on the part of a wicked, idolatrous 321 king, how can He regard a similar course pursued by those who profess to be His servants? 5T 191, 192, 196576 {CCh 320.4} [CCh 321.1] No Man Can Serve Two Masters Christ has brought before us two masters, God and the world, and has plainly presented the fact that it is simply impossible for us to serve both. If our interest in, and love for, this world predominate, we shall not appreciate the things, which, above all others, are worthy of our attention. The love of the world will exclude the love of God and make our highest interests subordinate to worldly considerations. Thus God will not hold so exalted a place in our affections and devotions as do the things of the world. {CCh 321.1} [CCh 321.2] Satan deals with men more guardedly than he dealt with Christ in the wilderness of temptation, for he is admonished that he there lost his case. He is a conquered foe. He does not come to man directly and demand homage by outward worship. He simply asks men to place their affections upon the good things of this world. If he succeeds in engaging the mind and affections, the heavenly attractions are eclipsed. All he wants of man is for him to fall under the deceitful power of his temptations, to love the world, to love rank and position, to love money, and to place his affections upon earthly treasures. If he secures this, he gains all that he asked of Christ. 3T 478, 480577 {CCh 321.2} [CCh 322.1] Chapter 59 —False Science—Satan’s Modern Robe of Light False science is one of the agencies that Satan used in the heavenly courts, and it is used by him today. The false assertions that he made to the angels, his subtle scientific theories, seduced many of them from their loyalty. {CCh 322.1} [CCh 322.2] Having lost his place in heaven, Satan presented his temptations to our first parents. Adam and Eve yielded to the enemy, and by their disobedience humanity was estranged from God, and the earth was separated from heaven. {CCh 322.2} [CCh 322.3] If Adam and Eve had never touched the forbidden tree, the Lord would have imparted to them knowledge, knowledge upon which rested no curse of sin, knowledge that would have brought them everlasting joy. All that they gained by their disobedience was an acquaintance with sin and its results. {CCh 322.3} [CCh 322.4] The field into which Satan led our first parents is the same to which he is leading men today. He is flooding the world with pleasing fables. By every device at his command he seeks to prevent men from obtaining that knowledge of God which is salvation. 8T 290578 {CCh 322.4} [CCh 322.5] When Error Appears as Light We are living in an age of great light; but much that is called light is opening the way for the wisdom and arts of Satan. Many things will be presented that appear to be true, and yet they need to be carefully considered with much prayer; for they may be specious devices of the enemy. The path of error often appears to lie close to the path of truth. It is hardly distinguishable from the path that leads to holiness and heaven. But the mind enlightened by the Holy Spirit may discern that it is diverging from the right way. After a while the two are seen to be widely separated. {CCh 322.5} [CCh 322.6] The theory that God is an essence pervading all nature is one of Satan's most subtle devices. It misrepresents God and is a dishonor to His greatness and majesty. {CCh 322.6} [CCh 322.7] Pantheistic theories are not sustained by the Word of God. The light of His truth shows that these theories are soul-destroying agencies. Darkness is their element, sensuality their sphere. They gratify the natural heart and give license to inclination. Separation from God is the result of accepting them. {CCh 322.7} [CCh 322.8] Our condition through sin has become preternatural, and the power 323 that restores us must be supernatural, else it has no value. There is but one power that can break the hold of evil from the hearts of men, and that is the power of God in Jesus Christ. Only through the blood of the Crucified One is there cleansing from sin. His grace alone can enable us to resist and subdue the tendencies of our fallen nature. This power the spiritualistic theories concerning God * A teaching that has as its foundation the principle that God is the good that is everywhere and in everything.—The Compilers.579 make of no effect. If God is an essence pervading all nature, then He dwells in all men; and in order to attain holiness, man has only to develop the power that is within him. {CCh 322.8} [CCh 323.1] These theories, followed to their logical conclusion, sweep away the whole Christian economy. They do away with the necessity for the atonement and make man his own savior. These theories regarding God make His word of no effect, and those who accept them are in great danger of being led finally to look upon the whole Bible as a fiction. They may regard virtue as better than vice; but God being removed from His position of sovereignty, they place their dependence upon human power, which, without God, is worthless. The unaided human will has no real power to resist and overcome evil. The defenses of the soul are broken down. Man has no barrier against sin. When once the restraints of God's word and His Spirit are rejected, we know not to what depths one may sink. {CCh 323.1} [CCh 323.2] Those who continue to hold these spiritualistic theories will surely spoil their Christian experience, sever their connection with God, and lose eternal life. 8T 290-292580 {CCh 323.2} [CCh 323.3] An Attempt to Deceive the Very Elect The sophistries regarding God and nature that are flooding the world with skepticism are the inspiration of the fallen foe, who is himself a Bible student, who knows the truth that it is essential for the people to receive, and whose study it is to divert minds from the great truths given to prepare them for what is coming upon the world. {CCh 323.3} [CCh 323.4] After the passing of the time in 1844, we had fanaticism of every kind to meet. Testimonies of reproof were given me to bear to some holding spiritualistic theories. {CCh 323.4} [CCh 323.5] Ungodly teaching is followed by sinful practice. It is the seducing bait of the father of lies, and results in the impenitence of self-satisfied impurity. {CCh 323.5} [CCh 323.6] The experience of the past will be repeated. In the future, Satan's superstitions will assume new forms. Errors will be presented in a pleasing and flattering manner. False theories, clothed with garments of light, will be presented to God's people. Thus Satan will try to deceive, if possible, the very elect. Most seducing influences will be exerted; minds will be hypnotized. {CCh 323.6} [CCh 323.7] Corruptions of every type, similar to those existing among the antediluvians, 324 will be brought in to take minds captive. The exaltation of nature as God, the unrestrained license of the human will, the counsel of the ungodly—these Satan uses as agencies to bring about certain ends. He will employ the power of mind over mind to carry out his designs. The most sorrowful thought of all is that under his deceptive influence men will have a form of godliness, without having a real connection with God. Like Adam and Eve, who ate the fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, many are even now feeding upon the deceptive morsels of error. {CCh 323.7} [CCh 324.1] Satanic agencies are clothing false theories in an attractive garb, even as Satan in the Garden of Eden concealed his identity from our first parents by speaking through the serpent. These agencies are instilling into human minds that which in reality is deadly error. The hypnotic influence of Satan will rest upon those who turn from the plain word of God to pleasing fables. {CCh 324.1} [CCh 324.2] It is those who have had the most light that Satan most assiduously seeks to ensnare. He knows that if he can deceive them, they will, under his control, clothe sin with garments of righteousness, and lead many astray. {CCh 324.2} [CCh 324.3] I say to all: Be on your guard; for as an angel of light Satan is walking in every assembly of Christian workers, and in every church, trying to win the members to his side. I am bidden to give to the people of God the warning: "Be not deceived; God is not mocked." Galatians 6:7. 8T 292-294581 {CCh 324.3} [CCh 324.4] Satan’s Plan to Make a God of Nature In dwelling upon the laws of matter and the laws of nature, many lose sight of, if they do not deny, the continual and direct agency of God. They convey the idea that nature acts independently of God, having in and of itself its own limits and its own powers wherewith to work. In their minds there is a marked distinction between the natural and the supernatural. The natural is ascribed to ordinary causes, unconnected with the power of God. Vital power is attributed to matter, and nature is made a deity. It is supposed that matter is placed in certain relations and left to act from fixed laws with which God Himself cannot interfere; that nature is endowed with certain properties and placed subject to laws, and is then left to itself to obey these laws and perform the work originally commanded. {CCh 324.4} [CCh 324.5] This is false science; there is nothing in the word of God to sustain it. God does not annul His laws, but He is continually working through them, using them as His instruments. They are not self-working. God is perpetually at work in nature. She is His servant, directed as He pleases. Nature in her work testifies of the intelligent presence and active agency of a being who moves in all His works according to His will. It is not by an original power inherent in nature that year by year the earth yields its bounties and continues its march around the sun. The 325 hand of infinite power is perpetually at work guiding this planet. It is God's power momentarily exercised that keeps it in position in its rotation. {CCh 324.5} [CCh 325.1] The mechanism of the human body cannot be fully understood; it presents mysteries that baffle the most intelligent. It is not as the result of a mechanism, which, once set in motion, continues its work, that the pulse beats and breath follows breath. In God we live and move and have our being. Every breath, every throb of the heart, is a continual evidence of the power of an ever-present God. {CCh 325.1} [CCh 325.2] Men of the greatest intellect cannot understand the mysteries of Jehovah as revealed in nature. Divine inspiration asks many questions which the most profound scholar cannot answer. These questions were not asked that we might answer them, but to call our attention to the deep mysteries of God and to teach us that our wisdom is limited; that in the surroundings of our daily life there are many things beyond the comprehension of finite minds; that the judgment and purposes of God are past finding out. His wisdom is unsearchable. 8T 259-261582 {CCh 325.2} [CCh 325.3] The education begun here will not be completed in this life; it will be going forward throughout eternity, ever progressing, never completed. Day by day the wonderful works of God, the evidences of His miraculous power in creating and sustaining the universe, will open before the mind in new beauty. In the light that shines from the throne, mysteries will disappear, and the soul will be filled with astonishment at the simplicity of the things that were never before comprehended. 8T 328583 {CCh 325.3} [CCh 325.4] Warning Against Sensational Religion At this time we need in the cause of God spiritually minded men, men who are firm in principle and who have a clear understanding of the truth. {CCh 325.4} [CCh 325.5] I have been instructed that it is not new and fanciful doctrines which the people need. They do not need human suppositions. They need the testimony of men who know and practice the truth, men who understand and obey the charge given to Timothy: "Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry." 2 Timothy 4:2-5. {CCh 325.5} [CCh 325.6] Walk firmly, decidedly, your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace. You may be sure that pure and undefiled religion is not a sensational religion. God has not laid upon anyone the burden of encouraging an appetite for speculative doctrines and theories. My brethren, keep these things out of your teaching. Do not allow them to enter into your experience. Let not your lifework be marred by them. 8T 294, 295584 {CCh 325.6} [CCh 326.1] The Need of a Revival of a Spiritual Life I am instructed to say to our people: Let us follow Christ. Do not forget that He is to be our pattern in all things. We may safely discard those ideas that are not found in His teaching. I appeal to our ministers to be sure that their feet are placed on the platform of eternal truth. Beware how you follow impulse, calling it the Holy Spirit. Some are in danger in this respect. I call upon them to be sound in the faith, able to give to everyone who asks a reason of the hope that is in them. {CCh 326.1} [CCh 326.2] The enemy is seeking to divert the minds of our brethren and sisters from the work of preparing a people to stand in these last days. His sophistries are designed to lead minds away from the perils and duties of the hour. They estimate as nothing the light that Christ came from heaven to give to John for His people. They teach that the scenes just before us are not of sufficient importance to receive special attention. They make of no effect the truth of heavenly origin and rob the people of God of their past experience, giving them instead a false science. {CCh 326.2} [CCh 326.3] "Thus saith the Lord, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein." Jeremiah 6:16. {CCh 326.3} [CCh 326.4] The Lord calls for a renewal of the straight testimony borne in years past. He calls for a renewal of spiritual life. The spiritual energies of His people have long been torpid, but there is to be a resurrection from apparent death. {CCh 326.4} [CCh 326.5] By prayer and confession of sin we must clear the King's highway. As we do this, the power of the Spirit will come to us. We need the Pentecostal energy. This will come, for the Lord has promised to send His Spirit as the all-conquering power. {CCh 326.5} [CCh 326.6] Perilous times are before us. Everyone who has a knowledge of the truth should awake and place himself, body, soul, and spirit, under the discipline of God. The enemy is on our track. We must be wide awake, on our guard against him. We must put on the whole armor of God. We must follow the directions given through the spirit of prophecy. We must love and obey the truth for this time. This will save us from accepting strong delusions. God has spoken to us through His word. He has spoken to us through the testimonies to the church and through the books that have helped to make plain our present duty and the position that we should now occupy. The warnings that have been given, line upon line, precept upon precept, should be heeded. If we disregard them, what excuse can we offer? {CCh 326.6} [CCh 326.7] I beseech those who are laboring for God not to accept the spurious for the genuine. Let not human reason be placed where divine, sanctifying truth should be. Christ is waiting to kindle faith and love in the hearts of His people. Let not erroneous theories receive countenance from the people who ought to be standing firm on the platform of eternal truth. God calls upon us to hold firmly to the fundamental principles that are based upon unquestionable authority. 8T 296-298585 {CCh 326.7} [CCh 327.1] The Love of and Knowledge of the Word—Our Surety Into the hearts of many who have been long in the truth there has entered a hard, judicial spirit. They are sharp, critical, faultfinding. They have climbed upon the judgment seat to pronounce sentence upon those who do not conform to their ideas. God calls upon them to come down and bow before Him in repentance, confessing their sins. He says to them: "I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent." Revelation 2:4, 5. They are striving for the first place, and by their words and acts they make many hearts sore. {CCh 327.1} [CCh 327.2] Christ calls upon His people to believe and practice His word. Those who receive and assimilate this word, making it a part of every action, of every attribute of character, will grow strong in the strength of God. It will be seen that their faith is of heavenly origin. They will not wander into strange paths. Their minds will not turn to a religion of sentimentalism and excitement. Before angels and before men, they will stand as those who have strong, consistent Christian characters. {CCh 327.2} [CCh 327.3] In the golden censer of truth, as presented in Christ's teachings, we have that which will convict and convert souls. Present, in the simplicity of Christ, the truths that He came to this world to proclaim, and the power of your message will make itself felt. Do not present theories or tests that Christ has never mentioned and that have no foundation in the Bible. We have grand, solemn truths to present." It is written" is the test that must be brought home to every soul. {CCh 327.3} [CCh 327.4] Let us go to the word of God for guidance. Let us seek for a "Thus saith the Lord." We have had enough of human methods. A mind trained only in worldly science fails to understand the things of God; but the same mind, converted and sanctified, will see the divine power in the word. Only the mind and heart cleansed by the sanctification of the Spirit can discern heavenly things. 8T 298-301586 {CCh 327.4} [CCh 327.5] Need of a Full Surrender Brethren, in the name of the Lord I call upon you to awake to your duty. Let your hearts be yielded to the power of the Holy Spirit, and they will be made susceptible to the teaching of the word. Then you will be able to discern the deep things of God. {CCh 327.5} [CCh 327.6] The testimony of Christ, a testimony of the most solemn character, is to be borne to the world. All through the book of Revelation there are the most precious, elevating promises, and there are also warnings of the most fearfully solemn import. Will not those who profess to have a knowledge of the truth read the testimony given to John by Christ? Here is no guesswork, no scientific deception. Here are the truths that concern our present and future welfare. What is the chaff to the wheat? {CCh 327.6} [CCh 328.1] 328 The Lord is soon coming. The watchmen on the walls of Zion are called upon to awake to their God-given responsibilities. God calls for watchmen who, in the power of the Spirit, will give to the world the last warning message; who will proclaim the time of night. He calls for watchmen who will arouse men and women from their lethargy, lest they sleep the sleep of death. 8T 301, 302, 304587 {CCh 328.1} [CCh 329.1] Chapter 60 —Satan’s Lying Wonders I was directed to this scripture as especially applying to modern spiritualism: Colossians 2:8: "Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ." Thousands, I was shown, have been spoiled through the philosophy of phrenology and animal magnetism, and have been driven into infidelity. If the mind commences to run in this channel, it is almost sure to lose its balance and be controlled by a demon. "Vain deceit" fills the minds of poor mortals. They think there is such power in themselves to accomplish great works that they realize no necessity of a higher power. Their principles and faith are "after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ." {CCh 329.1} [CCh 329.2] Jesus has not taught them this philosophy. Nothing of the kind can be found in His teachings. He did not direct the minds of poor mortals to themselves, to a power which they possessed. He was ever directing their minds to God, the Creator of the universe, as the source of their strength and wisdom. Special warning is given in verse 18: "Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshiping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind." {CCh 329.2} [CCh 329.3] The teachers of spiritualism come in a pleasing, bewitching manner to deceive you, and if you listen to their fables you are beguiled by the enemy of righteousness and will surely lose your reward. When once the fascinating influence of the archdeceiver overcomes you, you are poisoned, and its deadly influence adulterates and destroys your faith in Christ's being the Son of God, and you cease to rely on the merits of His blood. Those deceived by this philosophy are beguiled of their reward through the deceptions of Satan. They rely upon their own merits, exercise voluntary humility, are even willing to make sacrifices, and debase themselves, and yield their minds to the belief of supreme nonsense, receiving the most absurd ideas through those whom they believe to be their dead friends. Satan has so blinded their eyes and perverted their judgment that they perceive not the evil; and they follow out the instructions purporting to be from their dead friends now angels in a higher sphere. 1T 297, 298588 {CCh 329.3} [CCh 329.4] I have been shown that we must be guarded on every side and perseveringly resist the insinuations and devices of Satan. He has transformed 330 himself into an angel of light and is deceiving thousands and leading them captive. The advantage he takes of the science of the human mind, is tremendous. The sciences of phrenology, psychology, and mesmerism are the channel through which he comes more directly to this generation and works with that power which is to characterize his efforts near the close of probation. 1T 290589 {CCh 329.4} [CCh 330.1] Yielding One’s Mind to Another’s Control No individual should be permitted to take control of another person's mind, thinking that in so doing he is causing him to receive great benefit. The mind cure is one of the most dangerous deceptions which can be practiced upon any individual. Temporary relief may be felt, but the mind of the one thus controlled is never again so strong and reliable. We may be as weak as was the woman who touched the hem of Christ's garment; but if we use our God-given opportunity to come to Him in faith, He will respond as quickly as He did to that touch of faith. {CCh 330.1} [CCh 330.2] It is not God's design for any human being to yield his mind to another human being. The risen Christ, who is now set down on the throne at the right hand of the Father, is the Mighty Healer. Look to Him for healing power. Through Him alone can sinners come to God just as they are. Never can they come through any man's mind. The human agent must never interpose between the heavenly agencies and those who are suffering. {CCh 330.2} [CCh 330.3] Everyone should be in a position to cooperate with God in directing the minds of others to Him. Tell them of the grace and power of Him who is the greatest Physician the world ever knew. {CCh 330.3} [CCh 330.4] We do not ask you to place yourself under the control of any man's mind. The mind cure is the most awful science which has ever been advocated. Every wicked being can use it in carrying through his own evil designs. We have no business with any such science. We should be afraid of it. Never should the first principles of it be brought into any institution. MM 115, 116590 {CCh 330.4} [CCh 330.5] Neglect of prayer leads men to rely on their own strength, and opens the door to temptation. In many cases the imagination is captivated by scientific research, and men are flattered through the consciousness of their own powers. The sciences which treat of the human mind are very much exalted. They are good in their place; but they are seized upon by Satan as his powerful agents to deceive and destroy souls. His arts are accepted as from Heaven, and he thus receives the worship which suits him well. Through these sciences, virtue is destroyed, and the foundations of Spiritualism are laid. ST Nov. 6, 1884591 {CCh 330.5} [CCh 330.6] Magic and Superstition By burning their books on magic, the Ephesian converts showed that the things in which they had once delighted they now abhorred. It was 331 by and through magic that they had especially offended God and imperiled their souls; and it was against magic that they showed such indignation. Thus they gave evidence of true conversion. {CCh 330.6} [CCh 331.1] It is fondly supposed that heathen superstitions have disappeared before the civilization of the twentieth century. But the word of God and the stern testimony of facts declare that sorcery is practiced in this age as verily as in the days of the old-time magicians. The ancient system of magic is, in reality, the same as what is now known as modern spiritualism. Satan is finding access to thousands of minds by presenting himself under the guise of departed friends. The Scriptures declare that "the dead know not anything." Ecclesiastes 9:5. Their thoughts, their love, their hatred, have perished. The dead do not hold communion with the living. But true to his early cunning, Satan employs this device in order to gain control of minds. {CCh 331.1} [CCh 331.2] Through spiritualism many of the sick, the bereaved, the curious, are communicating with evil spirits. All who venture to do this are on dangerous ground. The word of truth declares how God regards them. In ancient times He pronounced a stern judgment on a king who had sent for counsel to a heathen oracle: "Is it not because there is not a God in Israel, that ye go to inquire of Baal-zebub the god of Ekron? Now therefore thus saith the Lord, Thou shalt not come down from that bed on which thou art gone up, but shalt surely die." 2 Kings 1:3, 4. The magicians of heathen times have their counterpart in the spiritualistic mediums, the clairvoyants, and the fortune-tellers of today. The mystic voices that spoke at Endor and at Ephesus are still by their lying words misleading the children of men. Could the veil be lifted from before our eyes, we should see evil angels employing all their arts to deceive and to destroy. Wherever an influence is exerted to cause men to forget God, there Satan is exercising his bewitching power. When men yield to his influence, ere they are aware the mind is bewildered and the soul polluted. The apostle's admonition to the Ephesian church should be heeded by the people of God today: "Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them." Ephesians 5:11. AA 288-290592 {CCh 331.2} [CCh 331.3] The Prayer of Faith If our eyes could be opened to discern the fallen angels at work with those who feel at ease and consider themselves safe, we would not feel so secure. Evil angels are upon our track every moment. We expect a readiness on the part of bad men to act as Satan suggests; but while our minds are unguarded against his invisible agents, they assume new ground and work marvels and miracles in our sight. Are we prepared to resist them by the word of God, the only weapon we can use successfully? {CCh 331.3} [CCh 331.4] Some will be tempted to receive these wonders as from God. The sick will be healed before us. Miracles will be performed in our sight. 332 Are we prepared for the trial which awaits us when the lying wonders of Satan shall be more fully exhibited? Will not many souls be ensnared and taken? By departing from the plain precepts and commandments of God, and giving heed to fables, the minds of many are preparing to receive these lying wonders. We must all now seek to arm ourselves for the contest in which we must soon engage. Faith in God's word, prayerfully studied and practically applied, will be our shield from Satan's power and will bring us off conquerors through the blood of Christ. 1T 301593 {CCh 331.4} [CCh 333.1] Chapter 61 —The Coming Crisis As the disrespect for God's law becomes more manifest, the line of demarcation between its observers and the world becomes more distinct. Love for the divine precepts increases with one class according as contempt for them increases with another class. {CCh 333.1} [CCh 333.2] The crisis is fast approaching. The rapidly swelling figures show that the time for God's visitation has about come. Although loath to punish, nevertheless He will punish, and that speedily. {CCh 333.2} [CCh 333.3] The day of God's vengeance is just upon us. The seal of God will be placed upon the foreheads of those only who sigh and cry for the abominations done in the land. Those who link in sympathy with the world are eating and drinking with the drunken and will surely be destroyed with the workers of iniquity. "The eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and His ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil." 1 Peter 3:12. {CCh 333.3} [CCh 333.4] Our own course of action will determine whether we shall receive the seal of the living God or be cut down by the destroying weapons. Already a few drops of God's wrath have fallen upon the earth; but when the seven last plagues shall be poured out without mixture into the cup of His indignation, then it will be forever too late to repent and find shelter. No atoning blood will then wash away the stains of sin. {CCh 333.4} [CCh 333.5] Not all who profess to keep the Sabbath will be sealed. There are many even among those who teach the truth to others who will not receive the seal of God in their foreheads. They had the light of truth, they knew their Master's will, they understood every point of our faith, but they had not corresponding works. These who were so familiar with prophecy and the treasures of divine wisdom should have acted their faith. They should have commanded their households after them, that by a well-ordered family they might present to the world the influence of the truth upon the human heart. {CCh 333.5} [CCh 333.6] By their lack of devotion and piety, and their failure to reach a high religious standard, they make other souls contented with their position. Men of finite judgment cannot see that in patterning after these men who have so often opened to them the treasures of God's word, they will surely endanger their souls. Jesus is the only true pattern. Everyone must now search the Bible for himself upon his knees before God, with the humble, teachable heart of a child, if he would know what the Lord requires of him. However high any minister may have stood in the favor 334 of God, if he neglects to follow out the light given him of God, if he refuses to be taught as a little child, he will go into darkness and satanic delusions and will lead others in the same path. {CCh 333.6} [CCh 334.1] Not one of us will ever receive the seal of God while our characters have one spot or stain upon them. It is left with us to remedy the defects in our characters, to cleanse the soul temple of every defilement. Then the latter rain will fall upon us as the early rain fell upon the disciples on the Day of Pentecost. {CCh 334.1} [CCh 334.2] No one need say that his case is hopeless, that he cannot live the life of a Christian. Ample provision is made by the death of Christ for every soul. Jesus is our ever-present help in time of need. Only call upon Him in faith, and He has promised to hear and answer your petitions. {CCh 334.2} [CCh 334.3] Oh, for a living, active faith! We need it; we must have it, or we shall faint and fail in the day of trial. The darkness that will then rest upon our path must not discourage us or drive us to despair. It is the veil with which God covers His glory when He comes to impart rich blessings. We should know this by our past experience. In that day when God has a controversy with His people this experience will be a source of comfort and hope. {CCh 334.3} [CCh 334.4] It is now that we must keep ourselves and our children unspotted from the world. It is now that we must wash our robes of character and make them white in the blood of the Lamb. It is now that we must overcome pride, passion, and spiritual slothfulness. It is now that we must awake and make determined effort for symmetry of character. "Today if ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts." Hebrews 3:7, 8, 15. {CCh 334.4} [CCh 334.5] Now is the time to prepare. The seal of God will never be placed upon the forehead of an impure man or woman. It will never be placed upon the forehead of the ambitious, world-loving man or woman. It will never be placed upon the forehead of men or women of false tongues or deceitful hearts. All who receive the seal must be without spot before God—candidates for heaven. Go forward, my brethren and sisters. I can only write briefly upon these points at this time, merely calling your attention to the necessity of preparation. Search the Scriptures for yourselves, that you may understand the fearful solemnity of the present hour. 5T 209, 212-216594 {CCh 334.5} [CCh 334.6] The Sabbath the Point of Issue The Sabbath question is to be the issue in the great final conflict in which all the world will act a part. Men have honored Satan's principles above the principles that rule in the heavens. They have accepted the spurious sabbath, which Satan has exalted as the sign of his authority. But God has set His seal upon His royal requirement. Each sabbath institution bears the name of its author, an ineffaceable mark that shows the authority of each. It is our work to lead the people to understand this. We are to show them that it is of vital consequence whether they 335 bear the mark of God's kingdom or the mark of the kingdom of rebellion, for they acknowledge themselves subjects of the kingdom whose mark they bear. God has called us to uplift the standard of His downtrodden Sabbath. 6T 352595 {CCh 334.6} [CCh 335.1] The same masterful mind that plotted against the faithful in ages past is still seeking to rid the earth of those who fear God and obey His law. Satan will excite indignation against the humble minority who conscientiously refuse to accept popular customs and traditions. Men of position and reputation will join with the lawless and the vile to take counsel against the people of God. Wealth, genius, education, will combine to cover them with contempt. Persecuting rulers, ministers, and church members will conspire against them. With voice and pen, by boasts, threats, and ridicule, they will seek to overthrow their faith. By false representations and angry appeals they will stir up the passions of the people. Not having a "Thus saith the Scriptures" to bring against the advocates of the Bible Sabbath, they will resort to oppressive enactments to supply the lack. To secure popularity and patronage, legislators will yield to the demand for a Sunday law. Those who fear God cannot accept an institution that violates a precept of the Decalogue. On this battlefield comes the last great conflict of the controversy between truth and error. And we are not left in doubt as to the issue. Now, as in the days of Mordecai, the Lord will vindicate His truth and His people. 5T 450, 451596 {CCh 335.1} [CCh 335.2] Prepare for the Tempest God has revealed what is to take place in the last days, that His people may be prepared to stand against the tempest of opposition and wrath. Those who have been warned of the events before them are not to sit in calm expectation of the coming storm, comforting themselves that the Lord will shelter His faithful ones in the day of trouble. We are to be as men waiting for their Lord, not in idle expectancy, but in earnest work, with unwavering faith. It is no time now to allow our minds to be engrossed with things of minor importance. While men are sleeping, Satan is actively arranging matters so that the Lord's people may not have mercy or justice. The Sunday movement is now making its way in darkness. The leaders are concealing the true issue, and many who unite in the movement do not themselves see whither the undercurrent is tending. Its professions are mild and apparently Christian, but when it shall speak it will reveal the spirit of the dragon. {CCh 335.2} [CCh 335.3] "The wrath of man shall praise Thee," says the psalmist; "the remainder of wrath shalt Thou restrain." God means that testing truth shall be brought to the front and become a subject of examination and discussion, even if it is through the contempt placed upon it. The minds of the people must be agitated. Every controversy, every reproach, every slander, will be God's means of provoking 336 inquiry and awakening minds that otherwise would slumber. 5T 452, 453597 {CCh 335.3} [CCh 336.1] We as a people have not accomplished the work which God has committed to us. We are not ready for the issue to which the enforcement of the Sunday law will bring us. It is our duty, as we see the signs of approaching peril, to arouse to action. Let none sit in calm expectation of the evil, comforting themselves with the belief that this work must go on because prophecy has foretold it, and that the Lord will shelter His people. We are not doing the will of God if we sit in quietude, doing nothing to preserve liberty of conscience. Fervent, effectual prayer should be ascending to heaven that this calamity may be deferred until we can accomplish the work which has so long been neglected. Let there be most earnest prayer, and then let us work in harmony with our prayers. It may appear that Satan is triumphant and that truth is overborne with falsehood and error; the people over whom God has spread His shield, and the country which has been an asylum for the conscience-oppressed servants of God and defenders of His truth, may be placed in jeopardy. But God would have us recall His dealings with His people in the past to save them from their enemies. He has always chosen extremities, when there seemed no possible chance for deliverance from Satan's workings, for the manifestation of His power. Man's necessity is God's opportunity. {CCh 336.1} [CCh 336.2] My brethren, do you realize that your own salvation, as well as the destiny of other souls, depends upon the preparation you now make for the trial before us? Have you that intensity of zeal, that piety and devotion, which will enable you to stand when opposition shall be brought against you? If God has ever spoken by me, the time will come when you will be brought before councils, and every position of truth which you hold will be severely criticized. The time that so many are now allowing to go to waste should be devoted to the charge that God has given us of preparing for the approaching crisis. 5T 713-717598 {CCh 336.2} [CCh 336.3] God’s Judgments We are near the close of time. I have been shown that the retributive judgments of God are already in the land. The Lord has given us warning of the events about to take place. Light is shining from His word; yet darkness covers the earth, and gross darkness the people. "When they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them; . . . and they shall not escape." 5T 99599 {CCh 336.3} [CCh 336.4] The Lord is removing His restrictions from the earth, and soon there will be death and destruction, increasing crime, and cruel, evil working against the rich who have exalted themselves against the poor. Those who are without God's protection will find no safety in any place or position. Human agents are being trained and are using their inventive power to put in operation the most powerful machinery to wound and to kill. 8T 50600 {CCh 336.4} [CCh 336.5] The judgments of God are in the land. The wars and rumors of wars, the destruction by fire and flood, say clearly that the time of trouble, which is to increase until the end, is very near at hand. {CCh 336.5} [CCh 337.1] 337 Soon grievous troubles will arise among the nations—trouble that will not cease until Jesus comes. As never before we need to press together, serving Him who has prepared His throne in the heavens and whose kingdom ruleth over all. God has not forsaken His people, and our strength lies in not forsaking Him. WM 136601 {CCh 337.1} [CCh 338.1] Chapter 62 —The Sifting Time The apostle exhorts the brethren, saying, "Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand . . . in the evil day, and having done all, to stand." Oh, what a day is before us! What sifting will there be among those who claim to be the children of God! The unjust will be found among the just. Those who have great light and who have not walked in it will have darkness corresponding to the light they have despised. We have need to heed the lesson contained in the words of Paul, "But I keep under my body, and bring it in subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway." The enemy is diligently working to see whom he can add to the ranks of apostasy; but the Lord is soon coming, and erelong every case will be decided for eternity. Those whose works correspond with the light graciously given them will be numbered on the Lord's side. TM 163602 {CCh 338.1} [CCh 338.2] But the days of purification of the church are hastening on apace. God will have a people pure and true. In the mighty sifting soon to take place we shall be better able to measure the strength of Israel. The signs reveal that the time is near when the Lord will manifest that His fan is in His hand, and He will thoroughly purge His floor. 5T 80603 {CCh 338.2} [CCh 338.3] Victory for Those Who Seek Deliverance I was shown the people of God, and saw them mightily shaken. Some, with strong faith and agonizing cries, were pleading with God. {CCh 338.3} [CCh 338.4] Some, I saw, did not participate in this work of agonizing and pleading. They seemed indifferent and careless. They were not resisting the darkness around them, and it shut them in like a thick cloud. The angels of God left these, and I saw them hastening to the assistance of those who were struggling with all their energies to resist the evil angels, and trying to help themselves by calling upon God with perseverance. But the angels left those who made no effort to help themselves, and I lost sight of them. As the praying ones continued their earnest cries, a ray of light from Jesus would at times come to them, to encourage their hearts, and light up their countenances. {CCh 338.4} [CCh 338.5] I asked the meaning of the shaking I had seen, and was shown that it would be caused by the straight testimony called forth by the counsel of the True Witness to the Laodiceans. This will have its effect upon the 339 heart of the receiver, and will lead him to exalt the standard and pour forth the straight truth. Some will not bear this straight testimony. They will rise up against it, and this will cause a shaking among God's people. The testimony of the True Witness has not been half heeded. The solemn testimony upon which the destiny of the church hangs has been lightly esteemed, if not entirely disregarded. This testimony must work deep repentance, and all that truly receive it will obey it and be purified. {CCh 338.5} [CCh 339.1] Said the angel: "List ye!" ［Listen!］ Soon I heard a voice that sounded like many musical instruments, all in perfect strains, sweet and harmonious. It surpassed any music I had ever heard. It seemed to be so full of mercy, compassion, and elevating, holy joy. It thrilled through my whole being. Said the angel: "Look ye!" My attention was then turned to the company I had seen, who were mightily shaken. I was shown those whom I had before seen weeping and praying with agony of spirit. The company of guardian angels around them had been doubled, and they were clothed with an armor from their head to their feet. They moved in exact order, firmly, like a company of soldiers. Their countenances expressed the severe conflict which they had endured, the agonizing struggle they had passed through. Yet their features, marked with severe internal anguish, now shone with the light and glory of heaven. They had obtained the victory, and it called forth from them the deepest gratitude, and holy, sacred joy. {CCh 339.1} [CCh 339.2] The numbers of this company had lessened. Some had been shaken out, and left by the way. ［See Revelation 3:15-17.］ The careless and indifferent, who did not join with those who prized victory and salvation enough to perseveringly plead and agonize for it, did not obtain it, and they were left behind in darkness, but their numbers were immediately made up by others taking hold of the truth and coming into the ranks. Still the evil angels pressed around them, but they could have no power over them. ［See Ephesians 6:12-18.］ {CCh 339.2} [CCh 339.3] I heard those clothed with the armor speak forth the truth in great power. It had effect. I saw those who had been bound; some wives had been bound by their husbands, and some children had been bound by their parents. The honest who had been held or prevented from hearing the truth, now eagerly laid hold of it. All fear of their relatives was gone. The truth alone was exalted to them. It was dearer and more precious than life. They had been hungering and thirsting for truth. I asked what had made this great change. An angel answered: "It is the latter rain, the refreshing from the presence of the Lord, the loud cry of the third angel." {CCh 339.3} [CCh 339.4] Great power was with these chosen ones. Said the angel: "Look ye!" My attention was turned to the wicked, or unbelievers. They were all astir. The zeal and power with the people of God had aroused and enraged them. Confusion, confusion was on every side. I saw measures taken against this company, who had the power and light of God. {CCh 339.4} [CCh 340.1] 340 Darkness thickened around them, yet there they stood, approved of God, and trusting in Him. I saw them perplexed. Next I heard them crying unto God earnestly. Through the day and night their cry ceased not. ［See Luke 18:7, 8; revelation 14:14, 15.］ {CCh 340.1} [CCh 340.2] I heard these words: "Thy will, O God, be done! If it can glorify Thy name, make a way of escape for Thy people! Deliver us from the heathen round about us! They have appointed us unto death; but Thine arm can bring salvation." These are all the words that I can bring to mind. All seemed to have a deep sense of their unworthiness, and manifested entire submission to the will of God. Yet like Jacob, every one, without an exception, was earnestly pleading and wrestling for deliverance. {CCh 340.2} [CCh 340.3] Soon after they had commenced their earnest cry, the angels, in sympathy, would have gone to their deliverance. But a tall, commanding angel suffered them not. Said he: "The will of God is not yet fulfilled. They must drink of the cup. They must be baptized with the baptism." {CCh 340.3} [CCh 340.4] Soon I heard the voice of God which shook the heavens and the earth. ［See Joel 3:16; Hebrews 12:26; and Revelation 16:17.］ There was a mighty earthquake. Buildings were shaken down, and fell on every side. I then heard a triumphant shout of victory, loud, musical, and clear. I looked upon this company, who, a short time before, were in such distress and bondage. Their captivity was turned. A glorious light shone upon them. How beautiful they then looked! All weariness and marks of care were gone; health and beauty were seen in every countenance. Their enemies, the heathen around them, fell like dead men. They could not endure the light that shone upon the delivered, holy ones. This light and glory remained upon them until Jesus was seen in the clouds of heaven, and the faithful, tried company were changed in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, from glory to glory. The graves were opened and the saints came forth, clothed with immortality, crying: "Victory over death and the grave!" and together with the living saints they were caught up to meet their Lord in the air, while rich, musical shouts of glory and victory proceeded from every immortal tongue. 1T 179-184604 {CCh 340.4} [CCh 340.5] The Two Armies In vision I saw two armies in terrible conflict. One army was led by banners bearing the world's insignia; the other was led by the bloodstained banner of Prince Immanuel. Standard after standard was left to trail in the dust as company after company from the Lord's army joined the foe and tribe after tribe from the ranks of the enemy united with the commandment-keeping people of God. An angel flying in the midst of heaven put the standard of Immanuel into many hands, while a mighty general cried out with a loud voice: "Come into line. Let those who are loyal to the commandments of God and the testimony of Christ now 341 take their position. Come out from among them, and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean, and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters. Let all who will come up to the help of the Lord, to the help of the Lord against the mighty." {CCh 340.5} [CCh 341.1] Now the church is militant. Now we are confronted with a world in midnight darkness, almost wholly given over to idolatry. But the day is coming in which the battle will have been fought, the victory won. The will of God is to be done on earth, as it is done in heaven. Then the nations will own no other law than the law of heaven. All will be a happy, united family, clothed with the garments of praise and thanksgiving—the robe of Christ's righteousness. All nature, in its surpassing loveliness, will offer to God a constant tribute of praise and adoration. The world will be bathed in the light of heaven. The years will move on in gladness. The light of the moon will be as the light of the sun, and the light of the sun will be sevenfold greater than it is now. Over the scene the morning stars will sing together, and the sons of God will shout for joy, while God and Christ will unite in proclaiming: "There shall be no more sin, neither shall there be any more death." {CCh 341.1} [CCh 341.2] This is the scene that is presented to me. But the church must and will fight against seen and unseen foes. Satan's agencies in human form are on the ground. Men have confederated to oppose the Lord of hosts. These confederacies will continue until Christ shall leave His place of intercession before the mercy seat and shall put on the garments of vengeance. Satanic agencies are in every city, busily organizing into parties those opposed to the law of God. Professed saints and avowed unbelievers take their stand with these parties. This is no time for the people of God to be weaklings. We cannot afford to be off our guard for one moment. 8T 41, 42605 {CCh 341.2} [CCh 342.1] Chapter 63 —Some Things to Remember The Saviour's instructions to His disciples were given for the benefit of His followers in every age. He had those in view who were living near the close of time, when He said: "Take heed to yourselves." It is our work, each for himself, to cherish in the heart the precious graces of the Holy Spirit. 5T 102606 {CCh 342.1} [CCh 342.2] The great crisis is just before us. To meet its trials and temptations, and to perform its duties, will require persevering faith. But we may triumph gloriously; not one watching, praying, believing soul will be ensnared by the enemy. {CCh 342.2} [CCh 342.3] Brethren, to whom the truths of God's word have been opened, what part will you act in the closing scenes of this world's history? Are you awake to these solemn realities? Do you realize the grand work of preparation that is going on in heaven and on earth? Let all who have received the light, who have had the opportunity of reading and hearing the prophecy, take heed to those things that are written therein; "for the time is at hand." Let none now tamper with sin, the source of every misery in our world. No longer remain in lethargy and stupid indifference. Let not the destiny of your soul hang upon an uncertainty. Know that you are fully on the Lord's side. Let the inquiry go forth from sincere hearts and trembling lips, "Who shall be able to stand?" Have you, in these last precious hours of probation, been putting the very best material into your character building? Have you been purifying your souls from every stain? Have you followed the light? Have you works corresponding to your profession of faith? {CCh 342.3} [CCh 342.4] It is possible to be a partial, formal believer, and yet be found wanting and lose eternal life. It is possible to practice some of the Bible injunctions and be regarded as a Christian, and yet perish because you lack qualifications essential to Christian character. If you neglect or treat with indifference the warnings that God has given, if you cherish or excuse sin, you are sealing your soul's destiny. You will be weighed in the balance and found wanting. Grace, peace, and pardon will be forever withdrawn; Jesus will have passed by, never again to come within reach of your prayers and entreaties. While mercy lingers, while the Saviour is making intercession, let us make thorough work for eternity. 6T 404, 405607 {CCh 342.4} [CCh 342.5] Satan is not asleep; he is wide awake to make of no effect the sure word of prophecy. With skill and deceptive power he is working to 343 counterwork the expressed will of God, made plain in His word. For years Satan has been gaining control of human minds through subtle sophistries that he has devised to take the place of the truth. In this time of peril, rightdoers, in the fear of God, will glorify His name by repeating the words of David: "It is time for Thee, Lord, to work: for they have made void Thy law." Psalm 119:126. 9T 92608 {CCh 342.5} [CCh 343.1] We as a people profess to have truth in advance of every other people upon the earth. Then our life and character should be in harmony with such a faith. The day is just upon us when the righteous shall be bound like precious grain in bundles for the heavenly garner, while the wicked are, like the tares, gathered for the fires of the last great day. But the wheat and tares "grow together until the harvest." {CCh 343.1} [CCh 343.2] In the discharge of life's duties the righteous will to the last be brought in contact with the ungodly. The children of light are scattered among the children of darkness, that the contrast may be seen by all. Thus are the children of God to "show forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvelous light." The divine love glowing in the heart, the Christ like harmony manifested in the life, will be as a glimpse of heaven granted to men of the world that they may see and appreciate its excellence. 5T 100609 {CCh 343.2} [CCh 343.3] No man can serve God without uniting against himself evil men and evil angels. Evil spirits will be put upon the track of every soul that seeks to join the ranks of Christ, for Satan wishes to recover the prey taken from his grasp. Evil men will give themselves over to believe strong delusions, that they may be damned. These men will put on the garments of sincerity and deceive, if possible, the very elect. 4T 595610 {CCh 343.3} [CCh 343.4] The End Is Near The return of Christ to our world will not be long delayed. Let this be the keynote of every message. {CCh 343.4} [CCh 343.5] The restraining Spirit of God is even now being withdrawn from the world. Hurricanes, storms, tempests, fire and flood, disasters by sea and land, follow each other in quick succession. Science seeks to explain all these. The signs thickening around us, telling of the near approach of the Son of God, are attributed to any other than the true cause. Men cannot discern the sentinel angels restraining the four winds that they shall not blow until the servants of God are sealed; but when God shall bid His angels loose the winds, there will be such a scene of strife as no pen can picture. {CCh 343.5} [CCh 343.6] Could the curtain be rolled back, could you discern the purposes of God and the judgments that are about to fall upon a doomed world, could you see your own attitude, you would fear and tremble for your own souls and for the souls of your fellow men. Earnest prayers of heart-rending anguish would go up to heaven. You would weep between the porch and the altar, confessing your spiritual blindness and backsliding. 6T 406, 408611 {CCh 343.6} [CCh 344.1] The Danger of Thinking Christ’s Coming Is Delayed That evil servant who said in his heart, "My Lord delayeth His coming," professed to be waiting for Christ. He was a "servant," outwardly devoted to the service of God while at heart he had yielded to Satan. {CCh 344.1} [CCh 344.2] He does not, like the scoffer, openly deny the truth, but reveals in his life the sentiment of the heart—that the Lord's coming is delayed. Presumption renders him careless of eternal interests. He accepts the world's maxims and conforms to its customs and practices. Selfishness, worldly pride, and ambitions predominate. Fearing that his brethren may stand higher than himself, he begins to disparage their efforts and impugn their motives. Thus he smites his fellow servants. {CCh 344.2} [CCh 344.3] As he alienates himself from the people of God he unites more and more with the ungodly. He is found eating and drinking "with the drunken"—joining with worldlings and partaking of their spirit. Thus he is lulled into a carnal security and overcome by forgetfulness, indifference, and sloth. 5T 101, 102612 {CCh 344.3} [CCh 344.4] So-called New Light Will Deceive Many Satan hopes to involve the remnant people of God in the general ruin that is coming upon the earth. As the coming of Christ draws nigh, he will be more determined and decisive in his efforts to overthrow them. Men and women will arise professing to have some new light or some new revelation whose tendency is to unsettle faith in the old landmarks. Their doctrines will not bear the test of God's word, yet souls will be deceived. {CCh 344.4} [CCh 344.5] False reports will be circulated, and some will be taken in this snare. They will believe these rumors and in their turn will repeat them, and thus a link will be formed connecting them with the archdeceiver. This spirit will not always be manifested in an open defiance of the messages that God sends, but a settled unbelief is expressed in many ways. Every false statement that is made feeds and strengthens this unbelief, and through this means many souls will be balanced in the wrong direction. {CCh 344.5} [CCh 344.6] We cannot be too watchful against every form of error, for Satan is constantly seeking to draw men from the truth. 5T 295, 296613 {CCh 344.6} [CCh 344.7] Importance of Personal Devotions When secret prayer and reading of the Scriptures are neglected today, tomorrow they can be omitted with less remonstrance of conscience. There will be a long list of omissions, all for a single grain sown in the soil of the heart. On the other hand, every ray of light cherished will yield a harvest of light. Temptation once resisted will give power to more firmly resist the second time; every new victory gained over self will smooth the way for higher and nobler triumphs. Every victory is a seed sown to eternal life. 5T 120614 {CCh 344.7} [CCh 345.1] 345 Every saint who comes to God with a true heart, and sends his honest petitions to Him in faith, will have his prayers answered. Your faith must not let go of the promises of God, if you do not see or feel the immediate answer to your prayers. Be not afraid to trust God. Rely upon His sure promise: "Ask, and ye shall receive." John 16:24. {CCh 345.1} [CCh 345.2] God is too wise to err, and too good to withhold any good thing from His saints that walk uprightly. Man is erring, and although his petitions are sent up from an honest heart, he does not always ask for the things that are good for himself, or that will glorify God. When this is so, our wise and good Father hears our prayers, and will answer, sometimes immediately; but He gives us the things that are for our best good and His own glory. God gives us blessings; if we could look into His plan, we would clearly see that He knows what is best for us and that our prayers are answered. Nothing hurtful is given, but the blessing we need, in the place of something we asked for that would not be good for us, but to our hurt. {CCh 345.2} [CCh 345.3] I saw that if we do not feel immediate answers to our prayers, we should hold fast our faith, not allowing distrust to come in, for that will separate us from God. If our faith wavers, we shall receive nothing from Him. Our confidence in God should be strong; and when we need it most, the blessing will fall upon us like a shower of rain. 1T 120, 121615 {CCh 345.3} [CCh 345.4] Christians Love to Think and Talk of Heavenly Things In heaven God is all in all. There holiness reigns supreme; there is nothing to mar the perfect harmony with God. If we are indeed journeying thither, the spirit of heaven will dwell in our hearts here. But if we find no pleasure now in the contemplation of heavenly things; if we have no interest in seeking the knowledge of God, no delight in beholding the character of Christ; if holiness has no attractions for us—then we may be sure that our hope of heaven is vain. {CCh 345.4} [CCh 345.5] Perfect conformity to the will of God is the high aim to be constantly before the Christian. He will love to talk of God, of Jesus, of the home of bliss and purity which Christ has prepared for them that love Him. The contemplation of these themes, when the soul feasts upon the blessed assurances of God, the apostle represents as tasting the powers of the world to come." {CCh 345.5} [CCh 345.6] Just before us is the closing struggle of the great controversy when, with "all power and signs and lying wonders, and with all deceivableness of unrighteousness," Satan is to work to misrepresent the character of God, that he may "seduce, if it were possible, even the elect." If there was ever a people in need of constantly increasing light from heaven, it is the people that, in this time of peril, God has called to be the depositaries of His holy law and to vindicate His character before the world. Those to whom has been committed a trust so sacred must be spiritualized, elevated, vitalized, by the truths they profess to believe. 5T 745, 746616 {CCh 345.6} [CCh 346.1] God’s People Press Forward Regardless of Doubt and Fear The Lord is now dealing with His people who believe present truth. He designs to bring about momentous results, and while in His providence He is working toward this end, He says to His people: "Go forward." True, the path is not yet opened; but when they move on in the strength of faith and courage, God will make the way plain before their eyes. There are ever those who will complain, as did ancient Israel, and charge the difficulties of their position upon those whom God has raised up for the special purpose of advancing His cause. They fail to see that God is testing them by bringing them into strait places, from which there is no deliverance except by His hand. {CCh 346.1} [CCh 346.2] There are times when the Christian life seems beset by dangers, and duty seems hard to perform. The imagination pictures impending ruin before, and bondage or death behind. Yet the voice of God speaks clearly above all discouragements: "Go forward." We should obey this command, let the result be what it may, even though our eyes cannot penetrate the darkness and though we feel the cold waves about our feet. 4T 26617 {CCh 346.2} [CCh 346.3] In a divided, halfhearted life, you will find doubt and darkness. You cannot enjoy the consolations of religion, neither the peace which the world gives. Do not sit down in Satan's easy chair of do-little, but arise, and aim at the elevated standard which it is your privilege to attain. It is a blessed privilege to give up all for Christ. Look not at the lives of others and imitate them and rise no higher. You have only one true, unerring Pattern. It is safe to follow Jesus only. Determine that if others act on the principle of the spiritual sluggard you will leave them and march forward toward the elevation of Christian character. Form a character for heaven. Sleep not at your post. Deal faithfully and truly with your own soul. 1T 241618 {CCh 346.3} [CCh 347.1] Chapter 64 —Christ Our Great High Priest The correct understanding of the ministration in the heavenly sanctuary is the foundation of our faith. Ev 221619 {CCh 347.1} [CCh 347.2] The earthly sanctuary was built by Moses according to the pattern shown him in the mount. It was "a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices;" its two holy places were "patterns of things in the heavens;" Christ, our great High Priest, is "a minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man." Hebrews 9:9, 23; 8:2. As in vision the apostle John was granted a view of the temple of God in heaven, he beheld there "seven lamps of fire burning before the throne." {CCh 347.2} [CCh 347.3] Here the prophet was permitted to behold the first apartment of the sanctuary in heaven; and he saw there the "seven lamps of fire" and the "golden altar" represented by the golden candlestick and the altar of incense in the sanctuary on earth. Again, "the temple of God was opened" Revelation 11:19, and he looked within the inner veil, upon the holy of holies. Here he beheld "the ark of His testament" Revelation 11:19, represented by the sacred chest constructed by Moses to contain the law of God. {CCh 347.3} [CCh 347.4] John says that he saw the sanctuary in heaven. That sanctuary, in which Jesus ministers in our behalf, is the great original, of which the sanctuary built by Moses was a copy. {CCh 347.4} [CCh 347.5] The heavenly temple, the abiding place of the King of kings, where "thousand thousands ministered unto Him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before Him" Daniel 7:10, that temple filled with the glory of the eternal throne, where seraphim, its shining guardians, veil their faces in adoration—no earthly structure could represent its vastness and its glory. Yet important truths concerning the heavenly sanctuary and the great work there carried forward for man's redemption were to be taught by the earthly sanctuary and its services. {CCh 347.5} [CCh 347.6] After His ascension, our Saviour was to begin His work as our High Priest. Says Paul, "Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us." Hebrews 9:24. As Christ's ministration was to consist of two great divisions, each occupying a period of time and having a distinctive place in the heavenly sanctuary, so the typical ministration consisted of two divisions, the daily and the yearly service, and to each a department of the tabernacle was devoted. {CCh 347.6} [CCh 347.7] As Christ at His ascension appeared in the presence of God to plead 348 His blood in behalf of penitent believers, so the priest in the daily ministration sprinkled the blood of the sacrifice in the holy place in the sinner's behalf. {CCh 347.7} [CCh 348.1] The blood of Christ, while it was to release the repentant sinner from the condemnation of the law, was not to cancel the sin; it would stand on record in the sanctuary until the final atonement; so in the type the blood of the sin offering removed the sin from the penitent, but it rested in the sanctuary until the day of atonement. {CCh 348.1} [CCh 348.2] In the great day of final award, the dead are to be "judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works." Revelation 20:12. Then by virtue of the atoning blood of Christ, the sins of all the truly penitent will be blotted from the books of heaven. Thus the sanctuary will be freed, or cleansed, from the record of sin. In the type, this great work of atonement, or blotting out of sins, was represented by the services of the Day of Atonement—the cleansing of the earthly sanctuary, which was accomplished by the removal, by virtue of the blood of the sin offering, of the sins by which it had been polluted. PP 356-358620 {CCh 348.2} [CCh 348.3] Satan invents unnumbered schemes to occupy our minds, that they may not dwell upon the very work with which we ought to be best acquainted. The archdeceiver hates the great truths that bring to view an atoning sacrifice and an all-powerful mediator. He knows that with him everything depends on his diverting minds from Jesus and His truth. {CCh 348.3} [CCh 348.4] Jesus pleads in their behalf His wounded hands, His bruised body; and He declares to all who would follow Him: "My grace is sufficient for thee." 2 Corinthians 12:9. "Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light." Matthew 11:29, 30. Let none, then, regard their defects as incurable. God will give faith and grace to overcome them. {CCh 348.4} [CCh 348.5] We are now living in the great day of atonement. In the typical service, while the high priest was making the atonement for Israel, all were required to afflict their souls by repentance of sin and humiliation before the Lord, lest they be cut off from among the people. In like manner, all who would have their names retained in the book of life should now, in the few remaining days of their probation, afflict their souls before God by sorrow for sin and true repentance. There must be deep, faithful searching of heart. The light, frivolous spirit indulged by so many professed Christians must be put away. There is earnest warfare before all who would subdue the evil tendencies that strive for the mastery. The work of preparation is an individual work. We are not saved in groups. The purity and devotion of one will not offset the want of these qualities in another. Though all nations are to pass in judgment before God, yet He will examine the case of each individual with as close and searching scrutiny as if there were not another being upon the earth. Everyone must be tested and found without spot or wrinkle or any such thing. {CCh 348.5} [CCh 349.1] 349 Solemn are the scenes connected with the closing work of the atonement. Momentous are the interests involved therein. The judgment is now passing in the sanctuary above. For many years this work has been in progress. Soon—none know how soon—it will pass to the cases of the living. In the awful presence of God our lives are to come up in review. At this time above all others it behooves every soul to heed the Saviour's admonition: "Watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is." Mark 13:33. {CCh 349.1} [CCh 349.2] When the work of the investigative judgment closes, the destiny of all will have been decided for life or death. Probation is ended a short time before the appearing of the Lord in the clouds of heaven. Christ in the Revelation, looking forward to that time, declares: "He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still. And, behold, I come quickly; and My reward is with Me, to give every man according as his work shall be." Revelation 22:11, 12. {CCh 349.2} [CCh 349.3] The righteous and the wicked will still be living upon the earth in their mortal state—men will be planting and building, eating and drinking, all unconscious that the final, irrevocable decision has been pronounced in the sanctuary above. {CCh 349.3} [CCh 349.4] Silently, unnoticed as the midnight thief, will come the decisive hour which marks the fixing of every man's destiny, the final withdrawal of mercy's offer to guilty men. GC 488-491621 {CCh 349.4} [CCh 350.1] Chapter 65 —Joshua and the Angel If the veil which separates the visible from the invisible world could be lifted, and the people of God could behold the great controversy that is going on between Christ and holy angels and Satan and his evil hosts concerning the redemption of man; if they could understand the wonderful work of God for the rescue of souls from the bondage of sin, and the constant exercise of His power for their protection from the malice of the evil one, they would be better prepared to withstand the devices of Satan. Their minds would be solemnized in view of the vast extent and importance of the plan of redemption and the greatness of the work before them as colaborers with Christ. They would be humbled, yet encouraged, knowing that all heaven is interested in their salvation. {CCh 350.1} [CCh 350.2] A most forcible and impressive illustration of the work of Satan and the work of Christ, and the power of our Mediator to vanquish the accuser of His people, is given in the prophecy of Zechariah. In holy vision the prophet beholds Joshua the high priest, "clothed with filthy garments," standing before the Angel of the Lord, entreating the mercy of God in behalf of his people who are in deep affliction. Satan stands at his right hand to resist him. The high priest cannot defend himself or his people from Satan's accusations. He does not claim that Israel are free from fault. In his filthy garments, symbolizing the sins of the people, which he bears as their representative, he stands before the Angel, confessing their guilt, yet pointing to their repentance and humiliation, relying upon the mercy of a sin-pardoning Redeemer and in faith claiming the promises of God. {CCh 350.2} [CCh 350.3] Then the Angel, who is Christ Himself, the Saviour of sinners, puts to silence the accuser of His people, declaring: "The Lord rebuke thee, O Satan; even the Lord that hath chosen Jerusalem rebuke thee: is not this a brand plucked out of the fire?" Zechariah 3:2. As the intercession of Joshua is accepted, the command is given, "Take away the filthy garments from him," and to Joshua the Angel declares, "Behold, I have caused thine iniquity to pass from thee, and I will clothe thee with change of raiment." "So they set a fair miter upon his head, and clothed him with garments." Zechariah 3:4, 5. His own sins and those of his people were pardoned. Israel was clothed with "change of raiment"—the righteousness of Christ imputed to them. {CCh 350.3} [CCh 350.4] As Satan accused Joshua and his people, so in all ages he accuses 351 those who are seeking the mercy and favor of God. In the Revelation he is declared to be the "accuser of our brethren," "which accused them before our God day and night." Revelation 12:10. The controversy is repeated over every soul that is rescued from the power of evil and whose name is registered in the Lamb's book of life. Never is one received from the family of Satan into the family of God without exciting the determined resistance of the wicked one. Satan's accusations against those who seek the Lord are not prompted by displeasure at their sins. He exults in their defective characters. Only through their transgression of God's law can he obtain power over them. His accusations arise solely from his enmity to Christ. Through the plan of salvation, Jesus is breaking Satan's hold upon the human family and rescuing souls from his power. All the hatred and malignity of the archrebel is stirred as he beholds the evidence of Christ's supremacy, and with fiendish power and cunning he works to wrest from Him the remnant of the children of men who have accepted His salvation. {CCh 350.4} [CCh 351.1] He leads men into skepticism, causing them to lose confidence in God and to separate from His love; he tempts them to break His law, and then he claims them as his captives and contests the right of Christ to take them from him. He knows that those who seek God earnestly for pardon and grace will obtain it; therefore he presents their sins before them to discourage them. He is constantly seeking occasion against those who are trying to obey God. Even their best and most acceptable services he seeks to make appear corrupt. By countless devices, the most subtle and the most cruel, he endeavors to secure their condemnation. {CCh 351.1} [CCh 351.2] Man cannot meet these charges himself. In his sin-stained garments, confessing his guilt, he stands before God. But Jesus our Advocate presents an effectual plea in behalf of all who by repentance and faith have committed the keeping of their souls to Him. He pleads their cause and vanquishes their accuser by the mighty arguments of Calvary. His perfect obedience to God's law, even unto the death of the cross, has given Him all power in heaven and in earth, and He claims of His Father mercy and reconciliation for guilty man. To the accuser of His people He declares: "'The Lord rebuke thee, O Satan.' These are the purchase of My blood, brands plucked from the burning." Those who rely upon Him in faith receive the comforting assurance: "Behold, I have caused thine iniquity to pass from thee, and I will clothe thee with change of raiment." {CCh 351.2} [CCh 351.3] All that have put on the robe of Christ's righteousness will stand before Him as chosen and faithful and true. Satan has no power to pluck them out of the hand of Christ. Not one soul that in penitence and faith has claimed His protection will Christ permit to pass under the enemy's power. His word is pledged: "Let him take hold of My strength, that he may make peace with Me; and he shall make peace with Me." Isaiah 27:5. The promise given to Joshua is made to all: "If thou wilt keep My 352 charge, . . . I will give thee places to walk among these that stand by." Zechariah 3:7. Angels of God will walk on either side of them, even in this world, and they will stand at last among the angels that surround the throne of God. {CCh 351.3} [CCh 352.1] The fact that the acknowledged people of God are represented as standing before the Lord in filthy garments should lead to humility and deep searching of heart on the part of all who profess His name. Those who are indeed purifying their souls by obeying the truth will have a most humble opinion of themselves. The more closely they view the spotless character of Christ, the stronger will be their desire to be conformed to His image, and the less will they see of purity or holiness in themselves. But while we should realize our sinful condition, we are to rely upon Christ as our righteousness, our sanctification, and our redemption. We cannot answer the charges of Satan against us. Christ alone can make an effectual plea in our behalf. He is able to silence the accuser with arguments founded not upon our merits, but on His own. {CCh 352.1} [CCh 352.2] The Remnant Church Zechariah's vision of Joshua and the Angel applies with peculiar force to the experience of God's people in the closing up of the great day of atonement. The remnant church will be brought into great trial and distress. Those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus will feel the ire of the dragon and his hosts. Satan numbers the world as his subjects, he has gained control of the apostate churches; but here is a little company that are resisting his supremacy. If he could blot them from the earth, his triumph would be complete. As he influenced the heathen nations to destroy Israel, so in the near future he will stir up the wicked powers of earth to destroy the people of God. All will be required to render obedience to human edicts in violation of the divine law. Those who will be true to God and to duty will be menaced, denounced, and proscribed. They will "be betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends." {CCh 352.2} [CCh 352.3] Their only hope is in the mercy of God; their only defense will be prayer. As Joshua was pleading before the Angel, so the remnant church, with brokenness of heart and earnest faith, will plead for pardon and deliverance through Jesus their Advocate. They are fully conscious of the sinfulness of their lives, they see their weakness and unworthiness, and as they look upon themselves they are ready to despair. The tempter stands by to accuse them, as he stood by to resist Joshua. He points to their filthy garments, their defective characters. He presents their weakness and folly, their sins of ingratitude, their unlikeness to Christ, which has dishonored their Redeemer. He endeavors to affright the soul with the thought that their case is hopeless, that the stain of their defilement will never be washed away. He hopes to so destroy their faith that they will yield to his temptations, turn from their allegiance to God, and receive the mark of the beast. Satan urges before 353 God his accusations against them, declaring that they have by their sins forfeited the divine protection, and claiming the right to destroy them as transgressors. He pronounces them just as deserving as himself of exclusion from the favor of God. "Are these," he says, "the people who are to take my place in heaven and the place of the angels who united with me? While they profess to obey the law of God, have they kept its precepts? Have they not been lovers of self more than of God? Have they not placed their own interests above His service? Have they not loved the things of the world? Look at the sins which have marked their lives. Behold their selfishness, their malice, their hatred toward one another." {CCh 352.3} [CCh 353.1] The people of God have been in many respects very faulty. Satan has an accurate knowledge of the sins which he has tempted them to commit, and he presents these in the most exaggerated light, declaring: "Will God banish me and my angels from His presence, and yet reward those who have been guilty of the same sins? Thou canst not do this, O Lord, in justice. Thy throne will not stand in righteousness and judgment. Justice demands that sentence be pronounced against them." {CCh 353.1} [CCh 353.2] But while the followers of Christ have sinned, they have not given themselves to the control of evil. They have put away their sins, and have sought the Lord in humility and contrition, and the divine Advocate pleads in their behalf. He who has been most abused by their ingratitude, who knows their sin, and also their repentance, declares: "'The Lord rebuke thee, O Satan.' I gave My life for these souls. They are graven upon the palms of My hands." {CCh 353.2} [CCh 353.3] Covered With the Robe of Christ’s Righteousness As the people of God afflict their souls before Him, pleading for purity of heart, the command is given, "Take away the filthy garments" from them, and the encouraging words are spoken, "Behold, I have caused thine iniquity to pass from thee, and I will clothe thee with change of raiment." The spotless robe of Christ's righteousness is placed upon the tried, tempted, yet faithful children of God. The despised remnant are clothed in glorious apparel, nevermore to be defiled by the corruptions of the world. Their names are retained in the Lamb's book of life, enrolled among the faithful of all ages. They have resisted the wiles of the deceiver; they have not been turned from their loyalty by the dragon's roar. Now they are eternally secure from the tempter's devices. Their sins are transferred to the originator of sin. {CCh 353.3} [CCh 353.4] And the remnant are not only pardoned and accepted, but honored. "A fair miter" is set upon their heads. They are to be as kings and priests unto God. While Satan was urging his accusations and seeking to destroy this company, holy angels, unseen, were passing to and fro, placing upon them the seal of the living God. These are they that stand upon Mount Zion with the Lamb, having the Father's name written in 354 their foreheads. They sing the new song before the throne, that song which no man can learn save the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth. "These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever He goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the first fruits unto God and to the Lamb. And in their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault before the throne of God." Revelation 14:4, 5. 5T 467-476622 {CCh 353.4} [CCh 355.1] Chapter 66 —“Behold, I Come Quickly” Recently in the night season, my mind was impressed by the Holy Spirit with the thought that if the Lord is coming as soon as we believe He is, we ought to be even more active than we have been in years past in getting the truth before the people. {CCh 355.1} [CCh 355.2] In this connection my mind reverted to the activity of the Advent believers in 1843 and 1844. At that time there was much house-to-house visitation, and untiring efforts were made to warn the people of the things that are spoken of in God's Word. We should be putting forth even greater effort than was put forth by those who proclaimed the first angel's message so faithfully. We are rapidly approaching the end of this earth's history; and as we realize that Jesus is indeed coming soon, we shall be aroused to labor as never before. We are bidden to sound an alarm to the people. And in our own lives we are to show forth the power of truth and righteousness. The world is soon to meet the great Lawgiver over His broken law. Those only who turn from transgression to obedience can hope for pardon and peace. {CCh 355.2} [CCh 355.3] Oh, how much good might be accomplished if all who have the truth, the Word of life, would labor for the enlightenment of those who have it not. When the Samaritans came to Christ at the call of the Samaritan woman, Christ spoke of them to His disciples as a field of grain ready for harvesting. "Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest?" He said, "Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest" John 4:35. Christ abode with the Samaritans for two days; for they were hungry to hear the truth. And what busy days they were! As a result of those days of labor, "many more believed because of his own word" John 4:41. This was their testimony: "We have heard him ourselves, and know that this is indeed the Christ, the Saviour of the world" John 4:42. 2SM 402, 403623 {CCh 355.3} [CCh 355.4] Your Redemption Draweth Nigh As I hear of the terrible calamities that from week to week are taking place, I ask myself: What do these things mean? The most awful disasters are following one another in quick succession. How frequently we hear of earthquakes and tornadoes, of destruction by fire and flood, with great loss of life and property! Apparently these calamities are capricious outbreaks of seemingly disorganized, unregulated forces, but in them God's purpose may be read. They are one of the means by which 356 He seeks to arouse men and women to a sense of their danger. {CCh 355.4} [CCh 356.1] The coming of Christ is nearer than when we first believed. The great controversy is nearing its end. The judgments of God are in the land. They speak in solemn warning, saying: "Be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh." Matthew 24:44. {CCh 356.1} [CCh 356.2] But there are many, many in our churches who know little of the real meaning of the truth for this time. I appeal to them not to disregard the fulfilling of the signs of the times, which says so plainly that the end is near. Oh, how many who have not sought their souls' salvation will soon make the bitter lamentation: "The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved"! {CCh 356.2} [CCh 356.3] We are living in the closing scenes of this earth's history. Prophecy is fast fulfilling. The hours of probation are fast passing. We have no time—not a moment—to lose. Let us not be found sleeping on guard. Let no one say in his heart or by his works: "My Lord delayeth His coming." Let the message of Christ's soon return sound forth in earnest words of warning. Let us persuade men and women everywhere to repent and flee from the wrath to come. Let us arouse them to immediate preparation, for we little know what is before us. Let ministers and lay members go forth into the ripening fields to tell the unconcerned and indifferent to seek the Lord while He may be found. The workers will find their harvest wherever they proclaim the forgotten truths of the Bible. They will find those who will accept the truth and will devote their lives to winning souls to Christ. {CCh 356.3} [CCh 356.4] The Lord is soon to come, and we must be prepared to meet Him in peace. Let us be determined to do all in our power to impart light to those around us. We are not to be sad, but cheerful, and we are to keep the Lord Jesus ever before us. He is soon coming, and we must be ready and waiting for His appearing. Oh, how glorious it will be to see Him and be welcomed as His redeemed ones! Long have we waited, but our hope is not to grow dim. If we can but see the King in His beauty we shall be forever blessed. I feel as if I must cry aloud: "Homeward bound!" We are nearing the time when Christ will come in power and great glory to take His ransomed ones to their eternal home. {CCh 356.4} [CCh 356.5] In the great closing work we shall meet with perplexities that we know not how to deal with; but let us not forget that the three great powers of heaven are working, that a divine hand is on the wheel, and that God will bring His promises to pass. He will gather from the world a people who will serve Him in righteousness. 8T 252-254624 {CCh 356.5} [CCh 356.6] The Promise of Victory I pray earnestly that the work we do at this time shall impress itself deeply on heart and mind and soul. Perplexities will increase; but let us, as believers in God, encourage one another. Let us not lower the standard, but keep it lifted high, looking to Him who is the author and finisher of our faith. When in the night season I am unable to sleep, I 357 lift my heart in prayer to God, and He strengthens me, and gives me the assurance that He is with His ministering servants in the home field and in distant lands. I am encouraged and blessed as I realize that the God of Israel is still guiding His people, and that He will continue to be with them, even to the end. {CCh 356.6} [CCh 357.1] The Lord desires to see the work of proclaiming the third Angel's message carried forward with increasing efficiency. As He has worked in all ages to give victories to His people, so in this age He longs to carry to a triumphant fulfillment His purposes for His church. He bids His believing saints to advance unitedly, going from strength to greater strength, from faith to increased assurance and confidence in the truth and righteousness of His cause. {CCh 357.1} [CCh 357.2] We are to stand firm as a rock to the principles of the word of God, remembering that God is with us to give us strength to meet each new experience. Let us ever maintain in our lives the principles of righteousness, that we may go forward from strength to strength in the name of the Lord. We are to hold as very sacred the faith that has been substantiated by the instruction and approval of the Spirit of God from our earliest experience until the present time. We are to cherish as very precious the work that the Lord has been carrying forward through His commandment-keeping people, and which, through the power of His grace, will grow stronger and more efficient as time advances. The enemy is seeking to becloud the discernment of God's people, and to weaken their efficiency; but if they will labor as the Spirit of God shall direct, He will open doors of opportunity before them for the work of building up the old waste places. Their experience will be one of constant growth, until the Lord shall descend from heaven with power and great glory to set His seal of final triumph upon His faithful ones. {CCh 357.2} [CCh 357.3] The work that lies before us is one that will put to the stretch every power of the human being. It will call for the exercise of strong faith and constant vigilance. At times the difficulties that we shall meet will be most disheartening. The very greatness of the task will appall us. And yet, with God's help, His servants will finally triumph. “Wherefore,” my brethren, “I desire that ye faint not” because of the trying experiences that are before you. Jesus will be with you; He will go before you by His Holy Spirit, preparing the way; and He will be your helper in every emergency. {CCh 357.3} [CCh 357.4] “Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen” Ephesians 3:20,21. 2SM 407, 408625 {CCh 357.4} [CCh 357.5] I have been deeply impressed by scenes that have recently passed before me in the night season. There seemed to be a great movement—a work of revival—going forward in many places. Our people were moving into line, responding to God's call. My brethren, the Lord is speaking to us. Shall we not heed His voice? Shall we not trim our lamps and 358 act like men who look for their Lord to come? The time is one that calls for light-bearing, for action. {CCh 357.5} [CCh 358.1] "I therefore . . . beseech you,” brethren, “that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, with all lowliness and meekness, with long-suffering, forbearing one another in love; endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” Ephesians 4:1-3. 2SM 402626 {CCh 358.1} [CCh 358.2] The Reward of the Faithful My brother, my sister, I urge you to prepare for the coming of Christ in the clouds of heaven. Day by day cast the love of the world out of your hearts. Understand by experience what it means to have fellowship with Christ. Prepare for the judgment, that when Christ shall come, to be admired in all them that believe, you may be among those who will meet Him in peace. In that day the redeemed will shine forth in the glory of the Father and the Son. The angels, touching their golden harps, will welcome the King and His trophies of victory—those who have been washed and made white in the blood of the Lamb. A song of triumph will peal forth, filling all heaven. Christ has conquered. He enters the heavenly courts, accompanied by His redeemed ones, the witnesses that His mission of suffering and sacrifice has not been in vain. {CCh 358.2} [CCh 358.3] The resurrection and ascension of our Lord is a sure evidence of the triumph of the saints of God over death and the grave, and a pledge that heaven is open to those who wash their robes of character and make them white in the blood of the Lamb. Jesus ascended to the Father as a representative of the human race, and God will bring those who reflect His image to behold and share with Him His glory. {CCh 358.3} [CCh 358.4] There are homes for the pilgrims of earth. There are robes for the righteous, with crowns of glory and palms of victory. All that has perplexed us in the providences of God will in the world to come be made plain. The things hard to be understood will then find explanation. The mysteries of grace will unfold before us. Where our finite minds discovered only confusion and broken promises, we shall see the most perfect and beautiful harmony. We shall know that infinite love ordered the experiences that seemed most trying. As we realize the tender care of Him who makes all things work together for our good, we shall rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory. {CCh 358.4} [CCh 358.5] Pain cannot exist in the atmosphere of heaven. In the home of the redeemed there will be no tears, no funeral trains, no badges of mourning. "The inhabitant shall not say, I am sick: the people that dwell therein shall be forgiven their iniquity." Isaiah 33:24. One rich tide of happiness will flow and deepen as eternity rolls on. {CCh 358.5} [CCh 358.6] It will not be long till we shall see Him in whom our hopes of eternal life are centered. And in His presence, all the trials and sufferings of this life will be as nothingness. "Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompense of reward. For ye have need of 359 patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. For yet a little while, and He that shall come will come, and will not tarry." Hebrews 10:35-37. Look up, look up, and let your faith continually increase. Let this faith guide you along the narrow path that leads through the gates of the city of God into the great beyond, the wide, unbounded future of glory that is for the redeemed. "Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh." James 5:7, 8. 9T 285-288627 {CCh 358.6} [CCh 359.1] "It doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is." 1 John 3:2. {CCh 359.1} [CCh 359.2] Then, in the results of His work, Christ will behold its recompense. In that great multitude which no man could number, presented "faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy" Jude 24, He whose blood has redeemed and whose life has taught us, "shall see of the travail of His soul, and shall be satisfied." Isaiah 53:11. Ed 309628 {CCh 359.2} [CCh 359.3] Parting Word of Courage and Confidence I do not expect to live long. My work is nearly done…. I do not think I shall have more Testimonies for our people. Our men of solid minds know what is good for the uplifting and upbuilding of the work. But with the love of God in their hearts, they need to go deeper and deeper into the study of the things of God. FE 547, 548629 {CCh 359.3} [CCh 359.4] In reviewing our past history, having traveled over every step of advance to our present standing, I can say, Praise God! As I see what the Lord has wrought, I am filled with astonishment, and with confidence in Christ as leader. We have nothing to fear for the future, except as we shall forget the way the Lord has led us, and His teaching in our past history. LS 196630 {CCh 359.4} [OFC 15.1] OFC - Our Father Cares (1991) FORWARD THIS IS THE SIXTEENTH “MORNING-WATCH”-TYPE BOOK COMPILED FROM THE WRITINGS OF ELLEN G. WHITE. THE FIRST IN THIS LONG SERIES, RADIANT RELIGION, WAS PUBLISHED IN 1946 FOR USE THE FOLLOWING YEAR. IT WAS FOLLOWED THREE YEARS LATER BY WITH GOD AT DAWN. THE MATERIALS FOR THESE TWO EARLY DEVOTIONAL WORKS WERE DRAWN ENTIRELY FROM ELLEN G. WHITE BOOKS ALREADY IN PRINT. BEGINNING WITH MY LIFE TODAY, PUBLISHED IN 1952, RECOURSE HAS BEEN MADE CONSISTENTLY TO THE WEALTH OF PREVIOUSLY UNPUBLISHED MATERIALS IN THE ELLEN G. WHITE MANUSCRIPT AND LETTER FILE. TITLES PUBLISHED, WITH THE YEAR OF PUBLICATION, ARE AS FOLLOWS: ·RADIANT RELIGION, 1946 ·WITH GOD AT DAWN, 1949 ·MY LIFE TODAY, 1952 ·SONS AND DAUGHTERS OF GOD, 1955 ·THE FAITH I LIVE BY, 1958 ·OUR HIGH CALLING, 1961 ·THAT I MAY KNOW HIM, 1964 ·IN HEAVENLY PLACES, 1967 ·CONFLICT AND COURAGE, 1970 ·GOD’S AMAZING GRACE, 1973 ·MARANATHA, 1976 ·THIS DAY WITH GOD, 1979 ·THE UPWARD LOOK, 1982 ·REFLECTING CHRIST, 1985 ·LIFT HIM UP, 1988 THE RECORDS OF THE REVIEW AND HERALD PUBLISHING COMPANY ASSOCIATION REVEAL A STEADILY INCREASING SALE OF THESE BOOKS OVER THE YEARS. IN THE 1950S MY LIFE TODAY SOLD 24,000 COPIES, WHILE SONS AND DAUGHTERS OF GOD HAD A SALE OF 33,000. IN THE 1960S BOTH THAT I MAY KNOW HIM AND IN HEAVENLY PLACES HAD SALES EXCEEDING 63,000 COPIES. THESE FIGURES HAVE ESCALATED TO SALES OF MORE THAN 90,000 FOR SEVERAL OF THE MORE RECENT DEVOTIONAL BOOKS. MANY OF THESE BOOKS HAVE ALSO ENJOYED A LARGE SALE IN SPANISH, PORTUGUESE, AND KOREAN, AND OTHER NON-ENGLISH LANGUAGES. A SAMPLING OF OPINION AMONG CHURCH MEMBERS REVEALS THAT THE RICH MATERIALS PUBLISHED IN THE EARLIER DEVOTIONALS ARE LARGELY UNKNOWN TO MANY ADVENTISTS TODAY. THIS PRESENT BOOK HAS BEEN PUBLISHED TO REMEDY THIS SITUATION. IT CONSISTS OF SELECTIONS FROM 12 OF THE BOOKS NAMED ABOVE—ONE BOOK A MONTH FOR THE 12 MONTHS OF 1992. THE SOURCE BOOK FOR EACH CHAPTER CAN BE LOCATED BY REFERRING TO THE TITLE OF EACH CHAPTER. ELLEN WHITE STATES THAT “CHRIST’S FAVORITE THEME WAS THE PATERNAL CHARACTER AND ABUNDANT LOVE OF GOD” (TESTIMONIES, VOL. 6, P. 55). THIS ALSO SEEMS TO BE ELLEN WHITE’S FAVORITE THEME. FOR THAT REASON THE COMPILERS HAVE CHOSEN THE TITLE OUR FATHER CARES. THE TITLE HAS A DOUBLE SIGNIFICANCE. NOT ONLY HAVE READINGS BEEN SELECTED ON THE TOPIC OF GOD’S GREAT LOVE AND CARE FOR US, BUT THEY ALSO REFLECT THE FACT THAT GOD CARES SO MUCH FOR US THAT HE IS INTERESTED IN EVERY ASPECT OF OUR DAILY LIVES. HE CARES ABOUT OUR HEALTH, OUR HOMES, OUR STUDY OF HIS WORD, OUR VICTORY OVER SIN, OUR PREPARATION FOR HIS SECOND COMING. HE ALSO LONGS FOR US TO BE WITH HIM IN HIS KINGDOM, WHICH IS SOON TO BE ESTABLISHED ON EARTH. HOW MUCH HE CARES! WE INVITE YOU TO READ EACH DAY’S DEVOTIONAL WITH BOTH ASPECTS OF GOD’S CONCERN IN MIND, TRUSTING THAT AS YOU MEDITATE ON EACH PASSAGE YOU WILL COME TO APPRECIATE MORE THAT EVER HOW MUCH GOD LOVES AND CARES FOR YOU. —THE TRUSTEES OF THE ELLEN G. WHITE ESTATE Chapter 1—Sons and Daughters of God We Are Called The Sons Of God Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not; because it knew him not. 1 John 3:1. {OFC 15.1} [OFC 15.2] As John thought of the love of Christ, he was led to exclaim, “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God.” {OFC 15.2} [OFC 15.3] People think it a privilege to see a royal personage, and thousands go great distances to see one. How much greater privilege it is to be sons and daughters of the Most High. What greater privilege could be conferred on us than to be given entrance into the royal family? {OFC 15.3} [OFC 15.4] In order to become the sons and daughters of God, we must separate from the world. “Come out from among them, and be ye separate,” the Lord says, “and I will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters.” . . . {OFC 15.4} [OFC 15.5] There is a heaven before us, a crown of life to win. But to the overcomer only is the reward given. He who gains heaven must be clothed with the robe of righteousness. “Every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.” In the character of Christ there was no discord of any kind. And this must be our experience. Our lives must be controlled by the principles that controlled His life. {OFC 15.5} [OFC 15.6] Through the perfection of the sacrifice given for the guilty race, those who believe in Christ, coming unto Him, may be saved from eternal ruin. . . . {OFC 15.6} [OFC 15.7] Let no one be so deluded by the enemy as to think that it is a condescension for any man, however talented or learned or honored, to accept Christ. Every human being should look to heaven with reverence and gratitude, and exclaim with amazement, “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God.” {OFC 15.7} [OFC 15.8] We Are Purified As Christ Is Pure And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure. 1 John 3:3. {OFC 15.8} [OFC 16.1] 16 Christ would elevate and refine man’s mind, purifying it from all dross, that he may appreciate the love that is without a parallel. {OFC 16.1} [OFC 16.2] Through repentance, faith, and good works he may perfect a righteous character, and claim, through the merits of Christ, the privileges of the sons of God. The principles of divine truth, received and cherished in the heart, will carry us to a height of moral excellence that we had not deemed it possible for us to reach. . . . “And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.” {OFC 16.2} [OFC 16.3] Holiness of heart and purity of life were the great subjects of the teachings of Christ. In His sermon on the mount, after specifying what must be done in order to be blessed, and what must not be done, He says, “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” Perfection, holiness,—nothing short of this would give them success in carrying out the principles He had given them. Without this holiness, the human heart is selfish, sinful, and vicious. Holiness will lead its possessor to be fruitful, and abound in all good works. He will never become weary in well-doing; neither look for promotion in this world; but he will look forward to be promoted by the Majesty of heaven when He shall exalt His sanctified and holy ones to His throne. . . . Holiness of heart will produce right actions. {OFC 16.3} [OFC 16.4] As God is pure in His sphere, so man is to be pure in his. And he will be pure if Christ is formed within, the hope of glory; for he will imitate Christ’s life and reflect His character {OFC 16.4} [OFC 16.5] The princely dignity of the Christian character will shine forth as the sun, and the beams of light from the face of Christ will be reflected upon those who have purified themselves even as He is pure {OFC 16.5} [OFC 16.6] Purity of heart will lead to purity of life {OFC 16.6} [OFC 16.7] Power Is Given Us To Become The Sons Of God But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name. John 1:12. {OFC 16.7} [OFC 16.8] Divine sonship is not something that we gain of ourselves. Only to those who receive Christ as their Saviour is given the power to become sons and daughters of God. The sinner cannot, by any power of his own, rid himself of sin. For the accomplishment of this result, he must look to a higher Power. John exclaimed, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” Christ alone has power to cleanse the heart. He who is seeking for forgiveness and acceptance can say only,— 17 “Nothing in my hand I bring; Simply to Thy cross I cling.” {OFC 16.8} [OFC 17.1] But the promise of sonship is made to all who “believe on his name.” Every one who comes to Jesus in faith will receive pardon {OFC 17.1} [OFC 17.2] The religion of Christ transforms the heart. It makes the worldly-minded man heavenly-minded. Under its influence the selfish man becomes unselfish, because this is the character of Christ. The dishonest, scheming man becomes upright, so that it is second nature to him to do to others as he would have others do to him. The profligate is changed from impurity to purity. He forms correct habits; for the gospel of Christ has become to him a savor of life unto life. {OFC 17.2} [OFC 17.3] God was to be manifest in Christ, “reconciling the world unto himself.” Man had become so degraded by sin that it was impossible for him, in himself, to come into harmony with Him whose nature is purity and goodness. But Christ, after having redeemed man from the condemnation of the law, could impart divine power, to unite with human effort. Thus by repentance toward God and faith in Christ, the fallen children of Adam might once more become “sons of God.” {OFC 17.3} [OFC 17.4] When a soul receives Christ, he receives power to live the life of Christ. {OFC 17.4} [OFC 17.5] God Is Near To All That Call Upon Him The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth. Psalm 145:18. {OFC 17.5} [OFC 17.6] God is pleased when we keep our faces turned toward the Sun of Righteousness.... When we are in trouble and pressed down with anxieties, the Lord is near, and He bids us cast all our care upon Him, because He cares for us. . . . {OFC 17.6} [OFC 17.7] He comes to all His children in their affliction. In time of danger He is their refuge. In sorrow, He offers them joy and consolation. Shall we turn from the Redeemer, the fountain of living water, to hew out for ourselves broken cisterns, which can hold no water? When danger approaches, shall we seek for help from those as weak as ourselves, or shall we flee to Him who is mighty to save? His arms are open wide, and He utters the gracious invitation, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” {OFC 17.7} [OFC 18.1] It is not the manifestation of His great and awful majesty and unparalleled power that will leave us without excuse if we refuse Him our love and obedience. It is the love, the compassion, the patience, the 18 long-suffering that He has shown which will witness against those who do not offer Him the willing service of their lives. Those who turn to God with heart and soul and mind will find in Him peaceful security. . . . {OFC 18.1} [OFC 18.2] He knows just what we need, just what we can bear, and He will give us grace to endure every trial and test that He brings upon us. My constant prayer is for a greater nearness to God. {OFC 18.2} [OFC 18.3] Every provision has been made to meet the needs of our spiritual and our moral nature....Light and immortality are brought to light through the Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus has said that He has set before us an open door, and no man can shut it. The open door is before us, and through the grace of Christ, beams of merciful light stream forth from the gates ajar. {OFC 18.3} [OFC 18.4] Belief In Christ Means Everlasting Life He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life. John 3:36. {OFC 18.4} [OFC 18.5] When the soul surrenders itself to Christ, a new power takes possession of the new heart. A change is wrought which man can never accomplish for himself. It is a supernatural work, bringing a supernatural element into human nature. The soul that is yielded to Christ becomes His own fortress, which He holds in a revolted world, and He intends that no authority shall be known in it but His own. A soul thus kept in possession by the heavenly agencies is impregnable to the assaults of Satan. {OFC 18.5} [OFC 18.6] Christ is ready to impart all heavenly influences. He knows every temptation that comes to man, and the capabilities of every human agent. He weighs his strength. He sees the present and the future, and presents before the mind the obligations that should be met, and urges that common, earthly things shall not be permitted to be so absorbing that eternal things shall be lost out of reckoning. {OFC 18.6} [OFC 18.7] The gifts of His grace through Christ are free to all. There is no election but one’s own by which any may perish. God has set forth in His Word the conditions upon which every soul will be elected to eternal life—obedience to His commandments, through faith in Christ. God has elected a character in harmony with His law, and any one who shall reach the standard of His requirement, will have an entrance into the kingdom of glory. Christ Himself said, “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life.” {OFC 18.7} [OFC 18.8] What an exalted position to be identified with one in whom is all perfection centered, who is indeed the Majesty of heaven, but who loved us, although fallen, so much that language cannot express it! He for our sakes laid aside His royal robe, stepped down from the throne of heaven, 19 and condescended to clothe His divinity with humility, and became like one of us except in sin, that His life and character should be a pattern for all to copy, that they might have the precious gift of eternal life. {OFC 18.8} [OFC 19.1] The Spirit Brings Wisdom And Understanding And the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord. Isaiah 11:2. {OFC 19.1} [OFC 19.2] As the Holy Spirit opens to you the truth, you will treasure up the most precious experiences, and will long to speak to others of the comforting things that have been revealed to you. When brought into association with them, you will communicate some fresh thought in regard to the character or the work of Christ. You will have some fresh revelation of His pitying love to impart to those who love Him and to those who love Him not. {OFC 19.2} [OFC 19.3] “Give, and it shall be given unto you;” for the word of God is “a fountain of gardens, a well of living waters, and streams from Lebanon.” The heart that has once tasted the love of Christ, cries out continually for a deeper draught, and as you impart, you will receive in richer and more abundant measure. Every revelation of God to the soul increases the capacity to know and to love. The continual cry of the heart is, “More of Thee,” and ever the Spirit’s answer is, “Much more.” For our God delights to do “exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think.” To Jesus, who emptied Himself for the salvation of lost humanity, the Holy Spirit was given without measure. So it will be given to every follower of Christ when the whole heart is surrendered for His indwelling. Our Lord Himself has given the command, “Be filled with the Spirit,” and this command is also a promise of its fulfillment. It was the good pleasure of the Father that in Christ should “all the fullness dwell;” and “in him ye are made full.” {OFC 19.3} [OFC 19.4] God has poured out His love unstintedly, as the showers that refresh the earth. He says: “Let the skies pour down righteousness; let the earth open, and let them bring forth salvation, and let righteousness spring up together.” . . . “Of his fulness have we received, and grace for grace.” {OFC 19.4} [OFC 20.1] Angels Minister To The Heirs Of Salvation Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation? Hebrews 1:14. {OFC 20.1} [OFC 20.2] God has angels whose whole work is to draw those who shall be heirs of salvation. . . The angels’ work is to keep back the powers of Satan. {OFC 20.2} [OFC 20.3] The work of these heavenly beings is to prepare the inhabitants of this world to become children of God, pure, holy, undefiled. But men, though professing to be followers of Christ, do not place themselves in a position where they can understand this ministry, and thus the work of the heavenly messengers is made hard. The angels, who do always behold the face of the Father in heaven, would prefer to remain close by the side of God, in the pure and holy atmosphere of heaven; but a work must be done in bringing this heavenly atmosphere to the souls who are tempted and tried, that Satan may not disqualify them for the place the Lord would have them fill in the heavenly courts. Principalities and powers in heavenly places combine with these angels in their ministration for those who shall be heirs of salvation. {OFC 20.3} [OFC 20.4] Angels, who will do for you what you can not do for yourselves, are waiting for your co-operation. They are waiting for you to respond to the drawing of Christ. Draw nigh to God and to one another. By desire, by silent prayer, by resistance of satanic agencies, put your will on the side of God’s will. While you have one desire to resist the devil, and sincerely pray, Deliver me from temptation, you will have strength for your day. It is the work of the heavenly angels to come close to the tried, the tempted, the suffering ones. They labor long and untiringly to save the souls for whom Christ has died. And when souls appreciate their advantages, appreciate the heavenly assistance sent them, respond to the Holy Spirit’s working in their behalf; when they put their will on the side of Christ’s will, angels bear the tidings heavenward. . . . And there is rejoicing among the heavenly host. {OFC 20.4} [OFC 20.5] We Receive A Faith That Works By Love For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love. Galatians 5:6. {OFC 20.5} [OFC 21.1] 21 When you present your petitions to the Lord, it should be in humility, without boasting of superior attainments, but with real soul hunger for the blessing of God. Christ always knows what is cherished in the heart. We must come in faith that the Lord will hear and answer our prayers; for “whatsoever is not of faith is sin.” Genuine faith is the faith that works by love, and purifies the soul. A living faith will be a working faith. Should we go into the garden and find that there was no sap in the plants, no freshness in the leaves, no bursting buds or blooming flowers, no signs of life in stalk or branches, we would say, “The plants are dead. Uproot them from the garden; for they are a deformity to the beds.” So it is with those who profess Christianity, and have no spirituality. If there are no signs of religious vigor, if there is no doing of the commandments of the Lord, it is evident that there is no abiding in Christ, the living vine. {OFC 21.1} [OFC 21.2] Faith and love are the essential, powerful, working elements of Christian character. Those who possess them are one with Christ, and are carrying forward His mission. . . . We are to sit at Christ’s feet as continual learners, and to work with His gifts of faith and love. We shall then wear Christ’s yoke, and lift His burdens, and Christ will recognize us as one with Him; in heaven it will be said, “Ye are labourers together with God.” Will our youth remember that without faith it is impossible to please God? and it must be faith that works by love and purifies the soul. {OFC 21.2} [OFC 21.3] We cannot overestimate the value of simple faith and unquestioning obedience. It is by following in the path of obedience in simple faith that the character obtains perfection. {OFC 21.3} [OFC 21.4] Dependence Upon God For without me ye can do nothing. John 15:5, last part. {OFC 21.4} [OFC 21.5] The first lesson to be taught . . . is the lesson of dependence upon God. . . . As a flower of the field has its root in the soil; as it must receive air, dew, showers, and sunshine, so must we receive from God that which ministers to the life of the soul. {OFC 21.5} [OFC 21.6] The presence of God is guaranteed to the Christian. This Rock of faith is the living presence of God. The weakest may depend upon it. Those who think themselves the strongest may become the weakest unless they depend on Christ as their efficiency, their worthiness. This is the Rock upon which we may build successfully. God is near in Christ’s atoning sacrifice, in His intercession, His loving, tender ruling power over the church. Seated by the eternal throne, He watches them with intense interest. As long as the members of the church shall through faith draw sap and nourishment from Jesus Christ, and not from man’s opinions and devisings, and methods; if 22 having a conviction of the nearness of God in Christ, they put their entire trust in Him, they will have a vital connection with Christ as the branch has connection with the parent stock. The church is established not on theories of men, on long-drawn-out plans and forms. It depends upon Christ their righteousness. It is built on faith in Christ, “and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” . . . {OFC 21.6} [OFC 22.1] The strength of every soul is in God and not in man. Quietness and confidence is to be the strength of all who give their hearts to God. Christ has not a casual interest in us but an interest stronger than a mother for her child. . . . Our Saviour has purchased us by human suffering and sorrow, by insult, reproach, abuse, mockery, rejection and death. He is watching over you, trembling child of God. He will make you secure under His protection. . . . Our weakness in human nature will not bar our access to the heavenly Father, for He ［Christ］died to make intercession for us. {OFC 22.1} [OFC 22.2] The Renewed Heart Loves As Christ Loved A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. John 13:34. {OFC 22.2} [OFC 22.3] Jesus says, “Love one another as I have loved you.” Love is not simply an impulse, a transitory emotion, dependent upon circumstances; it is a living principle, a permanent power. The soul is fed by the streams of pure love that flow from the heart of Christ, as a well-spring that never fails. O, how is the heart quickened, how are its motives ennobled, its affections deepened, by this communion! Under the education and discipline of the Holy Spirit, the children of God love one another, truly, sincerely, unaffectedly,—“without partiality, and without hypocrisy.” And this because the heart is in love with Jesus. Our affection for one another springs from our common relation to God. We are one family, we love one another as He loved us. When compared with this true, sanctified, disciplined affection, the shallow courtesy of the world, the meaningless expression of effusive friendship, are as chaff to the wheat. {OFC 22.3} [OFC 22.4] To love as Christ loved means to manifest unselfishness at all times and in all places, by kind words and pleasant looks. . . . Genuine love is a precious attribute of heavenly origin, which increases its fragrance in proportion as it is dispensed to others. . . {OFC 22.4} [OFC 22.5] Christ’s love is deep and earnest, flowing like an irrepressible stream to all who will accept it. There is no selfishness in His love. If this heaven-born love is an abiding principle in the heart, it will make itself known, not only to those we hold most dear in sacred relationship, but to 23 all with whom we come in contact. It will lead us to bestow little acts of attention, to make concessions, to perform deeds of kindness, to speak tender, true, encouraging words. It will lead us to sympathize with those whose hearts hunger for sympathy. {OFC 22.5} [OFC 23.1] We Are to Take Time To Think About God Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth. Psalm 46:10. {OFC 23.1} [OFC 23.2] Christians should . . . cultivate a love for meditation, and cherish a spirit of devotion. Many seem to begrudge moments spent in meditation, and the searching of the Scriptures, and prayer, as though the time thus occupied was lost. I wish you could all view these things in the light God would have you; for you would then make the kingdom of Heaven of the first importance. To keep your heart in Heaven, will give vigor to all your graces, and put life into all your duties. To discipline the mind to dwell upon heavenly things, will put life and earnestness into all our endeavors. {OFC 23.2} [OFC 23.3] Let every one who desires to be a partaker of the divine nature appreciate the fact that he must escape the corruption that is in the world through lust. There must be a constant, earnest struggling of the soul against the evil imaginings of the mind. There must be a steadfast resistance of temptation to sin in thought or act. The soul must be kept from every stain, through faith in Him who is able to keep you from falling. We should meditate upon the Scriptures, thinking soberly and candidly upon the things that pertain to our eternal salvation. The infinite mercy and love of Jesus, the sacrifice made in our behalf, call for most serious and solemn reflection. We should dwell upon the character of our dear Redeemer and Intercessor. We should seek to comprehend the meaning of the plan of salvation. We should meditate upon the mission of Him who came to save His people from their sins. By constantly contemplating heavenly themes, our faith and love will grow stronger. Our prayers will be more and more acceptable to God, because they will be more and more mixed with faith and love. They will be more intelligent and fervent. {OFC 23.3} [OFC 23.4] When the mind is thus filled . . . the believer in Christ will be able to bring forth good things from the treasure of the heart {OFC 23.4} [OFC 24.1] Let Us Come Boldly To The Throne of Grace Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:16. {OFC 24.1} [OFC 24.2] Jesus knows the needs of His children, and He loves to listen to their prayers. Let the children shut out the world and everything that would attract the thoughts from God, and let them feel that they are alone with God, that His eye looks into the inmost heart, and reads the desire of the soul, and that they may talk with God. In humble faith you may claim His promises, and feel that although you have nothing in yourself whereby you may claim the favor of God, because of the merits and righteousness of Christ, you may come boldly to the throne of grace, and find help in time of need. There is nothing that can make the soul so strong to resist the temptations of Satan in the great conflict of life, as to seek God in humility, laying before Him your soul in all its helplessness, expecting that He will be your helper and your defender. {OFC 24.2} [OFC 24.3] With the trusting faith of a little child, we are to come to our heavenly Father, telling Him of all our needs. He is always ready to pardon and help. The supply of divine wisdom is inexhaustible, and the Lord encourages us to draw largely from it. The longing that we should have for spiritual blessings is described in the words, “As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God.” We need a deeper soul-hunger for the rich gifts that heaven has to bestow. {OFC 24.3} [OFC 24.4] We are to hunger and thirst after righteousness. {OFC 24.4} [OFC 24.5] O that we might have a consuming desire to know God by an experimental knowledge, to come into the audience chamber of the Most High, reaching up the hand of faith, and casting our helpless souls upon the One mighty to save. His loving kindness is better than life. {OFC 24.5} [OFC 24.6] He desires to bestow on the children of men the riches of an eternal inheritance. His kingdom is an everlasting kingdom. {OFC 24.6} [OFC 24.7] Rejoice In The Rich Treasures of Grace And thou shalt rejoice in every good thing which the Lord thy God hath given unto thee, and unto thine house, thou, and the Levite, and the stranger that is among you. Deuteronomy 26:11. {OFC 24.7} [OFC 25.1] 25 Thanksgiving and praise should be expressed to God for temporal blessings and for whatever comforts He bestows upon us. God would have every family that He is preparing to inhabit the eternal mansions above, give glory to Him for the rich treasures of His grace. Were children, in the home life, educated and trained to be grateful to the Giver of all good things, we would see an element of heavenly grace manifest in our families. Cheerfulness would be seen in the home life, and coming from such homes, the youth would bring a spirit of respect and reverence with them into the schoolroom, and into the church. There would be an attendance in the sanctuary where God meets with His people, a reverence for all the ordinances of His worship, and grateful praise and thanksgiving would be offered for all the gifts of His providence. . . . {OFC 25.1} [OFC 25.2] Every temporal blessing would be received with gratitude, and every spiritual blessing become doubly precious because the perception of each member of the household had become sanctified by the Word of truth. The Lord Jesus is very near to those who thus appreciate His gracious gifts, tracing all their good things back to the benevolent, loving, care-taking God, and recognizing Him as the great Fountain of all comfort and consolation, the inexhaustible Source of grace. {OFC 25.2} [OFC 25.3] If we would give more expression to our faith, rejoice more in the blessings that we know we have,—the great mercy and love of God,—we should have more faith and greater joy. No tongue can express, no finite mind can conceive, the blessing that results from appreciating the goodness and love of God. Even on earth we may have joy as a wellspring, never failing, because fed by the streams that flow from the throne of God. {OFC 25.3} [OFC 25.4] We Have Received Of God’s Fullness And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace. John 1:16. {OFC 25.4} [OFC 25.5] Christ sought to save the world, not by conformity to it, but by revealing to the world the transforming power of the grace of God to mold and fashion the human character after the likeness of the character of Christ. {OFC 25.5} [OFC 25.6] Satan has represented God as selfish and oppressive, as claiming all, and giving nothing, as requiring the service of His creatures for His own glory, and making no sacrifice for their good. But the gift of Christ reveals the Father’s heart. . . . It declares that while God’s hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death. Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary 26 to the completion of His work. No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save. Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me. {OFC 25.6} [OFC 26.1] The Father appreciates every soul whom His Son has purchased by the gift of His life. Every provision has been made for us to receive divine power, which will enable us to overcome temptations. Through obedience to all God’s requirements the soul is preserved unto eternal life. {OFC 26.1} [OFC 26.2] God has a heaven full of blessings that He wants to bestow on those who are earnestly seeking for that help which the Lord alone can give. {OFC 26.2} [OFC 26.3] We Are Changed From Glory To Glory But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory even as by the Spirit of the Lord. 2 Corinthians 3:18. {OFC 26.3} [OFC 26.4] When enlightened by the Spirit of God, the believer beholds the perfection of Jesus, and beholding this perfection, he rejoices with joy unspeakable. In self he sees sin and helplessness; in the Redeemer sinlessness and infinite power. The sacrifice that Christ made in order that He might impart to us His righteousness—this is a theme upon which we may dwell with deeper and still deeper enthusiasm. Self is nothing; Jesus is everything. . . . {OFC 26.4} [OFC 26.5] The transforming power of grace can make me a partaker of the divine nature. On Christ the glory of God has shone, and by looking upon Christ, contemplating His self-sacrifice, remembering that in Him dwells all the fulness of the Godhead bodily, the believer is drawn closer and closer to the Source of power. . . . {OFC 26.5} [OFC 26.6] How essential that we have the enlightenment of the Spirit of God; for thus only can we see the glory of Christ, and by beholding become changed from character to character in and through faith in Christ. . . . He has grace and pardon for every soul. As by faith we look to Jesus, our faith pierces the shadow, and we adore God for His wondrous love in giving us Jesus the Comforter. . . . {OFC 26.6} [OFC 26.7] The sinner may become a child of God, an heir of heaven. He may rise from the dust, and stand forth arrayed in garments of light. . . . At every 27 step of advance, he sees new beauties in Christ, and becomes more like Him in character. {OFC 26.7} [OFC 27.1] The love that was manifested toward him in the death of Christ, awakens a response of thankful love, and in answer to sincere prayer, the believer is brought from grace to grace, from glory to glory, until by beholding Christ, he is changed into the same image. {OFC 27.1} [OFC 27.2] Love For Others Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; and walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour. Ephesians 5:1, 2. {OFC 27.2} [OFC 27.3] You are to follow God as dear children, to be obedient to all His requirements, walking in love as Christ also hath loved us. . . . Love was the element in which Christ moved and walked and worked. He came to embrace the world in the arms of His love. . . {OFC 27.3} [OFC 27.4] We are to follow the example set by Christ, and make Him our pattern, until we shall have the same love for others as He has manifested for us. He seeks to impress us with this profound lesson of love. . . . If your hearts have been given to selfishness, let Christ imbue you with His love. He desires that we shall love Him fully, and encourages, yes, even commands, that we shall love others as He has given us an example. He has made love the badge of our discipleship. . . . This is the measurement to which you are to reach,—”Love one another; as I have loved you.” What height, what depth and breadth of love! This love is not simply to embrace a few favorites, it is to reach to the lowliest and humblest of God’s creatures. Jesus says, “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” . . . {OFC 27.4} [OFC 27.5] The love and sympathy which Jesus would have us give to others does not savor of sentimentalism, which is a snare to the soul; it is a love that is of heavenly extraction, which Jesus exemplifies by both precept and example. But instead of manifesting this love, how often we are alienated and estranged one from another. . . . The result is estrangement from God, a dwarfed experience, a blighting of Christian growth. . . . {OFC 27.5} [OFC 27.6] The love of Jesus is an active principle, uniting heart with heart in bonds of Christian fellowship. Every one who enters heaven will on earth have been perfected in love; for in heaven the Redeemer and the redeemed will be objects of our interest. {OFC 27.6} [OFC 28.1] We Are To Overcome As Christ Overcame These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. John 16:33. {OFC 28.1} [OFC 28.2] Satan made stronger attacks upon Christ than he will ever make upon us. There was much at stake with him, whether Christ or himself should be conqueror. If Christ resisted his most powerful temptations, and Satan did not succeed in leading Him to sin, he knew that he must lose his power, and finally be punished with everlasting destruction. Therefore Satan worked with mighty power to lead Christ to do a wrong action, for then he would gain advantage over Him. . . . You can never be tempted in so determined and cruel manner as was our Saviour. Satan was upon His path every moment. {OFC 28.2} [OFC 28.3] Will man take hold of divine power, and with determination and perseverance resist Satan, as Christ has given him example in His conflict with the foe in the wilderness of temptation? God cannot save man against his will from the power of Satan’s artifices. Man must work with his human power, aided by the divine power of Christ, to resist and to conquer at any cost to himself. In short, man must overcome as Christ overcame. And then, through the victory that it is his privilege to gain by the all-powerful name of Jesus, he may become an heir of God and joint-heir with Jesus Christ. This could not be the case if Christ alone did all the overcoming. Man must do his part; he must be victor on his own account, through the strength and grace that Christ gives him. Man must be a co-worker with Christ in the labor of overcoming, and then he will be partaker with Christ in His glory. {OFC 28.3} [OFC 28.4] The Saviour overcame to show man how he may overcome. All the temptations of Satan, Christ met with the Word of God. By trusting in God’s promises, He received power to obey God’s commandments, and the tempter could gain no advantage. {OFC 28.4} [OFC 28.5] Jesus Is A Friend That Is Closer Than A Brother There is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother. Proverbs 18:24. {OFC 28.5} [OFC 28.6] Disappointments you will have, but ever bear in mind that Jesus, the 29 living, risen Saviour, is your Redeemer, your Restorer. He loves you, and it is better to share His love than to sit with princes and be separated from Him. . . . {OFC 28.6} [OFC 29.1] Come daily to Jesus, who loves you. Open your heart to Him freely. In Him there is no disappointment. You will never find a better counselor, a safer guide, a more sure defense. {OFC 29.1} [OFC 29.2] Through all your trials . . . you have had a never-failing Friend, who has said, “I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” {OFC 29.2} [OFC 29.3] But how often is the Lord neglected for the society of others, and for things of no value! . . . We dare not let His name languish on our lips, and His love and memory die out of our hearts. “Well,” says the cold, formal professor, “this is making Christ too much like a human being;” but the Word of God warrants us to have these very ideas. It is the want of these practical, definite views of Christ, that hinders so many from having a genuine experience in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. This is the reason that many are fearing and doubting and mourning. Their ideas of Christ and the plan of salvation are vague, dreary, and confused. . . . If ever there was a time when men needed the presence of Christ at their right hand, it is now, so that when the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him. {OFC 29.3} [OFC 29.4] Communion with Christ—how unspeakably precious! Such communion it is our privilege to enjoy, if we will seek it. {OFC 29.4} [OFC 29.5] The everlasting assurance shall be yours that you have a Friend that sticketh closer than a brother. {OFC 29.5} [OFC 29.6] Careful Habits Ensure Good Health I will restore health unto thee, and I will heal thee of thy wounds, saith the Lord. Jeremiah 30:17. {OFC 29.6} [OFC 29.7] The mind does not wear out nor break down so often on account of diligent employment and hard study, as on account of eating improper food at improper times, and of careless inattention to the laws of health. . . . Irregular hours for eating and sleeping sap the brain forces. The apostle Paul declares that he who would be successful in reaching a high standard of godliness must be temperate in all things. Eating, drinking, and dressing all have a direct bearing upon our spiritual advancement. {OFC 29.7} [OFC 29.8] Health is a blessing which few appreciate. . . . Many eat at all hours, regardless of the laws of health. Then gloom covers the mind. How can men be honored with divine enlightenment when they are so reckless in their habits, so inattentive to the light which God has given in regard to 30 these things. . . . Life is a holy trust, which God alone can enable us to keep, and to use to His glory. But He who formed the wonderful structure of the body will take special care to keep it in order if men do not work at cross-purposes with Him. {OFC 29.8} [OFC 30.1] Health, life, and happiness are the result of obedience to physical laws governing our bodies. If our will and way are in accordance with God’s will and way; if we do the pleasure of our Creator, He will keep the human organism in good condition, and restore the moral, mental, and physical powers, in order that He may work through us to His glory. . . . If we co-operate with Him in this work, health and happiness, peace and usefulness, are the sure result. {OFC 30.1} [OFC 30.2] He did not die for us in order that we might become slaves to evil habits, but that we might become the sons and daughters of God, serving Him with every power of the being. {OFC 30.2} [OFC 30.3] My dear young friends, advance step by step, until all your habits shall be in harmony with the laws of life and health. {OFC 30.3} [OFC 30.4] Divine Wisdom For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it. Proverbs 8:11. {OFC 30.4} [OFC 30.5] If Adam and Eve had never touched the forbidden tree, the Lord would have imparted to them knowledge,—knowledge upon which rested no curse of sin, knowledge that would have brought them everlasting joy. The only knowledge they gained by their disobedience was a knowledge of sin and its results.... {OFC 30.5} [OFC 30.6] Age after age, the curiosity of men has led them to seek for the tree of knowledge; and often they think they are plucking fruit most essential, when, like Solomon’s research, they find it altogether vanity and nothingness in comparison with that science of true holiness which will open to them the gates of the city of God. The human ambition has been seeking for that kind of knowledge that will bring to them glory and self-exaltation and supremacy. Thus Adam and Eve were worked upon by Satan until God’s restraint was snapped asunder, and their education under the teacher of lies began in order that they might have the knowledge which God had refused them. {OFC 30.6} [OFC 30.7] True wisdom is a treasure as lasting as eternity. Many of the world’s so-called wise men are wise only in their own estimation. Content with the acquisition of worldly wisdom, they never enter the garden of God, to become acquainted with the treasures of knowledge contained in His holy Word. Supposing themselves to be wise, they are ignorant concerning the 31 wisdom which all must have who gain eternal life....The unlearned man, if he knows God and Jesus Christ, has a more enduring wisdom than has the most learned man who despises the instruction of God. {OFC 30.7} [OFC 31.1] Divine wisdom is to be a lamp to your feet....Everything that can be shaken will be shaken; but rooted and grounded in the truth, you will abide with those things that cannot be shaken. {OFC 31.1} [OFC 31.2] Study The Scriptures For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope. Romans 15:4. {OFC 31.2} [OFC 31.3] This Holy Book has withstood the assaults of Satan, who has united with evil men to make everything of divine character shrouded in clouds and darkness. But the Lord has preserved this Holy Book by His own miraculous power in its present shape,—a chart or guidebook to the human family to show them the way to heaven. . . . This Word . . . is the guidebook to the inhabitants of a fallen world, bequeathed to them, that by studying and obeying the directions, not one soul would lose its way. {OFC 31.3} [OFC 31.4] There never was a time when it was so important that followers of Christ should study the Bible as now. Deceptive influences are upon all sides, and it is essential that you counsel with Jesus, your best friend. . . . David declares, “Thy word have I hid in my heart, that I might not sin against thee.” How many are betrayed into sin, because they have not, through prayerful study of the Word of God, realized the sinfulness of sin, and found out how they may steadfastly resist it. When temptation comes upon them, they seem to be off guard, and ignorant of the devices of the enemy. We are living in perilous times, and as we draw near the close of earth’s history, there will be no safety for those who do not become familiar with the Word of God. . . . Everything that can be shaken, will be shaken. . . . The children of God have reached the most critical part of their pilgrimage; for the nets and pitfalls of the enemy are on every side. And yet with the guidance of the Lord, with that which is plainly revealed in His Word, we may walk securely and not stumble. . . . A voice from heaven is addressing us in its pages. {OFC 31.4} [OFC 31.5] Obedience to God’s Word is our only safeguard against the evils that are sweeping the world to destruction. {OFC 31.5} [OFC 32.1] To Walk In His Way The way of the Lord is strength to the upright: but destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity. Proverbs 10:29. {OFC 32.1} [OFC 32.2] If from the beginning we had walked in the counsel of God, thousands more would have been converted to the present truth. But many have made crooked paths for their feet. My brethren, make straight paths, lest the lame be turned out of the way. Let no one follow a crooked path that some one else has made, for thus you would not only go astray yourself, but would make this crooked path plainer for some one else to follow. Determine that as for yourself, you will walk in the path of obedience. Know for a certainty that you are standing under the broad shield of Omnipotence. Realize that the characteristics of Jehovah must be revealed in your life, and that in you a work must be accomplished that will mold your character after the divine similitude. Yield yourself to the guidance of Him who is the Head over all. {OFC 32.2} [OFC 32.3] We are doing our work for the judgment. Let us be learners of Jesus. We need His guidance every moment. At every step we should inquire, “Is this the way of the Lord?” not, “Is this the way of the man who is over me?” We are to be concerned only as to whether we are walking in the way of the Lord. {OFC 32.3} [OFC 32.4] God will honor and uphold every true-hearted, earnest soul who is seeking to walk before Him in the perfection of Christ’s grace. He will never leave nor forsake one humble, trembling soul. Shall we believe that He will work in our hearts? that if we allow Him to do so, He will make us pure and holy, by His rich grace qualifying us to be laborers together with Him? Can we with keen, sanctified perception appreciate the strength of His promises, and appropriate them, not because we are worthy, but because by living faith we claim the righteousness of Christ? {OFC 32.4} [OFC 32.5] There is nothing so great and powerful as God’s love for those who are His children. {OFC 32.5} [OFC 32.6] All Men Are Drawn To The Uplifted Saviour And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me. John 12:32. {OFC 32.6} [OFC 32.7] Never before was there such a general knowledge of Jesus as when He hung upon the cross. He was lifted up from the earth, to draw all to Him. 33 Into the hearts of many who beheld that crucifixion scene, and who heard Christ’s words, was the light of truth to shine. With John they would proclaim, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” There were those who never rested until, searching the Scriptures and comparing passage with passage, they saw the meaning of Christ’s mission. They saw that free forgiveness was provided by Him whose tender mercy embraced the whole world. They read the prophecies regarding Christ, and the promises so free and full, pointing to a fountain opened for Judah and Jerusalem. {OFC 32.7} [OFC 33.1] The sacrifice of Christ as an atonement for sin is the great truth around which all other truths cluster. In order to be rightly understood and appreciated, every truth in the Word of God, from Genesis to Revelation, must be studied in the light which streams from the cross of Calvary, and in connection with the wondrous, central truth of the Saviour’s atonement. Those who study the Redeemer’s wonderful sacrifice grow in grace and knowledge. {OFC 33.1} [OFC 33.2] I present before you the great, grand monument of mercy and regeneration, salvation and redemption,—the Son of God uplifted on the cross of Calvary. This is to be the theme of every discourse. {OFC 33.2} [OFC 33.3] Jesus is inviting and drawing by His Holy Spirit the hearts of young and old to Himself. . . . When Christ crucified is preached, the power of the gospel is demonstrated by the influence it exerts over the believer. In place of remaining dead in trespasses and sins, he is awakened. {OFC 33.3} [OFC 33.4] Lift up the Man of Calvary higher and still higher; there is power in the exaltation of the cross of Christ. {OFC 33.4} [OFC 33.5] Reconciled To God By Christ’s Death For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. Romans 5:10. {OFC 33.5} [OFC 33.6] The cross is invested with a power that language cannot express. Christ’s sacrifice in behalf of the human race puts to shame our meager efforts and methods to meet and uplift humanity, to help sinful men and women to find Jesus. {OFC 33.6} [OFC 33.7] The work of the sons and daughters of God must be of a different character than has yet been manifested by a large number. If they love Jesus, they will have enlarged ideas of the love that has been expressed for fallen man, which required the provision of so expensive an offering to save the human race. Our Saviour asks the cooperation of every son and 34 daughter of Adam who has become a son or daughter of God. . . . Our Saviour declares that He brought from heaven as a donation eternal life. He was to be lifted up upon the cross of Calvary to draw all men unto Him. How then shall we treat the purchased inheritance of Christ? Tenderness, appreciation, kindness, sympathy, and love should be shown to them. Then we may work to help and bless one another. In this work we have more than human brotherhood. We have the exalted companionship of heavenly angels. They cooperate with us in the work of enlightening high and low. {OFC 33.7} [OFC 34.1] Having engaged in the work, the amazing work of our redemption, Christ determined in council with His Father to spare nothing, however costly, to withhold nothing however highly it might be estimated, that would rescue the poor sinner. He would give all heaven to this work of salvation, of restoring the moral image of God in man. . . . To be a child of God is to be one with Christ in God, and to put forth our hands in earnest, self-sacrificing love to strengthen and bless the souls that are perishing in their sins. {OFC 34.1} [OFC 34.2] True Missionary Effort Begins In The Home And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. Luke 1:6. {OFC 34.2} [OFC 34.3] In forming a relationship with Christ, the renewed man is but coming back to his appointed relationship with God. . . . His first duty is to his children and his nearest relatives. Nothing can excuse him from neglecting the inner circle for the larger circle outside. In the day of final reckoning fathers and mothers . . . will be asked what they did and said to secure the salvation of the souls they took upon themselves the responsibility of bringing into the world. Did they neglect their lambs, leaving them to the care of strangers? . . . A great good done for others will not cancel the debt you owe to God to care for your children. The spiritual welfare of your family comes first. {OFC 34.3} [OFC 34.4] In rightly training and molding the minds of her children, mothers are entrusted with the greatest mission ever given to mortals. {OFC 34.4} [OFC 34.5] Whenever you take up the duty that lies nearest you, then God will bless you, and hear your prayers. There are too many doing outside missionary work, while their own households are left destitute of any such efforts,—going to ruin through neglect. . . . The first missionary work is to see that love, light, and joy come into the home circle. Let us not be looking for some great temperance or missionary work to do until we have 35 first done the duties at home. Every morning we should think, What kind act can I do today? What tender word can I speak? Kind words at home are blessed sunshine. The husband needs them, the wife needs them, the children need them. . . . It ought to be the desire of every heart to make as much heaven below as possible. {OFC 34.5} [OFC 35.1] A soul saved in your own family circle or in your own neighborhood, by your patient, painstaking labor, will bring as much honor to the name of Christ, and will shine as brightly in your crown as if you had found that soul in China or India. {OFC 35.1} [OFC 35.2] We Are To Do Good To Our Neighbors Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it Proverbs 3:27. {OFC 35.2} [OFC 35.3] So ready, so eager is the Saviour’s heart to welcome us as members of the family of God, that in the very first words we are to use in approaching God, He places the assurance of our divine relationship,—”Our Father.” . . . In calling God our Father, we recognize all His children as our brethren. We are all a part of the great web of humanity, all members of one family. In our petitions we are to include our neighbors as well as ourselves. No one prays aright who seeks a blessing for himself alone. {OFC 35.3} [OFC 35.4] We are bound to the Lord by the strongest ties, and the manifestation of our Father’s love should call forth the most filial affection and the most ardent gratitude. The laws of God have their foundation in the most immutable rectitude, and are so framed that they will promote the happiness of those who keep them. {OFC 35.4} [OFC 35.5] In the lesson of faith that Christ taught on the mount, are revealed the principles of true religion. Religion brings man into personal relation with God, but not exclusively; for the principles of heaven are to be lived out, that they may help and bless humanity. A true child of God will love Him with all his heart, and his neighbor as himself. He will have an interest for his fellow-men. True religion is the work of grace upon the heart, that causes the life to flow out in good works, like a fountain fed from living streams. Religion does not consist merely in meditation and prayer. The Christian’s light is displayed in good works, and is thus recognized by others. Religion is not to be divorced from the business life. It is to pervade and sanctify its engagements and enterprises. If a man is truly connected with God and heaven, the spirit that dwells in heaven will influence all his words and actions. He will glorify God in his works, and will lead others to honor Him. {OFC 35.5} [OFC 36.1] Being United As Children Of God For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. Galatians 3:26. {OFC 36.1} [OFC 36.2] We seldom find two persons exactly alike. Among human beings as well as among the things of the natural world, there is diversity. Unity in diversity among God’s children—the manifestation of love and forbearance in spite of difference of disposition—this is the testimony that God sent His Son into the world to save sinners. {OFC 36.2} [OFC 36.3] The unity that exists between Christ and His disciples does not destroy the personality of either. In mind, in purpose, in character, they are one, but not in person. By partaking of the Spirit of God, conforming to the law of God, man becomes a partaker of the divine nature. Christ brings His disciples into a living union with Himself and with the Father. Through the working of the Holy Spirit upon the human mind, man is made complete in Christ Jesus. Unity with Christ establishes a bond of unity with one another. This unity is the most convincing proof to the world of the majesty and virtue of Christ, and of His power to take away sin. {OFC 36.3} [OFC 36.4] The powers of darkness stand a poor chance against believers who love one another as Christ has loved them, who refuse to create alienation and strife, who stand together, who are kind, courteous, and tender-hearted, cherishing the faith that works by love and purifies the soul. We must have the Spirit of Christ, or we are none of His. {OFC 36.4} [OFC 36.5] In unity there is strength; in division there is weakness. {OFC 36.5} [OFC 36.6] The closer our union with Christ, the closer will be our union with one another. Variance and disaffection, selfishness and conceit, are striving for supremacy. These are the fruits of a divided heart, open to the suggestions of the enemy of souls. Satan exults when he can sow seeds of dissension. {OFC 36.6} [OFC 36.7] In unity there is a life, a power, that can be obtained in no other way. {OFC 36.7} [OFC 36.8] Glad In The Lord My meditation of him shall be sweet: I will be glad in the Lord . Psalm 104:34. {OFC 36.8} [OFC 36.9] Rest yourself wholly in the hands of Jesus. Contemplate His great love, and while you meditate upon His self-denial, His infinite sacrifice made in our behalf in order that we should believe in Him, your heart will be filled with holy joy, calm peace, and indescribable love. As we talk of Jesus, as we call upon Him in prayer, our confidence that He is our 37 personal, loving Saviour will strengthen, and His character will appear more and more lovely. . . . We may enjoy rich feasts of love, and as we fully believe that we are His by adoption, we may have a foretaste of heaven. Wait upon the Lord in faith. The Lord draws out the soul in prayer, and gives us to feel His precious love. We have a nearness to Him, and can hold sweet communion with Him. We obtain distinct views of His tenderness and compassion, and our hearts are broken and melted with contemplation of the love that is given to us. We feel indeed an abiding Christ in the soul. . . . Our peace is like a river, wave after wave of glory rolls into the heart, and indeed we sup with Jesus and He with us. We have a realizing sense of the love of God, and we rest in His love. No language can describe it, it is beyond knowledge. We are one with Christ, our life is hid with Christ in God. We have the assurance that when He who is our life shall appear, then shall we also appear with Him in glory. With strong confidence, we can call God our Father. Whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s. His Spirit makes us like Jesus Christ in temper, and disposition, and we represent Christ to others. When Christ is abiding in the soul the fact cannot be hid; for He is like a well of water springing up into everlasting life. We can but represent the likeness of Christ in our character, and our words, our deportment, produces in others a deep, abiding, increasing love for Jesus, and we make manifest . . . that we are conformed to the image of Jesus Christ. {OFC 36.9} [OFC 37.1] Store The Mind With Divine Truth Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. 2 Peter 1:4. {OFC 37.1} [OFC 37.2] It is the duty of every child of God to store his mind with divine truth; and the more he does this, the more strength and clearness of mind he will have to fathom the deep things of God. And he will be more and more earnest and vigorous, as the principles of truth are carried out in his daily life. {OFC 37.2} [OFC 37.3] That which will bless humanity is spiritual life. He who is in harmony with God, will constantly depend upon Him for strength. “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” It should be our life work to be constantly reaching forward to the perfection of Christian character, ever striving for conformity to the will of God. The efforts begun here will continue through eternity. The advancement made here will be ours when we enter upon the future life. {OFC 37.3} [OFC 38.1] 38 Those who are partakers of Christ’s meekness, purity, and love, will be joyful in God, and will shed light and gladness upon all around them. The thought that Christ died to obtain for us the gift of everlasting life, is enough to call forth from our hearts the most sincere and fervent gratitude, and from our lips the most enthusiastic praise. God’s promises are rich, and full, and free. Whoever will, in the strength of Christ, comply with the conditions, may claim these promises, with all their wealth of blessing, as his own. And being thus abundantly supplied from the treasure-house of God, he may, in the journey of life, “walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing;” by a godly example blessing his fellow-men, and honoring his Creator. While our Saviour would guard His followers from self-confidence by the reminder, “Without me, ye can do nothing,” He has coupled with it for our encouragement the gracious assurance, “He that abideth in me . . . bringeth forth much fruit.” {OFC 38.1} [OFC 38.2] Trees Planted By Rivers Of Water He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. Psalm 1:3. {OFC 38.2} [OFC 38.3] Dangers beset every path, and he who comes off conqueror will indeed have a triumphant song to sing in the city of God. Some have strong traits of character that will need to be constantly repressed. If kept under the control of the Spirit of God, these traits will be a blessing; but if not, they will prove a curse. If those who are now riding upon the wave of popularity do not become giddy, it will be a miracle of mercy. If they lean to their own wisdom, as so many thus situated have done, their wisdom will prove to be foolishness. But while they shall give themselves unselfishly to the work of God, never swerving in the least from principle, the Lord will throw about them the everlasting arm and will prove to them a mighty helper. . . . {OFC 38.3} [OFC 38.4] This is a dangerous age for any man who has talents which can be of value in the work of God; for Satan is constantly plying his temptations upon such a person, ever trying to fill him with pride and ambition; and when God would use him, it is too often the case that he becomes independent and self-sufficient, and feels capable of standing alone. . . . {OFC 38.4} [OFC 38.5] Prayer and effort, effort and prayer, will be the business of your life. You must pray as though the efficiency and praise were all due to God, and labor as though duty were all your own. If you want power you may have it; it is waiting your draft upon it. Only believe in God, take Him at His 39 word, act by faith, and blessings will come. . . . Those who have a humble, trusting, contrite heart, God accepts, and hears their prayer; and when God helps, all obstacles will be overcome. . . . The blessing of heaven, obtained by daily supplication, will be as the bread of life to the soul and will cause them to increase in moral and spiritual strength, like a tree planted by the river of waters. {OFC 38.5} [OFC 39.1] We Shall Inherit All Things He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son (daughter). Revelation 21:7. {OFC 39.1} [OFC 39.2] In order to inherit all things, we must resist and overcome sin. {OFC 39.2} [OFC 39.3] We may have joy in the Lord if we will keep His commandments. If we indeed have our citizenship above, and a title to an immortal inheritance, an eternal substance, we have that faith which works by love and purifies the soul. . . . We are members of the heavenly family, children of the heavenly King, heirs of God, and joint heirs with Christ. At His coming we shall have the crown of life that fadeth not away. {OFC 39.3} [OFC 39.4] The Monarch of heaven would have you possess and enjoy all that can ennoble, expand, and exalt your being and fit you to dwell with Him forever, your existence measuring with the life of God. What a prospect is the life which is to come! What charms it possesses! How broad and deep and measureless is the love of God manifested to man! {OFC 39.4} [OFC 39.5] The privileges granted to the children of God are without limit,—to be connected with Jesus Christ, who, throughout the universe of heaven and worlds that have not fallen, is adored by every heart, and His praises sung by every tongue; to be children of God, to bear His name, to become a member of the royal family; to be ranged under the banner of Prince Immanuel, the King of kings and Lord of lords. {OFC 39.5} [OFC 39.6] The Son of God was the heir of all things, and the dominion and glory of the kingdoms of this world were promised to Him. . . . Even as Christ was in the world, so are His followers. They are the sons of God, and joint heirs with Christ; and the kingdom and dominion belong to them. {OFC 39.6} [OFC 39.7] In place of the world, He will give you, for a life of obedience, the kingdom under the whole heavens. He will give you an eternal weight of glory and a life that is as enduring as eternity. {OFC 39.7} [OFC 40.1] Chapter 2—My Life Today I Give My Heart My son, give me thine heart, and let thine eyes observe my ways. Proverbs 23:26. {OFC 40.1} [OFC 40.2] The Lord says to every one of you, “My son, give Me thine heart.” He sees your disorders. He knows that your soul is diseased with sin, and He desires to say to you, “Thy sins are forgiven.” The Great Physician has a remedy for every ill. He understands your case. Whatever may have been your errors, He knows how to deal with them. Will you not trust yourself to Him? {OFC 40.2} [OFC 40.3] The blessing of God will rest upon every soul that makes a full consecration to Him. When we seek for God with all the heart, we shall find Him. God is in earnest with us, and He wants us to make thorough work for eternity. He has poured out all heaven in one gift, and there is no reason why we should doubt His love. Look to Calvary. . . . {OFC 40.3} [OFC 40.4] God asks you to give Him your heart. Your powers, your talents, your affections, should all be surrendered to Him, that He may work in you to will and to do of His good pleasure, and fit you for eternal life. {OFC 40.4} [OFC 40.5] When Christ dwells in the heart, the soul will be so filled with His love, with the joy of communion with Him, that it will cleave to Him; and in the contemplation of Him, self will be forgotten. Love to Christ will be the spring of action. Those who feel the constraining love of God, do not ask how little may be given to meet the requirements of God; they do not ask for the lowest standard, but aim at perfect conformity to the will of their Redeemer. With earnest desire they yield all, and manifest an interest proportionate to the value of the object which they seek {OFC 40.5} [OFC 40.6] It is the submissive, teachable spirit that God wants. That which gives to prayer its excellence is the fact that it is breathed from a loving, obedient heart. {OFC 40.6} [OFC 40.7] Pray In The Morning My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O Lord; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up. Psalm 5:3. {OFC 40.7} [OFC 40.8] The very first outbreathing of the soul in the morning should be for the presence of Jesus. “Without Me,” He says, “ye can do nothing.” It is Jesus that we need; His light, His life, His spirit, must be ours continually. We need Him every hour. And we should pray in the morning that as the 41 sun illuminates the landscape, and fills the world with light, so the Sun of Righteousness may shine into the chambers of mind and heart, and make us all light in the Lord. We cannot do without His presence one moment. The enemy knows when we undertake to do without our Lord, and he is there, ready to fill our minds with his evil suggestions that we may fall from our steadfastness; but it is the desire of the Lord that from moment to moment we should abide in Him, and thus be complete in Him. . . . {OFC 40.8} [OFC 41.1] God designs that every one of us shall be perfect in Him, so that we may represent to the world the perfection of His character. He wants us to be set free from sin, that we may not disappoint Heaven, that we may not grieve our divine Redeemer. He does not desire us to profess Christianity, and yet not avail ourselves of that grace which is able to make us perfect, that we may be found wanting in nothing. {OFC 41.1} [OFC 41.2] Prayer and faith will do what no power on earth can accomplish. We are seldom, in all respects, placed in the same position twice. We continually have new scenes and new trials to pass through, where past experience cannot be a sufficient guide. We must have the continual light that comes from God. Christ is ever sending messages to those who listen for His voice. {OFC 41.2} [OFC 41.3] * * * * * It is a part of God’s plan to grant us, in answer to the prayer of faith, that which He would not bestow did we not thus ask. {OFC 41.3} [OFC 41.4] The Bible Begets New Life Being born again . . . by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. 1 Peter 1:23. {OFC 41.4} [OFC 41.5] In the Bible the will of God is revealed. The truths of the Word of God are the utterances of the Most High. He who makes these truths a part of his life becomes in every sense a new creature. He is not given new mental powers, but the darkness that through ignorance and sin has clouded the understanding is removed. The words, “A new heart also will I give you,” mean, “A new mind will I give you.” A change of heart is always attended by a clear conviction of Christian duty, an understanding of truth. He who gives the Scriptures close, prayerful attention will gain clear comprehension and sound judgment, as if in turning to God he had reached a higher plane of intelligence. {OFC 41.5} [OFC 41.6] The Bible contains the principles that lie at the foundation of all true greatness, all true prosperity, whether for the individual or for the nation. 42 The nation that gives free room for the circulation of the Scriptures opens the way for the minds of the people to develop and expand. The reading of the Scriptures causes light to shine into the darkness. As the Word of God is searched, life-giving truths are found. In the lives of those who heed its teachings there will be an undercurrent of happiness that will bless all with whom they are brought in contact. {OFC 41.6} [OFC 42.1] Thousands have drawn water from these wells of life, yet there is no diminishing of the supply. Thousands have set the Lord before them, and by beholding have been changed into the same image. Their spirit burns within them as they speak of His character, telling what Christ is to them and what they are to Christ. . . . Thousands more may engage in the work of searching out the mysteries of salvation. . . . Each fresh search will reveal something more deeply interesting than has yet been unfolded. {OFC 42.1} [OFC 42.2] The Spirit To Glorify Christ In Me He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you. John 16:14. {OFC 42.2} [OFC 42.3] In these words Christ declares the crowning work of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit glorifies Christ by making Him the object of supreme regard, and the Saviour becomes the delight, the rejoicing, of the human agent in whose heart is wrought this transformation. . . . {OFC 42.3} [OFC 42.4] Repentance toward God and faith in Jesus Christ are the fruits of the renewing power of the grace of the Spirit. Repentance represents the process by which the soul seeks to reflect the image of Christ to the world. {OFC 42.4} [OFC 42.5] Christ gives them the breath of His own Spirit, the life of His own life. The Holy Spirit puts forth its highest energies to work in heart and mind. The grace of God enlarges and multiplies their faculties, and every perfection of the divine nature comes to their assistance in the work of saving souls. Through cooperation with Christ they are complete in Him, and in their human weakness they are enabled to do the deeds of Omnipotence. {OFC 42.5} [OFC 42.6] It should be the work of the Christian’s life to put on Christ and to bring himself to a more perfect likeness of Christ. The sons and daughters of God are to advance in their resemblance to Christ, our pattern. Daily they are to behold His glory and contemplate His incomparable excellence. {OFC 42.6} [OFC 42.7] O that the baptism of the Holy Spirit might come upon you, that you might be imbued with the Spirit of God! Then day by day you will become more and more conformed to the image of Christ, and in every action of your life the question would be, “Will it glorify my Master?” By patient 43 continuance in well-doing you would seek for glory and honor, and would receive the gift of immortality. {OFC 42.7} [OFC 43.1] The Whole Earth Will Be Lightened And after these things I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory. Revelation 18:1. {OFC 43.1} [OFC 43.2] The end of all things is at hand. God is moving upon every mind that is open to receive the impressions of His Holy Spirit. He is sending our messengers that they may give the warning in every locality. God is testing the devotion of His churches and their willingness to render obedience to the Spirit’s guidance. Knowledge is to be increased. The messengers of Heaven are to be seen running to and fro, seeking in every possible way to warn the people of the coming judgments and presenting the glad tidings of salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. The standard of righteousness is to be exalted. The Spirit of God is moving upon men’s hearts, and those who respond to its influence will become lights in the world. Everywhere they are seen going forth to communicate to others the light they have received as they did after the descent of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost. And as they let their light shine, they receive more and more of the Spirit’s power. The earth is lighted with the glory of God. {OFC 43.2} [OFC 43.3] This message will close with power and strength far exceeding the midnight cry. Servants of God, endowed with power from on high, with their faces lighted up, and shining with holy consecration, went forth to proclaim the message from heaven. {OFC 43.3} [OFC 43.4] Many were praising God. The sick were healed, and other miracles were wrought. A spirit of intercession was seen, even as was manifested before the great Day of Pentecost. Hundreds and thousands were seen visiting families and opening before them the Word of God. Hearts were convicted by the power of the Holy Spirit, and a spirit of genuine conversion was manifest. On every side doors were thrown open to the proclamation of the truth. The world seemed to be lightened with the heavenly influence. {OFC 43.4} [OFC 44.1] Principle Not To Be Sacrificed For Peace Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you; not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. John 14:27. {OFC 44.1} [OFC 44.2] There always have been and always will be two classes on the earth to the end of time—the believers in Jesus, and those who reject Him. Sinners, however wicked, abominable, and corrupt, by faith in Him will be purified, made clean, through the doing of His word. . . . Those who reject Christ and refuse to believe the truth will be filled with bitterness against those who accept Jesus as a personal Saviour. But those who receive Christ are melted and subdued by the manifestation of His love and His humiliation, suffering, and death in their behalf. . . . {OFC 44.2} [OFC 44.3] The peace that Christ gave to His disciples, and for which we pray, is the peace that is born of truth, a peace that is not to be quenched because of division. Without may be wars and fightings, jealousies, envies, hatred, strife; but the peace of Christ is not that which the world giveth or taketh away. It could endure amid the hunting of spies and the fiercest opposition of His enemies. . . . Christ did not for an instant seek to purchase peace by a betrayal of sacred trusts. Peace could not be made by a compromise of principles. . . . It is a grave mistake on the part of those who are children of God to seek to bridge the gulf that separates the children of light from the children of darkness by yielding principle, by compromising the truth. It would be surrendering the peace of Christ in order to make peace or fraternize with the world. The sacrifice is too costly to be made by the children of God to make peace with the world by giving up the principles of truth. . . . Then let the followers of Christ settle it in their minds that they will never compromise truth, never yield one iota of principle for the favor of the world. Let them hold to the peace of Christ {OFC 44.3} [OFC 44.4] I Will Love As Christ Loved By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. John 13:35. {OFC 44.4} [OFC 44.5] If we would be true lights in the world, we must manifest the loving, compassionate spirit of Christ. To love as Christ loved means that we must 45 practice self-control. It means that we must show unselfishness at all times and in all places. It means that we must scatter round us kind words and pleasant looks. These cost the giver nothing, but they leave behind a precious fragrance. Their influence for good cannot be estimated. Not only to the receiver, but to the giver, they are a blessing; for they react upon him. Genuine love is a precious attribute of heavenly origin, which increases in fragrance in proportion as it is dispensed to others. . . . {OFC 44.5} [OFC 45.1] God desires His children to remember that in order to glorify Him, they must bestow their affection on those who need it most. None with whom we come in contact are to be neglected. No selfishness in look, word, or deed is to be manifested to our fellow beings, whatever their position, whether they be high or low, rich or poor. The love that gives kind words to only a few, while others are treated with coldness and indifference, is not love, but selfishness. It will not in any way work for the good of souls or the glory of God. We are not to confine our love to one or two objects. {OFC 45.1} [OFC 45.2] Those who gather the sunshine of Christ’s righteousness, and refuse to let it shine into the lives of others, will soon lose the sweet, bright rays of heavenly grace, selfishly reserved to be lavished upon a few. . . . Self should not be allowed to gather to itself a select few, giving nothing to those who need help the most. Our love is not to be sealed up for special ones. Break the bottle, and the fragrance will fill the house. {OFC 45.2} [OFC 45.3] I Will Sing Unto The Lord Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me: and to him that ordereth his conversation aright will I shew the salvation of God. Psalm 50:23. {OFC 45.3} [OFC 45.4] Come to Jesus just as you are, sinful, weak, and needy, and He will give you the water of life. You want a faith that reaches through the hellish shadow that Satan casts athwart your pathway. He is busily inventing amusements and fashions which will so take up men’s minds that they shall not be able to spare any time for meditation. Teach your children to glorify God, not to please themselves. They are His children—His by creation and by redemption. Teach them to shun the amusements and follies of this degenerate age. Keep their minds clean and pure in the sight of God. . . . Praise God. Let your conversation, your music, your songs all praise Him who has done so much for us. Praise God here, and then you will be fitted to join the heavenly choir when you enter the city of God. Then you can cast your glittering crowns at the feet of Jesus, take your golden harps, 46 and fill all heaven with melody. We shall praise Him with an immortal tongue. {OFC 45.4} [OFC 46.1] As our Redeemer leads us to the threshold of the Infinite, flushed with the glory of God, we may catch the themes of praise and thanksgiving from the heavenly choir round about the throne; and as the echo of the angels’ song is awakened in our earthly homes, hearts will be drawn closer to the heavenly singers. Heaven’s communion begins on earth. We learn here the keynote of its praise. {OFC 46.1} [OFC 46.2] Praise the Lord; talk of His goodness; tell of His power. Sweeten the atmosphere that surrounds your soul. . . . Praise, with heart and soul and voice, Him who is the health of your countenance, your Saviour, and your God. {OFC 46.2} [OFC 46.3] Growth In Grace Begins At Home The Lord will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. Psalm 84:11. {OFC 46.3} [OFC 46.4] There are many who do not grow in grace because they fail of cultivating home religion. {OFC 46.4} [OFC 46.5] The members of the family are to show that they are in constant possession of a power received from Christ. They are to improve in every habit and practice, thus showing that they keep constantly before them what it means to be a Christian. {OFC 46.5} [OFC 46.6] Those who are Christians in the home will be Christians in the church and in the world. {OFC 46.6} [OFC 46.7] Grace can thrive only in the heart that is being constantly prepared for the precious seeds of truth. The thorns of sin will grow in any soil; they need no cultivation; but grace must be carefully cultivated. The briers and thorns are always ready to spring up, and the work of purification must advance continually. {OFC 46.7} [OFC 46.8] That which will make the character lovely in the home is that which will make it lovely in the heavenly mansions. If you are . . . to be the light of the world, that light is to shine in your home. Here you are to exemplify the Christian graces, to be lovable, patient, kind, yet firm. . . . You need to seek constantly the highest culture of mind and soul. . . . As a humble child of God, learn in the school of Christ; seek constantly to improve your powers, that you may do the most perfect, thorough work at home, by both precept and example. . . . Let the light of heavenly grace irradiate your character, that there may be sunlight in the home. {OFC 46.8} [OFC 46.9] The measure of your Christianity is gauged by the character of your 47 home life. The grace of Christ enables its possessors to make the home a happy place, full of peace and rest. {OFC 46.9} [OFC 47.1] God Multiplies My Talents Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. Matthew 25:21. {OFC 47.1} [OFC 47.2] God has given us talents to use for Him. To one He gives five talents, to another two, and to another one. Let not him who has but one talent think to hide it from God. The Lord knows where it is hidden. He knows that it is doing nothing for Him. When the Lord comes, He will ask His servants, What have you done with the talents I entrusted to you? And as he who received five and he who received two tell Him that by trading they have doubled their talents, He will say to them, “Well done, good and faithful servant. Thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things. . . . Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” Thus He will say also to him who has improved the one talent lent him. . . . {OFC 47.2} [OFC 47.3] To him who has but one talent I would say, Do you know that one talent, rightly used and improved, will bring to the Lord one hundred talents? How? you ask. Use your gift in the conversion of one man of intellect, who sees what God is to him, and what he should be to God. Let him place himself on the side of the Lord, and as he imparts the light to others, he will be the means of bringing many souls to the Saviour. Through the right use of one talent one hundred souls may receive the truth. It is not to those who have the greatest number of talents to whom the “Well done” is spoken, but to those who in sincerity and faithfulness have used their gifts for the Master. . . . {OFC 47.3} [OFC 47.4] There is a great work to be done in our world, and we are accountable for every ray of light that shines upon our pathway. Impart that light, and you will receive more light to impart. Great blessing will come to those who use their talents aright. {OFC 47.4} [OFC 48.1] Preserve The Body Temple Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? 1 Corinthians 3:16. {OFC 48.1} [OFC 48.2] God has given you a habitation to care for and preserve in the best condition for His service and glory. Your bodies are not your own. . . . “Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?” {OFC 48.2} [OFC 48.3] Health is a blessing of which few appreciate the value. . . . Life is a holy trust, which God alone can enable us to keep, and to use to His glory. But He who formed the wonderful structure of the body will take special care to keep it in order if men do not work at cross-purposes with Him. Every talent entrusted to us He will help us to improve and use in accordance to the will of the Giver. {OFC 48.3} [OFC 48.4] Youth is the time to establish good habits, to correct wrong ones already contracted, to gain and to hold the power of self-control, and to lay the plan, and accustom one’s self to the practice of ordering all the acts of life with reference to the will of God. {OFC 48.4} [OFC 48.5] The sacred temple of the body must be kept pure and uncontaminated, that God’s Holy Spirit may dwell therein. We need to guard faithfully the Lord’s property, for any abuse of our powers shortens the time that our lives could be used for the glory of God. Bear in mind that we must consecrate all—soul, body, and spirit—to God. All is His purchased possession, and must be used intelligently, to the end that we may preserve the talent of life. By properly using our powers to their fullest extent in the most useful employment, by keeping every organ in health, by so preserving every organ that mind, sinew, and muscle shall work harmoniously, we may do the most precious service for God. {OFC 48.5} [OFC 48.6] When we do all we can on our part to have health, then may we expect that the blessed results will follow, and we can ask God in faith to bless our efforts for the preservation of health. {OFC 48.6} [OFC 48.7] A Merry Heart Is Good Medicine A merry ［rejoicing］heart doeth good like a medicine. Proverbs 17:22. {OFC 48.7} [OFC 48.8] The relation that exists between the mind and the body is very 49 intimate. When one is affected the other sympathizes. The condition of the mind affects the health to a far greater degree than many realize. Many of the diseases from which men suffer are the result of mental depression. Grief, anxiety, discontent, remorse, guilt, distrust, all tend to break down the life forces and to invite decay and death. {OFC 48.8} [OFC 49.1] Disease is sometimes produced, and is often greatly aggravated, by the imagination. Many are lifelong invalids who might be well if they only thought so. . . . {OFC 49.1} [OFC 49.2] Courage, hope, faith, sympathy, love, promote health and prolong life. A contented mind, a cheerful spirit, is health to the body and strength to the soul. {OFC 49.2} [OFC 49.3] Gratitude, rejoicing, benevolence, trust in God’s love and care—these are health’s greatest safeguard. {OFC 49.3} [OFC 49.4] The power of the will and the importance of self-control, both in the preservation and in the recovery of health, the depressing and even ruinous effect of anger, discontent, selfishness, or impurity, and, on the other hand, the marvelous life-giving power to be found in cheerfulness, unselfishness, gratitude, should also be shown. {OFC 49.4} [OFC 49.5] There is a physiological truth—truth that we need to consider—in the scripture, “A merry ［rejoicing］heart doeth good like a medicine.” {OFC 49.5} [OFC 49.6] The true principles of Christianity open before all a source of inestimable happiness. {OFC 49.6} [OFC 49.7] We should encourage a cheerful, hopeful, peaceful frame of mind; for our health depends upon our so doing. {OFC 49.7} [OFC 49.8] Thanksgiving And Praise Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. Psalm 100:4. {OFC 49.8} [OFC 49.9] If we will consecrate heart and mind to the service of God, doing the work He has for us to do and walking in the footsteps of Jesus, our hearts will become sacred harps, every chord of which will send forth praise and thanksgiving to the Lamb sent by God to take away the sins of the world. . . . {OFC 49.9} [OFC 49.10] Christ would have our thoughts center upon Him. . . . Look away from self to Jesus Christ, the life of every blessing, every grace, the life of all that is precious and valuable to the children of God. . . . {OFC 49.10} [OFC 49.11] The Lord Jesus is our strength and happiness, the great storehouse from which, on every occasion, men may draw strength. As we study Him, talk of Him, become more and more able to behold Him—as we avail ourselves of His grace and receive the blessings He proffers us, we have 50 something with which to help others. Filled with gratitude, we communicate to others the blessings that have been freely given us. Thus receiving and imparting, we grow in grace; and a rich current of praise and gratitude constantly flows from our lips; the sweet spirit of Jesus kindles thanksgiving in our hearts, and our souls are uplifted with a sense of security. The unfailing, inexhaustible righteousness of Christ becomes our righteousness by faith. {OFC 49.11} [OFC 50.1] Let the fresh blessings of each new day awaken praise in our hearts for these tokens of His loving care. {OFC 50.1} [OFC 50.2] When you open your eyes in the morning, thank God that He has kept you through the night. Thank Him for His peace in your heart. Morning, noon, and night let gratitude as a sweet perfume ascend to heaven. . . . {OFC 50.2} [OFC 50.3] The angels of God, thousands upon thousands, . . . guard us against evil and press back the powers of darkness that are seeking our destruction. Have we not reason to be thankful every moment, thankful even when there are apparent difficulties in our pathway? {OFC 50.3} [OFC 50.4] Love Heals Many Wounds Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. 1 John 4:7. {OFC 50.4} [OFC 50.5] From the Christian standpoint, love is power. Intellectual and spiritual strength are involved in this principle. Pure love has special efficacy to do good, and can do nothing but good. It prevents discord and misery and brings the truest happiness. Wealth is often an influence to corrupt and destroy; force is strong to do hurt; but truth and goodness are the properties of pure love. {OFC 50.5} [OFC 50.6] A man at peace with God and his fellow men cannot be made miserable. Envy will not be in his heart; evil surmising will find no room there; hatred cannot exist. The heart in harmony with God is lifted above the annoyances and trials of this life. {OFC 50.6} [OFC 50.7] That which Satan plants in the heart—envy, jealousy, evil surmising, evil speaking, impatience, prejudice, selfishness, covetousness, and vanity—must be uprooted. If these evil things are allowed to remain in the soul, they will bear fruit by which many shall be defiled. Oh, how many cultivate the poisonous plants, that kill out the precious fruits of love and defile the soul! {OFC 50.7} [OFC 50.8] Only the love that flows from the heart of Christ can heal. Only He in whom that love flows, even as the sap in the tree or the blood in the body, can restore the wounded soul. {OFC 50.8} [OFC 50.9] Love’s agencies have wonderful power, for they are divine. The soft 51 answer that “turneth away wrath,” the love that “suffereth long, and is kind,” the charity that “covereth a multitude of sins”would we learn the lesson, with what power for healing would our lives be gifted! How life would be transformed, and the earth become a very likeness and foretaste of heaven! {OFC 50.9} [OFC 51.1] How Pleasant Are Words Fitly Spoken A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver. Proverbs 25:11. {OFC 51.1} [OFC 51.2] When at a feast, Christ controlled the conversation, and gave many precious lessons. Those present listened to Him; for had He not healed their sick, comforted their sorrowing, and taken their children in His arms? Publicans and sinners were drawn to Him; and when He spoke, their attention was riveted on Him. {OFC 51.2} [OFC 51.3] Christ taught His disciples how to conduct themselves when in the company of others. He instructed them in regard to the duties and regulations of true social life, which are the same as the laws of the kingdom of God. He taught the disciples, by example, that when attending any public gathering, they need not want for something to say. His conversation when at a feast differed most decidedly from that which had been listened to at feasts in the past. Every word He uttered was a savor of life unto life. He spoke with clearness and simplicity. His words were as apples of gold in pictures of silver. {OFC 51.3} [OFC 51.4] Communion with Christ—how unspeakably precious! Such communion it is our privilege to enjoy. . . . When the early disciples heard the words of Christ, they felt their need of Him. They sought, they found, they followed Him. They were with Him in the house, at the table, in the closet, in the field. They were with Him as pupils with a teacher, daily receiving from His lips lessons of holy truth. They looked to Him as servants to their master. . . . They served Him cheerfully, gladly. {OFC 51.4} [OFC 51.5] Great importance is attached to our associations. We may form many that are pleasant and helpful, but none are so precious as that by which finite man is brought into connection with the infinite God. When thus united, the words of Christ abide in us. . . . The result will be a purified heart, a circumspect life, and a faultless character. But it is only by acquaintance and association with Christ that we can become like Him, the one faultless example. {OFC 51.5} [OFC 52.1] Jesus And His Friends At Bethany Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus. John 11:5. {OFC 52.1} [OFC 52.2] There was one home that He loved to visit—the home of Lazarus, and Mary, and Martha; for in the atmosphere of faith and love His spirit had rest. {OFC 52.2} [OFC 52.3] Among the most steadfast of Christ’s disciples was Lazarus of Bethany. From their first meeting his faith in Christ had been strong; his love for Him was deep, and he was greatly beloved by the Saviour. It was for Lazarus that the greatest of Christ’s miracles was performed. The Saviour blessed all who sought His help; He loves all the human family; but to some He is bound by peculiarly tender associations. His heart was knit by a strong bond of affection to the family at Bethany, and for one of them His most wonderful work was wrought. {OFC 52.3} [OFC 52.4] At the home of Lazarus, Jesus had often found rest. The Saviour had no home of His own; He was dependent on the hospitality of His friends and disciples; and often, when weary, thirsting for human fellowship, He had been glad to escape to this peaceful household, away from the suspicion and jealousy of the angry Pharisees. Here He found a sincere welcome, a pure, holy friendship. Here He could speak with simplicity and perfect freedom, knowing that His words would be understood and treasured. {OFC 52.4} [OFC 52.5] Our Saviour appreciated a quiet home and interested listeners. He longed for human tenderness, courtesy, and affection. Those who received the heavenly instruction He was always ready to impart were greatly blessed.... The multitudes were slow of hearing, and in the home at Bethany Christ found rest from the weary conflict of public life. Here He opened to an appreciative audience the volume of Providence. In these private interviews He unfolded to His hearers that which He did not attempt to tell to the mixed multitude. He needed not to speak to His friends in parables. {OFC 52.5} [OFC 52.6] Give Others The Water Of Life Whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life. John 4:14. {OFC 52.6} [OFC 53.1] 53 In His talk with the Samaritan woman, instead of disparaging Jacob’s well, Christ presented something better. . . . He turned the conversation to the treasure He had to bestow, offering the woman something better than she possessed, even living water, the joy and hope of the gospel. {OFC 53.1} [OFC 53.2] How much interest Christ manifested in this one woman! How earnest and eloquent were His words! When the woman heard them, she left her waterpot and went into the city, saying to those she met, “Come, see a man, which told me all things that ever I did: is not this the Christ?” We read that many of the Samaritans of that city believed on Him. And who can estimate the influence that these words have exerted for the saving of souls in the years that have passed since then! {OFC 53.2} [OFC 53.3] Jesus came in personal contact with men. He did not stand aloof and apart from those who needed His help. He entered the homes of men, comforted the mourner, healed the sick, aroused the careless, and went about doing good. And if we follow in the footsteps of Jesus, we must do as He did. We must give men the same kind of help that He did. {OFC 53.3} [OFC 53.4] The Lord desires that His word of grace shall be brought home to every soul. To a great degree this must be accomplished by personal labor. This was Christ’s method. His work was largely made up of personal interviews. He had a faithful regard for the one-soul audience. Through that one soul the message was often extended to thousands. . . . There are multitudes who will never be reached by the gospel unless it is carried to them. {OFC 53.4} [OFC 53.5] Remember Especially Needy Church Members As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith. Galatians 6:10. {OFC 53.5} [OFC 53.6] In a special sense Christ has laid upon His church the duty of caring for the needy among its own members. He suffers His poor to be in the borders of every church. They are always to be among us, and He places upon the members of the church a personal responsibility to care for them. As the members of a true family care for one another, ministering to the sick, supporting the weak, teaching the ignorant, training the inexperienced, so is the “household of faith” to care for its needy and helpless ones. {OFC 53.6} [OFC 53.7] It is the duty of each church to make careful, judicious arrangements for the care of its poor and sick. {OFC 53.7} [OFC 53.8] Any neglect on the part of those who claim to be followers of Christ, a failure to relieve the necessities of a brother or a sister who is bearing the yoke of poverty and oppression, is registered in the books of heaven as 54 shown to Christ in the person of His saints. What a reckoning the Lord will have with many, very many, who present the words of Christ to others but fail to manifest tender sympathy and regard for a brother in the faith who is less fortunate and successful than themselves. {OFC 53.8} [OFC 54.1] A true Christian is the poor man’s friend. He deals with his perplexed and unfortunate brother as one would deal with a delicate, tender, sensitive plant. God wants His workers to move among the sick and suffering as messengers of His love and mercy. He is looking upon us, to see how we are treating one another, whether we are Christlike in our dealing with all, high or low, rich or poor, free or bond. {OFC 54.1} [OFC 54.2] There is no question in regard to the Lord’s poor. They are to be helped in every case where it will be for their benefit. {OFC 54.2} [OFC 54.3] What God Loves Most Is A Beautiful Character Let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us. Psalm 90:17. {OFC 54.3} [OFC 54.4] God is a lover of the beautiful, but that which He most loves is a beautiful character....It is beauty of character that shall not perish, but last through the ceaseless ages of eternity. {OFC 54.4} [OFC 54.5] The great Master-Artist has taken thought for the lilies, making them so beautiful that they outshine the glory of Solomon. How much more does He care for man, who is the image and glory of God. He longs to see His children reveal a character after His similitude. As the sunbeam imparts to the flowers their varied and delicate tints, so does God impart to the soul the beauty of His own character. {OFC 54.5} [OFC 54.6] All who choose Christ’s kingdom of love and righteousness and peace, making its interest paramount to all other, are linked to the world above, and every blessing needed for this life is theirs. In the book of God’s providence, the volume of life, we are each given a page. That page contains every particular of our history; even the hairs of the head are numbered. God’s children are never absent from His mind. {OFC 54.6} [OFC 54.7] Worldly display, however imposing, is of no value in God’s sight. Above the seen and temporal He values the unseen and eternal. The former is of worth only as it expresses the latter. The choicest productions of art possess no beauty that can compare with the beauty of character, which is the fruit of the Holy Spirit’s working in the soul. . . {OFC 54.7} [OFC 54.8] Christ came to the earth and stood before the children of men with the hoarded love of eternity, and this is the treasure that, through our 55 connection with Him, we are to receive, to reveal, and to impart. . . . {OFC 54.8} [OFC 55.1] We are to be distinguished from the world because God has placed His seal upon us, because He manifests in us His own character of love. {OFC 55.1} [OFC 55.2] Partakers Through God’s Promises Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. 1 Peter 1:4. {OFC 55.2} [OFC 55.3] Every promise that is in God’s book holds out to us the encouragement that we may be partakers of the divine nature. This is the possibility—to rely upon God, to believe His Word, to work His works, and this we can do when we lay hold of the divinity of Christ. This possibility is worth more to us than all the riches in the world. There is nothing on earth that can compare with it. As we lay hold of the power thus placed within our reach, we receive a hope so strong that we can rely wholly upon God’s promise; and laying hold of the possibilities there are in Christ, we become the sons and daughters of God. . . . {OFC 55.3} [OFC 55.4] He who truly believes in Christ is made partaker of the divine nature, and has power that he can appropriate under every temptation. He will not fall under temptation or be left to defeat. In time of trial he will claim the promises, and by these escape the corruptions that are in the world through lust. . . . {OFC 55.4} [OFC 55.5] To make us partakers of the divine nature, heaven gave its most costly treasure. The Son of God laid aside His royal robe and kingly crown and came to our earth as a little child. He pledged Himself to live from infancy to manhood a perfect life. He engaged to stand in a fallen world as the representative of the Father. And He would die in behalf of a lost race. What a work was this! . . . I hardly know how to present these points; they are so wonderful, wonderful. . . . {OFC 55.5} [OFC 55.6] By His life of sacrifice and death of shame He has made it possible for us to take hold of His divinity, and to escape the corruption that is in the world through lust. . . . If you are partakers of the divine nature, you will day by day be obtaining a fitting for that life that measures with the life of God. Day by day you will purify your trust in Jesus and follow His example and grow into His likeness until you shall stand before Him perfected. {OFC 55.6} [OFC 56.1] Reverence For The House Of God Ye shall keep my sabbaths, and reverence my sanctuary: I am the Lord. Leviticus 19:30. {OFC 56.1} [OFC 56.2] God is high and holy; and to the humble, believing soul, His house on earth, the place where His people meet for worship, is as the gate of heaven. The song of praise, the words spoken by Christ’s ministers, are God’s appointed agencies to prepare a people for the church above, for that loftier worship. {OFC 56.2} [OFC 56.3] When the worshipers enter the place of meeting, they should do so with decorum, passing quietly to their seats. . . . Common talking, whispering, and laughing should not be permitted in the house of worship, either before or after the service. Ardent, active piety should characterize the worshipers. {OFC 56.3} [OFC 56.4] If some have to wait a few minutes before the meeting begins, let them maintain a true spirit of devotion by silent meditation, keeping the heart uplifted to God in prayer that the service may be of special benefit to their own hearts and lead to the conviction and conversion of other souls. They should remember that heavenly messengers are in the house. We all lose much sweet communion with God by our restlessness, by not encouraging moments of reflection and prayer. . . . {OFC 56.4} [OFC 56.5] Elevate the standard of Christianity in the minds of your children; help them to weave Jesus into their experience; teach them to have the highest reverence for the house of God and to understand that when they enter the Lord’s house it should be with hearts that are softened and subdued by such thoughts as these: “God is here; this is His house. I must have pure thoughts and holiest motives. . . . This is the place where God meets with and blesses His people.” . . . {OFC 56.5} [OFC 56.6] Parents should not only teach, but command, their children to enter the sanctuary with sobriety and reverence. {OFC 56.6} [OFC 56.7] Practice reverence until it becomes a part of yourself. {OFC 56.7} [OFC 56.8] God Cares For Me Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. Isaiah 41:10. {OFC 56.8} [OFC 56.9] The Lord is in active communication with every part of His vast 57 dominions. He is represented as bending toward the earth and its inhabitants. He is listening to every word that is uttered. He hears every groan; He listens to every prayer; He observes the movements of every one. . . . {OFC 56.9} [OFC 57.1] God has always had a care for His people. . . . Christ taught His disciples that the amount of divine attention given to any object is proportionate to the rank assigned to it in the creation of God. He called their attention to the birds of the air. Not a sparrow, He said, falls to the ground without the notice of our heavenly Father. And if the little sparrow is regarded by Him, surely the souls of those for whom Christ has died are precious in His sight. The value of man, the estimate God places upon him, is revealed in the cross of Calvary. . . . {OFC 57.1} [OFC 57.2] God’s mercy and love for the fallen race have not ceased to accumulate, nor lost their earthward direction. {OFC 57.2} [OFC 57.3] It is true that disappointments will come; tribulation we must expect; but we are to commit everything, great and small, to God. He does not become perplexed by the multiplicity of our grievances, nor overpowered by the weight of our burdens. His watchcare extends to every household, and encircles every individual; He is concerned in all our business and our sorrows. He marks every tear; He is touched with the feeling of our infirmities. All the afflictions and trials that befall us here are permitted, to work out His purposes of love toward us—”that we might be partakers of His holiness,” and thus become participants in that fullness of joy which is found in His presence. {OFC 57.3} [OFC 57.4] Christ My Elder Brother Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. Hebrews 2:17. {OFC 57.4} [OFC 57.5] The Elder Brother of our race is by the eternal throne. He looks upon every soul who is turning his face toward Him as the Saviour. He knows by experience what are the weaknesses of humanity, what are our wants, and where lies the strength of our temptations. . . . He is watching over you, trembling child of God. Are you tempted? He will deliver. Are you weak? He will strengthen. Are you ignorant? He will enlighten. Are you wounded? He will heal. The Lord “telleth the number of the stars”; and yet “He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds.” {OFC 57.5} [OFC 57.6] Whatever your anxieties and trials, spread out your case before the Lord. Your spirit will be braced for endurance. The way will be open for 58 you to disentangle yourself from embarrassment and difficulty. The weaker and more helpless you know yourself to be, the stronger will you become in His strength. The heavier your burdens, the more blessed the rest in casting them upon your Burden Bearer. {OFC 57.6} [OFC 58.1] Circumstances may separate friends; the restless waters of the wide sea may roll between us and them. But no circumstances, no distance, can separate us from the Saviour. Wherever we may be, He is at our right hand, to support, maintain, uphold, and cheer. Greater than the love of a mother for her child is Christ’s love for His redeemed. It is our privilege to rest in His love; to say, “I will trust Him; for He gave His life for me.” {OFC 58.1} [OFC 58.2] Human love may change, but Christ’s love knows no change. When we cry to Him for help, His hand is stretched out to save. {OFC 58.2} [OFC 58.3] He desires us to realize that He has returned to heaven as our Elder Brother and that the measureless power given Him has been placed at our disposal. {OFC 58.3} [OFC 58.4] Angels Are Preparing Me For Eternity Behold, I send an Angel before thee, to keep thee in the way, and to bring thee into the place which I have prepared. Exodus 23:20. {OFC 58.4} [OFC 58.5] All heaven is engaged in the work of preparing a people to stand in the day of the Lord’s preparation. The connection of heaven with earth seems very close. . . . {OFC 58.5} [OFC 58.6] The heavenly intelligences are waiting with almost impatient earnestness to make Him known to the human agents, that they may be laborers together with these heavenly angels in presenting Jesus—the world’s Redeemer, full of grace and truth. . . . {OFC 58.6} [OFC 58.7] The first tear of penitence for sins creates joy among the heavenly angels in the courts of heaven. The heavenly messengers are ready to be on the wing to minister to the soul who is seeking Jesus. . . . {OFC 58.7} [OFC 58.8] Grand and glorious things hath God prepared for those who love Him. Angels are looking forward with earnest expectation to the final triumph of the people of God, when seraphim and cherubim and the “ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands” shall swell the anthems of the blessed and celebrate the triumphs of the mediatorial achievements in the recovery of man. {OFC 58.8} [OFC 58.9] Jesus counted the cost of the salvation of every son and daughter of Adam. He provided abundant means that, if they would but comply with the conditions, none need perish, but might have everlasting life. . . . Every heavenly intelligence works as His agent to win man to God. {OFC 58.9} [OFC 59.1] 59 The angels of glory find their joy in . . . giving love and tireless watchcare to souls that are fallen and unholy. Heavenly beings woo the hearts of men; they bring to this dark world light from the courts above; by gentle and patient ministry they move upon the human spirit, to bring the lost into a fellowship with Christ which is even closer than they themselves can know. {OFC 59.1} [OFC 59.2] In Christ There Is Strength Let him take hold of my strength, that he may make peace with me; and he shall make peace with me. Isaiah 27:5. {OFC 59.2} [OFC 59.3] The enemy cannot overcome the humble learner of Christ, the one who walks prayerfully before the Lord. Christ interposes Himself as a shelter, a retreat, from the assaults of the wicked one. The promise is given, “When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him.” . . . {OFC 59.3} [OFC 59.4] Satan was permitted to tempt the too-confident Peter, as he had been permitted to tempt Job; but when that work was done he had to retire. Had Satan been suffered to have his way, there would have been no hope for Peter. He would have made complete shipwreck of faith. But the enemy dare not go one hairbreadth beyond his appointed sphere. There is no power in the whole satanic force that can disable the soul that trusts, in simple confidence, in the wisdom that comes from God. {OFC 59.4} [OFC 59.5] Christ is our tower of strength, and Satan can have no power over the soul that walks with God in humility of mind. The promise, “Let him take hold of My strength, that he may make peace with Me; and he shall make peace with Me.” In Christ there is perfect and complete help for every tempted soul. Dangers beset every path, but the whole universe of heaven is standing on guard, that none may be tempted above that which he is able to bear. Some have strong traits of character, that will need to be constantly repressed. If kept under the control of the Spirit of God, these traits will be a blessing; but if not, they will prove a curse. . . . If we will give ourselves unselfishly to the work, never swerving in the least from principle, the Lord will throw about us the everlasting arms, and will prove a mighty helper. If we will look to Jesus as the One in whom we may trust, He will never fail us in any emergency. {OFC 59.5} [OFC 60.1] The Will Is The Deciding Power Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. Romans 12:2. {OFC 60.1} [OFC 60.2] There is nothing that can keep you away from God but a rebellious will. {OFC 60.2} [OFC 60.3] The will is the governing power in the nature of man. If the will is set right, all the rest of the being will come under its sway. The will is not the taste or the inclination, but it is the choice, the deciding power, the kingly power, which works in the children of men unto obedience to God or to disobedience. {OFC 60.3} [OFC 60.4] You will be in constant peril until you understand the true force of the will. You may believe and promise all things, but your promises and your faith are of no account until you put your will on the right side. If you will fight the fight of faith with your will power, there is no doubt that you will conquer. {OFC 60.4} [OFC 60.5] Your part is to put your will on the side of Christ. When you yield your will to His, He immediately takes possession of you, and works in you to will and to do of His good pleasure. Your nature is brought under the control of His Spirit. Even your thoughts are subject to Him. If you cannot control your impulses, your emotions, as you may desire, you can control the will, and thus an entire change will be wrought in your life. When you yield up your will to Christ, your life is hid with Christ in God. It is allied to the power which is above all principalities and powers. You have a strength from God that holds you fast to His strength; and a new life, even the life of faith, is possible to you. {OFC 60.5} [OFC 60.6] You can never be successful in elevating yourself, unless your will is on the side of Christ, cooperating with the Spirit of God. Do not feel that you cannot; but say, “I can, I will.” And God has pledged His Holy Spirit to help you in every decided effort. {OFC 60.6} [OFC 60.7] Make Your Calling And Election Sure Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: for so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting 61 kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. 2 Peter 1:10, 11. {OFC 60.7} [OFC 61.1] Here a life insurance policy is offered us which insures for us eternal life in the kingdom of God. I ask you to study these words of the apostle Peter. There is understanding and intelligence in every sentence. By taking hold upon the Lifegiver, who gave His life for us, we receive eternal life. {OFC 61.1} [OFC 61.2] We are each deciding our eternal destiny, and it rests wholly with us whether we shall gain eternal life. Will we live the lessons given in the Word of God, Christ’s great lesson book? It is the grandest, and yet the most simply arranged and easily understood book ever prepared for giving an education in proper behaviour, in speech, in manners, in affection. It is the only book that will prepare human beings for the life that measures with the life of God. And those who make this Word their daily study are the only ones who are worthy of receiving a diploma entitling them to educate and train the children for entrance into the higher school, to be crowned as victorious overcomers. {OFC 61.2} [OFC 61.3] Christ Jesus is the only judge of the fitness of human agents to receive eternal life. The gates of the holy city will open to those who have been humble, meek, lowly followers of His, having learned their lessons from Him, and received from Him their life insurance policy, forming characters after the divine similitude. {OFC 61.3} [OFC 61.4] When the ransomed are redeemed from the earth, the city of God will be opened to you. . . . Then the harp will be placed in your hand, and your voice will be raised in songs of praise to God and to the Lamb, by whose great sacrifice you are made partakers of His nature and given an immortal inheritance in the kingdom of God. {OFC 61.4} [OFC 61.5] Christ Presents Me With A Crown And Harp Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing. 2 Timothy 4:8. {OFC 61.5} [OFC 61.6] Before entering the city of God the Saviour bestows upon His followers the emblems of victory and invests them with the insignia of their royal state. The glittering ranks are drawn up in the form of a hollow square about their King, whose form rises in majesty high above saint and angel, whose countenance beams upon them full of benignant love. Throughout the unnumbered host of the redeemed every glance is fixed upon Him, every eye beholds His glory whose “visage was so marred more than any man, and His form more than the sons of men.” Upon the 62 heads of the overcomers Jesus with His own right hand places the crown of glory. For each there is a crown, bearing his own “new name,” and the inscription, “Holiness to the Lord.” In every hand are placed the victor’s palm and the shining harp. Then, as the commanding angels strike the note, every hand sweeps the harp strings with skillful touch, awaking sweet music in rich, melodious strains. Rapture unutterable thrills every heart, and each voice is raised in grateful praise: “Unto Him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in His own blood, and hath made us kings and priests unto God and His Father; to Him be glory and dominion for ever and ever.” {OFC 61.6} [OFC 62.1] Oh, what joy unspeakable, to see Him whom we loved—to see Him in His glory who so loved us that He gave Himself for us—to behold those hands once pierced for our redemption stretched out to us in blessing and welcome! {OFC 62.1} [OFC 62.2] Those who . . . place themselves in God’s hands . . . will see the King in His beauty. They will behold His matchless charms, and touching their golden harps, they will fill all heaven with rich music and with songs to the Lamb {OFC 62.2} [OFC 62.3] Privilege Of Open Communion With God I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it. Revelation 21:22. {OFC 62.3} [OFC 62.4] The people of God are privileged to hold open communion with the Father and the Son. “Now we see through a glass, darkly.” We behold the image of God reflected, as in a mirror, in the works of nature and in His dealings with men; but then we shall see Him face to face, without a dimming veil between. We shall stand in His presence and behold the glory of His countenance. {OFC 62.4} [OFC 62.5] We may address Him by the endearing name, “Our Father,” which is a sign of our affection for Him and a pledge of His tender regard and relationship to us. And the Son of God, beholding the heirs of grace, “is not ashamed to call them brethren.” They have even a more sacred relationship to God than have the angels who have never fallen. {OFC 62.5} [OFC 62.6] All the paternal love which has come down from generation to generation through the channel of human hearts, all the springs of tenderness which have opened in the souls of men, are but as a tiny rill to the boundless ocean when compared with the infinite, exhaustless love of God. {OFC 62.6} [OFC 62.7] Heaven is a ceaseless approaching to God through Christ. The longer 63 we are in the heaven of bliss, the more and still more of glory will be opened to us; and the more we know of God, the more intense will be our happiness. {OFC 62.7} [OFC 63.1] And what is the happiness of heaven but to see God? What greater joy could come to the sinner saved by the grace of Christ than to look upon the face of God and know Him as Father? {OFC 63.1} [OFC 63.2] How much comfort it gives to behold Him here by the eye of faith, that we may by beholding be made like Him, but what will it be to behold Him as He is, without one dimming veil between? {OFC 63.2} [OFC 63.3] Chapter 3—The Faith I Live By A Table Set Before Me Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. John 6:54, 55. {OFC 63.3} [OFC 63.4] Eternal life is the receiving of the living elements in the Scriptures, the doing of the will of God. This is what is meant by eating the flesh and drinking the blood of the Son of God. It is the privilege of all to partake of the bread of heaven by studying the Word, and thus gain spiritual sinew and muscle. {OFC 63.4} [OFC 63.5] Each one must appropriate the blessing to his own soul, or he will not be fed. . . . You know you would not be nourished by seeing a well-spread table, and by others eating. We would starve if we did not partake of physical nourishment, and we shall lose our spiritual strength and vitality if we do not feed on spiritual bread. . . . {OFC 63.5} [OFC 63.6] The table has been spread, and Christ invites you to the feast. Shall we stand back, refusing bounties, and declaring, “He does not mean this for me?” We used to sing a hymn that described a feast where a happy household gathered to partake of the bounties of the board at a kind father’s invitation. While the happy children gathered at the table, there stood a hungry beggar child at the threshold. She was invited to come in; but sadly she turned away, exclaiming, “I have no father there.” Will you take this position as Jesus invites you in? Oh! if you have a Father in the courts above, I entreat you to reveal the fact. He wants to make you a partaker of His rich bounties and blessings. All who come with the confiding love of a little child will find a Father there. {OFC 63.6} [OFC 63.7] Come to the water of life, and drink. Do not stay away and complain of thirst. The water of life is free to all. {OFC 63.7} [OFC 63.8] Those who eat and digest this Word, making it a part of every action and of every attribute of character, grow strong in the strength of God. It 64 gives immortal vigor to the soul, perfecting the experience, and bringing joys that will abide forever. {OFC 63.8} [OFC 64.1] Preparing For The Holy Day Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. Exodus 20:8. {OFC 64.1} [OFC 64.2] At the very beginning of the fourth commandment the Lord said, “Remember.” He knew that amid the multitude of cares and perplexities man would be tempted to excuse himself from meeting the full requirement of the law, or would forget its sacred importance. Therefore He said: “Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy.” {OFC 64.2} [OFC 64.3] All through the week we are to have the Sabbath in mind and be making preparation to keep it according to the commandment. . . . {OFC 64.3} [OFC 64.4] When the Sabbath is thus remembered, the temporal will not be allowed to encroach upon the spiritual. No duty pertaining to the six working days will be left for the Sabbath. During the week our energies will not be so exhausted in temporal labor that on the day when the Lord rested and was refreshed we shall be too weary to engage in His service. . . . {OFC 64.4} [OFC 64.5] On Friday let the preparation for the Sabbath be completed. See that all the clothing is in readiness and that all the cooking is done. . . . The Sabbath is not to be given to the repairing of garments, to the cooking of food, to pleasure seeking, or to any other worldly employment. Before the setting of the sun let all secular work be laid aside and all secular papers be put out of sight. Parents, explain your work and its purpose to your children, and let them share in your preparation to keep the Sabbath according to the commandment. {OFC 64.5} [OFC 64.6] There is another work that should receive attention on the preparation day. On this day all differences between brethren, whether in the family or in the church, should be put away. Let all bitterness and wrath and malice be expelled from the soul. In a humble spirit, “confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another.” {OFC 64.6} [OFC 64.7] Before the setting of the sun let the members of the family assemble to read God’s Word, to sing and pray. {OFC 64.7} [OFC 64.8] We should jealously guard the edges of the Sabbath. Remember that every moment is consecrated, holy time. {OFC 64.8} [OFC 65.1] God’s Gift To The Human Race For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16. {OFC 65.1} [OFC 65.2] The heart of God yearns over His earthly children with a love stronger than death. In giving up His Son, He has poured out to us all heaven in one gift. {OFC 65.2} [OFC 65.3] Through that gift there comes to us day by day the unfailing flow of Jehovah’s goodness. Every flower, with its delicate tints and sweet fragrance, is given for our enjoyment through that one Gift. The sun and moon were made by Him; there is not a star that beautifies the heavens which He did not make. There is not an article of food upon our tables that He has not provided for our sustenance. The superscription of Christ is upon it all. Everything is supplied to man through the one unspeakable Gift, the only-begotten Son of God. He was nailed to the cross that all these bounties might flow to God’s workmanship. {OFC 65.3} [OFC 65.4] In taking our nature, the Saviour has bound Himself to humanity by a tie that is never to be broken. Through the eternal ages He is linked with us. “God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son.” He gave Him not only to bear our sins, and to die as our sacrifice; He gave Him to the fallen race. To assure us of His immutable counsel of peace, God gave His only-begotten Son to become one of the human family, forever to retain His human nature. This is the pledge that God will fulfill His word. “Unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder.” Isaiah 9:6. God has adopted human nature in the person of His Son, and has carried the same into the highest heaven. . . . Heaven is enshrined in humanity, and humanity is enfolded in the bosom of Infinite Love. {OFC 65.4} [OFC 65.5] Christ bowed down in unparalleled humility, that in His exaltation to the throne of God, He might also exalt those who believe in Him, to a seat with Him upon His throne. {OFC 65.5} [OFC 65.6] The Creator Incarnate And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached 66 unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory. 1 Timothy 3:16. {OFC 65.6} [OFC 66.1] The incarnation of Christ is the mystery of all mysteries. {OFC 66.1} [OFC 66.2] Christ was one with the Father, yet . . . He was willing to step down from the exaltation of one who was equal with God. {OFC 66.2} [OFC 66.3] That He might accomplish His purpose of love for the fallen race, He became bone of our bone and flesh of our flesh. {OFC 66.3} [OFC 66.4] How wide is the contrast between the divinity of Christ and the helpless infant in Bethlehem’s manger! How can we span the distance between the mighty God and a helpless child? And yet the Creator of worlds, He in whom was the fullness of the Godhead bodily, was manifest in the helpless babe in the manger. Far higher than any of the angels, equal with the Father in dignity and glory, and yet wearing the garb of humanity! Divinity and humanity were mysteriously combined, and man and God became one. {OFC 66.4} [OFC 66.5] It would have been an almost infinite humiliation for the Son of God to take man’s nature, even when Adam stood in his innocence in Eden. But Jesus accepted humanity when the race had been weakened by four thousand years of sin. Like every child of Adam He accepted the results of the working of the great law of heredity. What these results were is shown in the history of His earthly ancestors. He came with such a heredity to share our sorrows and temptations, and to give us the example of a sinless life. {OFC 66.5} [OFC 66.6] Those who claim that it was not possible for Christ to sin, cannot believe that He really took upon Himself human nature. But was not Christ actually tempted, not only by Satan in the wilderness, but all through His life, from childhood to manhood? {OFC 66.6} [OFC 66.7] Our Saviour took humanity, with all its liabilities. He took the nature of man, with the possibility of yielding to temptation. We have nothing to bear which He has not endured. {OFC 66.7} [OFC 66.8] The Saving Providences Of God And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28. {OFC 66.8} [OFC 66.9] The fact that we are called upon to endure trial shows that the Lord Jesus sees in us something precious which He desires to develop. If He saw in us nothing whereby He might glorify His name, He would not spend 67 time in refining us. He does not cast worthless stones into His furnace. It is valuable ore that He refines. {OFC 66.9} [OFC 67.1] God never leads His children otherwise than they would choose to be led, if they could see the end from the beginning and discern the glory of the purpose which they are fulfilling as co-workers with Him. {OFC 67.1} [OFC 67.2] All that has perplexed us in the providences of God will in the world to come be made plain. The things hard to be understood will then find explanation. The mysteries of grace will unfold before us. Where our finite minds discovered only confusion and broken promises, we shall see the most perfect and beautiful harmony. We shall know that infinite love ordered the experiences that seemed most trying. {OFC 67.2} [OFC 67.3] He who is imbued with the Spirit of Christ abides in Christ. The blow that is aimed at him falls upon the Saviour, who surrounds him with His presence. Whatever comes to him comes from Christ. He has no need to resist evil, for Christ is his defense. Nothing can touch him except by our Lord’s permission, and “all things” that are permitted “work together for good to them that love God.” {OFC 67.3} [OFC 67.4] Our heavenly Father has a thousand ways to provide for us of which we know nothing. Those who accept the one principle of making the service of God supreme, will find perplexities vanish and a plain path before their feet. {OFC 67.4} [OFC 67.5] As a little child, trust to the guidance of Him who will “keep the feet of his saints.” 1 Samuel 2:9. {OFC 67.5} [OFC 67.6] As we commit our ways to Him, He will direct our steps. {OFC 67.6} [OFC 67.7] A Saviour From Eternity Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: according as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love. Ephesians 1:3, 4. {OFC 67.7} [OFC 67.8] Since the Fall the Lord has wrought out His will in the plan of redemption, a plan by which He is seeking to restore man to his original perfection. Christ’s death on the cross has made it possible for God to receive and pardon every repentant soul. {OFC 67.8} [OFC 67.9] As the divine Sufferer hung upon the cross, angels gathered about Him, and as they looked upon Him, and heard His cry, they asked, with intense emotion, “Will not the Lord Jehovah save Him?” . . . Then were the words spoken: “The Lord hath sworn, and He will not repent. Father 68 and Son are pledged to fulfill the terms of the everlasting covenant. God so loved the world, that He gave His only-begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” Christ was not alone in making His great sacrifice. It was the fulfillment of the covenant made between Him and His Father before the foundation of the world was laid. With clasped hands they had entered into the solemn pledge that Christ would become the surety for the human race if they were overcome by Satan’s sophistry. {OFC 67.9} [OFC 68.1] The salvation of the human race has ever been the object of the councils of heaven. The covenant of mercy was made before the foundation of the world. It has existed from all eternity, and is called the everlasting covenant. So surely as there never was a time when God was not, so surely there never was a moment when it was not the delight of the eternal mind to manifest His grace to humanity. {OFC 68.1} [OFC 68.2] The more we consider this subject, the greater depths we find, and yet there are depths that we do not reach as we study the Redeemer’s glory. It is the glory of the Prince of life, and the mightiest powers of man cannot reach it. The angels themselves desire to look into this mysterious and wonderful theme, the redemption of the human race. {OFC 68.2} [OFC 68.3] Does Faith Cancel Obedience? Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law. Romans 3:31. {OFC 68.3} [OFC 68.4] Faith is not an opiate, but a stimulant. Looking to Calvary will not quiet your soul into nonperformance of duty, but will create faith that will work, purifying the soul from all selfishness. {OFC 68.4} [OFC 68.5] The faith in Christ which saves the soul is not what it is represented to be by many. “Believe, believe,” is their cry; “only believe in Christ, and you will be saved. It is all you have to do.” While true faith trusts wholly in Christ for salvation, it will lead to perfect conformity to the law of God. {OFC 68.5} [OFC 68.6] There are two errors against which the children of God—particularly those who have just come to trust in His grace—especially need to guard. The first . . . is that of looking to their own works, trusting to anything they can do, to bring themselves into harmony with God. He who is trying to become holy by his own works in keeping the law, is attempting an impossibility. . . . It is the grace of Christ alone, through faith, that can make us holy. {OFC 68.6} [OFC 68.7] The opposite and no less dangerous error is that belief in Christ releases men from keeping the law of God; that since by faith alone we 69 become partakers of the grace of Christ, our works have nothing to do with our redemption. {OFC 68.7} [OFC 69.1] But notice here that obedience is not a mere outward compliance, but the service of love. The law of God is an expression of His very nature; it is an embodiment of the great principle of love, and hence is the foundation of His government in heaven and earth. . . . Instead of releasing man from obedience, it is faith, and faith only, that makes us partakers of the grace of Christ, which enables us to render obedience. {OFC 69.1} [OFC 69.2] As Jesus was in human nature, so God means His followers to be. In His strength we are to live the life of purity and nobility which the Saviour lived. {OFC 69.2} [OFC 69.3] The Saving Power Of Jesus And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 2 Corinthians 12:9. {OFC 69.3} [OFC 69.4] Our precious Saviour has invited us to join ourselves to Him and unite our weakness with His strength, our ignorance with His wisdom, our unworthiness with His merit. {OFC 69.4} [OFC 69.5] Rigid precision in obeying the law would entitle no man to enter the kingdom of heaven. {OFC 69.5} [OFC 69.6] There must be a new birth, a new mind through the operation of the Spirit of God, which purifies the life and ennobles the character. This connection with God fits man for the glorious kingdom of heaven. No human invention can ever find a remedy for the sinning soul. {OFC 69.6} [OFC 69.7] There must be a power working from within, a new life from above, before men can be changed from sin to holiness. That power is Christ. His grace alone can quicken the lifeless faculties of the soul, and attract it to God, to holiness. . . . The idea that it is necessary only to develop the good that exists in man by nature, is a fatal deception. “The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.” 1 Corinthians 2:14. . . . Of Christ it is written, “In him was life; and the life was the light of men”the only “name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” John 1:4; Acts 4:12. . . . {OFC 69.7} [OFC 69.8] Paul the apostle . . . longed for the purity, the righteousness, to which in himself he was powerless to attain, and he cried out, “O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from this body of death?” Romans 7:24, margin. Such is the cry that has gone up from burdened hearts in all lands 70 and in all ages. To all, there is but one answer, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” John 1:29. {OFC 69.8} [OFC 70.1] Peace Through The Cross There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. Romans 8:1. {OFC 70.1} [OFC 70.2] If sinners can be led to give one earnest look at the cross, if they can obtain a full view of the crucified Saviour, they will realize the depth of God’s compassion and the sinfulness of sin. {OFC 70.2} [OFC 70.3] As your conscience has been quickened by the Holy Spirit, you have seen something of the evil of sin, of its power, its guilt, its woe; and you look upon it with abhorrence. . . . You long to be forgiven, to be cleansed, to be set free. Harmony with God, likeness to Him—what can you do to obtain it? {OFC 70.3} [OFC 70.4] It is peace that you need—Heaven’s forgiveness and peace and love in the soul. Money cannot buy it, intellect cannot procure it, wisdom cannot attain to it; you can never hope, by your own efforts, to secure it. But God offers it to you as a gift, “without money and without price.” Isaiah 55:1. . . . {OFC 70.4} [OFC 70.5] Go to Him, and ask that He will wash away your sins, and give you a new heart. Then believe that He does this because He has promised . . . . It is our privilege to go to Jesus and be cleansed, and to stand before the law without shame or remorse. {OFC 70.5} [OFC 70.6] When at the foot of the cross the sinner looks up to the One who died to save him, he may rejoice with fullness of joy; for his sins are pardoned. Kneeling in faith at the cross, he has reached the highest place to which man can attain. {OFC 70.6} [OFC 70.7] Thank God for the gift of His dear Son, and pray that He may not have died for you in vain. The spirit invites you today. Come with your whole heart to Jesus, and you may claim His blessing. {OFC 70.7} [OFC 70.8] As you read the promises, remember they are the expression of unutterable love and pity. . . . Yes, only believe that God is your helper. He wants to restore His moral image in man. As you draw near to Him with confession and repentance, He will draw near to you with mercy and forgiveness. {OFC 70.8} [OFC 71.1] Filled With His Righteousness Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Matthew 5:6. {OFC 71.1} [OFC 71.2] Righteousness is holiness, likeness to God, and “God is love.” 1 John 4:16. It is conformity to the law of God, for “all thy commandments are righteousness” (Psalm 119:172), and “love is the fulfilling of the law” (Romans 13:10). Righteousness is love, and love is the light and the life of God. The righteousness of God is embodied in Christ. We receive righteousness by receiving Him. {OFC 71.2} [OFC 71.3] Not by painful struggles or wearisome toil, not by gift or sacrifice, is righteousness obtained; but it is freely given to every soul who hungers and thirsts to receive it. “Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat;. . . without money and without price.” Isaiah 55:1. “Their righteousness is of me, saith the Lord,” and, “This is his name whereby he shall be called, The Lord our righteousness.” Isaiah 54:17; Jeremiah 23:6. {OFC 71.3} [OFC 71.4] No human agent can supply that which will satisfy the hunger and thirst of the soul. But Jesus says, . . “I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.” John 6:35. . . . {OFC 71.4} [OFC 71.5] The more we know of God, the higher will be our ideal of character and the more earnest our longing to reflect His likeness. A divine element combines with the human when the soul reaches out after God and the longing heart can say, “My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him.” Psalm 62:5. . . . {OFC 71.5} [OFC 71.6] The continual cry of the heart is, “More of Thee,” and ever the Spirit’s answer is, “Much more.” Romans 5:9, 10. . . . It was the good pleasure of the Father that in Christ should “all the fulness dwell,” and “in him ye are made full.” Colossians 1:19, R.V.; 2:10, R.V. {OFC 71.6} [OFC 71.7] Christ is the great depository of justifying righteousness and sanctifying grace. {OFC 71.7} [OFC 71.8] All may come to Him, and receive of His fullness. {OFC 71.8} [OFC 72.1] The Just Shall Live By Faith As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him. Colossians 2:6. {OFC 72.1} [OFC 72.2] Our growth in grace, our joy, our usefulness—all depend upon our union with Christ. It is by communion with Him, daily, hourly—by abiding in Him—that we are to grow in grace. He is not only the author, but the finisher of our faith. It is Christ first and last and always. He is to be with us, not only at the beginning and the end of our course, but at every step of the way. . . . {OFC 72.2} [OFC 72.3] Do you ask, “How am I to abide in Christ?” In the same way as you received Him at first. “As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him.” Colossians 2:6. “The just shall live by faith.” Hebrews 10:38. You gave yourself to God, to be His wholly, to serve and obey Him, and you took Christ as your Saviour. You could not yourself atone for your sins or change your heart; but having given yourself to God, you believe that He for Christ’s sake did all this for you. By faith you became Christ’s, and by faith you are to grow up in Him—by giving and taking. You are to give all—your heart, your will, your service—give yourself to Him to obey all His requirements; and you must take all—Christ, the fullness of all blessing, to abide in your heart, to be your strength, your righteousness, your everlasting helper—to give you power to obey. {OFC 72.3} [OFC 72.4] Consecrate yourself to God in the morning; make this your very first work. Let your prayer be, “Take me, O Lord, as wholly Thine. I lay all my plans at Thy feet. Use me today in Thy service. Abide with me, and let all my work be wrought in Thee.” This is a daily matter. Each morning consecrate yourself to God for that day. Surrender all your plans to Him, to be carried out or given up as His providence shall indicate. Thus day by day you may be giving your life into the hands of God, and thus your life will be molded more and more after the life of Christ. {OFC 72.4} [OFC 72.5] Sincere Confession Essential If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9. {OFC 72.5} [OFC 72.6] The apostle says, “Confess your faults one to another, and pray one 73 for another, that ye may be healed.” James 5:16. Confess your sins to God, who only can forgive them, and your faults to one another. If you have given offense to your friend or neighbor, you are to acknowledge your wrong, and it is his duty freely to forgive you. Then you are to seek the forgiveness of God, because the brother you have wounded is the property of God, and in injuring him you have sinned against his Creator. . . . {OFC 72.6} [OFC 73.1] True confession is always of a specific character, and acknowledges particular sins. They may be of such a nature as to be brought before God only; they may be wrongs that should be confessed to individuals who have suffered injury through them; or they may be of a public character, and should then be as publicly confessed. But all confession should be definite and to the point, acknowledging the very sins of which you are guilty. {OFC 73.1} [OFC 73.2] Many, many confessions should never be spoken in the hearing of mortals; for the result is that which the limited judgment of finite beings does not anticipate. . . . God will be better glorified if we confess the secret, inbred corruption of the heart to Jesus alone than if we open its recesses to finite, erring man, who cannot judge righteously unless his heart is constantly imbued with the Spirit of God. . . . Do not pour into human ears the story which God alone should hear. {OFC 73.2} [OFC 73.3] The confession that is the outpouring of the inmost soul finds its way to the God of infinite pity. {OFC 73.3} [OFC 73.4] Your sins may be as mountains before you; but if you humble your heart, and confess your sins, trusting in the merits of a crucified and risen Saviour, He will forgive, and will cleanse you from all unrighteousness. . . . Desire the fullness of the grace of Christ. Let your heart be filled with an intense longing for His righteousness. {OFC 73.4} [OFC 73.5] A Change Of Heart Needed Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. John 3:3. {OFC 73.5} [OFC 73.6] Nicodemus held a high position of trust in the Jewish nation. . . . With others, he had been stirred by the teaching of Jesus. . . .The lessons that had fallen from the Saviour’s lips had greatly impressed him, and he desired to learn more of these wonderful truths. . . {OFC 73.6} [OFC 73.7] Nicodemus had come to the Lord thinking to enter into a discussion with Him, but Jesus laid bare the foundation principles of truth. He said to Nicodemus, It is not theoretical knowledge you need so much as spiritual 74 regeneration. You need not to have your curiosity satisfied, but to have a new heart. You must receive a new life from above before you can appreciate heavenly things. {OFC 73.7} [OFC 74.1] The change of heart represented by the new birth can be brought about only by the effectual working of the Holy Spirit. . . . Pride and self-love resist the Spirit of God; every natural inclination of the soul opposes the change from self-importance and pride to the meekness and lowliness of Christ. But if we would travel in the pathway to eternal life, we must not listen to the whispering of self. In humility and contrition we must beseech our heavenly Father, “Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.” Psalm 51:10. As we receive divine light, and cooperate with the heavenly intelligences, we are “born again,” freed from the defilement of sin by the power of Christ. {OFC 74.1} [OFC 74.2] The mighty power of the Holy Spirit works an entire transformation in the character of the human agent, making him a new creature in Christ Jesus. . . . The words and actions express the love of the Saviour. There is no striving for the highest place. Self is renounced. The name of Jesus is written on all that is said and done. {OFC 74.2} [OFC 74.3] Is not this, the renewal of man, the greatest miracle that can be performed? What cannot the human agent do who by faith takes hold of the divine power? {OFC 74.3} [OFC 74.4] Holiness Of Life Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord. Hebrews 12:14. {OFC 74.4} [OFC 74.5] No one who claims holiness is really holy. Those who are registered as holy in the books of heaven are not aware of the fact, and are the last ones to boast of their own goodness. {OFC 74.5} [OFC 74.6] It is not a conclusive evidence that a man is a Christian because he manifests spiritual ecstasy under extraordinary circumstances. Holiness is not rapture: it is an entire surrender of the will to God; it is living by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God; it is doing the will of our heavenly Father; it is trusting God in trial, in darkness as well as in the light; it is walking by faith and not by sight; it is relying on God with unquestioning confidence, and resting in His love. {OFC 74.6} [OFC 74.7] No one can be omnipotent, but all can cleanse themselves from filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of the Lord. God requires every soul to be pure and holy. We have hereditary tendencies to wrong. This is a part of self that no one need carry about. It is a weakness of humanity to pet selfishness, because it is a natural trait of 75 character. But unless all selfishness is put away, unless self is crucified, we can never be holy as God is holy. There is in humanity a tendency to suspicious imagining, which circumstances quicken into lively growth. If this trait is indulged, it spoils the character and ruins the soul. {OFC 74.7} [OFC 75.1] God requires moral perfection in all. Those who have been given light and opportunities should, as God’s stewards, aim for perfection, and never, never lower the standard of righteousness to accommodate inherited and cultivated tendencies to wrong. Christ took upon Him our human nature, and lived our life, to show us that we may be like Him. . . . We ought to be holy even as God is holy; and when we comprehend the full significance of this statement, and set our heart to do the work of God, to be holy as He is holy, we shall approach the standard set for each individual in Christ Jesus. {OFC 75.1} [OFC 75.2] The Arrow Of Death O that they were wise, that they understood this, that they would consider their latter end! Deuteronomy 32:29. {OFC 75.2} [OFC 75.3] The Lord “doth not afflict willingly nor grieve the children of men.” Lamentations 3:33. “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him. For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust.” Psalm 103:13, 14. He knows our heart, for He reads every secret of the soul. . . . He knows the end from the beginning. Many will be laid away to sleep before the fiery ordeal of the time of trouble shall come upon our world. . . . {OFC 75.3} [OFC 75.4] If Jesus, the world’s Redeemer, prayed, “O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me,” and added, “nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt” (Matthew 26:39), how very appropriate it is for finite mortals to make the same surrender to the wisdom and will of God. {OFC 75.4} [OFC 75.5] We have but a brief lifetime here, and we know not how soon the arrow of death may strike our hearts. We know not how soon we may be called to give up the world and all its interests. Eternity stretches before us. The curtain is about to be lifted. But a few short years, and for everyone now numbered with the living the mandate will go forth: “He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: . . . and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still.” Revelation 22:11. {OFC 75.5} [OFC 75.6] Are we prepared? Have we become acquainted with God, the Governor of heaven, the Lawgiver, and with Jesus Christ whom He sent into the world as His representative? When our lifework is ended, shall we be able to say, as did Christ our example: {OFC 75.6} [OFC 75.7] “I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou 76 gavest me to do. . . . I have manifested thy name”? John 17:4-6. {OFC 75.7} [OFC 76.1] The angels of God are seeking to attract us from ourselves and from earthly things. Let them not labor in vain. {OFC 76.1} [OFC 76.2] Sorrow With Hope But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. 1 Thessalonians 4:13. {OFC 76.2} [OFC 76.3] To the afflicted ones I would say, be of good comfort in the hope of the resurrection morning. The waters of which you have been drinking are as bitter to your taste as were the waters of Marah to the children of Israel in the wilderness, but Jesus can make them so sweet with His love. . . . {OFC 76.3} [OFC 76.4] God has provided a balm for every wound. There is a balm in Gilead, there is a Physician there. Will you not now as never before study the Scriptures? Seek the Lord for wisdom in every emergency. In every trial plead with Jesus to show you a way out of your troubles, then your eyes will be opened to behold the remedy and to apply to your case the healing promises that have been recorded in His Word. In this way the enemy will find no place to lead you into mourning and unbelief, but instead you will have faith and hope and courage in the Lord. The Holy Spirit will give you clear discernment that you may see and appropriate every blessing that will act as an antidote to grief, as a branch of healing to every draught of bitterness that is placed to your lips. Every draught of bitterness will be mingled with the love of Jesus, and in place of complaining of the bitterness, you will realize that Jesus’ love and grace are so mingled with sorrow that it has been turned into subdued, holy, sanctified joy. {OFC 76.4} [OFC 76.5] When Henry White, our eldest son, lay dying, he said, “A bed of pain is a precious place when we have the presence of Jesus.” When we are obliged to drink of the bitter waters, turn away from the bitter to the precious and the bright. In trial grace can give the human soul assurance, and when we stand at the deathbed and see how the Christian can bear suffering and go through the valley of death, we gather strength . . . and we fail not, neither are we discouraged in leading souls to Jesus. {OFC 76.5} [OFC 77.1] Uttermost Salvation For God’s Children But this man, because he continueth ever, hath an unchangeable priesthood. Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them. Hebrews 7:24, 25. {OFC 77.1} [OFC 77.2] Every provision has been made for our infirmities, every encouragement offered us to come to Christ. {OFC 77.2} [OFC 77.3] Christ offered up His broken body to purchase back God’s heritage, to give man another trial. . . . By His spotless life, His obedience, His death on the cross of Calvary, Christ interceded for the lost race. And now, not as a mere petitioner does the Captain of our salvation intercede for us, but as a Conqueror claiming His victory. His offering is complete, and as our Intercessor He executes His self-appointed work, holding before God the censer containing His own spotless merits and the prayers, confessions, and thanksgiving of His people. Perfumed with the fragrance of His righteousness, these ascend to God as a sweet savor. The offering is wholly acceptable, and pardon covers all transgression. {OFC 77.3} [OFC 77.4] Christ has pledged Himself to be our substitute and surety, and He neglects no one. He who could not see human beings exposed to eternal ruin without pouring out His soul unto death in their behalf, will look with pity and compassion upon every soul who realizes that he cannot save himself. {OFC 77.4} [OFC 77.5] He will look upon no trembling suppliant without raising him up. He who through His own atonement provided for man an infinite fund of moral power, will not fail to employ this power in our behalf. We may take our sins and sorrows to His feet; for He loves us. His every look and word invites our confidence. He will shape and mold our characters according to His own will. {OFC 77.5} [OFC 77.6] In the whole satanic force there is not power to overcome one soul who in simple trust casts himself on Christ. “He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength.” Isaiah 40:29. {OFC 77.6} [OFC 77.7] The Blotting Out Of Sins He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his 78 angels. Revelation 3:5. {OFC 77.7} [OFC 78.1] As the books of record are opened in the judgment, the lives of all who have believed on Jesus come in review before God. Beginning with those who first lived upon the earth, our Advocate presents the cases of each successive generation, and closes with the living. Every name is mentioned, every case closely investigated. Names are accepted, names rejected. When any have sins remaining upon the books of record, unrepented of and unforgiven, their names will be blotted out of the book of life, and the record of their good deeds will be erased from the book of God’s remembrance. . . . {OFC 78.1} [OFC 78.2] All who have truly repented of sin, and by faith claimed the blood of Christ as their atoning sacrifice, have had pardon entered against their names in the books of heaven; as they have become partakers of the righteousness of Christ, and their characters are found to be in harmony with the law of God, their sins will be blotted out, and they themselves will be accounted worthy of eternal life. . . . {OFC 78.2} [OFC 78.3] The divine Intercessor presents the plea that all who have overcome through faith in His blood be forgiven their transgressions, that they be restored to their Eden home, and crowned as joint heirs with Himself to the “first dominion.” . . . {OFC 78.3} [OFC 78.4] While Jesus is pleading for the subjects of His grace, Satan accuses them before God as transgressors. . . . {OFC 78.4} [OFC 78.5] Jesus does not excuse their sins, but shows their penitence and faith, and, claiming for them forgiveness, He lifts His wounded hands before the Father and the holy angels, saying, “I know them by name.” . . . Their names stand enrolled in the book of life, and concerning them it is written, “They shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy.” Revelation 3:4. {OFC 78.5} [OFC 78.6] Christians may daily cultivate faith by contemplating the One who has undertaken their cause, their “merciful and faithful high priest.” {OFC 78.6} [OFC 78.7] Schemes Of Satan Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour. 1 Peter 5:8. {OFC 78.7} [OFC 78.8] It is unsafe to trust to feelings or impressions; these are unreliable guides. God’s law is the only correct standard of holiness. It is by this law that character is to be judged. If an inquirer after salvation were to ask, “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” the modern teachers of sanctification would answer, “Only believe that Jesus saves you.” But when Christ was asked this question He said, “What is written in the law? how readest thou?” And when the questioner replied, “Thou shalt love the 79 Lord thy God with all thy heart, ... and thy neighbour as thyself,” Jesus said, “Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live.” Luke 10:26-28. {OFC 78.8} [OFC 79.1] No value is attached to a mere profession of faith in Christ; only the love which is shown by works is counted genuine. Yet it is love alone which in the sight of Heaven makes any act of value. . . . {OFC 79.1} [OFC 79.2] The hidden selfishness of men stands revealed in the books of heaven. . . . Sad is the record which angels bear to heaven. Intelligent beings, professed followers of Christ, are absorbed in the acquirement of worldly possessions or the enjoyment of earthly pleasures. Money, time, and strength are sacrificed for display and self-indulgence; but few are the moments devoted to prayer, to the searching of the Scriptures, to humiliation of soul and confession of sin. {OFC 79.2} [OFC 79.3] Satan invents unnumbered schemes to occupy our minds, that they may not dwell upon the very work with which we ought to be best acquainted. The archdeceiver hates the great truths that bring to view an atoning sacrifice and an all-powerful Mediator. He knows that with him everything depends on his diverting minds from Jesus and His truth. {OFC 79.3} [OFC 79.4] Those who would share the benefits of the Saviour’s mediation should permit nothing to interfere with their duty to perfect holiness in the fear of God. {OFC 79.4} [OFC 79.5] Deposits In The Bank Of Heaven Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world. James 1:27. {OFC 79.5} [OFC 79.6] The tender sympathies of our Saviour were aroused for fallen and suffering humanity. If you would be His followers, you must cultivate compassion and sympathy. . . . The widow, the orphan, the sick, and the dying will always need help. Here is an opportunity to proclaim the gospel—to hold up Jesus, the hope and consolation of all men. When the suffering body has been relieved, . . . the heart is opened, and you can pour in the heavenly balm. {OFC 79.6} [OFC 79.7] A company of believers may be poor, uneducated, and unknown; yet in Christ they may do a work in the home, the neighborhood, the church, and even in “the regions beyond,” whose results will be as far-reaching as eternity. It is because this work is neglected that so many young disciples never advance beyond the mere alphabet of Christian experience. The light which was glowing in their own hearts when Jesus spoke to them, “Thy 80 sins be forgiven thee,” they might have kept alive by helping those in need. The restless energy that is so often a source of danger to the young might be directed into channels through which it would flow out in streams of blessing. {OFC 79.7} [OFC 80.1] The hours so often spent in amusement that refreshes neither body nor soul should be spent in . . . seeking to help someone who is in need. {OFC 80.1} [OFC 80.2] Every opportunity to help a brother in need, or to aid the cause of God in the spread of the truth, is a pearl that you can send beforehand, and deposit in the bank of heaven for safe-keeping. {OFC 80.2} [OFC 80.3] Love, courtesy, self-sacrifice—these are never lost. When God’s chosen ones are changed from mortality to immortality, their words and deeds of goodness will be made manifest, and will be preserved through the eternal ages. . . . Through the merits of Christ’s imputed righteousness, the fragrance of such words and deeds is forever preserved. {OFC 80.3} [OFC 80.4] What Kind Of Inheritance? And Manoah said, Now let thy words come to pass. How shall we order the child, and how shall we do unto him? Judges 13:12. {OFC 80.4} [OFC 80.5] The words spoken to the wife of Manoah contain a truth that the mothers of today would do well to study. {OFC 80.5} [OFC 80.6] The child will be affected for good or for evil by the habits of the mother. She must herself be controlled by principle, and must practice temperance and self-denial, if she would seek the welfare of her child. {OFC 80.6} [OFC 80.7] If before the birth of her child she is unstable, if she is selfish, peevish, and exacting, the disposition of her child will bear the marks of her wrong course. . . . But if she unswervingly adheres to the right, if she is kind, gentle, and unselfish, she will give her child these traits of character. {OFC 80.7} [OFC 80.8] And fathers as well as mothers are involved in this responsibility. Both parents transmit their own characteristics, mental and physical, their dispositions and appetites, to their children. . . . The inquiry of every father and mother should be, “What shall we do unto the child that shall be born unto us?” The effect of prenatal influences has been by many lightly regarded; but the instruction sent from heaven to those Hebrew parents . . . shows how the matter is looked upon by our Creator. {OFC 80.8} [OFC 80.9] The mother who is a fit teacher for her children must, before their birth, form habits of self-denial and self-control; for she transmits to them her own qualities, her own strong or weak traits of character. The enemy of souls understands this matter much better than do many parents. He will bring temptations upon the mother, knowing that if she does not resist him, 81 he can through her affect her child. The mother’s only hope is in God. She may flee to Him for grace and strength. She will not seek help in vain. He will enable her to transmit to her offspring qualities that will help them to gain success in this life and to win eternal life. {OFC 80.9} [OFC 81.1] Day Of Days And hallow my sabbaths; and they shall be a sign between me and you, that ye may know that I am the Lord your God. Ezekiel 20:20. {OFC 81.1} [OFC 81.2] The Sabbath should be made so interesting to our families that its weekly return will be hailed with joy. {OFC 81.2} [OFC 81.3] The Sabbath school and the meeting for worship occupy only a part of the Sabbath. The portion remaining to the family may be made the most sacred and precious season of all the Sabbath hours. {OFC 81.3} [OFC 81.4] In the minds of the children the very thought of the Sabbath should be bound up with the beauty of natural things. . . . Happy the father and mother who can teach their children God’s written word with illustrations from the open pages of the book of nature; who can gather under the green trees, in the fresh, pure air, to study the Word and to sing the praise of the Father above. {OFC 81.4} [OFC 81.5] In pleasant weather let parents walk with their children in the fields and groves. Amid the beautiful things of nature tell them the reason for the institution of the Sabbath. Describe to them God’s great work of creation. Tell them that when the earth came from His hand, it was holy and beautiful. Every flower, every shrub, every tree, answered the purpose of its Creator. . . . Show that it was sin which marred God’s perfect work; that thorns and thistles, sorrow and pain and death, are all the result of disobedience to God. Bid them see how the earth, though marred with the curse of sin, still reveals God’s goodness. {OFC 81.5} [OFC 81.6] If we can cultivate within us a beauty of soul corresponding to the beauty of nature around us, there will be a blending of the divine and human agencies. {OFC 81.6} [OFC 81.7] As the sun goes down, let the voice of prayer and the hymn of praise mark the close of the sacred hours and invite God’s presence through the cares of the week of labor. {OFC 81.7} [OFC 81.8] Thus parents can make the Sabbath, as it should be, the most joyful day of the week. They can lead their children to regard it as a delight, the day of days, the holy of the Lord, honorable. {OFC 81.8} [OFC 82.1] A Welcome To The Heavenly Home Open ye the gates, that the righteous nation which keepeth the truth may enter in. Isaiah 26:2. {OFC 82.1} [OFC 82.2] The life on earth is the beginning of the life in heaven. {OFC 82.2} [OFC 82.3] We are children of the heavenly King, members of the royal family, heirs of God, and joint heirs with Christ. The mansions Jesus has gone to prepare are to receive only those who are true, who are pure, who love and obey His words. . . . If we would enjoy eternal bliss, we must cultivate religion in the home. . . . Peace, harmony, affection, and happiness should be perseveringly cherished every day, until these precious things abide in the hearts of those who compose the family. {OFC 82.3} [OFC 82.4] That which will make the character lovely in the home is that which will make it lovely in the heavenly mansions. {OFC 82.4} [OFC 82.5] If we manifest the character of Christ here, keeping all the commandments of God, we shall be cheered and blessed with glimpses of the pleasant home in the mansions Jesus has gone to prepare. {OFC 82.5} [OFC 82.6] Let all that is beautiful in our earthly home remind us of the crystal river and green fields, the waving trees and the living fountains, the shining city and the white-robed singers, of our heavenly home—that world of beauty which no artist can picture, no mortal tongue describe. {OFC 82.6} [OFC 82.7] There the loves and sympathies that God has planted in the soul will find truest and sweetest exercise. The pure communion with holy beings, the harmonious social life with the blessed angels and with the faithful ones of all ages, the sacred fellowship that binds together “the whole family in heaven and earth”all are among the experiences of the hereafter. . . . With unutterable delight we shall enter into the joy and the wisdom of unfallen beings. {OFC 82.7} [OFC 82.8] It is the privilege of parents to take their children with them to the gates of the city of God, saying, “I have tried to instruct my children to love the Lord, to do His will, and to glorify Him.” To such the gate will be thrown open, and parents and children will enter in. {OFC 82.8} [OFC 82.9] Who Shall Receive God’s Seal? And I saw another angel ascending from the east, having the seal of the living God: and he cried with a loud voice to the four angels, to whom 83 it was given to hurt the earth and the sea, saying, Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, till we have sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads. Revelation 7:2, 3. {OFC 82.9} [OFC 83.1] The seal of the living God will be placed upon those only who bear a likeness to Christ in character. {OFC 83.1} [OFC 83.2] As wax takes the impression of the seal, so the soul is to take the impression of the Spirit of God and retain the image of Christ. {OFC 83.2} [OFC 83.3] It is obedience to the principles of the commandments of God, that molds the character after the divine similitude. {OFC 83.3} [OFC 83.4] The seal of God’s law is found in the fourth commandment. This only, of all the ten, brings to view both the name and the title of the Lawgiver. It declares Him to be the Creator of the heavens and the earth, and thus shows His claim to reverence and worship above all others. Aside from this precept, there is nothing in the Decalogue to show by whose authority the law is given. {OFC 83.4} [OFC 83.5] The Israelites placed over their doors a signature of blood, to show that they were God’s property. So the children of God in this age will bear the signature God has appointed. They will place themselves in harmony with God’s holy law. A mark is placed upon every one of God’s people just as verily as a mark was placed over the doors of the Hebrew dwellings, to preserve the people from the general ruin. God declares, “I gave them my sabbaths, to be a sign between me and them, that they might know that I am the Lord that sanctify them.” Ezekiel 20:12. {OFC 83.5} [OFC 83.6] Just as soon as the people of God are sealed in their foreheads—it is not any seal or mark that can be seen, but a settling into the truth, both intellectually and spiritually, so they cannot be moved—just as soon as God’s people are sealed and prepared for the shaking, it will come. Indeed, it has begun already; the judgments of God are now upon the land, . . . that we may know what is coming. {OFC 83.6} [OFC 83.7] Jesus’ Example In Humility If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you. John 13:14, 15. {OFC 83.7} [OFC 83.8] There is in man a disposition to esteem himself more highly than his brother, to work for self, to seek the highest place; and often this results in evil surmisings and bitterness of spirit. The ordinance preceding the Lord’s Supper is to clear away these misunderstandings, to bring man out of his 84 selfishness, down from his stilts of self-exaltation, to the humility of heart that will lead him to serve his brother. {OFC 83.8} [OFC 84.1] The ordinance of feet washing most forcibly illustrates the necessity of true humility. While the disciples were contending for the highest place, in the promised kingdom, Christ girded Himself, and performed the office of a servant by washing the feet of those who called Him Lord. {OFC 84.1} [OFC 84.2] Reconciliation one with another is the work for which the ordinance of feet washing was instituted. . . . Whenever it is celebrated, Christ is present by His Holy Spirit. It is this Spirit that brings conviction to hearts. {OFC 84.2} [OFC 84.3] As Christ celebrated this ordinance with His disciples, conviction came to the hearts of all save Judas. So we shall be convicted as Christ speaks to our hearts. The fountains of the soul will be broken up. The mind will be energized, and, springing into activity and life, will break down every barrier that has caused disunion and alienation. Sins that have been committed will appear with more distinctness than ever before; for the Holy Spirit will bring them to our remembrance. {OFC 84.3} [OFC 84.4] Having washed the disciples’ feet, He ［Jesus］said, “I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.” . . . Christ was here instituting a religious service. By the act of our Lord this humiliating ceremony was made a consecrated ordinance. It was to be observed by the disciples, that they might ever keep in mind His lessons of humility and service. {OFC 84.4} [OFC 84.5] Builders, Not Destroyers And they that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places: thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations; and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in. Isaiah 58:12. {OFC 84.5} [OFC 84.6] Has God no living church? He has a church, but it is the church militant, not the church triumphant. We are sorry that there are defective members. . . .While the Lord brings into the church those who are truly converted, Satan at the same time brings persons who are not converted into its fellowship. While Christ is sowing the good seed, Satan is sowing the tares. There are two opposing influences continually exerted on the members of the church. One influence is working for the purification of the church, and the other for the corrupting of the people of God. . . . {OFC 84.6} [OFC 84.7] Although there are evils existing in the church, and will be until the end of the world, the church in these last days is to be the light of the world that is polluted and demoralized by sin. . . . {OFC 84.7} [OFC 85.1] 85 There is but one church in the world who are at the present time standing in the breach, and making up the hedge, building up the old waste places; and for any man to call the attention of the world and other churches to this church, denouncing her as Babylon, is to do a work in harmony with him who is the accuser of the brethren. . . .The whole world is filled with hatred of those who proclaim the binding claims of the law of God, and the church who are loyal to Jehovah must engage in no ordinary conflict. . . Those who have any realization of what this warfare means, will not turn their weapons against the church militant, but with all their powers will wrestle with the people of God against the confederacy of evil. {OFC 85.1} [OFC 85.2] Those who start up to proclaim a message on their own individual responsibility, who, while claiming to be taught and led of God, still make it their special work to tear down that which God has been for years building up, are not doing the will of God. Be it known that these men are on the side of the great deceiver. Believe them not. {OFC 85.2} [OFC 85.3] Tears And Conflict Serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews. Acts 20:19. {OFC 85.3} [OFC 85.4] From the days of Adam to our own time, our great enemy has been exercising his power to oppress and destroy. He is now preparing for his last campaign against the church. {OFC 85.4} [OFC 85.5] The better to disguise his real character and purposes, he has caused himself to be so represented as to excite no stronger emotion than ridicule or contempt. He is well pleased to be painted as a ludicrous or loathsome object, misshapen, half animal and half human. {OFC 85.5} [OFC 85.6] If Satan was so cunning at first, what must he be now, after gaining an experience of many thousands of years? Yet God and holy angels, and all those who abide in obedience to all the Lord’s will, are wiser than he. {OFC 85.6} [OFC 85.7] All who are actively engaged in the cause of God, seeking to unveil the deceptions of the evil one and to present Christ before the people, will be able to join in the testimony of Paul, in which he speaks of serving the Lord with all humility of mind, with many tears and temptations. . . . {OFC 85.7} [OFC 85.8] The tempter has no power to control the will or to force the soul to sin. He may distress, but he cannot contaminate. He can cause agony, but not defilement. {OFC 85.8} [OFC 85.9] Satan cannot read our thoughts, but he can see our actions, hear our words; and from his long knowledge of the human family, he can shape his temptations to take advantage of our weak points of character. And how 86 often do we let him into the secret of how he may obtain the victory over us. Oh, that we might control our words and actions! {OFC 85.9} [OFC 86.1] Satan assailed Christ with his fiercest and most subtle temptations; but he was repulsed in every conflict. Those battles were fought in our behalf; those victories make it possible for us to conquer. Christ will give strength to all who seek it. {OFC 86.1} [OFC 86.2] Safety Only In Obedience For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil. 1 Peter 3:12. {OFC 86.2} [OFC 86.3] No man is safe for a day or an hour without prayer. Especially should we entreat the Lord for wisdom to understand His Word. Here are revealed the wiles of the tempter, and the means by which he may be successfully resisted. Satan is an expert in quoting Scripture, placing his own interpretation upon passages, by which he hopes to cause us to stumble. We should study the Bible with humility of heart, never losing sight of our dependence upon God. While we must constantly guard against the devices of Satan, we should pray in faith continually, “Lead us not into temptation.” {OFC 86.3} [OFC 86.4] When Balaam, allured by the promise of rich rewards, practiced enchantments against Israel, and by sacrifices to the Lord sought to invoke a curse upon His people, the Spirit of God forbade the evil which he longed to pronounce, and Balaam was forced to exclaim: “How shall I curse, whom God hath not cursed?” Numbers 23:8. . . . {OFC 86.4} [OFC 86.5] The people of Israel were at this time loyal to God; and so long as they continued in obedience to His law, no power in earth or hell could prevail against them. But the curse which Balaam had not been permitted to pronounce against God’s people, he finally succeeded in bringing upon them by seducing them into sin. When they transgressed God’s commandments, then they separated themselves from Him, and they were left to feel the power of the destroyer. {OFC 86.5} [OFC 86.6] Satan is well aware that the weakest soul who abides in Christ is more than a match for the hosts of darkness. . . . Only in humble reliance upon God, and obedience to all His commandments, can we be secure. {OFC 86.6} [OFC 86.7] Let none deceive themselves with the belief that God will pardon and bless them while they are trampling upon one of His requirements. The willful commission of a known sin silences the witnessing voice of the Spirit, and separates the soul from God. {OFC 86.7} [OFC 87.1] A Crown For Every Saint Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. James 1:12. {OFC 87.1} [OFC 87.2] I saw a very great number of angels bring from the city glorious crowns—a crown for every saint, with his name written thereon. As Jesus called for the crowns, angels presented them to Him, and with His own right hand the lovely Jesus placed the crowns on the heads of the saints. In the same manner the angels brought the harps, and Jesus presented them also to the saints. The commanding angels first struck the note, and then every voice was raised in grateful, happy praise, and every hand skillfully swept over the strings of the harp, sending forth melodious music in rich and perfect strains. . . . {OFC 87.2} [OFC 87.3] Within the city there was everything to feast the eye. Rich glory they beheld everywhere. Then Jesus looked upon His redeemed saints; their countenances were radiant with glory; and as He fixed His loving eyes upon them, He said, with His rich, musical voice, “I behold the travail of My soul, and am satisfied. This rich glory is yours to enjoy eternally. Your sorrows are ended. There shall be no more death, neither sorrow nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain.” . . . {OFC 87.3} [OFC 87.4] I then saw Jesus leading His people to the tree of life. . . . Upon the tree of life was most beautiful fruit, of which the saints could partake freely, in the city was a most glorious throne, from which proceeded a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal. On each side of this river was the tree of life, and on the banks of the river were other beautiful trees bearing fruit. . . . {OFC 87.4} [OFC 87.5] Language is altogether too feeble to attempt a description of heaven. As the scene rises before me, I am lost in amazement. Carried away with the surpassing splendor and excellent glory, I lay down the pen, and exclaim, “Oh, what love! what wondrous love!” The most exalted language fails to describe the glory of heaven or the matchless depths of a Saviour’s love. {OFC 87.5} [OFC 88.1] The Eternal Weight Of Glory For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. 2 Corinthians 4:17. {OFC 88.1} [OFC 88.2] I was pointed to the glory of heaven, to the treasure laid up for the faithful. Everything was lovely and glorious. The angels would sing a lovely song, then they would cease singing and take their crowns from their heads and cast them glittering at the feet of the lovely Jesus, and with melodious voices cry, “Glory, Alleluia!” I joined with them in their songs of praise and honor to the Lamb, and every time I opened my mouth to praise Him, I felt an unutterable sense of the glory that surrounded me. It was a far more, an exceeding and eternal weight of glory. Said the angel, “The little remnant who love God and keep His commandments and are faithful to the end will enjoy this glory and ever be in the presence of Jesus and sing with the holy angels.” {OFC 88.2} [OFC 88.3] Then my eyes were taken from the glory, and I was pointed to the remnant on the earth. The angel said to them, “. . . Get ready, get ready, get ready. Ye must have a greater preparation than ye now have, for the day of the Lord cometh, cruel both with wrath and fierce anger, to lay the land desolate and to destroy the sinners thereof out of it. Sacrifice all to God. Lay all upon His altar—self, property, and all, a living sacrifice. It will take all to enter glory. Lay up for yourselves treasure in heaven, where no thief can approach or rust corrupt. Ye must be partakers of Christ’s sufferings here if ye would be partakers with Him of His glory hereafter.” {OFC 88.3} [OFC 88.4] Heaven will be cheap enough, if we obtain it through suffering. We must deny self all along the way, die to self daily, let Jesus alone appear, and keep His glory continually in view. {OFC 88.4} [OFC 88.5] The work of salvation is not child’s play, to be taken hold of at will and let alone at pleasure. It is the steady purpose, the untiring effort, that will gain the victory at last. It is he who endureth to the end that shall be saved. It is they who patiently continue in well-doing that shall have eternal life and the immortal reward. {OFC 88.5} [OFC 88.6] No More Death—Ever! And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. Revelation 21:4. {OFC 88.6} [OFC 89.1] 89 In the home of the redeemed there will be no tears, no funeral trains, no badges of mourning. “The inhabitant shall not say, I am sick: the people that dwell therein shall be forgiven their iniquity.” Isaiah 33:24. One rich tide of happiness will flow and deepen as eternity rolls on. . . . {OFC 89.1} [OFC 89.2] Let us consider most earnestly the blessed hereafter. Let our faith pierce through every cloud of darkness and behold him who died for the sins of the world. He has opened the gates of Paradise to all who receive and believe on Him. . . . Let the afflictions which pain us so grievously become instructive lessons, teaching us to press forward toward the mark of the prize of our high calling in Christ. Let us be encouraged by the thought that the Lord is soon to come. Let this hope gladden our hearts. . . . {OFC 89.2} [OFC 89.3] We are homeward bound. He who loved us so much as to die for us hath builded for us a city. The New Jerusalem is our place of rest. There will be no sadness in the city of God. No wail of sorrow, no dirge of crushed hopes and buried affections, will evermore be heard. Soon the garments of heaviness will be changed for the wedding garment. Soon we shall witness the coronation of our King. Those whose lives have been hidden with Christ, those who on this earth have fought the good fight of faith, will shine forth with the Redeemer’s glory in the kingdom of God. {OFC 89.3} [OFC 89.4] It will not be long till we shall see Him in whom our hopes of eternal life are centered. And in His presence, all the trials and sufferings of this life will be as nothingness. . . . Look up, look up, and let your faith continually increase. Let this faith guide you along the narrow path that leads through the gates of the city of God into the great beyond, the wide, unbounded future of glory that is for the redeemed. {OFC 89.4} [OFC 89.5] Chapter 4—Our High Calling Compassed With God’s Mercy Many sorrows shall be to the wicked: but he that trusteth in the Lord, mercy shall compass him about. Psalm 32:10. {OFC 89.5} [OFC 89.6] We often think that those who serve God have more trials than the unbeliever, and that the path marked out for them to travel in is rugged. . . . But does the sinner enjoy his worldly pleasure and enjoyment unalloyed? Oh, no. There are times when the sinner is fearfully troubled. He fears God but does not love Him. {OFC 89.6} [OFC 89.7] Are the wicked free from disappointment, perplexity, earthly losses, poverty, and distress? Many of them suffer a lingering sickness, yet have no strong and mighty One to lean upon, no strengthening grace from a higher power to support them in their weakness. They lean upon their own strength. They obtain no consolation by looking forward to the future, but 90 a fearful uncertainty torments them; and thus they close their eyes in death, not finding any pleasure in looking forward to the resurrection morn, for they have no cheering hope that they shall have part in the first resurrection. . . . {OFC 89.7} [OFC 90.1] The Christian is subject to sickness, disappointment, poverty, reproach, and distress. Yet amid all this he loves God, he chooses to do His will, and prizes nothing so highly as His approbation. In the conflicting trials and changing scenes of this life, he knows that there is One who knows it all, One who will bend His ear low to the cry of the sorrowful and distressed, One who can sympathize with every sorrow and soothe the keen anguish of every heart. . . . {OFC 90.1} [OFC 90.2] Amid all his affliction, the Christian has strong consolation. And if God permits him to suffer a lingering, distressing sickness before he closes his eyes in death, he can with cheerfulness bear it all. . . . He contemplates the future with heavenly satisfaction. A short rest in the grave, and then the Life-giver will break the fetters of the tomb, release the captive, and bring him from his dusty bed immortal, never more to know pain, sorrow, or death. Oh, what a hope is the Christian’s! Let this hope of the Christian be mine. Let it be yours Hope For The Hopeless Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. Isaiah 55:7, 8. {OFC 90.2} [OFC 90.3] It is your thought that your mistakes and transgressions have been so grievous that the Lord will not have respect unto your prayers, and will bless and save you. . . . The closer you come to Jesus, the more faulty you will appear in your own eyes; for your vision will be clearer, and your imperfections will be seen in broad and distinct contrast to His perfect nature. But do not be discouraged. This is evidence that Satan’s delusions have lost their power; that the vivifying influence of the Spirit of God is arousing you, and your indifference and unconcern are passing away. {OFC 90.3} [OFC 90.4] No deep-seated love for Jesus can dwell in the heart that does not see and realize its own sinfulness. The soul that is transformed by grace will admire His divine character; but if we do not see our own moral deformity, it is unmistakable evidence that we have not had a view of the beauty and excellence of Christ. The less we see to esteem in ourselves, the more we shall see to esteem in the infinite purity and loveliness of our Saviour. 91 A view of our own sinfulness drives us to Him who can pardon.... {OFC 90.4} [OFC 91.1] God does not deal with us as finite men deal with one another. His thoughts are thoughts of mercy, love, and tenderest compassion. “He will abundantly pardon.” He says, “I have blotted out, as a thick cloud, thy transgressions.” . . . {OFC 91.1} [OFC 91.2] Look up, you who are tried, tempted, and discouraged, look up.... It is ever safe to look up; it is fatal to look down. If you look down, the earth reels and sways beneath you; nothing is sure. But heaven above you is calm and steady, and there is divine aid for every climber. The hand of the Infinite is reaching over the battlements of heaven to grasp yours in its strong embrace. The mighty Helper is nigh to bless, lift up, and encourage the most erring, the most sinful, if they will look to Him by faith. But the sinner must look up {OFC 91.2} [OFC 91.3] Enjoyment Of The Truth Teach me thy way, O Lord; I will walk in thy truth: unite my heart to fear thy name. Psalm 86:11. {OFC 91.3} [OFC 91.4] Say with your whole heart, “I will walk in Thy truth.” Every resolution expressed in the fear of God will give strength to purpose and to faith. It will tend to stimulate and to humble, to strengthen and confirm. “I will walk in thy truth.” Truth deserves our confidence none the less because the world is flooded with fables. Because error and counterfeit are in circulation it only evidences the fact that there is truth, genuine truth, somewhere. . . . {OFC 91.4} [OFC 91.5] It is not enough for us to hear the truth only. God requires of us obedience. “Blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it.” Luke 11:28. “If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.” John 13:17. {OFC 91.5} [OFC 91.6] We may walk in the enjoyment of the truth. It need not be to us a yoke of bondage, but a consolation, a message to us of glad tidings of great joy, animating our hearts and causing us to make melody in our hearts unto God. Through patience and comfort of the Scriptures we have hope. The Christian hope is not gloomy, comfortless. Oh, no, no. It does not shut us up in a prison of doubts and fears. The truth makes free those who love and are sanctified through it. They walk in the glorious liberty of the sons of God. {OFC 91.6} [OFC 91.7] We who claim to believe the truth should reveal its fruits in our words and character. We are to be far advanced in a knowledge of Jesus Christ, in the reception of His love for God and for our neighbor, in order to have the sunlight of heaven shining in our daily life. Truth must reach down to 92 the deepest recesses of the soul, and cleanse away everything unlike the spirit of Christ, and the vacuum be supplied by the attributes of His character who was pure and holy and undefiled, that all the springs of the heart may be as flowers, fragrant with perfume, a sweet-smelling savor, a savor of life unto life. {OFC 91.7} [OFC 92.1] It is truth enshrined in the soul that makes one a man of God. {OFC 92.1} [OFC 92.2] Let Jesus Lead Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life; no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. John 14:6. {OFC 92.2} [OFC 92.3] Oh, that we who are pilgrims and strangers in this foreign country . . . might comprehend Christ, the way, the truth, and the life. He says, “No man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” The path He has marked out is so plain and distinct that the veriest sinner, loaded with guilt, need not miss his way. Not one trembling seeker need fail of finding the true path, and of walking in pure and holy light, for Jesus leads the way. {OFC 92.3} [OFC 92.4] The path is so narrow, so holy, that sin cannot be tolerated therein, yet access to the path has been made for all, and not one desponding, doubting, trembling soul needs to say, “God cares nought for me.” Every soul is precious in His sight. . . . When Satan was triumphing as the prince of the world, when he claimed the world as his kingdom, when we were all marred and corrupted with sin, God sent His messenger from heaven, even His only begotten Son, to proclaim to all the inhabitants of the world, “I have found a ransom. I have made a way of escape for all the perishing. I have your emancipation papers provided for you, sealed by the Lord of heaven and earth.” . . . {OFC 92.4} [OFC 92.5] It is not because there is any flaw in the title which has been purchased for you that you do not accept it. It is not because the mercy, the grace, the love of the Father and the Son is not ample, and has not been freely bestowed, that you do not rejoice in pardoning love. . . . If you are lost, it will be because you will not come unto Christ that you might have life. {OFC 92.5} [OFC 92.6] God waits to bestow the blessing of forgiveness of sins, of pardon for iniquity, of the gift of righteousness upon all who will believe in His love, and accept of His salvation. Christ is ready to say to the repenting sinner, “. . . Behold, I have caused thine iniquity to pass from thee. . . .” Zechariah 3:4-7. Christ is the connecting link between God and man. The blood of Jesus Christ is the eloquent plea that speaks in behalf of sinners. {OFC 92.6} [OFC 93.1] In Love With Christ For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens. Hebrews 7:26. {OFC 93.1} [OFC 93.2] The character of Christ was one of unexampled excellence, embracing everything pure, true, lovely, and of good report. We have no knowledge of His ever visiting a party of pleasure or a dance hall, and yet He was the perfection of grace and courtly bearing. Christ was no novice; He was distinguished for the high intellectual powers He possessed even in the morning of His life. His youth was not wasted in indolence, neither was it wasted in sensual pleasure, self-indulgence, or frittered away in things of no profit. Not one of His hours from childhood to manhood was misspent, none were misappropriated. . . . {OFC 93.2} [OFC 93.3] Jesus was sinless and had no dread of the consequences of sin. With this exception His condition was as yours. You have not a difficulty that did not press with equal weight upon Him, not a sorrow that His heart has not experienced. His feelings could be hurt with neglect, with indifference of professed friends, as easily as yours. Is your path thorny? Christ’s was so in a tenfold sense. Are you distressed? So was He. How well fitted was Christ to be an example! . . . {OFC 93.3} [OFC 93.4] The Inspired Record says of Him: “Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.” Luke 2:52. As He grew in years He grew in knowledge. He lived temperately; His precious hours were not wasted in dissipating pleasures. He had a truly healthy body and true powers of mind. The physical and mental powers could be expanded and developed as yours or any other youth’s. The Word of God was His study, as it should be yours. {OFC 93.4} [OFC 93.5] Take Jesus as your standard. Imitate His life. Fall in love with His character. Walk as Christ walked. A new spring will be given to your intellectual faculties, a large scope to your thoughts, when you bring your powers into vigorous contact with eternal things which are intrinsically grand and great. {OFC 93.5} [OFC 93.6] The Privilege Of Assurance And hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him. 1 John 3:19. {OFC 93.6} [OFC 93.7] I would impress upon our young men and young women the necessity of making their calling and election sure. I would beseech you to do no 94 haphazard or uncertain work where your eternal interests are involved. By so doing you lose happiness, peace, comfort, and hope in this life, and you lose also your immortal inheritance. {OFC 93.7} [OFC 94.1] My young friends, you are judgment bound, and through the grace of Christ you may render obedience to the commands of God, and daily gain fortitude and strength of character, so that you need not fail or be discouraged. Divine grace has been abundantly provided for every soul, so that each one may engage in the conflict and come off victorious. Do not become sluggish; do not flatter yourselves that you may be saved in walking in accordance with the natural traits of your character—that you may drift with the current of the world, and indulge and please self, and yet be able to withstand the forces of evil in a time of crisis, and come off victorious when the battle waxes hot. . . . You must learn every day to obey the orders of the Captain of the Lord’s host. {OFC 94.1} [OFC 94.2] My young friends, do you pray? Are you educating yourselves to offer petitions for pure thoughts, for holy aspirations, for a pure heart and clean hands? Are you educating your lips to sing the praises of God, and are you seeking to do the will of God? This is the kind of education that will be of the greatest value to you; for it will aid you in the formation of Christlike character. {OFC 94.2} [OFC 94.3] Do not settle down in Satan’s easy chair, and say that there is no use, you cannot cease to sin, that there is no power in you to overcome. There is no power in you apart from Christ, but it is your privilege to have Christ abiding in your heart by faith, and He can overcome sin in you, when you cooperate with His efforts. . . . You may be living epistles, known and read of all men. You are not to be a dead letter, but a living one, testifying to the world that Jesus is able to save. {OFC 94.3} [OFC 94.4] God Calls For Our Best Affections No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. Matthew 6:24. {OFC 94.4} [OFC 94.5] Many are on the enchanted ground of the enemy. Things of the least importance—foolish social parties, singing, jesting, joking—engross their minds and they serve God with a divided heart. . . . The declaration of Christ, “No man can serve two masters,” is unheeded. {OFC 94.5} [OFC 94.6] One of the most marked features of the earth’s inhabitants in the days of Noah was their intense worldliness. They made eating and drinking, buying and selling, marrying and giving in marriage, the supreme objects 95 of life. It is not sinful, but the fulfillment of a duty, to eat and drink, if that which is lawful is not carried to excess. . . . God Himself instituted marriage when He gave Eve to Adam. All God’s laws are marvelously adapted to meet the nature of man. The sin of the antediluvians was in perverting that which in itself was lawful. They corrupted God’s gifts by using them to minister to their selfish desires. . . . {OFC 94.6} [OFC 95.1] Excessive love and devotion to that which in itself is lawful, proves the ruination of thousands upon thousands of souls. To matters of minor importance is often given the strength of intellect that should be wholly devoted to God. We need always to be guarded against carrying to excess that which, rightly used, is lawful. Many, many souls are lost by engaging in those things which, properly managed, are harmless, but which, perverted and misapplied, become sinful and demoralizing. {OFC 95.1} [OFC 95.2] If we are constantly thinking of and struggling for the things that pertain to this life, we cannot keep our thoughts fixed on the things of heaven. Satan is seeking to lead our minds away from God, and to center them on the fashions, the customs, and the demands of the world, which bring disease and death. . . . {OFC 95.2} [OFC 95.3] In this world we are to obtain a fitness for the higher world. God has left a trust with us, and He expects us to use all our faculties in helping and blessing our fellow men. He calls for our best affections, our highest powers. {OFC 95.3} [OFC 95.4] Above The Fog Of Doubt Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord. Psalm 31:24. {OFC 95.4} [OFC 95.5] Even Christians of long experience are often assaulted with the most terrible doubts and waverings. . . . You must not consider that for these temptations your case is hopeless. . . . Hope in God, trust in Him and rest in His promises. {OFC 95.5} [OFC 95.6] When the devil comes with his doubts and unbeliefs, shut the door of your heart. Shut your eyes so that you will not dwell upon his hellish shadow. Lift them up where they can behold the things which are eternal, and you will have strength every hour. The trial of your faith is much more precious than gold. . . . It makes you valiant to fight the battle of the Lord. . . . {OFC 95.6} [OFC 95.7] Satan connects with everyone that will connect with him. If he can get those that have had an experience in religion, they are his most effectual agents to reach just such men and compass their souls with unbelief. You 96 cannot afford to let any doubts come into your mind. Do not please the devil enough to tell about the terrible burdens you are carrying. Every time you do it, Satan laughs that his soul can control you and that you have lost sight of Jesus Christ your Redeemer. . . . {OFC 95.7} [OFC 96.1] We are to show forth Him who hath called us out of darkness into His marvelous light. It is by living faith that we rest in that light. It is by living faith that we rejoice in that light every day. We are not to talk our doubts and trials, because they grow bigger every time we talk them. Every time we talk them, Satan has gained the victory; but when we say, “I will commit the keeping of my soul unto Him, as unto a faithful witness,” then we testify that we have given ourselves to Jesus Christ without any reservation, and then God gives us light and we rejoice in Him. {OFC 96.1} [OFC 96.2] The soul that loves God, rises above the fog of doubt; he gains a bright, broad, deep, living experience, and becomes meek and Christ-like. His soul is committed to God, hid with Christ in God. {OFC 96.2} [OFC 96.3] How To Maintain Integrity! Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Romans 6:11, 12. {OFC 96.3} [OFC 96.4] Some regard sin as altogether so light a matter that they have no defense against its indulgence or its consequence. . . . {OFC 96.4} [OFC 96.5] If you suppose for a moment that God will treat sin lightly, or make provisions or exemptions so that you can go on in committing sin, and the soul suffer no penalty from so doing, you are under a terrible delusion of Satan. Any willful violation of the righteous law of Jehovah exposes your soul to the full assaults of Satan. {OFC 96.5} [OFC 96.6] When you lose your conscious integrity, your soul becomes a battlefield for Satan; you have doubts and fears enough to paralyze your energies and drive you to discouragement. . . . {OFC 96.6} [OFC 96.7] Remember that temptation is not sin. Remember that however trying the circumstances in which a man may be placed, nothing can really weaken his soul so long as he does not yield to temptation but maintains his own integrity. The interests most vital to you individually are in your own keeping. No one can damage them without your consent. All the satanic legions cannot injure you unless you open your soul to the arts and arrows of Satan. Your ruin can never take place until your will consents. If there 97 is not pollution of mind in yourself, all the surrounding pollution cannot taint or defile you. {OFC 96.7} [OFC 97.1] Eternal life is worth everything to us or it is worth nothing. Those only who put forth persevering effort and untiring zeal with intense desire proportionate to the value of the object they are in pursuit of, will gain that life which measures with the life of God.... {OFC 97.1} [OFC 97.2] We have the example of Adam and Eve before us, and the result of their transgression should lead every soul of us to avoid sin, to abhor sin as the hateful thing it is, and to feel, in view of the sufferings which sin is sure to inflict, that it is better to suffer loss of all things than to depart from the least of God’s commandments. {OFC 97.2} [OFC 97.3] “Come Unto Me” Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28. {OFC 97.3} [OFC 97.4] Many who hear this invitation, while sighing for rest, yet press on the rugged path, hugging their burdens close to their heart. Jesus loves them, and longs to bear their burdens and themselves also in His strong arms. He would remove the fears and uncertainties that rob them of peace and rest; but they must first come to Him, and tell Him the secret woes of their heart. . . . {OFC 97.4} [OFC 97.5] Sometimes we pour our troubles into human ears, and tell our afflictions to those who cannot help us, and neglect to confide all to Jesus, who is able to change the sorrowful way to paths of joy and peace. . . . {OFC 97.5} [OFC 97.6] He proposes to be our friend, to walk with us through all the rough pathways of life. He says to us, I am the Lord thy God; walk with me, and I will fill thy path with light. Jesus, the Majesty of Heaven, proposes to elevate to companionship with Himself those who come to Him with their burdens, their weaknesses, and their cares. . . . {OFC 97.6} [OFC 97.7] His invitation to us is a call to a pure, holy, and happy life—a life of peace and rest, of liberty and love—and to a rich inheritance in the future, immortal life. . . . It is our privilege to have daily a calm, close, happy walk with Jesus. {OFC 97.7} [OFC 97.8] Rest is found when all self-justification, all reasoning from a selfish standpoint, is put away. Entire self-surrender, an acceptance of His ways, is the secret of perfect rest in His love. . . . Do just what He has told you to do, and be assured that God will do all that He has said He would do. . . . Have you come to Him, renouncing all your makeshifts, all your unbelief, all your self-righteousness? Come just as you are, weak, helpless, and ready to die. {OFC 97.8} [OFC 98.1] 98 What is the “rest” promised?—It is the consciousness that God is true, that He never disappoints the one who comes to Him. His pardon is full and free, and His acceptance means rest to the soul, rest in His love. {OFC 98.1} [OFC 98.2] Time For Meditation But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. Psalm 1:2. {OFC 98.2} [OFC 98.3] Your last thought at night, your first thought in the morning, should be of Him in whom is centered your hope of eternal life. {OFC 98.3} [OFC 98.4] Many seem to begrudge moments spent in meditation, and the searching of the Scriptures, and prayer, as though the time thus occupied was lost. I wish you could all view these things in the light God would have you; for you would then make the kingdom of heaven of the first importance. . . . As exercise increases the appetite, and gives strength and healthy vigor to the body, so will devotional exercises bring an increase of grace and spiritual vigor. {OFC 98.4} [OFC 98.5] The affections should center upon God. Contemplate His greatness, His mercy and excellences. Let His goodness and love and perfection of character captivate your heart. Converse upon His divine charms, and the heavenly mansions He is preparing for the faithful. He whose conversation is in heaven, is the most profitable Christian to all around him. His words are useful and refreshing. They have a transforming power upon those who hear them. {OFC 98.5} [OFC 98.6] There is constant need of private communion with God. We must take in the spirit of Christ if we would impart it to others. We cannot meet satanic and human agencies combined unless we spend much time in intercourse with the Source of all strength. There are times when we should get away from the sounds of earthly toil and human voices, and in retired places listen to the voice of Jesus. Thus we may taste of His love and imbibe His spirit. Thus we shall learn to crucify self. This course of action may seem impossible to the human mind. “I have not time,” you may say. But when you consider the matter as it really is, you lose no time; for when you secure the power and grace that come alone from God, you do not accomplish the work. It is Jesus who is the real worker. “Without me,” says Christ, “ye can do nothing.” John 15:5. . . . Reflection and earnest prayer will inspire to holy endeavor. {OFC 98.6} [OFC 99.1] Seeking God With All The Heart Turn you to the strong hold, ye prisoners of hope: even to day do I declare that I will render double unto thee. Zechariah 9:12. {OFC 99.1} [OFC 99.2] We need to educate the soul to lay hold, and hold fast the rich promises of Christ. The Lord Jesus knows that it is not possible for us to resist the many temptations of Satan, only as we shall have divine power given us from God. He well knows that in our own human strength we should surely fail. Therefore every provision has been made, that in every emergency and trial we shall flee to the Stronghold.... We have the word of promise from lips that will not lie. . . . We must individually cherish the faith that we receive of Him the things He hath promised. {OFC 99.2} [OFC 99.3] God will be to us everything we will let Him be. Our languid, half-hearted prayers will not bring us returns from heaven. Oh, we need to press our petitions! Ask in faith, wait in faith, receive in faith, rejoice in hope, for everyone that seeketh findeth. Be in earnest in the matter. Seek God with all the heart. People put soul and earnestness into everything they undertake in temporal things, until their efforts are crowned with success. With intense earnestness learn the trade of seeking the rich blessings that God has promised, and with persevering, determined effort you shall have His light and His truth and His rich grace. {OFC 99.3} [OFC 99.4] In sincerity, in soul hunger, cry after God. Wrestle with the heavenly agencies until you have the victory. Put your whole being into the Lord’s hands, soul, body, and spirit, and resolve to be His loving, consecrated agency, moved by His will, controlled by His mind, infused by His Spirit. {OFC 99.4} [OFC 99.5] Tell Jesus your wants in the sincerity of your soul. You are not required to hold a long controversy with, or preach a sermon to, God, but with a heart of sorrow for your sins, say, “Save me, Lord, or I perish.” There is hope for such souls. They will seek, they will ask, they will knock, and they will find. When Jesus has taken away the burden of sin that is crushing the soul, you will experience the blessedness of the peace of Christ. {OFC 99.5} [OFC 99.6] Humble, Persevering Prayer Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the 100 space of three years and six months. And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit. James 5:17, 18. {OFC 99.6} [OFC 100.1] Important lessons are presented to us in the experience of Elijah. When upon Mount Carmel he offered the prayer for rain, his faith was tested, but he persevered in making known his request unto God. {OFC 100.1} [OFC 100.2] The servant watched while Elijah prayed. Six times he returned from the watch, saying, There is nothing, no cloud, no sign of rain. But the prophet did not give up in discouragement. He kept reviewing his life, to see where he had failed to honor God. . . . As he searched his heart, he seemed to be less and less, both in his own estimation and in the sight of God. It seemed to him that he was nothing, and that God was everything; and when he reached the point of renouncing self, while he clung to the Saviour as his only strength and righteousness, the answer came. The servant appeared, and said, “Behold, there ariseth a little cloud out of the sea, like a man’s hand.” 1 Kings 18:34. {OFC 100.2} [OFC 100.3] We have a God whose ear is not closed to our petitions; and if we prove His word, He will honor our faith. He wants us to have all our interests interwoven with His interests, and then He can safely bless us; for we shall not then take glory to self when the blessing is ours, but shall render all the praise to God. God does not always answer our prayers the first time we call upon Him; for should He do this, we might take it for granted that we had a right to all the blessings and favors He bestowed upon us. Instead of searching our hearts to see if any evil was entertained by us, any sin indulged, we should become careless, and fail to realize our dependence upon Him. . . . {OFC 100.3} [OFC 100.4] Elijah humbled himself until he was in a condition where he would not take the glory to himself. This is the condition upon which the Lord hears prayer, for then we shall give the praise to Him. . . . God alone is worthy to be glorified. {OFC 100.4} [OFC 100.5] The Work Of Heart-Keeping Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. Proverbs 4:23. {OFC 100.5} [OFC 100.6] Diligent heart-keeping is essential to a healthy growth in grace. The heart in its natural state is a habitation for unholy thoughts and sinful passions. When brought into subjection to Christ, it must be cleansed by the Spirit from all defilement. This can not be done without the consent of the individual. {OFC 100.6} [OFC 101.1] 101 When the soul has been cleansed, it is the duty of the Christian to keep it undefiled. Many seem to think that the religion of Christ does not call for the abandonment of daily sins, the breaking loose from habits which have held the soul in bondage. They renounce some things condemned by the conscience, but they fail to represent Christ in the daily life. They do not bring Christlikeness into the home. They do not show a thoughtful care in their choice of words. Too often, fretful, impatient words are spoken, words which stir the worst passions of the human heart. Such ones need the abiding presence of Christ in the soul. Only in His strength can they keep guard over the words and actions. {OFC 101.1} [OFC 101.2] In the work of heart-keeping we must be instant in prayer, unwearied in petitioning the throne of grace for assistance. Those who take the name of Christian should come to God in earnestness and humility, pleading for help. . . . The Christian cannot always be in the position of prayer, but his thoughts and desires can always be upward. {OFC 101.2} [OFC 101.3] To keep your heart in heaven will give vigor to all your graces and put life into all your duties. To discipline the mind to dwell upon heavenly things will put life and earnestness into all our endeavors. Our efforts are languid, and we run the Christian race slowly, and manifest indolence and sloth, because we so little value the heavenly prize. We are dwarfs in spiritual attainments. It is the privilege and duty of the Christian to be increasing in the knowledge of the Son of God, “unto a perfect man.” {OFC 101.3} [OFC 101.4] The Court Of Holy Life But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light. 1 Peter 2:9. {OFC 101.4} [OFC 101.5] The church of Christ on earth is amid the moral darkness of a disloyal world, which is trampling upon the law of Jehovah. But their Redeemer, who has purchased their ransom with the price of His own precious blood, has made every provision that His church shall be a transformed body, illumined with Light of the world, possessing the glory of Emmanuel. The bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness, shining through His church, will gather into His fold every lost, straying sheep who will come unto Him and find refuge in Him. They will find peace and light and joy in Him who is peace and righteousness forever. {OFC 101.5} [OFC 101.6] The members of the church should individually keep the light of God’s love burning brightly in their own souls, that it may also shine forth to others. We have too much at stake to allow spiritual lethargy to creep over 102 us. Let us beware of indulging a disrelish for religious services and religious duties. Let us resolutely battle against that sluggishness of soul which is so fatal to the growth and even the life of the Christian. That church will be healthy and prosperous whose members are putting forth active, personal effort to do good to others, to save souls. This will be a constant incentive to every good work. Such Christians will labor with greater earnestness to secure their own salvation. The dormant energies will be aroused, the whole soul inspired with an unconquerable determination to win the Saviour’s plaudit of “Well done,” and to wear the victor’s crown. {OFC 101.6} [OFC 102.1] Christ makes His church a beautiful temple for God. “Where two or three are gathered together in my name,” He declared, “there am I in the midst of them,” Matthew 18:20. His church is the court of holy life, filled with varied gifts, and endowed with the Holy Spirit. Appropriate duties are assigned by Heaven to each member of the church on earth, and all are to find their happiness in the happiness of those whom they help and bless. {OFC 102.1} [OFC 102.2] The Smiles Of God The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it. Proverbs 10:22. {OFC 102.2} [OFC 102.3] Nothing can do us real good without the blessing of God. What God blesses is blessed. Therefore “a little that a righteous man hath is better that the riches of many wicked.” Psalm 37:16. The little with the blessing of God is more efficient, and it will extend farther. The grace of God will make a little go a great ways. When we devote ourselves to the affairs of the kingdom of God, He will mind our affairs.” {OFC 102.3} [OFC 102.4] The Lord has given us precious blessings in the simple flowers of the field, in the fragrance so grateful to our senses. He has tinted every flower with beauty; for He is the great Master Artist. He who has created the beautiful things in nature will do far greater things for the soul. God is a lover of the beautiful, and He would adorn our characters with His own rich graces. He would have our words as fragrant as the flowers of the field. He has given us blessings in daily provision for our physical needs. The very bread we are has upon it the image and superscription of the cross. {OFC 102.4} [OFC 102.5] They only are truly blessed whose chief concern is to secure those blessings which will nourish the soul and endure forever. Our Saviour says to us, “Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” Matthew 6:33. God has a care for us, even to bestow His temporal blessings upon us. Our earthly good is not 103 beneath the notice of our heavenly Father. He knoweth that we have need of these things. . . . When God smiles upon our efforts it is worth more than any earthly income. “How sweet our daily comforts prove When they are seasoned with His love.” {OFC 102.5} [OFC 103.1] Every deliverance, every blessing, that God in the past has granted to His people, should be kept fresh in memory’s hall as a sure pledge of further and richer, increasing blessings that He will bestow. {OFC 103.1} [OFC 103.2] There is no limit to the blessings that it is our privilege to receive. {OFC 103.2} [OFC 103.3] With Eyes Of Faith The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints. Ephesians 1:18. {OFC 103.3} [OFC 103.4] The highest qualification of the mind will not, cannot, supply the place of true simplicity, of genuine piety. The Bible may be studied as a branch of human science would be; but its beauty, the evidence of its power to save the soul that believes, is a lesson that is never thus learned. If the practice of the Word is not brought into the life, then the sword of the Spirit has not wounded the natural heart. It has been shielded in poetic fancy. Sentimentalism has so wrapped it about that the heart has not sufficiently felt the keenness of its edge, piercing and cutting away the sinful shrines where self is worshipped. . . . {OFC 103.4} [OFC 103.5] The eyes of the understanding must be enlightened, and the heart and mind brought into harmony with God, who is truth. He who beholds Jesus with the eye of faith sees no glory in himself, for the glory of the Redeemer is reflected into the mind and heart. The atonement of His blood is realized, and the taking away of sin stirs the heart with gratitude. {OFC 103.5} [OFC 103.6] Being justified by Christ, the receiver of truth is constrained to make an entire surrender to God, and is admitted into the school of Christ, that he may learn of Him who is meek and lowly of heart. A knowledge of the love of God is shed abroad in his heart. He exclaims, Oh, what love! What condescension! Grasping the rich promises by faith, he becomes a partaker of the divine nature. His heart being emptied of self, the waters of life flow in; the glory of the Lord shines forth. Perpetually looking unto Jesus, the human is assimilated by the divine. The believer is changed into His likeness. . . . The human character is changed into the divine. {OFC 103.6} [OFC 103.7] Christ looks upon His people in their purity and perfection as the reward of all His sufferings, His humiliation, and His love, and the 104 supplement of His glory—Christ the great center, from whom radiates all glory. {OFC 103.7} [OFC 104.1] How To Grow In Grace But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen. 2 Peter 3:18. {OFC 104.1} [OFC 104.2] How is it possible that we may grow in grace? It is possible to us only as we empty our hearts of self, and present them to Heaven, to be molded after the Divine Pattern. We may have a connection with the living channel of light; we may be refreshed with the heavenly dew, and have the showers of heaven descend upon us. As we appropriate the blessing of God, we shall be able to receive greater measures of His grace. {OFC 104.2} [OFC 104.3] As little children we are to sit at the feet of Christ, learning of Him. . . . We should not allow a day to pass without gaining an increase of knowledge in temporal and spiritual things. We are to plant no stakes that we are not willing to take up and plant further on, nearer the heights we hope to ascend. The highest education is to be found in training the mind to advance day by day. The close of each day should find us a day’s march nearer the overcomer’s reward. Day by day our understanding is to ripen. Day by day we are to work out conclusions that will bring a rich reward in this life and in the life to come. Looking daily to Jesus, instead of to what we ourselves have done, we shall make decided advancement in temporal as well as spiritual knowledge. {OFC 104.3} [OFC 104.4] The end of all things is at hand. What we have done must not be allowed to place the period to our work. The Captain of our salvation says, “Advance. The night cometh, in which no man can work.” Constantly we are to increase in usefulness. Our lives are always to be under the power of Christ. Our lamps are to be kept burning brightly. . . . He who places himself where God can enlighten him, advances, as it were, from the partial obscurity of dawn to the full radiance of noonday. {OFC 104.4} [OFC 104.5] We must put to the stretch every spiritual nerve and muscle. . . . God . . . does not desire you to remain novices. He wants you to reach the very highest round of the ladder, and then step from it into the kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. {OFC 104.5} [OFC 105.1] Great In God’s Sight He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much. Luke 16:10. {OFC 105.1} [OFC 105.2] Life is not made up of great things alone; it is the little things that make the sum of life’s happiness or miseries. It is the little things in life that reveal a person’s real character. Oh, if all youth and those of mature age could see as I have seen the mirror of person’s lives presented before them, they would look more gravely upon even the little duties of life. Every mistake, every error, unimportant though it may be regarded, leaves a scar in this life and a blot on the heavenly records. {OFC 105.2} [OFC 105.3] Life is full of duties that are not agreeable, but all these unpleasant duties will be made agreeable by a cheerful performance of them because it is right. Taking an interest in the duties which someone must do, and striving to do them with the heart, will make the most disagreeable duties pleasant. {OFC 105.3} [OFC 105.4] There are many who undervalue the small events of life, the little deeds that are to be performed day by day; but these are not to be estimated as small, as every action tells either for the blessing or the injuring of someone. Every action tells its own story, it bears its own history to the throne of God. It is known whether it is on the side of right or on the side of wrong. It is only by acting in accordance with the principles of God’s Word in the small transactions of life, that we place ourselves on the right side. We are tried and tested by these small occurrences, and our character will be estimated according as our work shall be. {OFC 105.4} [OFC 105.5] It is the conscientious attention to what the world calls little things that makes the great beauty and success of life. Little deeds of charity, Little words of kindness, Little acts of self-denial, A wise improvement of opportunities, A diligent cultivation of little talents, Make great men in God’s sight. {OFC 105.5} [OFC 106.1] Hold High The Standard Go through, go through the gates; prepare ye the way of the people; cast up, cast up the highway; gather out the stones; lift up a standard for the people. Isaiah 62:10. {OFC 106.1} [OFC 106.2] The Word of God not only sets forth the great principles of truth and duty which should govern our lives, but it presents also, for our encouragement, the history of many who have exemplified these principles. . . .Except the one perfect Pattern, there is not described in the Sacred Pages a single character more worthy of emulation than that of the prophet Daniel. Exposed in youth to all the allurements of a royal court, he became a man of unbending integrity and fervent devotion to God. He was subjected to the fierce temptations of Satan, yet his character was not vacillating, nor his course changeable. He was firm where many would be yielding; he was true where they would be false; he was strong where they would be weak. Daniel was a lofty cedar of Lebanon....Would that the faith, integrity, and devotion of the prophet Daniel might live in the hearts of God’s people of today. Never were these noble qualities more needed in the world than now.... {OFC 106.2} [OFC 106.3] In the records of those who have done and suffered for the name of Jesus, there is no name that shines with a brighter or purer luster than the name of Paul, the apostle to the Gentiles. The love of Jesus, glowing in his heart, made him self-forgetful, self-denying. He had seen the risen Christ, and the Saviour’s image was impressed upon his soul, and shone forth in his life. With faith, courage, and fortitude, that would not be daunted by danger or stayed by obstacles, he pressed his way from land to land to spread the knowledge of the cross.... {OFC 106.3} [OFC 106.4] Are the professed followers of Christ thus exemplifying the principles of their faith? Where are the deep, living, holy experiences which men of God were wont to recount? Has the standard of Christianity been lowered?...No; that standard remains just where God placed it. Holy men of ages past were required to give up all for Christ, to cherish His spirit, and to imitate His example. Nothing less than this will He accept now....When called to give up all for Christ, who will stand the test? {OFC 106.4} [OFC 107.1] Reminders Of Our Heavenly Home Thou, even thou, art Lord alone; thou hast made heaven, the heaven of heavens, with all their host, the earth, and all things that are therein, the seas, and all that is therein, and thou preservest them all; and the host of heaven worshippeth thee. Nehemiah 9:6. {OFC 107.1} [OFC 107.2] There is beauty in the valley’s awful grandeur, in the solemn, massive, cleft rocks; there is majesty in the towering mountains that look as if they touched the heavens. There are the lofty trees with their delicately formed leaves; the spires of grass, the opening bud and blossoming flower, the forest trees, and every living thing. They all point the mind to the great and living God. Every faculty of our being testifies that there is a living God, and we may learn from the open book of nature the most precious lessons in regard to the Lord of heaven. {OFC 107.2} [OFC 107.3] In this study the mind expands, is elevated and uplifted, and becomes hungry to know more of God and His majesty. We have awakened in our hearts feelings not only of reverence and awe but of love, of faith, of trust and entire dependence upon One who is the giver of all good. And as I look at His marvelous works and see the evidences of His power I instinctively inquire, “What is man that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him?” Psalm 8:4. {OFC 107.3} [OFC 107.4] All the greatness and glory of these wonderful things in God’s house can only be appreciated as they are, in the mind, associated with God and the future home of bliss He is preparing for those who love Him. . . .While we talk freely of other countries, why should we be reticent in regard to the heavenly country, and the house not built with hands, eternal in the heavens? This heavenly country is of more consequence to us than any other city or country on the globe, therefore we should think and talk of this better—even an heavenly—country. And why should we not converse more earnestly, and in a heavenly frame of mind, in regard to God’s gifts in nature? He has made all these things, and designs that we shall see God in His created works. These things are to keep God in our remembrance and to lift our hearts from sensual things and bind them in bonds of love and gratitude to our Creator. {OFC 107.4} [OFC 108.1] The Sacred Temple Of The Body What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s. 1 Corinthians 6:19, 20. {OFC 108.1} [OFC 108.2] That perfection of character which the Lord requires is the fitting up of the whole being as a temple for the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. God will accept of nothing less than the service of the entire human organism. It is not enough to bring into action certain parts of the living machinery. All parts must work in perfect harmony, or the service will be deficient. It is thus that man is qualified to cooperate with God in representing Christ to the world. Thus God desires to prepare a people to stand before Him pure and holy, that He may introduce them into the society of heavenly angels. {OFC 108.2} [OFC 108.3] We have been entrusted with the most solemn message ever given to our world, and the object to be kept plainly and distinctly before our minds is the glory of God. Let us take care that we do nothing which will weaken physical, mental, or spiritual healthfulness, for God will not accept a tainted, diseased, corrupted sacrifice. Care must be exercised in eating, in drinking, in dressing, and in working, lest we detract from our efficiency and fail of doing our most exalted work in the best manner, in order that the results of our labor may be as lasting as eternity. {OFC 108.3} [OFC 108.4] It is our duty to train and discipline the body in order that we shall render to the Master the highest possible service. Inclination must not control us. We are not to pamper the appetite and indulge in the use of that which is not for our good, simply because it gratifies the palate; neither are we to seek to live by the starvation plan, with the idea that we shall become spiritually-minded, and that God shall be glorified. We must use the intelligence that God has given in order that we may be perfect in body, soul, and spirit, that we may have a symmetrical character, a well-balanced mind, and do perfect work for the Master. {OFC 108.4} [OFC 108.5] The Beauty Of Christlikeness Shewing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things. Titus 2:10. {OFC 108.5} [OFC 109.1] 109 Everyone who names the name of Christ is to adorn the doctrine of Christ our Saviour by a well-ordered life and a godly conversation, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit....Possessing this, you will have favor both with God and with men. {OFC 109.1} [OFC 109.2] Words spoken hastily wound and bruise souls, and the deepest wound is made upon the soul of the speaker. Christ’s gift, the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, is authoritatively declared by Him who can make no mistake to be of great price. We must each find out its worth for ourselves by seeking it from God. However men may estimate us, if we wear this ornament, we bear the sign of our discipleship with Christ. We are esteemed by the Most High; for the ornament we wear is in His sight of great price. This precious gem is to be sought for.... {OFC 109.2} [OFC 109.3] To every soul things will come to provoke, to stir up anger, and if you are not under the full control of God, you will be provoked when these things come. But the meekness of Christ calms the ruffled spirit, controls the tongue, and brings the whole being into subjection to God. Thus we learn how to bear with the censure of others. We shall be misjudged, but the precious ornament of a meek and quiet spirit teaches us how to bear, how to have pity for those who utter hasty, unadvised words. Any unpleasant spirit displayed is sure to arouse the demon of passion in unguarded hearts. Unholy anger need not to be strengthened, but bridled. It is a spark which will set on fire untamed human nature. Avoid speaking words which will stir up strife. Rather suffer wrong than do wrong. God requires every one of His followers, as far as is possible, to live peaceably with all men.... {OFC 109.3} [OFC 109.4] We must be Christlike. Let us strive to make our lives what Christ designs them to be, full of the fragrance of love to God and our fellow men, full of Christ’s own divine Spirit, full of holy aspirations toward God, rich in the beauty of Christlikeness. {OFC 109.4} [OFC 109.5] Heaven Cheap At Any Price And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple. Luke 14:27. {OFC 109.5} [OFC 109.6] It is too true that the great mass who possess ability and talent do not choose to travel the Christian road. Are their talent and ability too precious to devote to the Giver, the Lord of heaven and earth? . . . {OFC 109.6} [OFC 109.7] Many would be followers of Christ if He would come down from the cross and appear to them in such a manner as they desire. If He would come with riches and pleasure, many would receive Him gladly and would be in haste to crown Him Lord of all. If He would only lay aside His 110 humiliation and sufferings and cry, “If any man will come after Me, let him please himself and enjoy the world and he shall be My disciple,” multitudes would believe on Him. {OFC 109.7} [OFC 110.1] But the blessed Jesus will come to us in no other character than the meek and lowly Crucified One. We must partake of His self-denial and suffering here if we would take the crown hereafter. . . . {OFC 110.1} [OFC 110.2] The Word of God has not widened the narrow way, and if the multitude have found a path where they can wear a form of godliness and not bear the cross or suffer tribulation, they have found a way where our Saviour did not walk and they follow another example than that which Christ set before us. Is it not enough that Jesus left the felicity and glory of heaven, endured a life of poverty and deep affliction, and died a cruel, shameful death to provide for us the joys of holiness and heaven? And can it be that we, the worthless objects of so great a condescension and love, will seek after a better portion in this life than was given to our Redeemer? {OFC 110.2} [OFC 110.3] How easy would be the way to heaven if there was no self-denial or cross! How worldlings would rush in the way, and hypocrites would travel in it without number! Thank God for the cross, the self-denial. The ignominy and shame our Saviour endured for us is none too humiliating for those saved by the purchase of His blood. Heaven will indeed be cheap enough. {OFC 110.3} [OFC 110.4] Let Your Light Shine Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. Matthew 5:16. {OFC 110.4} [OFC 110.5] To every soul born into Christ’s kingdom is given a solemn charge, Let your light so shine before men that they, by seeing your good works, shall glorify your Father which is in heaven. Pour forth upon your neighbors the rich rays of light received from the Sun of Righteousness; flash upon your friends in the world the bright gems of light and truth imparted to you abundantly from the throne of God. This is trading upon the talents entrusted. Go on from light to a greater light, catching more and more the bright beams from the Sun of Righteousness, and shine more and more unto the perfect day. {OFC 110.5} [OFC 110.6] Jesus does not bid the Christian to strive to shine, but just to let his light shine in clear and distinct rays to the world. Do not blanket your light. Do not sinfully withhold your light. Do not let the mist and fog and malaria of the world put out your light. Do not hide it under a bed or under a bushel, but set it on a candlestick, that it may give light to all that are in 111 the house....God bids you shine, penetrating the moral darkness of the world. {OFC 110.6} [OFC 111.1] Many do not know what is the matter with them. They want light and see no ray. They are calling for help and they hear no response. Shall doubt and unbelief be perpetuated because I do not gather the divine rays of light from Jesus Christ and let them shine forth to others? . . . {OFC 111.1} [OFC 111.2] The deep struggles of my own soul against temptations, the earnest longings of my mind and heart to know God and Jesus Christ as my personal Saviour, and to have assurance, peace, and rest in their love, lead me to desire every day to be where the beams of the Sun of Righteousness can shine upon me. Without this experience, I shall indeed meet with great loss, and all with whom I associate will be affected by the loss of the light I ought to be receiving from the Source of all light and comfort, and to be flashing into their pathway. Shall I be indeed a light unto the world, or a shadow of darkness? {OFC 111.2} [OFC 111.3] A Jewel Or A Pebble? In that day, saith the Lord of hosts, will I take thee, O Zerubbabel, my servant, the son of Shealtiel, saith the Lord, and will make thee as a signet: for I have chosen thee, saith the Lord of hosts. Haggai 2:23. {OFC 111.3} [OFC 111.4] Christians are Christ’s jewels. They are to shine brightly for Him, shedding forth the light of His loveliness. Their luster depends on the polishing they receive. They may choose to be polished or to remain unpolished. But everyone who is pronounced worthy of a place in the Lord’s temple must submit to the polishing process. Without the polishing that the Lord gives they can reflect no more light than a common pebble. {OFC 111.4} [OFC 111.5] Christ says to man, “You are mine. I have bought you. You are now only a rough stone, but if you will place yourself in my hands, I will polish you, and the luster with which you shall shine will bring honor to My name. No man shall pluck you out of My hand. I will make you My peculiar treasure. On My coronation day, you will be a jewel in My crown of rejoicing.” {OFC 111.5} [OFC 111.6] The divine Worker spends little time on worthless material. Only the precious jewels does He polish after the similitude of a palace, cutting away all the rough edges. This process is severe and trying; it hurts human pride. Christ cuts deep into the experience that man in his self-sufficiency has regarded as complete, and takes away self-uplifting from the character. He cuts away the surplus surface, and putting the stone to the polishing wheel, presses it close, that all roughness may be worn away. Then, 112 holding the jewel up to the light, the Master sees in it a reflection of Himself, and He pronounces it worthy of a place in His casket. “In that day, saith the Lord of hosts, will I take thee,... and will make thee as a signet: for I have chosen thee, saith the Lord of hosts.” Blessed be the experience, however severe, that gives new value to the stone, and causes it to shine with living brightness. {OFC 111.6} [OFC 112.1] God will not suffer one of His truehearted workers to be left alone to struggle against great odds and be overcome. He preserves as a precious jewel every one whose life is hid with Christ in God. {OFC 112.1} [OFC 112.2] Rooted In Christ The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree: he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Psalm 92:12. {OFC 112.2} [OFC 112.3] The Christian is likened to the cedar of Lebanon. I have read that this tree does more than send down a few short roots into the yielding loam. It sends strong roots deep down into the earth, and strikes down farther and still farther in search of a still stronger hold. And in the fierce blast of the tempest, it stands firm, held by its network of cables beneath. {OFC 112.3} [OFC 112.4] So the Christian strikes root deep into Christ. He has faith in his Redeemer. He knows in whom he believes. He is fully persuaded that Jesus is the Son of God and the Saviour of sinners. . . . The roots of faith strike deep down. Genuine Christians, like the cedar of Lebanon, do not grow in the soft surface soil, but are rooted in God, riveted in the clefts of the mountain rocks. {OFC 112.4} [OFC 112.5] If the Christian thrives and progresses at all, he must do so amid strangers to God, amid scoffing, subject to ridicule. He must stand upright like the palm tree in the desert. The sky may be as brass, the desert sand may beat about the palm tree’s roots, and pile itself in heaps about its trunk. Yet the tree lives as an evergreen, fresh and vigorous amid the burning desert sands. Remove the sand till you reach the rootlets of the palm tree, and you discover the secret of its life; it strikes down deep beneath the surface, to the secret waters hidden in the earth. {OFC 112.5} [OFC 112.6] As the palm tree, drawing nourishment from fountains of living water, is green and flourishing in the midst of the desert, so the Christian may draw rich supplies of grace from the fountain of God’s love, and may guide weary souls, that are full of unrest and ready to perish in the desert of sin, to those waters of which they may drink, and live. The Christian is ever pointing his fellow men to Jesus, who invites, “If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.” John 7:37. This fountain never fails us; we may draw, and draw again. {OFC 112.6} [OFC 113.1] No Patchwork Religion! But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. Matthew 24:13. {OFC 113.1} [OFC 113.2] The religion that is built on self is worthless; for God makes no compromise with selfishness. . . . {OFC 113.2} [OFC 113.3] The religion of Christ is a firm fabric, composed of innumerable threads, woven together with tact and skill. Only by the wisdom that God gives can we weave this fabric. Trusting to ourselves, we draw into it threads of selfishness, and the pattern is spoiled. {OFC 113.3} [OFC 113.4] There are many kinds of cloth which at first have a fine appearance, but they do not endure test. The colors are not fast. They wash out. Under the heat of summer they fade, and are lost. Such a fabric cannot endure rough handling, and is worth very little. {OFC 113.4} [OFC 113.5] So it is with religion. When the warp and woof of religion will not stand the test of trial, the material of which it is composed is worthless. And an effort to patch the old cloth with a new piece does not better the condition of things; for the worn-out, flimsy material breaks away from the new, leaving the rent much larger than before. Patching will not do. The only way is to discard the old garment and procure a new one. The religion of self, composed of threads that fade and give way under the stress of temptation, must be cast aside, to be replaced by the religion woven by Him in whose life no selfishness found place. {OFC 113.5} [OFC 113.6] Christ’s plan is the only safe one. He declares, “Behold, I make all things new.” Revelation 21:5. “If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature.” 2 Corinthians 5:17. The Saviour gives no encouragement to any to think that He will accept a patchwork religion. Such a religion is of no value in His sight. There may at first seem to be some of self and some of Christ; but it soon seen that there is none of Christ. The patches of selfishness increase till the entire garment is covered with them. . . . {OFC 113.6} [OFC 113.7] A religion formed after the divine pattern is the only one that will endure. Only by striving to live the life of Christ here can we prepare ourselves to live with Him through the eternal ages. {OFC 113.7} [OFC 114.1] The Unsearchable Riches Of Christ That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man. Ephesians 3:16. {OFC 114.1} [OFC 114.2] The themes of redemption are momentous themes, and only those who are spiritually-minded can discern their depth and significance. It is our safety, our joy, to dwell upon the truths of the plan of salvation. Faith and prayer are necessary in order that we may behold the deep things of God. Our minds are so bound about by narrow ideas that we catch but limited views of the experience it is our privilege to have... {OFC 114.2} [OFC 114.3] Why is it that many who profess to have faith in Christ have no strength to stand against the temptations of the enemy?—It is because they are not strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man. The apostle prays “that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.” Ephesians 3:17-19. If we had this experience, we should know something of the cross of Calvary. We would know what it means to be partakers with Christ in His sufferings. The love of Christ would constrain us, and though we would not be able to explain how the love of Christ warmed our hearts, we would manifest His love in fervent devotion to His cause. {OFC 114.3} [OFC 114.4] Paul opens before the Ephesian church, in the most comprehensive language, the marvelous power and knowledge they might possess as sons and daughters of the Most High. It was theirs “to be strengthened with might...,” to be “rooted and grounded in love,”...”to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge.”... {OFC 114.4} [OFC 114.5] Jehovah Emmanuel—He in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge—to be brought into sympathy with Him, to possess Him, as the heart opens more and more to receive His attributes: to know His love and power, to possess the unsearchable riches of Christ...this is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and “their righteousness is of me, saith the Lord.” Isaiah 54:17. {OFC 114.5} [OFC 115.1] Almost Home! And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. John 14:3. {OFC 115.1} [OFC 115.2] More than eighteen hundred years have passed since the Saviour gave the promise of His coming. Throughout the centuries His words have filled with courage the hearts of His faithful ones. The promise has not yet been fulfilled;...but none the less sure is the word that has been spoken. {OFC 115.2} [OFC 115.3] Christ will come in His own glory, in the glory of His Father, and in the glory of the holy angels. Ten thousand times ten thousand and thousands of thousands of angels, the beautiful, triumphant sons of God, possessing surpassing loveliness and glory, will escort Him on His way. In the place of a crown of thorns, He will wear a crown of glory—a crown within a crown. In the place of that old purple robe, He will be clothed in a garment of whitest white, “so as no fuller on earth can white” (Mark 9:3) it. And on His vesture and on His thigh a name will be written, “King of kings, and Lord of lords.” Revelation 19:16.... {OFC 115.3} [OFC 115.4] To His faithful followers Christ has been a daily companion, a familiar friend. They have lived in close, constant communion with God. Upon them the glory of the Lord has risen. In them the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ has been reflected. Now they rejoice in the undimmed rays of the brightness and glory of the King in His majesty. They are prepared for the communion of heaven, for they have heaven in their hearts. {OFC 115.4} [OFC 115.5] With uplifted heads, with the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness shining upon them, with rejoicing that their redemption draweth nigh, they go forth to meet the Bridegroom, saying, “Lo, this is our God; we have waited for him, and he will save us.” {OFC 115.5} [OFC 115.6] The time of tarrying is almost ended. The pilgrims and strangers who have so long been seeking a better country are almost home. I feel as if I must cry aloud, Homeward bound! . . . “Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.” 2 Peter 3:14. {OFC 115.6} [OFC 116.1] Chapter 5—That I May Know Him Superficial Knowledge Not Enough To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. Colossians 1:27. {OFC 116.1} [OFC 116.2] There are many mysteries in the Word of God that we do not comprehend, and many of us are content to stop our investigation when we have just begun to receive a little knowledge concerning Christ. When there begins to be a little unfolding of the divine purposes to the mind, and we begin to obtain a slight knowledge of the character of God, we become satisfied and think that we have received about all the light that there is for us in the Word of God. But the truth of God is infinite. With painstaking effort we should work in the mines of truth, discovering the precious jewels that have been hidden. . . . Jesus meant just what He said when He directed His disciples to “search the Scriptures” (John 5:39). Searching means to compare scripture with scripture, and spiritual things with spiritual. We should not be satisfied with a superficial knowledge. {OFC 116.2} [OFC 116.3] We do not half realize what the Lord is willing to do for His people. . . . Our petitions, mingled with faith and contrition, should go up to God for an understanding of the mysteries that God would make known to His saints. . . . An angel’s pen could not portray all the glory of the revealed plan of redemption. The Bible tells how Christ bore our sins and carried our sorrows. Here is revealed how mercy and truth have met together at the cross of Calvary, how righteousness and peace have kissed each other, how the righteousness of Christ may be imparted to fallen man. There infinite wisdom, infinite justice, infinite mercy, and infinite love were displayed. Depths, heights, lengths, and breadths of love and wisdom, all passing knowledge, are made known in the plan of salvation. {OFC 116.3} [OFC 116.4] He who desires the truth in his heart, who longs for the working of its powers upon the life and character, will be sure to have it. Says the Saviour, “Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled” (Matthew 5:6). {OFC 116.4} [OFC 116.5] Our Divine Redeemer Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God. Philippians 2:6. {OFC 116.5} [OFC 116.6] Jesus Christ “counted it not a thing to be grasped to be equal with 117 God.” Because divinity alone could be efficacious in the restoration of man from the poisonous bruise of the serpent, God Himself, in His only begotten Son, assumed human nature, and in the weakness of human nature sustained the character of God, vindicated His holy law in every particular, and accepted the sentence of wrath and death for the sons of men. What a thought is this! He who was one with the Father before the world was made had such compassion for a world lost and ruined by transgression that He gave His life a ransom for it. He who was the brightness of the Father’s glory, the express image of His person, bore our sins in His own body on the tree, suffering the penalty of man’s transgression until justice was satisfied and required no more. How great is the redemption that has been worked out for us! So great that the Son of God died the cruel death of the cross to bring to us life and immortality through faith in Him. {OFC 116.6} [OFC 117.1] This wonderful problem—how God could be just and yet the justifier of sinners—is beyond human ken. As we attempt to fathom it, it broadens and deepens beyond our comprehension. When we look with the eye of faith upon the cross of Calvary, and see our sins laid upon the victim hanging in weakness and ignominy there—when we grasp the fact that this is God, the everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace—we are led to exclaim, “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us” (1 John 3:1)! . . . {OFC 117.1} [OFC 117.2] When man can measure the exalted character of the Lord of hosts, and distinguish between the eternal God and finite humanity, he will know how great has been the sacrifice of Heaven to bring man from where he has fallen through disobedience to become part of the family of God. . . . The divinity of Christ is our assurance of eternal life. . . . He, the Sin Bearer of the world, is our only medium of reconciliation with a holy God. {OFC 117.2} [OFC 117.3] Tender, Loving, Compassionate But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, long-suffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth. Psalm 86:15. {OFC 117.3} [OFC 117.4] God has ordained according to the law of ministry that we should comfort one another in tenderness and love when great sorrows come upon us. No man liveth unto himself. No one dieth unto himself. Life and death both mean something to every human being. . . . God has enjoined the duty upon His human agents to communicate the character of God, testifying to His grace, His wisdom, and His benevolence, by manifesting His refined, tender, merciful love. . . . Jesus . . . was ever touched with human woe, 118 and our hearts should be softened and subdued by His Holy Spirit, that we may be like Him. . . . {OFC 117.4} [OFC 118.1] Our work is to restore the moral image of God in man through the abundant grace given us of God by Jesus Christ. Everywhere we shall find souls ready to die, and how essential it is that the compassion of Christ shall be given us of Him, in order that we may never place one soul in defiance by not manifesting long forbearance and pitying tenderness. . . . I inquire, Will we ever learn the gentleness of Christ? Oh, how much we need to know Jesus and our heavenly Father that we may represent Him in character! . . . {OFC 118.1} [OFC 118.2] Jesus calls us to Himself not simply to refresh us with His grace and presence for a few hours, and then to send us forth from His light to walk apart from Him in sadness and gloom. No, no. He tells us that we must abide with Him and He with us. Wherever His work is to be done He is present—tender, loving, and compassionate. He has prepared for you and me an abiding dwelling place in Himself. He is our refuge. Our experience should broaden and deepen. Jesus has opened up all the divine fullness of His inexpressible love, and He declares to you, Ye “are labourers together with God” (1 Corinthians 3:9). O what meaning these words have—”Abide in me” (John 15:4), “Take my yoke upon you” (Matthew 11:29). Will we take it? for the promise is, “Ye shall find rest unto your souls.” There is rest, complete rest in abiding in Christ. {OFC 118.2} [OFC 118.3] The Holy Spirit Our Helper For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. Romans 8:14. {OFC 118.3} [OFC 118.4] Through the ministry of the angels the Holy Spirit is enabled to work upon the mind and heart of the human agent and draw him to Christ. . . . But the Spirit of God does not interfere with the freedom of the human agent. The Holy Spirit is given to be a helper, so that man may cooperate with the Divine, and it is given to Him to draw the soul but never to force obedience. {OFC 118.4} [OFC 118.5] Christ is ready to impart all heavenly influences. He knows every temptation that comes to man, and the capabilities of each. He weighs his strength. He sees the present and the future, and presents before the mind the obligations that should be met, and urges that common, earthly things shall not be permitted to be so absorbing that eternal things shall be lost out of the reckoning. The Lord has fullness of grace to bestow on every one that will receive of the heavenly gift. The Holy Spirit will bring the 119 God-entrusted capabilities into Christ’s service, and will mold and fashion the human agent according to the divine Pattern. {OFC 118.5} [OFC 119.1] The Holy Spirit is our efficiency in the work of character building, in forming characters after the divine similitude. When we think ourselves capable of molding our own experience, we make a great mistake. We can never of ourselves obtain the victory over temptation. But those who have genuine faith in Christ will be worked by the Holy Spirit. The soul in whose heart faith abides will grow into a beautiful temple for the Lord. He is directed by the grace of Christ. Just in proportion as he depends on the Holy Spirit’s teaching he will grow. {OFC 119.1} [OFC 119.2] The influence of the Holy Spirit is the life of Christ in the soul. We do not now see Christ and speak to Him, but His Holy Spirit is just as near us in one place as another. It works in and through every one who receives Christ. Those who know the indwelling of the Spirit reveal the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith. {OFC 119.2} [OFC 119.3] “Despised And Rejected” He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Isaiah 53:3. {OFC 119.3} [OFC 119.4] How few have any conception of the anguish which rent the heart of the Son of God during His thirty years of life upon earth. The path from the manger to Calvary was shadowed by sorrow and grief. He was the Man of Sorrows, and endured such heartache as no human language can portray. He could have said in truth, “Behold, and see if there be any sorrow like unto my sorrow” (Lamentations 1:12). His suffering was the deepest anguish of the soul; and what man could have sympathy with the soul anguish of the Son of the infinite God? Hating sin with a perfect hatred, He yet gathered to His soul the sins of the whole world, as He trod the path to Calvary, suffering the penalty of the transgressor. Guiltless, He bore the punishment of the guilty; innocent, yet offering Himself to bear the penalty of the transgression of the law of God. The punishment of the sins of every soul was borne by the Son of the infinite God. The guilt of every sin pressed its weight upon the divine soul of the world’s Redeemer. He who knew no sin became sin for us that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him. In assuming the nature of man, He placed Himself where He was wounded for our transgressions, bruised for our iniquities, that by His stripes we might be healed. {OFC 119.4} [OFC 119.5] In His humanity Christ was tried with as much greater temptation, with as much more persevering energy than man is tried by the evil one, as His 120 nature was greater than man’s. This is a deep mysterious truth, that Christ is bound to humanity by the most sensitive sympathies. The evil works, the evil thoughts, the evil words of every son and daughter of Adam press upon His divine soul. The sins of men called for retribution upon Himself, for He had become man’s substitute, and took upon Him the sins of the world. He bore the sins of every sinner, for all transgressions were imputed unto Him. . . . “How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation?” (Hebrews 2:3). {OFC 119.5} [OFC 120.1] An Advocate Clothed In Our Nature My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. 1 John 2:1. {OFC 120.1} [OFC 120.2] God’s appointments and grants in our behalf are without limit. The throne of grace itself is occupied by One who permits us to call Him Father. . . . He has placed at His altar an Advocate clothed in our nature. As our Intercessor, Christ’s office work is to introduce us to God as His sons and daughters. He intercedes in behalf of those who receive Him. With His own blood He has paid their ransom. By virtue of His merits He gives them power to become members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King. And the Father demonstrates His infinite love for Christ by receiving and welcoming Christ’s friends as His friends. He is satisfied with the atonement made. He is glorified by the incarnation, the life, death, and mediation of His son. {OFC 120.2} [OFC 120.3] In Christ’s name our petitions ascend to the Father. He intercedes in our behalf, and the Father lays open all the treasures of His grace for our appropriation, for us to enjoy and impart to others. . . . {OFC 120.3} [OFC 120.4] Christ is the connecting link between God and man. . . . He places the whole virtue of His righteousness on the side of the suppliant. He pleads for man, and man, in need of divine help, pleads for himself in the presence of God, using the influence of the One who gave His life for the life of the world. As we acknowledge before God our appreciation of Christ’s merits, fragrance is given to our intercessions. As we approach God through the virtue of the Redeemer’s merits, Christ places us close by His side, encircling us with His human arm, while with His divine arm He grasps the throne of the Infinite. He puts His merits, as sweet incense, in the censer in our hands, in order to encourage our petitions. . . . {OFC 120.4} [OFC 120.5] Yes, Christ has become the medium of prayer between man and God. He has also become the medium of blessing between God and man. {OFC 120.5} [OFC 121.1] The Priceless Pearl Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls: who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it. Matthew 13:45, 46. {OFC 121.1} [OFC 121.2] This goodly pearl represents the priceless treasure of Christ, as does the gold hid in the field. In Christ we have everything that is needful for us in this life, and that which will make up the joy of the world to come. All the money in the world will not buy the gift of peace and rest and love. These gifts are provided for us through faith in Christ. We cannot purchase these gifts from God; we have nothing with which to buy them. We are the property of God, for mind, soul, and body have been purchased by the ransom of the life of the Son of God. . . . {OFC 121.2} [OFC 121.3] Then what is it to buy the eternal treasure? It is simply to give back to Jesus His own, to receive Him into the heart by faith. It is cooperation with God; it is bearing the yoke with Christ; it is lifting His burdens. . . . The Lord Jesus laid aside His royal crown, He left His high command, He clothed His divinity with humanity, in order that through humanity He might uplift the human race. He so appreciated the possibility of the human race that He became man’s substitute and surety. He places upon man His own merit, and thus elevates him in the scale of moral value with God. {OFC 121.3} [OFC 121.4] Christ is the atoning sacrifice. He left the glory of heaven, He parted with His riches, He laid aside His honor, not in order to create love and interest for man in the heart of God, but to be an exponent of the love that existed in the heart of the Father. . . . Jesus paid the price of all His riches, He assumed humanity, He condescended to a life of poverty and humiliation, in order that He might seek and save that which was lost. {OFC 121.4} [OFC 121.5] Through the grace of Christ we may be strengthened and matured, so that though now imperfect we may become complete in Him. We have mortgaged ourselves to Satan, but Christ came to ransom and redeem us. We cannot purchase anything from God. It is only by grace, the free gift of God in Christ, that we are saved. {OFC 121.5} [OFC 121.6] Provision For Every Emergency How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him. Hebrews 2:3. {OFC 121.6} [OFC 122.1] 122 The divine Author of salvation left nothing incomplete in the plan; every phase of it is perfect. The sin of the whole world was laid upon Jesus, and divinity gave its highest value to the suffering of humanity in Jesus that the whole world might be pardoned through faith in the Substitute. The most guilty need have no fear but that God will pardon, for because of the efficacy of the divine sacrifice the penalty of the law will be remitted. Through Christ the sinner may return to allegiance to God. {OFC 122.1} [OFC 122.2] How wonderful is the plan of redemption in its simplicity and fullness. It not only provides for the full pardon of the sinner but also for the restoration of the transgressor, making a way whereby he may be accepted as a son of God. Through obedience he may be the possessor of love and peace and joy. His faith may unite him in his weakness to Christ, the source of divine strength, and through the merits of Christ he may find the approval of God, because Christ has satisfied the demands of the law, and He imputes His righteousness to the penitent, believing soul. . . . {OFC 122.2} [OFC 122.3] What love, what wonderful love, was displayed by the Son of God....Christ takes the sinner from the lowest degradation, and purifies, refines, and ennobles him. By beholding Jesus as He is, the sinner is transformed and elevated to the very summit of dignity, even to a seat with Christ upon his throne. . . . {OFC 122.3} [OFC 122.4] The plan of redemption provides for every emergency and for every want of the soul. If it were deficient in any way, the sinner might find some excuse to plead for neglect of its terms, but the infinite God had a knowledge of every human necessity, and ample provision has been made to supply every need. . . . What, then, can the sinner say in the great day of final judgment as to why he refused to give attention, the most thorough and earnest, to the salvation proffered him? {OFC 122.4} [OFC 122.5] A Faith That Purifies The Life But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses. 1 Timothy 6:11, 12. {OFC 122.5} [OFC 122.6] Many teach that all that is necessary to salvation is to believe in Jesus, but what saith the word of truth?—”Faith without works is dead” (James 2:26). We are to “fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life,” take up the cross, deny self, war against the flesh, and follow daily in the footsteps of the Redeemer. . . . {OFC 122.6} [OFC 123.1] 123 It is a fatal mistake to think that there is nothing for you to do in obtaining salvation. You are to cooperate with the agencies of heaven....There is a cross to be lifted in the pathway, a wall to be scaled before you enter the eternal city, a ladder to be climbed before the gate of pearl is reached, and as you realize your inability and weakness and cry for help, a divine voice will come to you from the battlements of heaven saying, “Take hold of my strength” (Isaiah 27:5). . . . {OFC 123.1} [OFC 123.2] The controversy that was waged between Christ and Satan is renewed over every soul that leaves the black banner of the prince of darkness to march under the blood-stained banner of Prince Emmanuel. The evil one will present the most subtle allurements to draw those away from their allegiance who would be true to Heaven, but we must yield all the powers of our being into the service of God, and then we shall be kept from falling into the snares of the enemy. . . . {OFC 123.2} [OFC 123.3] Any course of action that weakens your physical or mental power unfits you for the service of your Creator. We are to love God with all our hearts, and if we have an eye single to His glory we shall eat, drink, and clothe ourselves with reference to His divine will. Every one who has a realizing sense of what it means to be a Christian will purify himself from everything that weakens and defiles. All the habits of his life will be brought into harmony with the requirements of the Word of truth, and he will not only believe, but will work out his own salvation with fear and trembling, while submitting to the molding of the Holy Spirit. {OFC 123.3} [OFC 123.4] Children, Not Slaves Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. Hebrews 12:28. {OFC 123.4} [OFC 123.5] There are many who profess to be Christ’s followers and yet are not doers of His Word. They do not relish this Word because it presents service which is not agreeable to them. They do not relish the wholesome reproofs and close, earnest appeals. They do not love righteousness, but are mastered and tyrannized over by their own erratic, human impulses. {OFC 123.5} [OFC 123.6] It makes every difference how we do service for God. The boy who drudges through his lessons because he must learn will never become a real student. The man who claims to keep the commandments of God because he thinks he must do it will never enter into the enjoyment of obedience. {OFC 123.6} [OFC 123.7] The essence and flavor of all obedience is the outworking of a principle within—the love of righteousness, the love of the law of God. The essence of all righteousness is loyalty to our Redeemer, doing right because it is 124 right. When the Word of God is a burden because it cuts directly across human inclinations, then the religious life is not a Christian life, but a tug and a strain, an enforced obedience. All the purity and godliness of religion are set aside. {OFC 123.7} [OFC 124.1] But adoption into the family of God makes us children, not slaves. When the love of Christ enters the heart we strive to imitate the character of Christ. . . . The more we study the life of Christ with a heart to learn, the more Christlike we become. Into the heart of every true doer of the Word the Holy Spirit infuses clear understanding. The more we crucify selfish practices by imparting our blessings to others and by exercising our God-given ability, the more the heavenly graces will be strengthened and increased in us. We will grow in spirituality, in patience, in fortitude, in meekness, in gentleness. . . . A train of cars is not merely attached to the engine; they follow on the same track as the engine. Whom are we following? {OFC 124.1} [OFC 124.2] Abiding In Christ Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. John 15:4. {OFC 124.2} [OFC 124.3] “Abide in me” are words of great significance. Abiding in Christ means a living, earnest, refreshing faith that works by love and purifies the soul. It means a constant receiving of the spirit of Christ, a life of unreserved surrender to His service. Where this union exists, good works will appear. The life of the vine will manifest itself in fragrant fruit on the branches. The continual supply of the grace of Christ will bless you and make you a blessing, till you can say with Paul, “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me” (Galatians 2:20). {OFC 124.3} [OFC 124.4] The sacred union with Christ will unite the brethren in the most endearing bonds of Christian fellowship. Their hearts will be touched with divine compassion one for another. . . . Coldness, variance, strife, are entirely out of place among the disciples of Christ. They have accepted the one faith. They have joined to serve the one Lord, to endure in the same warfare, to strive for the same object, and to triumph in the same cause. They have been bought with the same precious blood, and have gone forth to preach the same message of salvation. . . . {OFC 124.4} [OFC 124.5] Those who are constantly drawing strength from Christ will possess His spirit. They will not be careless in word or deportment. An abiding sense of how much their salvation has cost in the sacrifice of the beloved Son of God will rest upon their souls. Like a fresh and vivid transaction the 125 scenes of Calvary will present themselves to their minds and their hearts will be subdued and made tender by this wonderful manifestation of the love of Christ to them. They will look upon others as the purchase of His precious blood, and those who are united with Him will seem noble and elevated and sacred because of this connection. The death of Christ on Calvary should lead us to estimate souls as He did. His love has magnified the value of every man, woman, and child. {OFC 124.5} [OFC 125.1] A Life Of Strength I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work. John 9:4. {OFC 125.1} [OFC 125.2] The Christian life does not consist merely in the exercise of meekness, patience, humility, and kindness. One may possess these precious and amiable traits and yet be nerveless and spiritless, and almost useless when the work goes hard. Such persons lack the positiveness and energy, the solidity and strength of character, which would enable them to resist evil, and would make them a power in the cause of God. {OFC 125.2} [OFC 125.3] Jesus was our example in all things, and He was an earnest and constant worker. He commenced His life of usefulness in childhood. At the age of twelve He was “about his Father’s business.” Between the ages of twelve and thirty, before entering upon His public ministry, He led a life of active industry. In His ministry Jesus was never idle. Said He, “I must work the works of him that sent me....” The suffering who came to Him were not turned away unrelieved. He was acquainted with each heart and knew how to minister to its needs. Loving words fell from His lips to comfort, encourage, and bless, and the great principles of the kingdom of heaven were set before the multitudes in words so simple as to be understood by all. {OFC 125.3} [OFC 125.4] Jesus was a silent and unselfish worker. He did not seek fame, riches, or applause, neither did He consult His own ease and pleasure....He did not shirk care and responsibility, as many do who profess to be His followers.... {OFC 125.4} [OFC 125.5] The claims of Christ upon our service are new every day. However complete may have been our consecration at conversion, it will avail us nothing unless it be renewed daily, but a consecration that embraces the actual present is fresh, genuine, and acceptable to God. We have not weeks and months to lay at His feet; tomorrow is not ours, for we have not yet received it, but today we may work for Jesus. Today we may lay our plans and purposes before Him for His inspection and approval....This is God’s day, and you are His hired servant. {OFC 125.5} [OFC 126.1] Jesus Our All But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption. 1 Corinthians 1:30. {OFC 126.1} [OFC 126.2] It is growth in knowledge of the character of Christ that sanctifies the soul. To discern and appreciate the wonderful work of the atonement transforms him who contemplates the plan of salvation. By beholding Christ he becomes changed into the same image, from glory to glory, as by the Spirit of the Lord. The beholding of Jesus becomes an ennobling, refining process. . . . The perfection of Christ’s character is the Christian’s inspiration. . . Christ should never be out of the mind. The angels said concerning Him, “Thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21). Jesus, precious Saviour! assurance, helpfulness, security, and peace are all in Him. He is the dispeller of all our doubts, the earnest of all our hopes. How precious is the thought that we may indeed become partakers of the divine nature, whereby we may overcome as Christ overcame! Jesus is the fullness of our expectation. He is the melody of our songs, the shadow of a great rock in a weary land. He is living water to the thirsty soul. He is our refuge in the storm. He is our righteousness, our sanctification, our redemption. {OFC 126.2} [OFC 126.3] The power of Christ is to be the comfort, the hope, the crown of rejoicing, of every one that follows Jesus in his conflict, in his struggles in life. He who truly follows the Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world, can shout as he advances, “This is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith” (1 John 5:4). {OFC 126.3} [OFC 126.4] What kind of faith is it that overcomes the world? It is that faith which makes Christ your own personal Saviour—that faith which, recognizing your helplessness, your utter inability to save yourself, takes hold of the helper who is mighty to save, as your only hope. It is faith that will not be discouraged, that hears the voice of Christ saying, “Be of good cheer, I have overcome the world, and my divine strength is yours.” . . . “Lo, I am with you alway.” {OFC 126.4} [OFC 126.5] The Coming Of The Comforter And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; even the Spirit of truth; whom the 127 world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. John 14:16, 17. {OFC 126.5} [OFC 127.1] Christ was about to depart to His home in the heavenly courts, but He assured His disciples that He would send them the Comforter, who would abide with them forever. To the guidance of this Comforter all may implicitly trust. He is the Spirit of truth; but this truth the world can neither see nor receive. . . . {OFC 127.1} [OFC 127.2] Christ desired His disciples to understand that He would not leave them orphans. “I will not leave you comfortless,” He declared: “I will come to you” (John 14:18, 19). . . . Precious, glorious assurance of eternal life! Even though He was to be absent, their relation to Him was to be that of a child to its parent. . . . {OFC 127.2} [OFC 127.3] The words spoken to the disciples come to us through their words. The Comforter is ours as well as theirs, at all times and in all places, in all sorrows and in all affliction, when the outlook seems dark and the future perplexing and we feel helpless and alone. These are times when the Comforter will be sent in answer to the prayer of faith. {OFC 127.3} [OFC 127.4] There is no comforter like Christ, so tender and so true. He is touched with the feeling of our infirmities. His Spirit speaks to the heart. Circumstances may separate us from our friends; the broad, restless ocean may roll between us and them. Though their sincere friendship may still exist, they may be unable to demonstrate it by doing for us that which would be gratefully received. But no circumstances, no distance, can separate us from the heavenly Comforter. Wherever we are, wherever we may go, He is always there, one given in Christ’s place, to act in His stead. He is always at our right hand, to speak soothing, gentle words, to support, sustain, uphold, and cheer. The influence of the Holy Spirit is the life of Christ in the soul. This Spirit works in and through every one who receives Christ. Those who know the indwelling of this Spirit reveal its fruit—love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith. {OFC 127.4} [OFC 127.5] Building Up One Another We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Romans 15:1. {OFC 127.5} [OFC 127.6] God does not want us to place ourselves upon the judgment seat and judge each other. . . . When we see errors in others, let us remember that we have faults graver, perhaps, in the sight of God than the fault we condemn in our brother. Instead of publishing his defects, ask God to bless him and to help him to overcome his error. Christ will approve of this spirit 128 and action, and will open the way for you to speak a word of wisdom that will impart strength and help to him who is weak in the faith. {OFC 127.6} [OFC 128.1] The work of building one another up in the most holy faith is a blessed work, but the work of tearing down is a work full of bitterness and sorrow. Christ identifies Himself with His suffering children, for He says, “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me” (Matthew 25:40). . . . Every heart has its own sorrows and disappointments, and we should seek to lighten one another’s burdens by manifesting the love of Jesus to those around us. If our conversation were upon heaven and heavenly things, evil speaking would soon cease to have any attraction for us. . . . {OFC 128.1} [OFC 128.2] Instead of finding fault with others, let us be critical with ourselves. The question with each one of us should be, Is my heart right before God? Will this course of action glorify my Father which is in heaven? If you have cherished a wrong spirit, let it be banished from the soul. It is your duty to eradicate from your heart everything that is of a defiling nature. Every root of bitterness should be plucked up, lest others be contaminated by its baleful influence. Do not allow one poisonous plant to remain in the soil of your heart. Root it out this very hour, and plant in its stead the plant of love. Let Jesus be enshrined in the soul. Christ is our example. He went about doing good. He lived to bless others. Love beautified and ennobled all His actions, and we are commanded to follow in His steps. {OFC 128.2} [OFC 128.3] Opening The Mysteries Of Redemption Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures. Luke 24:45. {OFC 128.3} [OFC 128.4] The Lord wants every one of us to have a deeper, richer experience in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. He desires that we shall grow in knowledge—not earthward, but heaven-ward, upward to Christ our living Head. How high, how great, is this knowledge to be? To the full stature of men and women in Christ Jesus. We cannot grow too much, we cannot gather up too many of the precious rays of light that God sends us. . . . {OFC 128.4} [OFC 128.5] We know falsehoods are coming in like a swift current, and that is just the reason why we want every ray of light that God has for us, that we may be able to stand amid the perils of the last days. . . . {OFC 128.5} [OFC 128.6] O how Christ longs to open before us the mysteries of redemption! He longed to do this for His disciples when He was among them on earth, but they were not far enough advanced in spiritual knowledge to comprehend 129 His words. He had to say to them, “I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now” (John 16:12). O how much better could they have borne the terrible ordeal through which they had to pass at His trial and crucifixion if they had advanced and been able to bear the instruction of Christ! Shall we not let Jesus open our understanding? . . . {OFC 128.6} [OFC 129.1] We are on the borders of the eternal world, and we must have a testimony with which all heaven shall be in harmony. {OFC 129.1} [OFC 129.2] The Lord is coming, and we must be ready! Every moment I want His grace—I want the robe of Christ’s righteousness. We must humble our souls before God as never before, come low to the foot of the cross, and He will put a word in our mouths to speak for Him, even praise unto our God. He will teach us a strain from the song of the angels, even thanksgiving to our heavenly Father. We can do nothing of ourselves, but God wants to touch our lips with a living coal from off the altar. He wants to sanctify our tongues—to sanctify our whole being. {OFC 129.2} [OFC 129.3] Truths That Transform The word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Hebrews 4:12. {OFC 129.3} [OFC 129.4] The truths of the Bible, treasured in the heart and mind and obeyed in the life, convince and convert the soul, transform the character, and comfort and uplift the heart. . . . The Word makes the proud humble, the perverse meek and contrite, the disobedient obedient. The sinful habits natural to man are interwoven with the daily practice. But the Word cuts away the fleshly lusts. It is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the mind. It divides the joints and marrow, cutting away the lusts of the flesh, making men willing to suffer for their Lord. {OFC 129.4} [OFC 129.5] The service of Christ is a heavenly and holy and blessed thing. The Word is to be diligently searched, for the ministry of the Word discovers the imperfections in our characters and teaches us that the sanctification of the Spirit is a work of heavenly devising, presenting in Christ Jesus the true perfection that if maintained will become a perfect whole in behalf of every soul. We are educated in Bible lines to become complete in Christlikeness and to see His Father’s face in Him who gave His own life for the saving of the soul. {OFC 129.5} [OFC 129.6] If you are an intelligent Christian you will maintain religious vitality and will not be deterred by difficulties. . . . You will work the works of God in gloom as well as in glory, in shade as well as in sunshine, in trial 130 as well as in peace. The truth must be treasured up in your heart as well as incorporated in your being, so that no temptation and no argument can induce you to yield to Satan’s suggestions or devices. The truth is precious. It has wrought important changes upon the life and upon the character, exerting a masterly influence over words, deportment, thoughts, and experience. The soul who appreciates the truth lives under its influence and senses the tremendous realities of eternal things. He lives not to himself, but to Jesus Christ who died for him. To him, God lives and is very cognizant of all his words and actions. {OFC 129.6} [OFC 130.1] A Never-Failing Refuge Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. Philippians 4:6. {OFC 130.1} [OFC 130.2] It is not the will of God that His people should be weighed down with care. But our Lord does not deceive us. He does not say to us, “Do not fear; there are no dangers in your path.” He knows there are trials and dangers, and He deals with us plainly. He does not propose to take His people out of a world of sin and evil, but He points them to a never-failing refuge. . . . {OFC 130.2} [OFC 130.3] How can we remain in doubt, questioning whether Jesus loves us, sinful though we be and compassed with infirmities? He gave Himself for us that He might redeem us from all iniquity and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. He came to our world in the humble guise of a man, that He might become acquainted with the griefs and temptations that beset man’s pathway, and that He might know how to help the weary with His offer of rest and peace. But thousands upon thousands refuse His assistance and only cling more firmly to their burden of care. He comes to the afflicted, and offers to soothe their grief and heal their sorrow. . . . To the disappointed, the unbelieving, and the unhappy He offers contentment, while pointing to mansions that He is preparing for them. . . . Jesus, our precious Saviour, should be first in our thoughts and affections, and we should trust Him with entire confidence. . . . {OFC 130.3} [OFC 130.4] As each day comes we must in the strength of Jesus meet its trials and temptations. If we fail one day we add to the burdens of the next, and have less strength. We should not cloud the future by our carelessness in the present, but by thoughtful and careful performance of today’s duties be preparing to meet the emergencies of tomorrow. {OFC 130.4} [OFC 130.5] We need to cultivate a spirit of cheerfulness. . . . Let us ever look on the bright side of life and be hopeful, full of love and good works, rejoicing 131 in the Lord always. “Let the peace of God rule in your hearts,” and “be ye thankful” (Colossians 3:15). {OFC 130.5} [OFC 131.1] A Progressive Faith But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. Hebrews 11:6. {OFC 131.1} [OFC 131.2] The time has come when we are to expect large blessings from the Lord. We must rise to a higher standard on the subject of faith. We have too little faith. The Word of God is our endorsement. We must take it, simply believing every word. With this assurance we may claim large things, and according to our faith it will be unto us.... {OFC 131.2} [OFC 131.3] The work of faith means more than we think. It means genuine reliance upon the naked word of God. By our actions we are to show that we believe that God will do just as He has said. The wheels of nature and of providence are not appointed to roll backward nor to stand still. We must have an advancing, working faith, a faith that works by love and purifies the soul from every vestige of selfishness. It is not self, but God, that we must depend upon. We must not cherish unbelief. We must have that faith that takes God at His word. . . . {OFC 131.3} [OFC 131.4] True faith consists in doing just what God has enjoined, not manufacturing things He has not enjoined. Justice, truth, mercy, are the fruit of faith. We need to walk in the light of God’s law; then good works will be the fruit of our faith, the proceeds of a heart renewed every day. The tree must be made good before the fruit can be good. We must be wholly consecrated to God. Our will must be made right before the fruit can be good. We must have no fitful religion. “Whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). {OFC 131.4} [OFC 131.5] O what a field is opened before me! Our people must have the deep working of the Spirit of God every day. They must have a faith that works by love, a faith that emanates from God. There must not be a thread of selfishness drawn into the fabric. When our faith works by love, just such a love as Christ revealed in His life, it will be of a firm texture; it will be the fruit of a will subdued. But not until self dies can Christ live in us. Not until self dies can we possess a faith that works by love and purifies the soul. {OFC 131.5} [OFC 132.1] The Mighty Deliverer I have spread out my hands all the day unto a rebellious people, which walketh in a way that was not good, after their own thoughts. Isaiah 65:2. {OFC 132.1} [OFC 132.2] The Lord God through Christ holds out His hand all the day long in invitations to the needy. He will receive all. He welcomes all. He rejects none. It is His glory to pardon the chief of sinners. He will take the prey from the mighty, He will deliver the captive, He will pluck the brand from the burning. He will lower the golden chain of His mercy to the greatest depths of human wretchedness and guilt and lift up the debased soul contaminated with sin. But man must will to come, and cooperate in the work of saving his soul by availing himself of opportunities given him of God. The Lord forces no one. The spotless wedding robe of Christ’s righteousness is prepared to clothe the sinner, but if he refuses it he must perish. {OFC 132.2} [OFC 132.3] The record of the past can be blotted out with His ［Christ’s］ blood, the page made clean and white. “Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool” (Isaiah 1:18).... {OFC 132.3} [OFC 132.4] The words falling from the lips of Jesus, “Thy sins be forgiven thee” (Matthew 9:2), are worth everything to us. He saith, I have borne your sins in My own body on Calvary’s cross. He sees your sorrows. His hand is laid upon the head of every contrite soul, and Jesus becomes our Advocate before the Father, and our Saviour. The lowly, contrite heart will make very much of forgiveness and pardon. . . . {OFC 132.4} [OFC 132.5] We may repeat His tender compassion for us to others who are wandering in the mazes of sin. The grace of Christ revealed to us must be tenderly revealed to others. A great tenderness and compassion will fill the soul for human beings who are still under the control of Satan. Christ is to be multiplied in every man and woman who believes in Him, for they are to live over the life of Christ in blessing and enlightening and bringing hope and peace and joy to other hearts. {OFC 132.5} [OFC 132.6] How To Get Rid Of Guilt Who is a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? he retaineth not his anger for ever, because he delighteth in mercy. Micah 7:18. {OFC 132.6} [OFC 133.1] 133 I am glad indeed that our feelings are no evidence that we are not children of God. The enemy will tempt you to think that you have done things that have separated you from God, and that He no longer loves you, but our Lord loves us still. . . . {OFC 133.1} [OFC 133.2] Look away from yourself to the perfection of Christ. We cannot manufacture a righteousness for ourselves. Christ has in His hands the pure robes of righteousness, and He will put them upon us. He will speak sweet words of forgiveness and promise. He presents to our thirsty souls fountains of living water whereby we may be refreshed. He bids us come unto Him with all our burdens, all our griefs, and He says we shall find rest. . . . {OFC 133.2} [OFC 133.3] Jesus sees the guilt of the past, and speaks pardon, and we must not dishonor Him by doubting His love. This feeling of guiltiness must be laid at the foot of the cross of Calvary. The sense of sinfulness has poisoned the springs of life and of true happiness. Now Jesus says, “Lay it all on Me. I will take your sins; I will give you peace. Banish no longer your self-respect, for I have bought you with the price of My own blood. You are Mine. Your weakened will I will strengthen; your remorse for sin I will remove.” Then turn your grateful heart, trembling with uncertainty, to Him and lay hold on the hope set before you. God accepts your broken, contrite heart, and extends to you free pardon. He offers to adopt you into His family, with His grace to help your weakness, and the dear Saviour will lead you on step by step, you placing your hand in His and letting Him guide you. {OFC 133.3} [OFC 133.4] Search for the precious promises of God. If Satan thrusts threatenings before your mind, turn from them and cling to the promises, and let your soul be comforted by their brightness. The cloud is dark in itself, but when filled with the light it is turned to the brightness of gold, for the glory of God is upon it. {OFC 133.4} [OFC 133.5] The Only Path Of Safety And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left. Isaiah 30:21. {OFC 133.5} [OFC 133.6] I know that human beings suffer much because they step out of the path that God has chosen for them to follow. They walk in the sparks of the fire they have kindled themselves, and the sure result is affliction, unrest, and sorrow, which they might have avoided if they had submitted their will to God and had permitted Him to control their ways. God sees that it is 134 necessary to oppose our will and our way, and bring our human will into subjection. {OFC 133.6} [OFC 134.1] Whatever path God chooses for us, whatever way He ordains for our feet, that is the only path of safety. We are daily to cherish a spirit of childlike submission, and pray that our eyes may be anointed with the heavenly eyesalve in order that we may discern the indications of the divine will, lest we become confused in our ideas, because our will seems to be all-controlling. With the eye of faith, with childlike submission as obedient children, we must look to God, to follow His guidance, and difficulties will clear away. The promise is, “I will instruct thee and teach thee . . . : I will guide thee with mine eye” (Psalm 32:8). . . . {OFC 134.1} [OFC 134.2] If we come to God in a humble and teachable spirit, not with our plans all formed before we ask Him, and shaped according to our own will, but in submission, in willingness to be taught, in faith, it is our privilege to claim the promise every hour of the day. We may distrust ourselves, and we need to guard against our own inclinations and strong tendencies lest we shall follow our mind and plans and think it is the way of the Lord. . . . {OFC 134.2} [OFC 134.3] Our heavenly Father is our Ruler, and we must submit to His discipline. We are members of His family. He has a right to our service, and if one of the members of His family would persist in having his own way, persist in doing just that which he pleased, that spirit would bring about a disordered and perplexing state of things. We must not study to have our own way, but God’s way and God’s will. {OFC 134.3} [OFC 134.4] The March To Victory But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 15:57. {OFC 134.4} [OFC 134.5] Nothing can be more helpless, nothing can be more dependent, than the soul that feels its nothingness and relies wholly upon the merits of the blood of a crucified and risen Saviour. The Christian life is a life of warfare, of continual conflict. It is a battle and a march. But every act of obedience to Christ, every act of self-denial for His sake, every trial well endured, every victory gained over temptation, is a step in the march to the glory of final victory. {OFC 134.5} [OFC 134.6] If we take Christ for our guide, He will lead us safely along the narrow way. The road may be rough and thorny; the ascent may be steep and dangerous; there may be pitfalls upon the right hand and upon the left; we may have to endure toil in our journey; when weary, when longing for rest, we may have to toil on; when faint, we may have to fight; when 135 discouraged, we may be called upon to hope; but with Christ as our Guide we shall not lose the path to immortal life, we shall not fail to reach the desired haven at last. {OFC 134.6} [OFC 135.1] Christ Himself has trod the rough pathway before us and has smoothed the path for our feet. The narrow path of holiness, the way cast up for the ransomed of the Lord to walk in, is illuminated by Him who is the light of the world. As we follow in His steps, His light will shine upon us, and as we reflect the light borrowed from the glory of Christ, the path will grow brighter and brighter unto the perfect day. {OFC 135.1} [OFC 135.2] We may think it pleasant at first to follow pride and worldly ambition, but the end is pain and sorrow. Selfish plans may present flattering promises and hold out the hope of enjoyment, but we shall find that our happiness is poisoned and our life embittered by hopes that center in self. In following Christ we are safe, for He will not suffer the powers of darkness to hurt one hair of our heads. He will keep that which is committed to His trust, and we shall be more than conquerors through Him that loved us. {OFC 135.2} [OFC 135.3] “Come Ye Yourselves Apart” Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord. Psalm 27:14. {OFC 135.3} [OFC 135.4] No other life was ever so crowded with labor and responsibility as was that of Jesus, yet how often He was found in prayer! How constant was His communion with God! . . . As one with us, a sharer in our needs and weaknesses, He was wholly dependent upon God, and in the secret place of prayer He sought divine strength that He might go forth braced for duty and trial. In a world of sin Jesus endured struggles and torture of soul. In communion with God He could unburden the sorrows that were crushing Him. . . . {OFC 135.4} [OFC 135.5] In Christ the cry of humanity reached the Father of infinite pity. As a man He supplicated the throne of God till His humanity was charged with a heavenly current that should connect humanity with divinity. Through continual communion He received life from God, that He might impart life to the world. His experience is to be ours. “Come ye yourselves apart” (Mark 6:31), He bids us. If we would give heed to His Word we should be stronger and more useful. . . . If today we would take time to go to Jesus and tell Him our needs we should not be disappointed; He would be at our right hand to help us. . . . {OFC 135.5} [OFC 135.6] In all who are under the training of God is to be revealed a life that is 136 not in harmony with the world, its customs, or its practices, and everyone needs to have a personal experience in obtaining a knowledge of the will of God. We must individually hear Him speaking to the heart. When every other voice is hushed, and in quietness we wait before Him, the silence of the soul makes more distinct the voice of God. He bids us, “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). Here alone can true rest be found. And this is the effectual preparation for all who labor for God. Amid the hurrying throng and the strain of life’s intense activities, the soul that is thus refreshed will be surrounded with an atmosphere of light and peace. The life will breathe out fragrance and will reveal a divine power that will reach men’s hearts. {OFC 135.6} [OFC 136.1] The Preciousness Of Secret Prayer Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Psalm 62:8. {OFC 136.1} [OFC 136.2] A deep sense of our need and a great desire for the things for which we ask must characterize our prayers, else they will not be heard. But we are not to become weary and cease our petitions because the answer is not immediately received. “The kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force” (Matthew 11:12). The violence here meant is a holy earnestness, such as Jacob manifested. We need not try to work ourselves up into an intense feeling, but calmly, persistently, we are to press our petitions at the throne of grace. Our work is to humble our souls before God, confessing our sins, and in faith drawing nigh unto God. . . . It is the design of God to reveal Himself in His providence and in His grace. The object of our prayers must be the glory of God, not the glorification of ourselves. . . . {OFC 136.2} [OFC 136.3] God has honored us by showing how greatly He values us. We are bought with a price, even the precious blood of the Son of God. When His heritage shall conscientiously follow the Word of the Lord, His blessing will rest upon them in answer to their prayers. “Therefore also now, saith the Lord, turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning: and rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the Lord your God: for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness” (Joel 2:12, 13). {OFC 136.3} [OFC 136.4] In secret prayer the soul should be laid bare to the inspecting eye of God. . . . How precious is secret prayer—the soul communing with God! Secret prayer is to be heard only by the prayer-hearing God. No curious ear is to receive the burden of petitions. Calmly, yet fervently, the soul is to 137 reach out after God; and sweet and abiding will be the influence emanating from Him who sees in secret, whose ear is open to the prayer arising from the heart. He who in simple faith holds communion with God will gather to himself divine rays of light to strengthen and sustain him in the conflict with Satan. {OFC 136.4} [OFC 137.1] The Motive For Obedience For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous. 1 John 5:3. {OFC 137.1} [OFC 137.2] It is the keeping of the commandments of God that honors and glorifies Him in His chosen. Wherefore every soul to whom God has given reasoning faculties is under obligation to God to search the Word and ascertain all that is enjoined upon us as God’s purchased possession. We should seek to understand all that the Word requires of us. . . . We cannot show greater honor to our God, whose we are by creation and redemption, than to give evidence to the beings of heaven, to the worlds unfallen, and to fallen men, that we diligently hearken unto all His commandments, which are the laws that govern His kingdom. {OFC 137.2} [OFC 137.3] We need to study diligently that we may gain a knowledge of the laws of God. How can we be obedient subjects if we fail to understand the laws that govern the kingdom of God? Then open your Bibles and search for everything that will enlighten you in regard to the precepts of God; and when you discern a Thus saith the Lord, ask not the opinion of men, but whatever the cost to yourself, obey cheerfully. Then the blessing of God will rest upon you.... {OFC 137.3} [OFC 137.4] Often ask prayerfully, “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? Am I in any way disregarding the divine precepts? Am I in any way placing my influence on the enemy’s side? Am I showing a careless disregard of God’s commandments? Am I willing to yoke up with Christ, to lift the burdens, and to be a co-laborer with Him? Am I studying out possible excuses for neglecting obedience to a Thus saith the Lord? Am I risking the consequences of neglect to obey the clearly revealed precepts of Jehovah because I am not willing to come out from the world and be separate? Shall the fear of man have a greater influence over me than the fear of God?” {OFC 137.4} [OFC 137.5] Surrender yourself to God, saying, “Here, Lord, I give myself away; ‘tis all that I can do.’ I will not be found in disobedience to Thy law, for that would place me in the enemy’s ranks.” {OFC 137.5} [OFC 138.1] Filled With His Fullness And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. Ephesians 3:19. {OFC 138.1} [OFC 138.2] There are many who think that it is impossible to escape from the power of sin, but the promise is that we may be filled with all the fullness of God. We aim too low. The mark is much higher. Our minds need expansion, that we may comprehend the significance of the provision of God. We are to reflect the highest attributes of the character of God. We should be thankful that we are not to be left to ourselves. The law of God is the exalted standard to which we are to attain. . . . We are not to walk according to our own ideas. . . , but we are to follow in the footsteps of Christ. {OFC 138.2} [OFC 138.3] The work of overcoming is in our hands, but we are not to overcome in our own name or strength, for of ourselves we cannot keep the commandments of God. The Spirit of God must help our infirmities. Christ has become our sacrifice and surety. He has become sin for us that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. Through faith in His name He imputes unto us His righteousness, and it becomes a living principle in our life. . . . Christ imputes to us His sinless character and presents us to the Father in His own purity. {OFC 138.3} [OFC 138.4] We cannot provide a robe of righteousness for ourselves, for the prophet says, “All our righteousnesses are as filthy rags” (Isaiah 64:6). There is nothing in us from which we can clothe the soul so that its nakedness shall not appear. We are to receive the robe of righteousness woven in the loom of heaven, even the spotless robe of Christ’s righteousness. We are to say, “He died for me. He bore my soul’s disgrace, that in His name I might be an overcomer and be exalted to His throne.” {OFC 138.4} [OFC 138.5] It is privilege of the children of God to be filled with all the fullness of God. “Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end” (Ephesians 3:20, 21). {OFC 138.5} [OFC 139.1] An Example Of The Believers For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world. Titus 2:11, 12. {OFC 139.1} [OFC 139.2] There is a great work for us to do if we would inherit eternal life. We are to deny ungodliness and worldly lusts, and live a life of righteousness. . . . There is no salvation for us except in Jesus, for it is through faith in Him that we receive power to become the sons of God. But it is not merely a passing faith, it is faith that works the works of Christ. . . . Living faith makes itself manifest by exhibiting a spirit of sacrifice and devotion toward the cause of God. Those who possess it stand under the banner of Prince Emmanuel and wage a successful warfare against the powers of darkness. They stand ready to do whatsoever their Captain commands. Each one is exhorted to be “an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12), for we are to “live soberly, righteously, and godly” in this present evil world, representing the character of Christ, and manifesting His spirit. . . . {OFC 139.2} [OFC 139.3] Those who are connected with Jesus are in union with the Maker and Upholder of all things. They have a power that the world cannot give nor take away. But while great and exalted privileges are given to them, they are not simply to rejoice in their blessings. As stewards of the manifold grace of God they are to become a blessing to others. They are entrusted with great truth, and “unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required” (Luke 12:48). There are weighty responsibilities resting upon all who have received the message for this time. They are to exert an influence that will draw others to the light of God’s Word. . . . We are our brother’s keeper. . . . {OFC 139.3} [OFC 139.4] If we are true believers in Jesus we shall be gathering rays from glory, and we shall shed light on the darkened pathway of those around us. We shall reveal the gracious character of our Redeemer, and many will be drawn by our influence to “behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). {OFC 139.4} [OFC 140.1] Putting Our Gifts To Work But every man hath his proper gift of God, one after this manner, and another after that. 1 Corinthians 7:7. {OFC 140.1} [OFC 140.2] God gives more than money to His stewards. Your talent of imparting is a gift. What are you communicating of the gifts of God, in your words, in your tender sympathy? . . . The knowledge of truth is a talent. There are many souls in darkness that might be enlightened by true, faithful words from you. There are hearts that are hungering for sympathy, perishing away from God. Your sympathy may help them. The Lord has need of your words, dictated by His Holy Spirit. . . . {OFC 140.2} [OFC 140.3] The first work for all Christians to do is to search the Scriptures with most earnest prayer, that they may have that faith that works by love and purifies the soul from every thread of selfishness. If the truth is received into the heart, it works like good leaven, until every power is brought into subjection to the will of God. Then you can no more help shining than can the sun. . . . {OFC 140.3} [OFC 140.4] All natural gifts are to be sanctified as precious endowments. They are to be consecrated to God, that they may minister for the Master. All social advantages are talents. They are not to be devoted to self-pleasing, amusement, or self-gratification. . . . The gift of correct example is a great thing. But many gather about the soul an atmosphere that is malarious. . . . {OFC 140.4} [OFC 140.5] The gifts of speech, of knowledge, of sympathy and love, communicate a knowledge of Christ. All these gifts are to be converted to God. The Lord stands in need of them, He calls for them. All are to act a part in preparing their own souls and the souls of others to rededicate their talents to God. Every soul, every gift, is to be laid under contribution to God. All are to cooperate with God in the work of saving souls. The talents you possess are given you of God to make you efficient colaborers with Christ. There are hearts hungering for sympathy, perishing for the help and assistance God has given you to give to them. {OFC 140.5} [OFC 140.6] Exalting The Man Of Calvary And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: that whosoever believeth in him should not 141 perish, but have eternal life. John 3:14, 15. {OFC 140.6} [OFC 141.1] I point you to the cross of Calvary. I ask you to consider the infinite sacrifice made in your behalf that through faith in Jesus Christ you may not perish but have everlasting life. . . . I point you to Jesus. You are safe in committing to Him the innermost working of your mind. The Lord Jesus hath purchased you with an infinite price. You may commit the keeping of your soul to Jesus. You may trust Him as your Counselor. . . . Constantly draw nigh unto God. He will help you. {OFC 141.1} [OFC 141.2] O be sure you receive your illumination from the Source of all light. He is the great central Light of the universe of heaven and the great Light of the world. He will enlighten every man that cometh into the world. Reach no cheap, low standard. Cultivate the gentleness of Christ. Secure the highest attainments, and draw your inspiration from Jesus Christ. He is your Friend. You may always depend upon Him and find Him faithful and true. When you need His sympathy in your greatest perplexity, wounded and bruised, He will not pass you by on the other side. To Him you may come in the simplicity of children. To Him you may come with joy and rejoicing. With everything that is flattering to your hopes, every success which attends your labors in the Lord, look up to Jesus and lay every honor at His feet. Everything depends upon your walking in all humility of mind. Write the name of Christ upon your banner and never dishonor your colors. {OFC 141.2} [OFC 141.3] All heaven was given to us in Christ Jesus. . . . O honor Jesus by giving to Him the heart’s best and holiest services! He has given His life for you. Who is He that hath done this? The only begotten Son of God, He that was One with the Father before the world was. {OFC 141.3} [OFC 141.4] Lift up your banner, lift it up higher. Never, never let it trail in the dust of the earth. Exalt Jesus. Lift Him up, the Man of Calvary, higher and still higher. {OFC 141.4} [OFC 141.5] We Shall See His Face And they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads. Revelation 22:4. {OFC 141.5} [OFC 141.6] We cannot now see the glory of God, but it is only by receiving Him here that we shall be able by and by to see Him face to face. God would have us keep our eyes fixed on Him, that we may lose sight of the things of this world. We have . . . no time for any of us to delay that preparation which will enable us to see the face of God. . . . {OFC 141.6} [OFC 141.7] Only by looking to Jesus, the Lamb of God, and following in His 142 steps, can you prepare to meet God. Follow Him, and you will one day walk the golden streets of the city of God. You will see Him who laid aside His royal garments and His kingly crown, and disguising Himself with humanity, came to our world and bore our sins, that He might lift us up and give us a revelation of His glory and majesty. We shall see Him face to face if we now give ourselves up to be molded and fashioned by Him and prepared for a place in the kingdom of God. {OFC 141.7} [OFC 142.1] Those who consecrate their lives to the service of God will live with Him through the ceaseless ages of eternity. “God himself shall be with them, and be their God” (Revelation 21:3). . . . {OFC 142.1} [OFC 142.2] Their minds were given to God in this world; they served Him with their heart and intellect, and now He can put His name in their foreheads. “And there shall no night there; . . . for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever” (Revelation 22:5). They do not go in as those that beg a place there, for Christ says to them, “Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world” (Matthew 25:34). He takes them as His children, saying, Enter ye into the joy of your Lord. The crown of immortality is placed on the brow of the overcomers. They take their crowns and cast them at the feet of Jesus, and touching their golden harps, they fill all heaven with rich music in songs of praise to the Lamb. Then “they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads.” {OFC 142.2} [OFC 142.3] Chapter 6—In Heavenly Places Learning Of God Through His Works The Lord is good to all: and his tender mercies are over all his works. All thy works shall praise thee, O Lord; and thy saints shall bless thee. Psalm 145:9, 10. {OFC 142.3} [OFC 142.4] We love to contemplate the character and love of God in His created works. What evidences has He given the children of men of His power, as well as of His parental love! He has garnished the heavens and made grand and beautiful the earth. {OFC 142.4} [OFC 142.5] “O Lord our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth! . . . When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained; what is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him?”“All thy works praise thee, O Lord; and thy saints shall bless thee” (Psalm 8:1, 3, 4; 145:10). {OFC 142.5} [OFC 142.6] Had our world been formed with a perfectly level surface the monotony would have fatigued the eye and wearied the senses. God has adorned our world with grand mountains, hills, valleys, and ranges of 143 mountains. The rugged granite, bare mountains, also the mountains decorated with evergreens and verdure, and the valleys with their softened beauty make the world a mirror of loveliness. The goodness, wisdom, and power of God are manifest everywhere. In mountains, rocks, hills, and valleys, I see the works of divine power. I can never be lonely while viewing the grand scenery of nature. On the journey over the plains and mountains I have had feelings of the deepest reverence and awe while viewing the frowning precipice and snow-capped mountain heights. {OFC 142.6} [OFC 143.1] The mountains, hills, and valleys should be to us as schools in which to study the character of God in His created works. The works of God which we may view in the ever-varying scenes—in mountains, hills, and valleys, in trees, shrubs, and flowers, in every leaf, every spire of grass—should teach us lessons of the skill and love of God and of His infinite power. {OFC 143.1} [OFC 143.2] Those who study nature cannot be lonesome. They love the quiet hours of meditation, for they feel that they are brought in close communion with God while tracing His power in His created works. {OFC 143.2} [OFC 143.3] Not To Condemn But To Save For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. John 3:17. {OFC 143.3} [OFC 143.4] There are souls who are trembling in unbelief. They ask, “How can I know that God is reconciled to me? How can I be assured that He loves and pardons me?” It is not for you, dear youth, to make yourselves just with God. Jesus invites you to come to Him with all your burdens and perplexities. . . . Accept the promise and the provision that God has made. . . . Look away from self to Jesus; for in Christ the character of the Father is revealed. {OFC 143.4} [OFC 143.5] The blood of Christ in ever-abiding efficacy is our only hope, for through His merits alone we have pardon and peace. {OFC 143.5} [OFC 143.6] The character of God as revealed by Christ invites our faith and love, for we have a Father whose mercy and compassion fail not. At every step of our journey heavenward He will be with us to guide in every perplexity, to give us help in every temptation. {OFC 143.6} [OFC 143.7] Your reason and imagination should be touched with the life-giving power of Christ, that forms of beauty and truth may be impressed thereon. There are great and precious truths that demand your contemplation, in order that you may have a sound foundation for your faith by having a correct knowledge of God. O that the superficial, vain seeker for truth 144 would learn that the world by wisdom, however much acquired, knew not God. {OFC 143.7} [OFC 144.1] It is proper to seek to learn all that is possible from nature, but do not fail to look from nature to Christ for the complete representation of the character of the living God. By contemplation of Christ, by conformity to the divine likeness, your conceptions of the divine character will expand, and your mind and heart will be elevated, refined, and ennobled. Let the youth aim high, not relying upon human wisdom, but living day by day as seeing Him who is invisible, doing their work as in the sight of the intelligences of heaven. . . . {OFC 144.1} [OFC 144.2] He who constantly depends upon God through simple trust and prayerful confidence, will be surrounded by the angels of heaven. He who lives by faith in Christ, will be strengthened and upheld, able to fight the good fight of faith, and lay hold upon eternal life. {OFC 144.2} [OFC 144.3] The Heavenly Election Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall. 2 Peter 1:10. {OFC 144.3} [OFC 144.4] This is the only election regarding which the Bible speaks. Fallen in sin, we may become partakers of the divine nature and attain to a knowledge far in advance of any scientific learning. By partaking of the flesh and the blood of our crucified Lord, we shall gain life eternal. In the sixth of John we read: “Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life” (John 6:54). “It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life” (verse 63). {OFC 144.4} [OFC 144.5] None need lose eternal life. Everyone who chooses daily to learn of the heavenly Teacher will make his calling and election sure. Let us humble our hearts before God and follow on to know Him whom to know aright is life eternal. {OFC 144.5} [OFC 144.6] “Give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: for so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 1:10, 11). {OFC 144.6} [OFC 144.7] Here are your life-insurance papers. This is not an insurance policy the value of which someone else will receive after your death; it is a policy that assures you a life measuring with the life of God—even eternal life. O what an assurance! what a hope! Let us ever reveal to the world that we are seeking for a better country, even a heavenly. Heaven has been made for 145 us, and we want a part in it. We cannot afford to allow anything to separate us from God and heaven. In this life we must be partakers of the divine nature. Brethren and sisters, you have only one life to live. O let it be a life of virtue, a life hid with Christ in God! {OFC 144.7} [OFC 145.1] Unitedly we are to help one another gain perfection of character. To this end, we are to cease all criticism. Onward and still onward we may advance toward perfection, until at last there will be ministered unto us an abundant entrance into the heavenly kingdom. {OFC 145.1} [OFC 145.2] Our Sure Foundation For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is. 1 Corinthians 3:11-13. {OFC 145.2} [OFC 145.3] As fire reveals the difference between gold, silver, and precious stones, and wood, hay, and stubble, so the day of judgment will test characters, showing the difference between characters formed after Christ’s likeness and characters formed after the likeness of the selfish heart. All selfishness, all false religion, will then appear as it is. The worthless material will be consumed; but the gold of true, simple, humble faith will never lose its value. It can never be consumed; for it is imperishable. {OFC 145.3} [OFC 145.4] Character is not obtained by receiving an education. Character is not obtained by amassing wealth or by gaining worldly honor. Character is not obtained by having others fight the battle of life for us. It must be sought, worked for, fought for; and it requires a purpose, a will, a determination. To form a character which God will approve, requires persevering effort. It will take a continual resisting of the powers of darkness to . . . have our names retained in the book of life. Is it not worth more to have our names registered in that book, have them immortalized among the heavenly angels, than to have them sounded in praise throughout the whole earth? {OFC 145.4} [OFC 145.5] In the probationary time granted us here we are each building a structure that is to have the inspection of the Judge of all the earth. This work is the molding of our characters. Every act of our lives is a stone in that building, every faculty is a worker, every blow that is struck is for good or for evil. The words of inspiration warn us to take heed how we build, to see that our foundation is sure. If we build upon the solid rock, pure, noble, upright deeds, the structure will go up beautiful and symmetrical, a fit temple for the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. {OFC 145.5} [OFC 146.1] The Happiest People Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. Psalm 16:11. {OFC 146.1} [OFC 146.2] Do not think that when you walk with Jesus you must walk in the shadow. The happiest people in the world are those who trust in Jesus and gladly do His bidding. From the lives of those who follow Him, unrest and discontent are banished. . . . They may meet with trial and difficulty, but their lives are full of joy; for Christ walks beside them, and His presence makes the pathway bright. . . . {OFC 146.2} [OFC 146.3] When you arise in the morning, rise with the praise of God on your lips, and when you go out to work, go with a prayer to God for help. . . . Wait for a leaf from the tree of life. This will soothe and refresh you, filling your heart with peace and joy. Fix your thoughts upon the Saviour. Go apart from the bustle of the world and sit under Christ’s shadow. Then, amid the din of daily toil and conflict, your strength will be renewed. It is positively necessary for us to sit down sometimes and think of how the Saviour descended from heaven, from the throne of God, to show what human beings may become if they will unite their weakness to His strength. Having gained renewal of strength by communion with God, we may go on our way rejoicing, praising Him for the privilege of bringing the sunshine of Christ’s love into the lives of those we meet. . . . {OFC 146.3} [OFC 146.4] Heavenly intelligences are waiting to cooperate with human instrumentalities, that the world may see what human beings may become through a union with the divine. Those who consecrate body, soul, and spirit to God’s service will constantly receive a new endowment of physical, mental, and spiritual power. The inexhaustible supplies of heaven are at their command. Christ gives them the life of His life. The Holy Spirit puts forth its highest energies to work in mind and heart. Through the grace given us we may achieve victories which, because of our defects of character and the smallness of our faith, may have seemed to us impossible. {OFC 146.4} [OFC 146.5] To every one who offers himself to the Lord for service, withholding nothing, is given power for the attainment of measureless results. {OFC 146.5} [OFC 147.1] Let Us Ask Of God If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. James 1:5. {OFC 147.1} [OFC 147.2] It is the privilege of every believer first to talk with God in his closet, and then as God’s mouthpiece to talk with others. In order that we may have something to impart, we must daily receive light and blessing. Men and women who commune with God, who have an abiding Christ, who, because they cooperate with holy angels, are surrounded with holy influences, are needed at this time. The cause needs those who have power to draw with Christ, power to express the love of God in words of encouragement and sympathy. {OFC 147.2} [OFC 147.3] As the believer bows in supplication before God, and in humility and contrition offers his petition from unfeigned lips, he loses all thought of self. His mind is filled with the thought of what he must have in order to build up a Christlike character. He prays, “Lord, if I am to be a channel through which Thy love is to flow day by day and hour by hour, I claim by faith the grace and power that Thou hast promised.” He fastens his hold firmly on the promise, “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, . . . and it shall be given him.” {OFC 147.3} [OFC 147.4] How this dependence pleases the Master! How He delights to hear the steady, earnest pleading! . . . With wonderful and ennobling grace the Lord sanctifies the humble petitioner, giving him power to perform the most difficult duties. All that is undertaken is done unto the Lord, and this elevates and sanctifies the lowliest calling. It invests with new dignity every word, every act, and links the humblest worker . . . with the highest of the angels in the heavenly courts. . . . {OFC 147.4} [OFC 147.5] The sons and daughters of God have a great work to do in the world. They are to accept the Word of God as the man of their counsel and to impart it to others. They are to diffuse light. All who have received the engrafted word will be faithful in giving that word to others. They will speak the words of Christ. In conversation and in deportment they will give evidence of a daily conversion to the principles of truth. Such believers will be a spectacle to the world, to angels, and to men, and God will be glorified in them. {OFC 147.5} [OFC 148.1] Nothing Too Small The Lord is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him. Lamentations 3:25. {OFC 148.1} [OFC 148.2] There are few who rightly appreciate or improve the precious privilege of prayer. We should go to Jesus and tell Him all our needs. We may bring Him our little cares and perplexities as well as our greater troubles. Whatever arises to disturb or distress us, we should take it to the Lord in prayer. {OFC 148.2} [OFC 148.3] We lose many precious blessings by failing to bring our needs and cares and sorrows to our Saviour. He is the wonderful Counselor. He looks upon His church with intense interest and with a heart full of tender sympathy. He enters into the depth of our necessities. But our ways are not always His ways. He sees the result of every action, and He asks us to trust patiently in His wisdom, not in the supposedly wise plans of our own making. {OFC 148.3} [OFC 148.4] Do not cease to pray. If the answer tarry, wait for it. Lay all your plans at the feet of the Redeemer. Let your importunate prayers ascend to God. If it be for His name’s glory, the soothing words will be spoken, “Be it unto thee according to thy word.” {OFC 148.4} [OFC 148.5] We can never weary Christ by earnest supplications. We do not depend on God as we should. Let us leave unsaid every word of complaint. Talk faith and courage while waiting for God. . . . Be afraid to doubt, lest this become a habit that will destroy faith. The dealing of the heavenly Father may seem dark and mysterious and unexplainable; nevertheless we are to trust in Him. {OFC 148.5} [OFC 148.6] Oh, how precious is Jesus to the soul who trusts in Him! But many are walking in darkness because they bury their faith in the shadow of Satan. . . . Never for a moment should we allow Satan to think that his power to distress and annoy is greater than the power of Christ to uphold and strengthen. . . . {OFC 148.6} [OFC 148.7] Every sincere prayer that is offered is mingled with the efficacy of Christ’s blood. If the answer is deferred, it is because God desires us to show a holy boldness in claiming the pledged word of God. He is faithful who hath promised. He will never forsake the soul who is wholly surrendered to Him. {OFC 148.7} [OFC 149.1] Our Personal Intercessor Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. Romans 8:34. {OFC 149.1} [OFC 149.2] The Lord Jesus is your personal intercessor. . . . Repeat over and over many times through the day, “Jesus has died for me. He saw me in peril, exposed to destruction, and poured out His life to save me. He does not behold the soul as a trembling suppliant prostrate at His feet without pity, and He will not fail to raise me up.” He has become the advocate for man. He has lifted up those who believe in Him and placed a treasurehouse of blessing at their demand. Men cannot bestow one blessing upon their fellows, they cannot remove one stain of sin. It is only the merit and righteousness of Christ that will avail anything, but this is placed to our account in rich fullness. We may draw upon God every moment. As we turn to Him, He answers, “Here I am.” {OFC 149.2} [OFC 149.3] Christ proclaims Himself our Intercessor. He would have us know that He has graciously engaged to be our Substitute. He places His merit in the golden censer to offer up with the prayers of His saints, so that the prayers of His dear children may be mingled with the fragrant merit of Christ as they ascend to the Father in the cloud of incense. {OFC 149.3} [OFC 149.4] The Father hears every prayer of His contrite children. The voice of supplication from the earth unites with the voice of our Intercessor, who pleads in heaven, whose voice the Father always hears. Let our prayers therefore continually ascend to God. Let them not come up in the name of any human being, but in the name of Him who is our Substitute and Surety. Christ has given us His name to use. . . . {OFC 149.4} [OFC 149.5] Jesus receives and welcomes you as His own friend. He loves you; He has pledged Himself to open before you all the treasures of His grace for your appropriation. He says, “At that day ye shall ask in my name: and I say not unto you, that I will pray the Father for you: for the Father himself loveth you, because ye have loved me, and have believed that I came out from God” (John 16:26, 27). He virtually says, Make use of My name, and it will be your passport to the heart of My Father, and to all the riches of His grace. {OFC 149.5} [OFC 150.1] Angels In The Home For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone. Psalm 91:11, 12. {OFC 150.1} [OFC 150.2] Angels of God are watching over us. Upon this earth there are thousands and tens of thousands of heavenly messengers commissioned by the Father to prevent Satan from obtaining any advantage over those who refuse to walk in the path of evil. And these angels who guard God’s children on earth are in communication with the Father in heaven. “Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones,” Christ said; “for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 18:10). {OFC 150.2} [OFC 150.3] Scarcely any of us realize that angels are about us; and these precious angels, who minister to those who shall be heirs of salvation, are saving from us many, many temptations and difficulties. The whole family of heaven is interested in the families here below; and how thankful we should be for this interest manifested for us day and night. {OFC 150.3} [OFC 150.4] Words spoken in our homes which are impatient and unkind, angels hear; and do you want to find in the books of heaven a record of the impatient and passionate words you have uttered in your family? Impatience brings the enemy of God and man into your family and drives out the angels of God. If you are abiding in Christ, and Christ in you, you cannot speak angry words. {OFC 150.4} [OFC 150.5] Fathers and mothers, I beseech you for Christ’s sake, to be kind, tender, and patient in your homes. Then light and sunshine will enter your homes, and you will feel that bright beams from the Sun of Righteousness are indeed shining into your hearts. {OFC 150.5} [OFC 150.6] It is the absence of the graces of God’s Spirit that leaves the home in a dark, unhappy condition. Your home should be a blessed sanctuary where God can come in, and where His holy angels can minister unto you. If impatience and unkindness are manifested one to another, angels cannot be attracted to your home; but where love and peace abide, these heavenly ones love to come and bring still more of the holy influence of the home above. {OFC 150.6} [OFC 151.1] The Act Of Faith Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1. {OFC 151.1} [OFC 151.2] Faith is not the ground of our salvation, but it is the great blessing—the eye that sees, the ear that hears, the feet that run, the hand that grasps. It is the means, not the end. If Christ gave His life to save sinners, why shall I not take that blessing? My faith grasps it, and thus my faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things unseen. Thus resting and believing, I have peace with God through the Lord Jesus Christ. {OFC 151.2} [OFC 151.3] Faith, saving faith . . . is the act of the soul by which the whole man is given over to the guardianship and control of Jesus Christ. He abides in Christ and Christ abides in the soul by faith as supreme. The believer commits his soul and body to God, and with assurance may say, Christ is able to keep that which I have committed unto Him against that day. All who will do this will be saved unto life eternal. There will be an assurance that the soul is washed in the blood of Christ and clothed with His righteousness and precious in the sight of Jesus. {OFC 151.3} [OFC 151.4] Remember that the exercise of faith is the one means of preserving it. Should you sit always in one position, without moving, your muscles would become strengthless and your limbs would lose the power of motion. The same is true in regard to your religious experience. You must have faith in the promises of God. . . . Faith will perfect itself in exercise and activity. {OFC 151.4} [OFC 151.5] It is of the greatest importance to us that we surround the soul with the atmosphere of faith. Every day we are deciding our own eternal destiny in harmony with the atmosphere that surrounds the soul. We are individually accountable for the influence that we exert, and consequences that we do not see will result from our words and actions. If God would have saved Sodom for the sake of ten righteous persons, what would be the influence for good that might go out as the result of the faithfulness of the people of God if every one who professed the name of Christ were also clothed with His righteousness? {OFC 151.5} [OFC 151.6] A Working Faith And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith. Philippians 3:9. {OFC 151.6} [OFC 152.1] 152 It is one thing to read and teach the Bible, and another thing to have by practice its life-giving, sanctifying principles engrafted on the soul. . . . “By grace are ye saved through faith” (Ephesians 2:8). The mind should be educated to exercise faith rather than to cherish doubt, suspicion, and jealousy. We are too prone to regard obstacles as impossibilities. To have faith in the promises of God, to go forward by faith, pressing on without being governed by circumstances, is a lesson hard to learn. Yet it is a positive necessity that every child of God should learn this lesson. The grace of God through Christ is ever to be cherished, for it is given us as the only way of approaching God. . . . {OFC 152.1} [OFC 152.2] The faith mentioned in God’s Word calls for a life in which faith in Christ is an active, living principle. It is God’s will that faith in Christ shall be made perfect by works; He connects the salvation and eternal life of those who believe, with these works, and through them provides for the light of truth to go to all countries and peoples. This is the fruit of the workings of God’s Spirit. {OFC 152.2} [OFC 152.3] We show our faith in God by obeying His commands. Faith is always expressed in words and actions. It produces practical results, for it is a vital element in the life. The life that is molded by faith develops a determination to advance, to go forward, following in the footsteps of Christ. {OFC 152.3} [OFC 152.4] We have been taken as rough stones out of the quarry of the world by the cleaver of truth and placed in the workshop of God. He who has genuine faith in Christ as his personal Saviour will find that the truth accomplishes a definite work for him. His faith is a working faith. . . . We cannot create our faith, but we can be colaborers with Christ in promoting the growth and triumph of faith. {OFC 152.4} [OFC 152.5] The faith that works by love and purifies the soul produces the fruit of humility, patience, forbearance, long-suffering, peace, joy, and willing obedience. {OFC 152.5} [OFC 152.6] Our Example In Obedience For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth. 1 Peter 2:21, 22. {OFC 152.6} [OFC 152.7] Before us is held out the wonderful possibility of being like Christ—obedient to all the principles of the law of God. But of ourselves we are utterly powerless to attain to this condition. All that is good in man comes to him through Christ. The holiness that God’s Word declares we must have before we can be saved is the result of the working of divine grace as 153 we bow in submission to the discipline and restraining influence of the Spirit of truth. {OFC 152.7} [OFC 153.1] Man’s obedience can be made perfect only by the incense of Christ’s righteousness, which fills with divine fragrance every act of true obedience. The part of the Christian is to persevere in overcoming every fault. Constantly he is to pray to the Saviour to heal the disorders of his diseased soul. He has not the wisdom and strength without which he cannot overcome. They belong to the Lord, and He bestows them on those who in humiliation and contrition seek Him for help. {OFC 153.1} [OFC 153.2] The work of transformation from unholiness to holiness is a continuous work. Day by day God labors for man’s sanctification, and man is to cooperate with Him by putting forth persevering efforts in the cultivation of right habits. . . . {OFC 153.2} [OFC 153.3] God will more than fulfill the highest expectations of those who put their trust in Him. He desires us to remember that when we are humble and contrite, we stand where He can and will manifest Himself to us. He is well pleased when we urge past mercies and blessings as a reason why He should bestow on us higher and greater blessings. He is honored when we love Him and bear testimony to the genuineness of our love by keeping His commandments. He is honored when we set apart the seventh day as sacred and holy. To those who do this, the Sabbath is a sign, . . . God declares, “that I am the Lord that sanctify them” (Ezekiel 20:12). Sanctification means habitual communion with God. There is nothing so great and powerful as God’s love for those who are His children. {OFC 153.3} [OFC 153.4] The Highest Culture Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding. Proverbs 3:13. {OFC 153.4} [OFC 153.5] The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the man who consents to be molded and fashioned after the divine similitude is the noblest specimen of the work of God. . . . {OFC 153.5} [OFC 153.6] The experimental knowledge of true godliness, in daily consecration and service to God, ensures the highest culture of the mind, soul, and body. . . . The impartation of divine power honors our sincere striving after wisdom for the conscientious use of our highest faculties to honor God and bless our fellow men. As these faculties are derived from God, and not self-created, they should be appreciated as talents from God to be employed in His service. {OFC 153.6} [OFC 153.7] The Heaven-entrusted faculties of the mind are to be treated as the higher powers, to rule the kingdom of the body. The natural appetites and 154 passions are to be brought under the control of the conscience and the spiritual affections. . . . {OFC 153.7} [OFC 154.1] The religion of Jesus Christ never degrades the receiver; it never makes him coarse or rough, discourteous or self-important, passionate or hardhearted. On the contrary, it refines the taste, sanctifies the judgment, purifies and ennobles the thoughts by bringing them into captivity to Jesus Christ. {OFC 154.1} [OFC 154.2] God’s ideal for His children is higher than the highest human thought can reach. The living God has given in His holy law a transcript of His character. The greatest Teacher the world has ever known is Jesus Christ. And what is the standard He has given for all who believe in Him to reach? “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect” (Matthew 5:48). As God is perfect in His high sphere of action, so man may be perfect in his human sphere. The ideal of Christian character is Christlikeness. There is opened before us a path of continual advancement. We have an object to reach, a standard to gain which includes everything good and pure and noble and elevated. There should be continual striving and constant progress onward and upward toward perfection of character. {OFC 154.2} [OFC 154.3] Christ In All Our Thoughts Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Psalm 139:23, 24. {OFC 154.3} [OFC 154.4] Few realize that it is a duty to exercise control over the thoughts and imaginations. It is difficult to keep the undisciplined mind fixed upon profitable subjects. But if the thoughts are not properly employed, religion cannot flourish in the soul. The mind must be preoccupied with sacred and eternal things, or it will cherish trifling and superficial thoughts. Both the intellectual and the moral powers must be disciplined, and they will . . improve by exercise. {OFC 154.4} [OFC 154.5] In order to understand this matter aright, we must remember that our hearts are naturally depraved, and we are unable of ourselves to pursue a right course. It is only by the grace of God, combined with the most earnest effort on our part, that we can gain the victory. The intellect, as well as the heart, must be consecrated to the service of God. He has claims upon all there is of us. {OFC 154.5} [OFC 154.6] Few believe that humanity has sunk so low as it has or that it is so thoroughly bad, so desperately opposed to God, as it is. . . . When the mind is not under the direct influence of the Spirit of God, Satan can mold 155 it as he chooses. All the rational powers which he controls he will carnalize. He is directly opposed to God in his tastes, views, preferences, likes and dislikes, choice of things and pursuits; there is no relish for what God loves or approves, but a delight in those things which He despises. . . . {OFC 154.6} [OFC 155.1] If Christ is abiding in the heart, He will be in all our thoughts. Our deepest thoughts will be of Him, His love, His purity. He will fill all the chambers of the mind. Our affections will center about Jesus. All our hopes and expectations will be associated with Him. To live the life we now live by faith in the Son of God, looking forward to and loving His appearing, will be the soul’s highest joy. He will be the crown of our rejoicing. {OFC 155.1} [OFC 155.2] Those who have trained the mind to delight in spiritual exercises are the ones who can be translated and not be overwhelmed with the purity and transcendent glory of heaven. {OFC 155.2} [OFC 155.3] The Gold Of Christian Character A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold. Proverbs 22:1. {OFC 155.3} [OFC 155.4] Men may aspire to renown. They may desire to possess a great name. With some the possession of houses and lands and plenty of money, that which will make them great according to the measure of the world, is the height of their ambition. They desire to reach the place where they can look down with a sense of superiority upon those who are poor. All such are building on the sand, and their house will fall suddenly. Superiority of position is not true greatness. That which does not increase the value of the soul is of no real value in itself. That which alone is worth obtaining is greatness of soul in the sight of Heaven. The true and exalted nature of your work you may never know. The value of your own being you can only measure by the value of that Life given to save all who will receive it. {OFC 155.4} [OFC 155.5] Every man will have some estimate of his own worth when he becomes a laborer together with Christ, doing the work that Christ did, filling the world with Christ’s righteousness, bearing a commission from the Most High. . . . The commission given to the disciples is given to all who are connected with Christ. They are to make any and every sacrifice for the joy of seeing souls saved who are perishing out of Christ. . . . {OFC 155.5} [OFC 155.6] The highest honor that can be conferred upon human beings, be they young or old, rich or poor, is to be permitted to lift up the oppressed, to comfort the feeble-minded. The world is full of suffering. Go, and preach 156 the gospel to the poor; heal the sick. This is the work to be connected with the gospel message. “The poor have the gospel preached to them” (Matthew 11:5). Colaborers with God are to fill the space they occupy in the world with the love of Jesus. . . . The love of Christ in the heart is expressed in the actions. If love for Christ is dull the love for those for whom Christ died will degenerate. . . . {OFC 155.6} [OFC 156.1] True riches are genuine faith and genuine love. These make the character complete in Christ. If there were more faith, simple, trusting faith in Jesus, there would be love, pure love, which is the gold of Christian character. {OFC 156.1} [OFC 156.2] Kind And Courteous Words The Lord God hath given me the tongue of the learned, that I should know how to speak a word in season to him that is weary: he wakeneth morning by morning, he wakeneth mine ear to hear as the learned. Isaiah 50:4. {OFC 156.2} [OFC 156.3] What Christ was in His life on this earth, that every Christian is to be. He is our example, not only in His spotless purity, but in His patience, gentleness, and winsomeness of disposition. He was firm as a rock where truth and duty were concerned, but He was invariably kind and courteous. His life was a perfect illustration of true courtesy. . . . His presence brought a purer atmosphere into the home, and His life was as leaven working amid the elements of society. Harmless and undefiled, He walked among the thoughtless, the rude, the uncourteous; amid the unjust publicans, the unrighteous Samaritans, the heathen soldiers, the rough peasants, and the mixed multitude. {OFC 156.3} [OFC 156.4] He spoke a word of sympathy here and a word there as He saw men weary and compelled to bear heavy burdens. He shared their burdens and repeated to them the lessons He had learned from nature, of the love, the kindness, the goodness of God. He sought to inspire with hope the most rough and unpromising, setting before them the assurance that they might become blameless and harmless, attaining such a character as would make them manifest as children of God. . . . Jesus sat an honored guest at the table of the publicans, by His sympathy and social kindliness showing that He recognized the dignity of humanity; and men longed to become worthy of His confidence. Upon their thirsty souls His words fell with blessed, life-giving power. New impulses were awakened, and the possibility of a new life opened to these outcasts of society. {OFC 156.4} [OFC 156.5] The religion of Jesus softens whatever is hard and rough in the temper 157 and smooths off whatever is rugged and sharp in the manners. It is this religion that makes the words gentle and the demeanor winning. Let us learn from Christ how to combine a high sense of purity and integrity with sunniness of disposition. A kind, courteous Christian is the most powerful argument that can be produced in favor of the gospel. {OFC 156.5} [OFC 157.1] The Test Of Appetite But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway. 1 Corinthians 9:27. {OFC 157.1} [OFC 157.2] After His baptism the Son of God entered the dreary wilderness, there to be tempted by the devil. For nearly six weeks He endured the agonies of hunger. . . . He realized the power of appetite upon man; and in behalf of sinful man, He bore the closest test possible upon that point. Here a victory was gained which few can appreciate. The controlling power of depraved appetite and the grievous sin of indulging it can only be understood by the length of the fast which our Saviour endured that He might break its power. . . . {OFC 157.2} [OFC 157.3] Intemperance lies at the foundation of all the moral evils known to man. Christ began the work of redemption just where the ruin began. The fall of our first parents was caused by the indulgence of appetite. In redemption, the denial of appetite is the first work of Christ. {OFC 157.3} [OFC 157.4] The Son of God saw that man could not of himself overcome this powerful temptation. . . . He came to earth to unite His divine power with our human efforts, that through the strength and moral power which He imparts, we might overcome in our own behalf. Oh! what matchless condescension for the King of glory to come down to this world to endure the pangs of hunger and the fierce temptations of a wily foe, that He might gain an infinite victory for man. Here is love without a parallel. Yet this great condescension is but dimly comprehended by those for whom it was made. {OFC 157.4} [OFC 157.5] It was not the gnawing pangs of hunger alone which made the sufferings of our Redeemer so inexpressibly severe. It was the sense of guilt which had resulted from the indulgence of appetite that had brought such terrible woe into the world, which pressed so heavily upon His divine soul. . . . {OFC 157.5} [OFC 157.6] With man’s nature, and the terrible weight of his sins pressing upon Him, our Redeemer withstood the power of Satan upon this great leading temptation, which imperils the souls of men. If man should overcome this temptation, he could conquer on every other point. {OFC 157.6} [OFC 158.1] Keeping Love Alive Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them. Colossians 3:18, 19. {OFC 158.1} [OFC 158.2] How much trouble and what a tide of woe and unhappiness would be saved if men, and women also, would continue to cultivate the regard, attention, and kind words of appreciation and little courtesies of life which kept love alive and which they felt were necessary in gaining the companions of their choice. If the husband and wife would only continue to cultivate these attentions which nourish love, they would be happy in each other’s society and would have a sanctifying influence upon their families. They would have in themselves a little world of happiness and would not desire to go outside this world for new attractions and new objects of love. . . . {OFC 158.2} [OFC 158.3] Many women pine for words of love and kindness and the common attentions and courtesies due them from their husbands who have selected them as their life companions. . . . It is these little attentions and courtesies which make up the sum of life’s happiness. . . . {OFC 158.3} [OFC 158.4] If the hearts were kept tender in our families, if there were a noble, generous deference to each other’s tastes and opinions, if the wife were seeking opportunities to express her love by actions in her courtesies to her husband, and the husband were manifesting the same consideration and kindly regard for the wife, the children would partake of the same spirit. The influence would pervade the household, and what a tide of misery would be saved in the families! . . . {OFC 158.4} [OFC 158.5] Every couple who unite their life interest should seek to make the life of each as happy as possible. That which we prize we seek to preserve and make more valuable if we can. In the marriage contract men and women have made a trade, an investment for life, and they should do their utmost to control their words of impatience and fretfulness, even more carefully than they did before their marriage, for now their destinies are united for life as husband and wife, and each is valued in exact proportion to the amount of painstaking effort put forth to retain and keep fresh the love so eagerly sought for and prized before marriage. {OFC 158.5} [OFC 159.1] The Voice Of Duty Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might. Ecclesiastes 9:10. {OFC 159.1} [OFC 159.2] The voice of duty is the voice of God—an inborn, heaven-sent guide. Whether it be pleasing or unpleasing, we are to do the duty that lies directly in our pathway. If the Lord would have us bear a message to Nineveh, it will not be pleasing to Him for us to go to Joppa or Capernaum. God has reasons for sending us to the place to which our feet are directed. . . . {OFC 159.2} [OFC 159.3] It is the little foxes that spoil the vines, the little neglects, the little deficiencies, the little dishonesties, the little departures from principle, that blind the soul and separate it from God. {OFC 159.3} [OFC 159.4] It is the little things of life that develop the spirit and determine the character. Those who neglect the little things will not be prepared to endure severe tests when they are brought to bear upon them. Remember that the character building is not finished till life ends. Every day a good or bad brick is placed in the structure. You are either building crookedly or with the exactness and correctness that will make a beautiful temple for God. Therefore, in looking for great things to do, neglect not the little opportunities that come to you day by day. He who neglects the little things, and yet flatters himself that he is ready to do wonderful things for the Master, is in danger of failing altogether, Life is made up, not of great sacrifices and of wonderful achievements, but of little things. {OFC 159.4} [OFC 159.5] Whatever your hands find to do, do it with your might. Make your work pleasant with songs of praise. If you would have a clean record in the books of heaven, never fret or scold. Let your daily prayer be, “Lord, help me to do my best. . . . Give me energy and cheerfulness. Help me to bring into my service the loving ministry of the Saviour.” {OFC 159.5} [OFC 159.6] Look upon every duty, however humble, as sacred because it is part of God’s service. Do not allow anything to make you forgetful of God. Bring Christ into all that you do. Then your lives will be filled with brightness and thanksgiving. You will do your best, moving forward cheerfully in the service of the Lord, your hearts filled with His joy. {OFC 159.6} [OFC 159.7] Living For Others Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many. Matthew 20:28. {OFC 159.7} [OFC 159.8] We are not to live for ourselves. Christ came to this world to live for others—not to be ministered unto, but to minister. If you strive to live as 160 He lived you are saying to the world, “Behold the Man of Calvary.” By precept and example you are leading others in the way of righteousness. {OFC 159.8} [OFC 160.1] The sin which is indulged to the greatest extent, and which separates us from God and produces so many contagious spiritual disorders, is selfishness. There can be no returning to the Lord except by self-denial. Of ourselves we can do nothing; but through God strengthening us we can live to do good to others, and in this way shun the evil of selfishness. We need not go to heathen lands to manifest our desire to devote all to God in a useful, unselfish life. We should do this in the home circle, in the church, among those with whom we associate and with whom we do business. Right in the common walks of life is where self is to be denied and kept in subordination. {OFC 160.1} [OFC 160.2] Paul could say: “I die daily” (1 Corinthians 15:31). It is the daily dying to self in the little transactions of life that makes us overcomers. We should forget self in the desire to do good to others. With many there is a decided lack of love for others. Instead of faithfully performing their duty, they seek rather their own pleasure. {OFC 160.2} [OFC 160.3] God positively enjoins upon all His followers a duty to bless others with their influence and means. . . . In doing for others, a sweet satisfaction will be experienced, an inward peace which will be a sufficient reward. When actuated by a high and noble desire to do others good, they will find true happiness in a faithful discharge of life’s manifold duties. This will bring more than an earthly reward; for every faithful, unselfish performance of duty is noticed by the angels and shines in the life record. In heaven none will think of self, nor seek their own pleasure; but all, from pure, genuine love, will seek the happiness of the heavenly beings around them. If we wish to enjoy heavenly society in the earth made new, we must be governed by heavenly principles here. {OFC 160.3} [OFC 160.4] No One Free From Temptation Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations. 1 Peter 1:5, 6. {OFC 160.4} [OFC 160.5] Do not think that the Christian life is free from temptation. Temptations will come to every Christian. Both the Christian and the one who does not accept Christ as his leader will have trials. The difference is that the latter is serving a tyrant, doing his mean drudgery, while the Christian is serving the One who died to give him eternal life. Do not look upon trial 161 as something strange, but as the means by which we are to be purified and strengthened. “Count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations,” James admonishes; “knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience” (James 1:2, 3). {OFC 160.5} [OFC 161.1] In the future life we shall understand things that here greatly perplex us. We shall realize how strong a helper we had and how angels of God were commissioned to guard us as we followed the counsel of the Word of God. {OFC 161.1} [OFC 161.2] To all who receive Him, Christ will give power to become the sons of God. He is a present help in every time of need. Let us be ashamed of our wavering faith. Those who are overcome have only themselves to blame for their failure to resist the enemy. All who choose can come to Christ and find the help they need. {OFC 161.2} [OFC 161.3] There stands among you the mighty Counselor of the ages, inviting you to place your confidence in Him. Shall we turn away from Him to uncertain human beings, who are as wholly dependent on God as we ourselves are? Have we fallen so far below our privileges? Have we not been guilty of expecting so little that we have not asked for what God is longing to give? {OFC 161.3} [OFC 161.4] “I will mention the lovingkindnesses of the Lord, and the praises of the Lord, according to all that the Lord hath bestowed on us, and the great goodness toward the house of Israel. . . . For he said, Surely they are my people, children that will not lie: so he was their Saviour. In all their affliction he was afflicted, and the angel of his presence saved them” (Isaiah 63:7-9). {OFC 161.4} [OFC 161.5] Strength For Today And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on my name, and I will hear them: I will say, It is my people: and they shall say, The Lord is my God. Zechariah 13:9. {OFC 161.5} [OFC 161.6] By trial the Lord proves the strength of His children. Is the heart strong to bear? Is the conscience void of offense? Does the Spirit bear witness with our spirit that we are the children of God? This the Lord ascertains by trying us. In the furnace of affliction He purifies us from all dross. He sends us trials, not to cause needless pain, but to lead us to look to Him, to strengthen our endurance, to teach us that if we do not rebel, but put our trust in Him, we shall see of His salvation. . . . {OFC 161.6} [OFC 161.7] Christ’s love for His children is as strong as it is tender. It is a love stronger than death, for He died for us. It is a love more true than that of 162 a mother for her children. The mother’s love may change, but Christ’s love is changeless. “I am persuaded,” Paul says, “that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:38, 39). {OFC 161.7} [OFC 162.1] In every trial we have strong consolation. Is not our Saviour touched with the feeling of our infirmities? Has He not been tempted in all points like as we are? And has He not invited us to take every trial and perplexity to Him? Then let us not make ourselves miserable over tomorrow’s burdens. Bravely and cheerfully carry the burdens of today. Today’s trust and faith we must have. But we are not asked to live more than a day at a time. He who gives strength for today will give strength for tomorrow. . . . {OFC 162.1} [OFC 162.2] Nothing wounds the soul like the sharp darts of unbelief. When trial comes, as it will, do not worry or complain. Silence in the soul makes more distinct the voice of God. “Then are they glad because they be quiet” (Psalm 107:30). Remember that underneath you are the everlasting arms. “Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him” (Psalm 37:7). He is guiding you into a harbor of gracious experience. {OFC 162.2} [OFC 162.3] Members Of God’s Household Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; and are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone. Ephesians 2:19, 20. {OFC 162.3} [OFC 162.4] The Lord Jesus is making experiments on human hearts through the exhibition of His mercy and abundant grace. He is effecting transformations so amazing that Satan . . . stands viewing them as a fortress impregnable to his sophistries and delusions. They are to him an incomprehensible mystery. The angels of God . . . look on with astonishment and joy, that fallen men, once children of wrath, are through the training of Christ developing characters after the divine similitude, to be sons and daughters of God, to act an important part in the occupations and pleasures of heaven. {OFC 162.4} [OFC 162.5] The Lord has provided His church with capabilities and blessings, that they may present to the world an image of His own sufficiency, and that His church may be complete in Him, a continual representation of another, even the eternal world, of laws that are higher than earthly laws. His 163 church is to be a temple built after the divine similitude. . . . {OFC 162.5} [OFC 163.1] To His church, Christ has given ample facilities, that He may receive a large revenue of glory from His redeemed, purchased possession. The church, being endowed with the righteousness of Christ, is His depository, in which the wealth of His mercy, His love, His grace, is to appear in full and final display. The declaration in His intercessory prayer, that the Father’s love is as great toward us as toward Himself, the only-begotten Son, and that we shall be with Him where He is, forever one with Christ and the Father, is a marvel to the heavenly host, and it is their great joy. The gift of His Holy Spirit, rich, full, and abundant, is to be to His church as an encompassing wall of fire, which the powers of hell shall not prevail against. In their untainted purity and spotless perfection, Christ looks upon His people as the reward of all His suffering, His humiliation, and His love, and the supplement of His glory—Christ, the great center from which radiates all glory. {OFC 163.1} [OFC 163.2] Remember Your High Calling Wherefore I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though ye know them, and be established in the present truth. 2 Peter 1:12. {OFC 163.2} [OFC 163.3] No matter how long we may have been traveling in the way of life eternal we need often to recount the mercies of our heavenly Father toward us and gather hope and courage from the promises of His Word. . . .Peter realized the value of constant vigilance in the Christian life, and he felt impelled by the Holy Spirit to urge upon the believers the importance of exercising great carefulness in the daily life. . . . {OFC 163.3} [OFC 163.4] “Always in remembrance.” Oh, if only we were to keep before our minds those things that pertain to our eternal welfare, we should not engage in any foolishness or idle speaking! Our lifework is before us. It is for us to give diligence to make our calling and election sure, by giving heed to the plain instruction contained in God’s Holy Word. . . . {OFC 163.4} [OFC 163.5] There are many wrong things which we allow to pass by unnoticed, when by our godly conversation we might set an example of rightdoing that would be a standing rebuke to the evildoers. We cannot afford by our example to seem to sanction wrongdoing. There is a heaven to win and a hell to shun. In large churches of believers. . . there is special danger of lowering the standard. Where many are gathered together some are more liable to grow careless and indifferent than they would be if isolated and made to stand alone. But even under adverse circumstances we may watch 164 unto prayer and set an example in godly conversation that will be a powerful testimony for the right. . . . We cannot afford to speak words that would discourage our fellow pilgrims in the Christian pathway. Christ has given His life in order that we might live with Him in glory. Throughout eternity He will bear in His hands the prints of the cruel nails by which He was transfixed to the cross of Calvary. . . . {OFC 163.5} [OFC 164.1] We are now fitting up for the future, eternal life; and soon, if faithful, we shall see the gates of the city of our God swing back on their glittering hinges that the nations who have kept the truth may enter in to their eternal inheritance. {OFC 164.1} [OFC 164.2] Our Mission To The World As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. John 17:18. {OFC 164.2} [OFC 164.3] Will separation from the world, in obedience to the divine command, unfit us for the work the Lord has left us? Will it hinder us from doing good to those around us? No; the firmer hold we have on heaven, the greater will be our power of usefulness. We should study the Pattern, that the spirit which dwelt in Christ may dwell in us. The Saviour was not found among the exalted and honorable of the world. He did not spend His time among those who were seeking their ease and pleasure. He worked to help those who needed help, to save the lost and perishing, to lift up the bowed down, to break the yoke of oppression from those in bondage, to heal the afflicted, and to speak words of sympathy and consolation to the distressed and sorrowing. We are required to follow this example. The more we partake of the spirit of Christ, the more we shall seek to do for our fellow men. We shall bless the needy and comfort the distressed. . . . {OFC 164.3} [OFC 164.4] Probation is about to close. . . . Soon the last prayer for sinners will have been offered, the last tear shed, the last warning given, the last entreaty made, and the sweet voice of mercy will be heard no more. This is why Satan is making such mighty efforts to secure men and women in his snare. . . . The enemy is playing the game of life for every soul. He is working to remove from us everything of a spiritual nature, and in the place of the precious graces of Christ to crowd our hearts with the evil traits of the carnal nature—hatred, evil surmising, jealousy, love of the world, love of self, love of pleasure, and the pride of life. We need to be fortified against the incoming foe, . . . for unless we are watchful and prayerful these evils will enter the heart and crowd out all that is good. {OFC 164.4} [OFC 164.5] How great is the responsibility placed upon the disciple of Christ. How imperative the duty to reflect the light of heaven upon a world enshrouded 165 in darkness. The deeper the surrounding gloom, the brighter should shine out the light of Christian faith and Christian example. {OFC 164.5} [OFC 165.1] The Most Powerful Argument I, even I, am the Lord; and beside me there is no saviour. . . . Therefore ye are my witnesses, saith the Lord, that I am God. Isaiah 43:11, 12. {OFC 165.1} [OFC 165.2] Of His true followers the Lord says, “This people have I formed for myself; they shall shew forth my praise” (verse 21). They are My witnesses, My chosen representatives, in an apostate world. . . . {OFC 165.2} [OFC 165.3] God calls for our cooperation. His requirements are just and reasonable. . . . When we take the name of Christ we pledge ourselves to represent Him. In order for us to be true to our pledge, Christ must be formed within, the hope of glory. The daily life must become more and more like the Christ life. We must be Christians in deed and in truth. Christ will have nothing to do with pretense. He will welcome to the heavenly courts those only whose Christianity is genuine. The lives of professed Christians who do not live the life of Christ are a mockery to religion. {OFC 165.3} [OFC 165.4] God does not ask us to purchase His favor by any costly sacrifice. He asks only for the service of a humble, contrite heart, which has gladly and thankfully accepted His free gift. The one who receives Christ as his personal Saviour has in his possession the salvation provided by Christ. And he is never to forget that as he has freely received, so he is freely to impart. {OFC 165.4} [OFC 165.5] Do you realize your value in the sight of God? He says, Ye are laborers together with Me. Are you letting your light shine in clear rays to a fallen world? Are you seeking to exercise every faculty and every power which God has given you? You may not be a minister, but you can be a witness. You may not be an eloquent speaker, but you can be eloquent in living Christ, you can be eloquent in letting your light shine before men. {OFC 165.5} [OFC 165.6] A true, lovable Christian is the most powerful argument that can be advanced in favor of Bible truth. Such a man is Christ’s representative. His life is the most convincing evidence that can be borne to the power of divine grace. When God’s people bring the righteousness of Christ into the daily life, sinners will be converted and victories over the enemy will be gained. {OFC 165.6} [OFC 166.1] Our Obligations To The Poor For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. Matthew 25:35, 36. {OFC 166.1} [OFC 166.2] While the world needs sympathy, while it needs the prayers and assistance of God’s people, while it needs to see Christ in the lives of His followers, the people of God are equally in need of opportunities that draw out their sympathies, give efficiency to their prayers, and develop in them a character like that of the divine pattern. {OFC 166.2} [OFC 166.3] It is to provide these opportunities that God has placed among us the poor, the unfortunate, the sick, and the suffering. They are Christ’s legacy to His church, and they are to be cared for as He would care for them. In this way God takes away the dross and purifies the gold, giving us that culture of heart and character which we need. {OFC 166.3} [OFC 166.4] The Lord could carry forward His work without our cooperation. He is not dependent on us for our money, our time, or our labor. But the church is very precious in His sight. It is the case which contains His jewels, the fold which encloses His flock, and He longs to see it without spot or blemish or any such things. He yearns after it with unspeakable love. This is why He has given us opportunities to work for Him, and He accepts our labors as tokens of our love and loyalty. {OFC 166.4} [OFC 166.5] In placing among us the poor and the suffering, the Lord is testing us to reveal to us what is in our hearts. . . . The culture of the mind and heart is more easily accomplished when we feel such tender sympathy for others that we bestow our benefits and privileges to relieve their necessities. . . . {OFC 166.5} [OFC 166.6] Good works cost us a sacrifice, but it is in this very sacrifice that they provide discipline. These obligations bring us into conflict with natural feelings and propensities, and in fulfilling them we gain victory after victory over the objectionable traits of our characters. {OFC 166.6} [OFC 166.7] The world will be convinced not so much by what the pulpit teaches as by what the church lives. The preacher announces the theory of the gospel, but the practical piety of the church demonstrates its power. {OFC 166.7} [OFC 167.1] A Work Of Preparation Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ. Philippians 1:6. {OFC 167.1} [OFC 167.2] There is an earnest work of preparation to be done by Seventh-day Adventists if they would stand firm in the trying experiences just before them. If they remain true to God in the confusion and temptation of the last days, they must seek the Lord in humility of heart for wisdom to resist the deceptions of the enemy. . . . {OFC 167.2} [OFC 167.3] Ever are we to keep in mind the solemn thought of the Lord’s soon return, and in view of this to recognize the individual work to be done. Through the aid of the Holy Spirit we are to resist natural inclinations and tendencies to wrong, and weed out of the life every un-Christlike element. Thus we shall prepare our hearts for the reception of God’s blessing, which will impart to us grace and bring us into harmony with the faith of Jesus. For this work of preparation great advantages have been granted to this people in light bestowed, in messages of warning and instruction, sent through the agency of the Spirit of God. {OFC 167.3} [OFC 167.4] Because of the increasing power of Satan’s temptations, the times in which we live are full of peril for the children of God, and we need to learn constantly of the Great Teacher, that we may take every step in surety and righteousness. Wonderful scenes are opening before us, and at this time a living testimony is to be borne in the lives of God’s professing people, so that the world may see that in this age when evil reigns on every side, there is yet a people who are laying aside their will and are seeking to do God’s will—a people in whose hearts and lives the law of God is written. There are strong temptations before us, sharp tests. The commandment-keeping people of God are to prepare for this time of trial by obtaining a deeper experience in the things of God and a practical knowledge of the righteousness of Christ. . . . Not to unbelievers only, but to church members the words are spoken, “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near” (Isaiah 55:6). . . . {OFC 167.4} [OFC 167.5] Let your daily lives witness to the faith you profess. {OFC 167.5} [OFC 168.1] If Christ Should Come Today Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man. Luke 21:36. {OFC 168.1} [OFC 168.2] Christ bids us watch, that we may be accounted worthy to escape the things that are coming on the earth. It is of the greatest importance that we heed this warning. The enemy of all righteousness is on our track, seeking to lead us to forget God. {OFC 168.2} [OFC 168.3] We should be filled with joy at the thought of Christ’s soon appearing. To those that love His appearing He will come without sin unto salvation. But if our minds are filled with thoughts of earthly things, we cannot look forward with joy to His appearing. {OFC 168.3} [OFC 168.4] “If I knew that Christ were coming in a few years,” one says, “I should live very differently.” But if we believe that He is coming at all, we should live just as faithfully as if we knew that He would appear in a few years. We cannot see the end from the beginning, but Christ has provided sufficient help for every day in the year. {OFC 168.4} [OFC 168.5] All we have to do with is this one day. Today we must be faithful to our trust. Today we must love God with all the heart and our neighbor as ourselves. Today we must resist the temptations of the enemy, and through the grace of Christ gain the victory. Thus we shall watch and wait for Christ’s coming. Each day we should live as if we knew that this would be our last day on this earth. If we knew that Christ would come tomorrow, would we not crowd into today all the kind words, all the unselfish deeds, that we could? We should be patient and gentle, and intensely in earnest, doing all in our power to win souls to Christ. . . . {OFC 168.5} [OFC 168.6] I urge you to turn your thoughts from worldly things and center them on the things of eternity. Christ has placed everlasting life within your reach, and He has promised to give you help in every time of need. . . . We should never rest satisfied with present attainments. If we put mind and heart into the work of reaching God’s ideal for us, if we go to Christ, the mighty helper, for aid, He will give us the very assistance that we need. He will bestow on us the very power that will enable us to be victorious in the struggle against evil. {OFC 168.6} [OFC 169.1] By The Tree Of Life And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation. Revelation 5:9. {OFC 169.1} [OFC 169.2] Do we expect to get to heaven at last and join the heavenly choir? Just as we go into the grave we will come up, as far as the character is concerned....Now is the time for washing and ironing.... {OFC 169.2} [OFC 169.3] John saw the throne of God and around that throne a company, and he inquired, Who are these? The answer came, “These are they which . . . have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb” (Revelation 7:14). Christ leads them to the fountains of living waters, and there is the tree of life and there is the precious Saviour. Here is presented to us a life that measures with the life of God. There is no pain, sorrow, sickness, or death there. All is peace and harmony and love. . . . {OFC 169.3} [OFC 169.4] Now is the time to receive grace and strength and power to combine with our human efforts that we can form characters for everlasting life. When we do this we will find that the angels of God will minister unto us, and we shall be heirs of God and joint heirs with Jesus Christ. And when the last trump shall sound, and the dead shall be called from their prison house and changed in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, the crowns of immortal glory shall be placed upon the heads of the overcomers. The pearly gates will swing back for the nations that have kept the truth and they will enter in. The conflict is ended. {OFC 169.4} [OFC 169.5] “Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world” (Matthew 25:34). Do we want this benediction? I do, and I believe you do. May God help you that you may fight the battles of this life and gain a victory day by day and at last be among the number that shall cast their crowns at Jesus’ feet and touch the golden harps and fill all heaven with sweetest music. I want you to love my Jesus....Do not reject my Saviour, for He has paid an infinite price for you. I see in Jesus matchless charms, and I want you to see these charms. {OFC 169.5} [OFC 169.6] Chapter 7—Conflict and Courage One Expensive Mistake God hath made man upright; but they have sought out many inventions. Ecclesiastes 7:29. {OFC 169.6} [OFC 170.1] 170 The book of Genesis gives quite a definite account of social and individual life, and yet we have no record of an infant’s being born blind, deaf, crippled, deformed, or imbecile. There is not an instance upon record of a natural death in infancy, childhood, or early manhood. There is no account of men and women dying of disease. Obituary notices in the book of Genesis run thus: “And all the days that Adam lived were nine hundred and thirty years: and he died.”“And all the days of Seth were nine hundred and twelve years: and he died.” . . . {OFC 170.1} [OFC 170.2] God endowed man with so great vital force that he has withstood the accumulation of disease brought upon the race in consequence of perverted habits, and has continued for six thousand years. This fact of itself is enough to evidence to us the strength and electrical energy that God gave to man at his creation. . . . If Adam, at his creation, had not been endowed with twenty times as much vital force as men now have, the race, with their present habits of living in violation of natural law, would have become extinct. . . . {OFC 170.2} [OFC 170.3] God did not create the race in its present feeble condition. This state of things is not the work of Providence, but the work of man; it has been brought about by wrong habits and abuses, by violating the laws that God has made to govern man’s existence. {OFC 170.3} [OFC 170.4] God created man for His own glory, that after test and trial the human family might become one with the heavenly family, if they would show themselves obedient to His every word. {OFC 170.4} [OFC 170.5] To Eve it seemed a small thing to disobey God by tasting the fruit of the forbidden tree, and to tempt her husband also to transgress; but their sin opened the floodgates of woe upon the world. Who can know, in the moment of temptation, the terrible consequences that will result from one wrong step? {OFC 170.5} [OFC 170.6] Adam Home Again! For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ’s at his coming. 1 Corinthians 15:22, 23. {OFC 170.6} [OFC 170.7] Amid the reeling of the earth, the flash of lightning, and the roar of thunder, the voice of the Son of God calls forth the sleeping saints. . . . The dead shall hear that voice, and they that hear shall live. And the whole earth shall ring with the tread of the exceeding great army of every nation, kindred, tongue, and people. . . . {OFC 170.7} [OFC 170.8] All come forth from their graves the same in stature as when they entered the tomb. Adam, who stands among the risen throng, is of lofty 171 height and majestic form, in stature but little below the Son of God. He presents a marked contrast to the people of later generations; in this one respect is shown the great degeneracy of the race. But all arise with the freshness and vigor of eternal youth. . . . {OFC 170.8} [OFC 171.1] All blemishes and deformities are left in the grave. Restored to the tree of life in the long-lost Eden, the redeemed will “grow up” to the full stature of the race in its primeval glory. . . . {OFC 171.1} [OFC 171.2] As the ransomed ones are welcomed to the City of God, there rings out upon the air an exultant cry of adoration. The two Adams are about to meet. The Son of God is standing with outstretched arms to receive the father of our race—the being whom He created, who sinned against his Maker, and for whose sin the marks of the crucifixion are borne upon the Saviour’s form. As Adam discerns the prints of the cruel nails, he does not fall upon the bosom of his Lord, but in humiliation casts himself at His feet, crying: “Worthy, worthy is the Lamb that was slain!” Tenderly the Saviour lifts him up and bids him look once more upon the Eden home from which he has so long been exiled. . . . {OFC 171.2} [OFC 171.3] This reunion is witnessed by the angels who wept at the fall of Adam and rejoiced when Jesus, after His resurrection, ascended to heaven, having opened the grave for all who should believe on His name. Now they behold the work of redemption accomplished, and they unite their voices in the song of praise. {OFC 171.3} [OFC 171.4] An Open Door By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God. Hebrews 11:5. {OFC 171.4} [OFC 171.5] When we learn to walk by faith and not by feeling, we shall have help from God just when we need it, and His peace will come into our hearts. It was this simple life of obedience and trust that Enoch lived. If we learn this lesson of simple trust, ours may be the testimony that he received, that he pleased God. {OFC 171.5} [OFC 171.6] In every phase of your character building you are to please God. This you may do; for Enoch pleased Him though living in a degenerate age. And there are Enochs in this our day. {OFC 171.6} [OFC 171.7] For three hundred years Enoch had been seeking purity of heart, that he might be in harmony with heaven. For three centuries he had walked with God. Day by day he had longed for a closer union; nearer and nearer had grown the communion, until God took him to Himself. He had stood at the threshold of the eternal world, only a step between him and the land 172 of the blest; and now the portals opened, the walk with God, so long pursued on earth, continued, and he passed through the gates of the holy city,—the first from among men to enter there. {OFC 171.7} [OFC 172.1] With the word of God in his hands, every human being, wherever his lot in life may be cast, may have such companionship as he shall choose. In its pages he may hold converse with the noblest and best of the human race, and may listen to the voice of the Eternal as He speaks with men. . . . He may dwell in this world in the atmosphere of heaven, imparting to earth’s sorrowing and tempted ones thoughts of hope and longings for holiness; . . . like him of old who walked with God, drawing nearer and nearer the threshold of the eternal world, until the portals shall open, and he shall enter there. He will find himself no stranger. The voices that will greet him are the voices of the holy ones, who, unseen, were on earth his companions—voices that here he learned to distinguish and to love. He who through the word of God has lived in fellowship with heaven, will find himself at home in heaven’s companionship. {OFC 172.1} [OFC 172.2] Safe Inside And the Lord said unto Noah, Come thou and all thy house into the ark; for thee have I seen righteous before me in this generation. Genesis 7:1. {OFC 172.2} [OFC 172.3] Noah had faithfully followed the instructions which he had received from God. The ark was finished in every part as the Lord had directed, and was stored with food for man and beast. And now the servant of God made his last solemn appeal to the people. With an agony of desire that words cannot express, he entreated them to seek a refuge while it might be found. Again they rejected his words, and raised their voices in jest and scoffing. Suddenly a silence fell upon the mocking throng. Beasts of every description, the fiercest as well as the most gentle, were seen coming from mountain and forest and quietly making their way toward the ark. A noise as of a rushing wind was heard, and lo, birds were flocking from all directions, their numbers darkening the heavens, and in perfect order they passed to the ark. Animals obeyed the command of God, while men were disobedient. {OFC 172.3} [OFC 172.4] When they saw the beasts come from the forests to the door of the ark, and Noah take them in, they had so long resisted, so long denied the message that God had given them, that . . . conscience had become unimpressible. {OFC 172.4} [OFC 172.5] Mercy had ceased its pleadings for the guilty race. The beasts of the field and the birds of the air had entered the place of refuge. Noah and his 173 household were within the ark, “and the Lord shut him in.” . . . The massive door, which it was impossible for those within to close, was slowly swung to its place by unseen hands. Noah was shut in, and the rejecters of God’s mercy were shut out. The seal of Heaven was on that door; God had shut it, and God alone could open it. So when Christ shall cease His intercession for guilty men, before His coming in the clouds of heaven, the door of mercy will be shut. Then divine grace will no longer restrain the wicked, and Satan will have full control of those who have rejected mercy. They will endeavor to destroy God’s people; but as Noah was shut into the ark, so the righteous will be shielded by divine power. {OFC 172.5} [OFC 173.1] A Home God Can Bless For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment. Genesis 18:19. {OFC 173.1} [OFC 173.2] In God’s sight, a man is just what he is in his family. The life of Abraham, the friend of God, was signalized by a strict regard for the word of the Lord. He cultivated home religion. The fear of God pervaded his household. He was the priest of his home. He looked upon his family as a sacred trust. His household numbered more than a thousand souls, and he directed them all, parents and children, to the divine Sovereign. He suffered no parental oppression on the one hand or filial disobedience on the other. By the combined influence of love and justice, he ruled his household in the fear of God, and the Lord bore witness to his faithfulness. {OFC 173.2} [OFC 173.3] He “will command . . . his household.” There would be no sinful neglect to restrain the evil propensities of his children, no weak, unwise, indulgent favoritism, no yielding of his conviction of duty to the claims of mistaken affection. Abraham would not only give right instruction, but he would maintain the authority of just and righteous laws. {OFC 173.3} [OFC 173.4] How few there are in our day who follow this example. On the part of too many parents there is a blind and selfish sentimentalism, which is manifested in leaving children with their unformed judgment and undisciplined passions, to the control of their own will. This is the worst cruelty to the youth and a great wrong to the world. Parental indulgence causes disorder in families and in society. It confirms in the young the desire to follow inclination, instead of submitting to the divine requirements. {OFC 173.4} [OFC 173.5] Parents and children alike belong to God to be ruled by Him. By affection and authority combined, Abraham ruled his house. God’s word has given us rules for our guidance. These rules form the standard from which we cannot swerve if we would keep the way of the Lord. God’s will 174 must be paramount. The question for us to ask is not: What have others done? What will my relatives think? or, What will they say of me if I pursue this course? but, What has God said? Neither parent nor child can truly prosper in any course excepting in the way of the Lord. {OFC 173.5} [OFC 174.1] How Can I Do It? How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God? Genesis 39:9. {OFC 174.1} [OFC 174.2] It is always a critical period in a young man’s life when he is separated from home influences and wise counsels and enters upon new scenes and trying tests. But if he does not of his own accord place himself in these positions of danger and remove himself from parental restraint; if, without will or choice of his own, he is placed in dangerous positions and relies upon God for strength—cherishing the love of God in his heart—he will be kept from yielding to temptation by the power of God who placed him in that trying position. God will protect him from being corrupted by the fierce temptation. God was with Joseph in his new home. He was in the path of duty, suffering wrong but not doing wrong. He therefore had the love and protection of God for he carried his religious principle into everything he undertook. {OFC 174.2} [OFC 174.3] Joseph’s faith and integrity were to be tested by fiery trials. His master’s wife endeavored to entice the young man to transgress the law of God. Heretofore he had remained untainted by the corruption teeming in that heathen land; but this temptation, so sudden, so strong, so seductive—how should it be met? Joseph knew well what would be the consequence of resistance. On the one hand were concealment, favor, and rewards; on the other, disgrace, imprisonment, perhaps death. His whole future life depended upon the decision of the moment. Would principle triumph? Would Joseph still be true to God? With inexpressible anxiety, angels looked upon the scene. {OFC 174.3} [OFC 174.4] Joseph’s answer reveals the power of religious principle. He would not betray the confidence of his master on earth, and, whatever the consequences, he would be true to his Master in heaven. Under the inspecting eye of God and holy angels many take liberties of which they would not be guilty in the presence of their fellow men, but Joseph’s first thought was of God. “How can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?” he said. {OFC 174.4} [OFC 174.5] If we were to cherish an habitual impression that God sees and hears all that we do and say and keeps a faithful record of our words and actions, and that we must meet it all, we would fear to sin. {OFC 174.5} [OFC 175.1] Power Guaranteed As a prince hast thou power with God and with men, and hast prevailed. Genesis 32:28. {OFC 175.1} [OFC 175.2] Had not Jacob previously repented of his sin in obtaining the birthright by fraud, God could not have heard his prayer and mercifully preserved his life. So in the time of trouble, if the people of God had unconfessed sins to appear before them while tortured with fear and anguish, they would be overwhelmed; despair would cut off their faith, and they could not have confidence to plead with God for deliverance. But while they have a deep sense of their unworthiness, they will have no concealed wrongs to reveal. Their sins will have been blotted out by the atoning blood of Christ, and they cannot bring them to remembrance. . . . {OFC 175.2} [OFC 175.3] All who endeavor to excuse or conceal their sins, and permit them to remain upon the books of heaven, unconfessed and unforgiven, will be overcome by Satan. The more exalted their profession, and the more honorable the position which they hold, the more grievous is their course in the sight of God, and the more certain the triumph of the great adversary. {OFC 175.3} [OFC 175.4] Yet Jacob’s history is an assurance that God will not cast off those who have been betrayed into sin, but who have returned unto Him with true repentance. It was by self-surrender and confiding faith that Jacob gained what he had failed to gain by conflict in his own strength. God thus taught His servant that divine power and grace alone could give him the blessing he craved. Thus it will be with those who live in the last days. As dangers surround them, and despair seizes upon the soul, they must depend solely upon the merits of the atonement. . . . None will ever perish while they do this. . . . {OFC 175.4} [OFC 175.5] Jacob prevailed because he was persevering and determined. . . . It is now that we are to learn this lesson of prevailing prayer, of unyielding faith. The greatest victories to the church of Christ or to the individual Christian are not those that are gained by talent or education, by wealth or the favor of men. They are those victories that are gained in the audience chamber with God, when earnest, agonizing faith lays hold upon the mighty arm of power. {OFC 175.5} [OFC 176.1] Seeing The Invisible By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible. Hebrews 11:27. {OFC 176.1} [OFC 176.2] Moses had a deep sense of the personal presence of God. He was not only looking down through the ages for Christ to be made manifest in the flesh, but he saw Christ in a special manner accompanying the children of Israel in all their travels. God was real to him, ever present in his thoughts. When misunderstood, when called upon to face danger and to bear insult for Christ’s sake, he endured without retaliation. Moses believed in God as one whom he needed and who would help him because of his need. God was to him a present help. {OFC 176.2} [OFC 176.3] Much of the faith which we see is merely nominal; the real, trusting, persevering faith is rare. Moses realized in his own experience the promise that God will be a rewarder to those who diligently seek Him. He had respect unto the recompense of the reward. Here is another point in regard to faith which we wish to study; God will reward the man of faith and obedience. If this faith is brought into the life experience, it will enable everyone who fears and loves God to endure trials. Moses was full of confidence in God because he had appropriating faith. He needed help, and he prayed for it, grasped it by faith, and wove into his experience the belief that God cared for him. He believed that God ruled his life in particular. He saw and acknowledged God in every detail of his life and felt that he was under the eye of the All-seeing One, who weighs motives, who tries the heart. He looked to God and trusted in Him for strength to carry him uncorrupted through every form of temptation. . . . The presence of God was sufficient to carry him through the most trying situations in which a man could be placed. {OFC 176.3} [OFC 176.4] Moses did not merely think of God; he saw Him. God was the constant vision before him; he never lost sight of His face. He saw Jesus as his Saviour, and he believed that the Saviour’s merits would be imputed to him. This faith was to Moses no guesswork; it was a reality. This is the kind of faith we need, faith that will endure the test. Oh, how often we yield to temptation because we do not keep our eye upon Jesus! {OFC 176.4} [OFC 176.5] Cloud And Fire He spread a cloud for a covering; and fire to give light in the night. Psalm 105:39. {OFC 176.5} [OFC 177.1] 177 “And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of cloud, to lead them the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light.” . . . The standard of their invisible Leader was ever with them. By day the cloud directed their journeyings or spread as a canopy above the host. It served as a protection from the burning heat, and by its coolness and moisture afforded grateful refreshment in the parched, thirsty desert. By night it became a pillar of fire, illuminating their encampment and constantly assuring them of the divine presence. {OFC 177.1} [OFC 177.2] In one of the most beautiful and comforting passages of Isaiah’s prophecy, reference is made to the pillar of cloud and of fire to represent God’s care for His people in the great final struggle with the powers of evil: “The Lord will create upon every dwelling place of Mount Zion, and upon her assemblies, a cloud and smoke by day, and the shining of a flaming fire by night: for above all the glory shall be a covering. And there shall be a tabernacle for a shadow in the daytime from the heat, and for a place of refuge, and for a covert from storm and from rain” (Isaiah 4:5, 6, margin). {OFC 177.2} [OFC 177.3] In the time of trial before us God’s pledge of security will be placed upon those who have kept the word of His patience. Christ will say to His faithful ones: “Come, my people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee: hide thyself as it were for a little moment until the indignation be overpast” (Isaiah 26:20). The Lion of Judah, so terrible to the rejectors of His grace, will be the Lamb of God to the obedient and faithful. The pillar of cloud which speaks wrath and terror to the transgressor of God’s law is light and mercy and deliverance to those who have kept His commandments. The arm strong to smite the rebellious will be strong to deliver the loyal. Every faithful one will surely be gathered. “He shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other” (Matthew 24:31). {OFC 177.3} [OFC 177.4] Why Wait? Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it. Numbers 13:30. {OFC 177.4} [OFC 177.5] It was Caleb’s faith in God that gave him courage; that . . . enabled him to stand boldly and unflinchingly in defense of the right. From the same exalted source, the mighty General of the armies of heaven, every true soldier of the cross of Christ must receive strength and courage to overcome obstacles that often seem insurmountable. . . . Those who would do their duty must be ever ready to speak the words that God gives them, and not the words of doubt, discouragement, and despair. . . . {OFC 177.5} [OFC 178.1] 178 While the doubting ones talk of impossibilities, while they tremble at the thought of high walls and strong giants, let the faithful Calebs, who have “another spirit,” come to the front. The truth of God, which bringeth salvation, will go forth to the people if ministers and professed believers will not hedge up its way, as did the unfaithful spies. . . {OFC 178.1} [OFC 178.2] Human agencies are to be employed in this work. Zeal and energy must be intensified; talents that are rusting from inaction must be pressed into service. The voice that would say, “Wait; do not allow yourself to have burdens imposed upon you,” is the voice of the cowardly spies. We want Calebs now who will press to the front—chieftains in Israel who with courageous words will make a strong report in favor of immediate action. When the selfish, ease-loving, panic-stricken people, fearing tall giants and inaccessible walls, clamor for retreat, let the voice of the Calebs be heard, even though the cowardly ones stand with stones in their hands, ready to beat them down for their faithful testimony. {OFC 178.2} [OFC 178.3] It is when the unbelieving cast contempt upon the Word of God that the faithful Calebs are called for. It is then that they will stand firm at the post of duty, without parade, and without swerving because of reproach. The unbelieving spies stood ready to destroy Caleb. He saw the stones in the hands of those who had brought a false report, but this did not deter him; he had a message, and he would bear it. The same spirit will be manifested today by those who are true to God. {OFC 178.3} [OFC 178.4] The Only Way To Win This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein; for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. Joshua 1:8. {OFC 178.4} [OFC 178.5] If men will walk in the path that God has marked out for them, they will have a counselor whose wisdom is far above any human wisdom. Joshua was a wise general because God was his guide. The first sword that Joshua used was the sword of the Spirit, the Word of God. . . . {OFC 178.5} [OFC 178.6] It was because the strongest influences were to be brought to bear against his principles of righteousness that the Lord in mercy charged him not to turn to the right hand or to the left. He was to follow a course of strictest integrity. . . . If there had been no peril before Joshua, God would not over and over again have charged him to be of good courage. But amid all his cares, Joshua had his God to guide Him. {OFC 178.6} [OFC 178.7] There is no greater deception than for man to suppose that in any difficulty he can find a better guide than God, a wiser counselor in any 179 emergency, a stronger defense under any circumstance. . . . {OFC 178.7} [OFC 179.1] The Lord has a great work to be done in our world. To every man He has given His work for man to do. But man is not to make man his guide, lest he be led astray; this is always unsafe. While Bible religion embodies the principles of activity in service, at the same time there is the necessity of asking for wisdom daily from the Source of all wisdom. What was Joshua’s victory? Thou shalt meditate upon the Word of God day and night. The word of the Lord came to Joshua just before he passed over Jordan. . . . This was the secret of Joshua’s victory. He made God his Guide. {OFC 179.1} [OFC 179.2] Those holding the positions of counselors should be unselfish men, men of faith, men of prayer, men that will not dare to rely upon their own human wisdom, but will seek earnestly for light and intelligence as to what is the best manner of conducting their business. Joshua, the commander of Israel, searched the books diligently in which Moses had faithfully chronicled the directions given by God,—His requirements, reproofs, and restrictions,—lest he should move unadvisedly. {OFC 179.2} [OFC 179.3] Too Many Soldiers And the Lord said unto Gideon, The people that are with thee are too many for me to give the Midianites into their hands, lest Israel vaunt themselves against me, saying, Mine own hand hath saved me. Judges 7:2. {OFC 179.3} [OFC 179.4] It had been made a law in Israel that before they went to battle the following proclamation should be made throughout the army: “What man is there that hath built a new house, and hath not dedicated it? let him go and return to his house, lest he die in the battle, and another man dedicate it. And what man is he that hath planted a vineyard, and hath not yet eaten of it? let him also go and return unto his house, lest he die in the battle, and another man eat of it. And what man is there that hath betrothed a wife, and hath not taken her? let him go and return unto his house, lest he die in the battle, and another man take her.” And the officers were to speak further to the people, saying, “What man is there that is fearful and fainthearted? let him go and return unto his house, lest his brethren’s heart faint as well as his heart” (Deuteronomy 20:5-8). {OFC 179.4} [OFC 179.5] Because his numbers were so few compared with those of the enemy, Gideon had refrained from making the usual proclamation. He was filled with astonishment at the declaration that his army was too large. But the Lord saw the pride and unbelief existing in the hearts of His people. Aroused by the stirring appeals of Gideon, they had readily enlisted; but 180 many were filled with fear when they saw the multitudes of the Midianites. Yet, had Israel triumphed, those very ones would have taken the glory to themselves instead of ascribing the victory to God. {OFC 179.5} [OFC 180.1] Gideon obeyed the Lord’s direction, and with a heavy heart he saw twenty-two thousand, or more than two thirds of his entire force, depart for their homes. {OFC 180.1} [OFC 180.2] The Lord is willing to do great things for us. We shall not gain the victory through numbers, but through the full surrender of the soul to Jesus. We are to go forward in His strength, trusting in the mighty God of Israel. There is a lesson for us in the story of Gideon’s army. . . . The Lord is just as willing to work through human efforts now, and to accomplish great things through weak instrumentalities. {OFC 180.2} [OFC 180.3] No Generation Gap And the child Samuel ministered unto the Lord before Eli. 1 Samuel 3:1. {OFC 180.3} [OFC 180.4] Young as he was when brought to minister in the tabernacle, Samuel had even then duties to perform in the service of God, according to his capacity. These were at first very humble, and not always pleasant; but they were performed to the best of his ability, and with a willing heart. . . . {OFC 180.4} [OFC 180.5] If children were taught to regard the humble round of everyday duties as the course marked out for them by the Lord, as a school in which they were to be trained to render faithful and efficient service, how much more pleasant and honorable would their work appear. To perform every duty as unto the Lord, throws a charm around the humblest employment and links the workers on earth with the holy beings who do God’s will in heaven. {OFC 180.5} [OFC 180.6] The life of Samuel from early childhood had been a life of piety and devotion. He had been placed under the care of Eli in his youth, and the loveliness of his character drew forth the warm affection of the aged priest. He was kind, generous, diligent, obedient, and respectful. The contrast between the course of the youth Samuel and that of the priest’s own sons was very marked, and Eli found rest and comfort and blessing in the presence of his charge. It was a singular thing that between Eli, the chief magistrate of the nation, and the simple child so warm a friendship should exist. Samuel was helpful and affectionate, and no father ever loved his child more tenderly than did Eli this youth. As the infirmities of age came upon Eli, he felt more keenly the disheartening, reckless, profligate course of his own sons, and he turned to Samuel for comfort and support. {OFC 180.6} [OFC 180.7] How touching to see youth and old age relying one upon the other, the youth looking up to the aged for counsel and wisdom, the aged looking to 181 the youth for help and sympathy. This is as it should be. God would have the young possess such qualifications of character that they shall find delight in the friendship of the old, that they may be united in the endearing bonds of affection to those who are approaching the borders of the grave. {OFC 180.7} [OFC 181.1] Preparing To Lead When there came a lion, or a bear, and took a lamb out of the flock, I went out after him, and smote him, and delivered it out of his mouth: and when he arose against me, I caught him by his beard, and smote him, and slew him. 1 Samuel 17:34, 35, R.V. {OFC 181.1} [OFC 181.2] David was growing in favor with God and man. He had been instructed in the way of the Lord, and he now set his heart more fully to do the will of God than ever before. He had new themes for thought. He had been in the court of the king and had seen the responsibilities of royalty. He had discovered some of the temptations that beset the soul of Saul and had penetrated some of the mysteries in the character and dealings of Israel’s first king. He had seen the glory of royalty shadowed with a dark cloud of sorrow, and he knew that the household of Saul, in their private life, were far from happy. All these things served to bring troubled thoughts to him who had been anointed to be king over Israel. But while he was absorbed in deep meditation, and harassed by thoughts of anxiety, he turned to his harp, and called forth strains that elevated his mind to the Author of every good, and the dark clouds that seemed to shadow the horizon of the future were dispelled. {OFC 181.2} [OFC 181.3] God was teaching David lessons of trust. As Moses was trained for his work, so the Lord was fitting the son of Jesse to become the guide of His chosen people. In his watchcare for his flocks, he was gaining an appreciation of the care that the Great Shepherd has for the sheep of His pasture. {OFC 181.3} [OFC 181.4] The lonely hills and the wild ravines where David wandered with his flocks were the lurking place of beasts of prey. Not infrequently the lion from the thickets by the Jordan, or the bear from his lair among the hills, came, fierce with hunger, to attack the flocks. According to the custom of his time, David was armed only with his sling and shepherd’s staff; yet he early gave proof of his strength and courage in protecting his charge. . . . {OFC 181.4} [OFC 181.5] His experience in these matters proved the heart of David and developed in him courage and fortitude and faith. {OFC 181.5} [OFC 182.1] Satan’s Stealthy Work For our fight is not against any physical enemy: it is against organizations and powers that are spiritual. We are up against the unseen power that controls this dark world, and spiritual agents from the very headquarters of evil. Ephesians 6:12, Phillips. {OFC 182.1} [OFC 182.2] The Bible has little to say in praise of men. Little space is given to recounting the virtues of even the best men who have ever lived. This silence is not without purpose; it is not without a lesson. All the good qualities that men possess are the gift of God; their good deeds are performed by the grace of God through Christ. Since they owe all to God the glory of whatever they are or do belongs to Him alone; they are but instruments in His hands. More than this—as all the lessons of Bible history teach—it is a perilous thing to praise or exalt men; for if one comes to lose sight of his entire dependence on God, and to trust to his own strength, he is sure to fall. . . . {OFC 182.2} [OFC 182.3] It is impossible for us in our own strength to maintain the conflict; and whatever diverts the mind from God, whatever leads to self-exaltation or to self-dependence, is surely preparing the way for our overthrow. The tenor of the Bible is to inculcate distrust of human power and to encourage trust in divine power. {OFC 182.3} [OFC 182.4] It was the spirit of self-confidence and self-exaltation that prepared the way for David’s fall. Flattery and the subtle allurements of power and luxury were not without effect upon him. Intercourse with surrounding nations also exerted an influence for evil. According to the customs prevailing among Eastern rulers, crimes not to be tolerated in subjects were uncondemned in the king; the monarch was not under obligation to exercise the same self-restraint as the subject. All this tended to lessen David’s sense of the exceeding sinfulness of sin. And instead of relying in humility upon the power of Jehovah, he began to trust to his own wisdom and might. {OFC 182.4} [OFC 182.5] As soon as Satan can separate the soul from God, the only Source of strength, he will seek to arouse the unholy desires of man’s carnal nature. The work of the enemy is not abrupt; it is not, at the outset, sudden and startling; it is a secret undermining of the strongholds of principle. {OFC 182.5} [OFC 183.1] A Late Awakening Then I looked on all the works that my hands had wrought, and on the labour that I had laboured to do: and, behold, all was vanity and vexation of spirit, and there was no profit under the sun. Ecclesiastes 2:11. {OFC 183.1} [OFC 183.2] By his own bitter experience, Solomon learned the emptiness of a life that seeks in earthly things its highest good. He erected altars to heathen gods, only to learn how vain is their promise of rest to the spirit. Gloomy and soul-harassing thoughts troubled him night and day. For him there was no longer any joy of life or peace of mind, and the future was dark with despair. {OFC 183.2} [OFC 183.3] Yet the Lord forsook him not. By messages of reproof and by severe judgments, He sought to arouse the king to a realization of the sinfulness of his course. . . . At last the Lord, through a prophet, delivered to Solomon the startling message: . . . “I will surely rend the kingdom from thee, and will give it to thy servant. Notwithstanding in thy days I will not do it for David thy father’s sake: but I will rend it out of the hand of thy son.” {OFC 183.3} [OFC 183.4] Awakened as from a dream by this sentence of judgment pronounced against him and his house, Solomon with quickened conscience began to see his folly in its true light. Chastened in spirit, with mind and body enfeebled, he turned wearied and thirsting from earth’s broken cisterns, to drink once more at the fountain of life. . . . He could never hope to escape the blasting results of sin; he could never free his mind from all remembrance of the self-indulgent course he had been pursuing; but he would endeavor earnestly to dissuade others from following after folly. . . . {OFC 183.4} [OFC 183.5] The true penitent does not put his past sins from his remembrance. He does not, as soon as he has obtained peace, grow unconcerned in regard to the mistakes he has made. He thinks of those who have been led into evil by his course, and tries in every possible way to lead them back into the true path. The clearer the light that he has entered into, the stronger is his desire to set the feet of others in the right way. {OFC 183.5} [OFC 183.6] A Voice In The Wilderness And Elijah the Tishbite, . . . said unto Ahab, As the Lord God of Israel liveth, before whom I stand, there shall not be dew nor rain these years, but according to my word. 1 Kings 17:1. {OFC 183.6} [OFC 184.1] 184 Among the mountains of Gilead, east of the Jordan, there dwelt in the days of Ahab a man of faith and prayer whose fearless ministry was destined to check the rapid spread of apostasy in Israel. Far removed from any city of renown, and occupying no high station in life, Elijah the Tishbite nevertheless entered upon his mission confident in God’s purpose to prepare the way before him and to give him abundant success. The word of faith and power was upon his lips, and his whole life was devoted to the work of reform. His was the voice of one crying in the wilderness to rebuke sin and press back the tide of evil. And while he came to the people as a reprover of sin, his message offered the balm of Gilead to the sin-sick souls of all who desired to be healed. . . . {OFC 184.1} [OFC 184.2] To Elijah was entrusted the mission of delivering to Ahab Heaven’s message of judgment. He did not seek to be the Lord’s messenger; the word of the Lord came to him. And jealous for the honor of God’s cause, he did not hesitate to obey the divine summons, though to obey seemed to invite swift destruction at the hand of the wicked king. . . . {OFC 184.2} [OFC 184.3] It was only by the exercise of strong faith in the unfailing power of God’s word that Elijah delivered his message. Had he not possessed implicit confidence in the One whom he served, he would never have appeared before Ahab. On his way to Samaria, Elijah had passed by ever-flowing streams, hills covered with verdure, and stately forests that seemed beyond the reach of drought. Everything on which the eye rested was clothed with beauty. The prophet might have wondered how the streams that had never ceased their flow could become dry, or how those hills and valleys could be burned with drought. But he gave no place to unbelief. He fully believed that God would humble apostate Israel, and that through judgments they would be brought to repentance. The fiat of Heaven had gone forth; God’s word could not fail; and at the peril of his life Elijah fearlessly fulfilled his commission. {OFC 184.3} [OFC 184.4] The Battle Song And when he had consulted with the people, he appointed singers unto the Lord, and that should praise the beauty of holiness, as they went out before the army, and to say, Praise the Lord; for his mercy endureth for ever. 2 Chronicles 20:21. {OFC 184.4} [OFC 184.5] It was a singular way of going to battle against the enemy’s army—praising the Lord with singing, and exalting the God of Israel. This was their battle song. They possessed the beauty of holiness. If more praising of God were engaged in now, hope and courage and faith would steadily increase. And would not this strengthen the hands of the valiant 185 soldiers who today are standing in defense of truth? {OFC 184.5} [OFC 185.1] They praised God for the victory, and four days thereafter the army returned to Jerusalem, laden with the spoils of their enemies, singing praise for the victory won. {OFC 185.1} [OFC 185.2] When we have a deeper appreciation of the mercy and loving-kindness of God, we shall praise Him, instead of complaining. We shall talk of the loving watchcare of the Lord, of the tender compassion of the Good Shepherd. The language of the heart will not be selfish murmuring and repining. Praise, like a clear, flowing stream, will come from God’s truly believing ones. . . . {OFC 185.2} [OFC 185.3] Why not awake the voice of spiritual song in the days of our pilgrimage? . . . We need to study God’s Word, to meditate and pray. Then we shall have spiritual eyesight to discern the inner courts of the celestial temple. We shall catch the notes of thanksgiving sung by the heavenly choir around the throne. When Zion shall arise and shine, her light will be most penetrating, and songs of praise and thanksgiving will be heard in the assembly of the saints. Little disappointments and difficulties will be lost sight of. {OFC 185.3} [OFC 185.4] The Lord is our helper. . . . No one ever trusted God in vain. He never disappoints those who put their dependence on Him. If we would only do the work that the Lord would have us do, walking in the footsteps of Jesus, our hearts would become sacred harps, every chord of which would send forth praise and thanksgiving to the One sent by God to take away the sin of the world. {OFC 185.4} [OFC 185.5] All On The Altar No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God. Luke 9:62. {OFC 185.5} [OFC 185.6] We are not all asked to serve as Elisha served, nor are we all bidden to sell everything we have; but God asks us to give His service the first place in our lives, to allow no day to pass without doing something to advance His work in the earth. He does not expect from all the same kind of service. One may be called to ministry in a foreign land; another may be asked to give of his means for the support of gospel work. God accepts the offering of each. It is the consecration of the life and all its interests, that is necessary. Those who make this consecration will hear and obey the call of Heaven. . . . {OFC 185.6} [OFC 185.7] It was no great work that was at first required of Elisha; commonplace duties still constituted his discipline. He is spoken of as pouring water on the hands of Elijah, his master. He was willing to do anything that the Lord 186 directed, and at every step he learned lessons of humility and service. . . . Elisha’s life after uniting with Elijah was not without temptations. Trials he had in abundance; but in every emergency he relied on God. He was tempted to think of the home that he had left, but to this temptation he gave no heed. Having put his hand to the plow, he was resolved not to turn back, and through test and trial he proved true to this trust. . . . {OFC 185.7} [OFC 186.1] As Elisha accompanied the prophet . . . his faith and resolution were once more tested. At Gilgal, and again at Bethel and Jericho, he was invited by the prophet to turn back. . . . But . . . he would not be diverted from his purpose. . . . “And . . . Elijah said unto Elisha, Ask what I shall do for thee, before I be taken away from thee.” {OFC 186.1} [OFC 186.2] Elisha asked not for worldly honor, or for a high place among the great men of earth. That which he craved was a large measure of the Spirit that God had bestowed so freely upon the one about to be honored with translation. He knew that nothing but the Spirit which had rested upon Elijah, could fit him to fill the place in Israel to which God had called him; and so he asked, “I pray thee, let a double portion of thy Spirit be upon me.” {OFC 186.2} [OFC 186.3] Reluctant Prophet Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and cry against it; for their wickedness is come up before me. Jonah 1:2. {OFC 186.3} [OFC 186.4] Nineveh, wicked though it had become, was not wholly given over to evil. He who “beholdeth all the sons of men” (Psalm 33:13) . . . perceived in that city many who were reaching out after something better and higher. . . . God revealed Himself to them in an unmistakable manner, to lead them, if possible, to repentance. {OFC 186.4} [OFC 186.5] The instrument chosen for this work was the prophet Jonah. . . . Had the prophet obeyed unquestioningly, he would have been spared many bitter experiences, and would have been blessed abundantly. Yet in the hour of Jonah’s despair the Lord did not desert him. Through a series of trials and strange providences, the prophet’s confidence in God and in His infinite power to save was to be revived. . . . {OFC 186.5} [OFC 186.6] Once more the servant of God was commissioned to warn Nineveh. . . . As Jonah entered the city, he began at once to “cry against” it the message, “Yet forty days, and Nineveh shall be overthrown.” From street to street he went, sounding the note of warning. {OFC 186.6} [OFC 186.7] The message was not in vain. The cry that rang through the streets of the godless city was passed from lip to lip until all the inhabitants had heard the startling announcement. The Spirit of God pressed the message home 187 to every heart and caused multitudes to tremble because of their sins and to repent in deep humiliation. . . . Their doom was averted, the God of Israel was exalted and honored throughout the heathen world, and His law was revered. Not until many years later was Nineveh to fall a prey to the surrounding nations through forgetfulness of God and through boastful pride. . . . {OFC 186.7} [OFC 187.1] The lesson is for God’s messengers today, when the cities of the nations are as verily in need of a knowledge of the attributes and purposes of the true God as were the Ninevites of old. . . . The only city that will endure is the city whose builder and maker is God. . . . The Lord Jesus is calling upon men to strive with sanctified ambition to secure the immortal inheritance. {OFC 187.1} [OFC 187.2] Jeremiah, God’s Mouthpiece It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord. Lamentations 3:26. {OFC 187.2} [OFC 187.3] Among those who had hoped for a permanent spiritual revival as the result of the reformation under Josiah was Jeremiah, called of God to the prophetic office while still a youth. . . . {OFC 187.3} [OFC 187.4] In the youthful Jeremiah, God saw one who would be true to his trust and who would stand for the right against great opposition. . . . “Say not, I am a child,” the Lord bade His chosen messenger; “for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak. Be not afraid of their faces: for I am with thee to deliver thee.” . . . {OFC 187.4} [OFC 187.5] For forty years Jeremiah was to stand before the nation as a witness for truth and righteousness. In a time of unparalleled apostasy he was to exemplify in life and character the worship of the only true God. During the terrible sieges of Jerusalem he was to be the mouthpiece of Jehovah. {OFC 187.5} [OFC 187.6] Naturally of a timid and shrinking disposition, Jeremiah longed for the peace and quite of a life of retirement, where he need not witness the continued impenitence of his beloved nation. His heart was wrung with anguish over the ruin wrought by sin. . . . {OFC 187.6} [OFC 187.7] The experiences through which Jeremiah passed in the days of his youth and also in the later years of his ministry, taught him the lesson that “the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps.” He learned to pray, “O Lord, correct me, but with judgment; not in thine anger, lest thou bring me to nothing” (Jeremiah 10:23, 24). {OFC 187.7} [OFC 187.8] When called to drink of the cup of tribulation and sorrow, and when tempted in his misery to say, “My strength and my hope is perished from 188 the Lord,” he recalled the providences of God in his behalf and triumphantly exclaimed, “It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. . . . The Lord is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him. {OFC 187.8} [OFC 188.1] Faith And God’s Promises Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright in him: but the just shall live by his faith. Habakkuk 2:4. {OFC 188.1} [OFC 188.2] At the time Josiah began to rule, and for many years before, the truehearted in Judah were questioning whether God’s promises to ancient Israel could ever be fulfilled. . . . {OFC 188.2} [OFC 188.3] These anxious questionings were voiced by the prophet Habakkuk. Viewing the situation of the faithful in his day, he expressed the burden of his heart in the inquiry: “O Lord, how long shall I cry, and thou wilt not hear!” . . . And then, his faith reaching out beyond the forbidding prospect of the immediate future, and laying fast hold on the precious promises that reveal God’s love for His trusting children, the prophet added, “We shall not die.” With this declaration of faith he rested his case, and that of every believing Israelite, in the hands of a compassionate God. . . . {OFC 188.3} [OFC 188.4] The faith that strengthened Habakkuk and all the holy and the just in those days of deep trial was the same faith that sustains God’s people today. In the darkest hours, under circumstances the most forbidding, the Christian believer may keep his soul stayed upon the source of all light and power. Day by day, through faith in God, his hope and courage may be renewed. “The just shall live by his faith.” . . . {OFC 188.4} [OFC 188.5] We must cherish and cultivate the faith of which prophets and apostles have testified—the faith that lays hold on the promises of God and waits for deliverance in His appointed time and way. The sure word of prophecy will meet its final fulfillment in the glorious advent of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, as King of kings and Lord of lords. . . . With the prophet who endeavored to encourage Judah in a time of unparalleled apostasy, let us confidently declare, “The Lord is in his holy temple: let all the earth keep silence before him.” Let us ever hold in remembrance the cheering message, “The vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come.” {OFC 188.5} [OFC 189.1] Daniel, God’s Ambassador Then the presidents and princes sought to find occasion against Daniel concerning the kingdom; but they could find none occasion nor fault; forasmuch as he was faithful, neither was there any error or fault found in him. Daniel 6:4. {OFC 189.1} [OFC 189.2] Daniel, the prime minister of the greatest of earthly kingdoms, was at the same time a prophet of God, receiving the light of heavenly inspiration. A man of like passions as ourselves, the pen of inspiration describes him as without fault. His business transactions, when subjected to the closest scrutiny of his enemies, were found to be without one flaw. He was an example of what every businessman may become when his heart is converted and consecrated, and when his motives are right in the sight of God. . . . {OFC 189.2} [OFC 189.3] Unwavering in his allegiance to God, unyielding in his mastery of self, Daniel, by his noble dignity and unswerving integrity, while yet a young man, won the “favor and tender love” of the heathen officer in whose charge he had been placed. . . . He rose speedily to the position of prime minister of the kingdom of Babylon. Through the reign of successive monarchs, the downfall of the nation, and the establishment of another world empire, such were his wisdom and statesmanship, so perfect his tact, his courtesy, his genuine goodness of heart, his fidelity to principle, that even his enemies were forced to the confession that “they could find none occasion nor fault; forasmuch as he was faithful.” {OFC 189.3} [OFC 189.4] Honored by men with the responsibilities of state and with the secrets of kingdoms bearing universal sway, Daniel was honored by God as His ambassador, and was given many revelations of the mysteries of ages to come. His wonderful prophecies, as recorded by him in chapters 7 to 12 of the book bearing his name, were not fully understood even by the prophet himself; but before his life labors closed, he was given the blessed assurance that “at the end of the days”in the closing period of this world’s history—he would again be permitted to stand in his lot and place. . . . {OFC 189.4} [OFC 189.5] We may, like Daniel and his fellows, live for that which is true and noble and enduring. And learning in this life the principles of the kingdom of our Lord and Saviour, . . . we may be prepared at His coming to enter with Him into its possession. {OFC 189.5} [OFC 190.1] Knowledge Requires Action Ezra...was a ready scribe in the law of Moses, which the Lord God of Israel had given. Ezra 7:6. {OFC 190.1} [OFC 190.2] More than two thousand years have passed since Ezra “prepared his heart to seek the law of the Lord, and to do it,” yet the lapse of time has not lessened the influence of his pious example. Through the centuries the record of his life of consecration has inspired many with the determination “to seek the law of the Lord, and to do it.” {OFC 190.2} [OFC 190.3] Ezra’s motives were high and holy; in all that he did he was actuated by a deep love for souls. The compassion and tenderness that he revealed toward those who had sinned, either willfully or through ignorance, should be an object lesson to all who seek to bring about reforms. . . . {OFC 190.3} [OFC 190.4] There is no such thing as weakening or strengthening the law of Jehovah. As it has been, so it is. It always has been, and always will be, holy, just, and good, complete in itself. It cannot be repealed or changed. To “honor” or “dishonor” it is but the speech of men. . . . {OFC 190.4} [OFC 190.5] Christians should be preparing for what is soon to break upon the world as an overwhelming surprise, and this preparation they should make by diligently studying the word of God and striving to conform their lives to its precepts. The tremendous issues of eternity demand of us something besides an imaginary religion, a religion of words and forms, where truth is kept in the outer court. . . . {OFC 190.5} [OFC 190.6] If the saints of the Old Testament bore so bright a testimony of loyalty, should not those upon whom is shining the accumulated light of centuries, bear a still more signal witness to the power of truth? {OFC 190.6} [OFC 190.7] Shall we let the example of Ezra teach us the use we should make of our knowledge of the Scriptures? The life of this servant of God should be an inspiration to us to serve the Lord with heart and mind and strength. We each have an appointed work to do, and this can be accomplished only by consecrated effort. We need first to set ourselves to know the requirements of God, and then to practice them. Then we can sow seeds of truth that will bear fruit unto eternal life. {OFC 190.7} [OFC 190.8] None Were Perfect This priceless treasure we hold, so to speak, in a common earthenware jar—to show that the splendid power of it belongs to God and not to us. 2 Corinthians 4:7, Phillips. {OFC 190.8} [OFC 191.1] 191 All the disciples had serious faults when Jesus called them to His service. Even John, who came into closest association with the meek and lowly One, was not himself naturally meek and yielding. He and his brother were called “the sons of thunder.” While they were with Jesus, any slight shown to Him aroused their indignation and combativeness. Evil temper, revenge, the spirit of criticism, were all in the beloved disciple. He was proud, and ambitious to be first in the kingdom of God. But day by day, in contrast with his own violent spirit, he beheld the tenderness and forbearance of Jesus, and heard His lessons of humility and patience. He opened his heart to the divine influence, and became not only a hearer but a doer of the Saviour’s words. Self was hid in Christ. He learned to wear the yoke of Christ and to bear His burden. {OFC 191.1} [OFC 191.2] Jesus reproved His disciples, He warned and cautioned them; but John and his brethren did not leave Him; they chose Jesus, notwithstanding the reproofs. The Saviour did not withdraw from them because of their weakness and errors. They continued to the end to share His trials and to learn the lessons of His life. By beholding Christ, they became transformed in character. . . . {OFC 191.2} [OFC 191.3] As His representatives among men, Christ does not choose angels who have never fallen, but human beings, men of like passions with those they seek to save. . . . {OFC 191.3} [OFC 191.4] Having been in peril themselves, they are acquainted with the dangers and difficulties of the way, and for this reason are called to reach out for others in like peril. There are souls perplexed with doubt, burdened with infirmities, weak in faith, and unable to grasp the Unseen; but a friend whom they can see, coming to them in Christ’s stead, can be a connecting link to fasten their trembling faith upon Christ. {OFC 191.4} [OFC 191.5] We are to be laborers together with the heavenly angels in presenting Jesus to the world. {OFC 191.5} [OFC 191.6] It Has To Be Personal If I may but touch his garment, I shall be whole. Matthew 9:21. {OFC 191.6} [OFC 191.7] It was a poor woman who spoke these words—a woman who for twelve years had suffered from a disease that made her life a burden. She had spent all her means upon physicians and remedies, only to be pronounced incurable. But as she heard of the Great Healer, her hopes revived. . . . Again and again she had tried in vain to get near Him. {OFC 191.7} [OFC 191.8] She had begun to despair, when, in making His way through the multitude, He came near where she was. . . . But amid the confusion she could not speak to Him, nor catch more than a passing glimpse of His 192 figure. . . . As He was passing, she reached forward, and succeeded in barely touching the border of His garment. But in that moment she knew that she was healed. In that one touch was concentrated the faith of her life, and instantly her pain and feebleness gave place to the vigor of perfect health. {OFC 191.8} [OFC 192.1] With a grateful heart she then tried to withdraw from the crowd; but suddenly Jesus stopped. . . . The Saviour could distinguish the touch of faith from the casual contact of the careless throng. Such trust should not be passed without comment. . . . Finding concealment vain, she came forward tremblingly, and cast herself at His feet. With grateful tears she told the story of her suffering, and how she had found relief. Jesus gently said, “Daughter, be of good comfort: thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace.” He gave no opportunity for superstition to claim healing virtue for the mere act of touching His garments. It was not through the outward contact with Him, but through the faith which took hold on His divine power, that the cure was wrought. . . . {OFC 192.1} [OFC 192.2] So in spiritual things. To talk of religion in a casual way, to pray without soul hunger and living faith, avails nothing. A nominal faith in Christ, which accepts Him merely as the Saviour of the world, can never bring healing to the soul. . . . It is not enough to believe about Christ; we must believe in Him. The only faith that will benefit us is that which embraces Him as a personal Saviour; which appropriates His merits to ourselves. {OFC 192.2} [OFC 192.3] Nothing Too Costly For the love of Christ constraineth us. 2 Corinthians 5:14. {OFC 192.3} [OFC 192.4] Christ delighted in the earnest desire of Mary to do the will of her Lord. He accepted the wealth of pure affection which His disciples did not, would not, understand. The desire that Mary had to do this service for her Lord was of more value to Christ than all the precious ointment in the world, because it expressed her appreciation of the world’s Redeemer. It was the love of Christ that constrained her. The matchless excellence of the character of Christ filled her soul. That ointment was a symbol of the heart of the giver. It was the outward demonstration of a love fed by heavenly streams until it overflowed. {OFC 192.4} [OFC 192.5] The work of Mary was just the lesson the disciples needed to show them that the expression of their love for Him would be pleasing to Christ. He had been everything to them, and they did not realize that soon they would be deprived of His presence, that soon they could offer Him no token of their gratitude for His great love. The loneliness of Christ, 193 separated from the heavenly courts, living the life of humanity, was never understood or appreciated by the disciples as it should have been. . . . {OFC 192.5} [OFC 193.1] Their afterknowledge gave them a true sense of the many things they might have done for Jesus expressive of the love and gratitude of their hearts. . . . When Jesus was no longer with them, . . . they began to see how they might have shown Him attentions that would have brought gladness to His heart. They no longer cast blame upon Mary, but upon themselves. Oh, if they could have taken back their censuring, their presenting the poor as more worthy of the gift than was Christ! They felt the reproof keenly as they took from the cross the bruised body of their Lord. {OFC 193.1} [OFC 193.2] The same want is evident in our world today. But few appreciate all that Christ is to them. If they did, the great love of Mary would be expressed, the anointing would be freely bestowed. The expensive ointment would not be called a waste. Nothing would be thought too costly to give for Christ, no self-denial or self-sacrifice too great to be endured for His sake. {OFC 193.2} [OFC 193.3] Just For One Man And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert. And he arose and went. Acts 8:26, 27. {OFC 193.3} [OFC 193.4] Notice how much effort was put forth for just one man, an Ethiopian. {OFC 193.4} [OFC 193.5] This Ethiopian was a man of good standing and of wide influence. God saw that when converted he would give others the light he had received and would exert a strong influence in favor of the gospel. Angels of God were attending this seeker for light, and he was being drawn to the Saviour. By the ministration of the Holy Spirit the Lord brought him into touch with one who could lead him to the light. {OFC 193.5} [OFC 193.6] Philip was directed to go to the Ethiopian and explain to him the prophecy that he was reading. “Go near,” the Spirit said, “and join thyself to this chariot.” . . . The man’s heart thrilled with interest as the Scriptures were explained to him; and when the disciple had finished, he was ready to accept the light given. He did not make his high worldly position an excuse for refusing the gospel. . . . {OFC 193.6} [OFC 193.7] This Ethiopian represented a large class who need to be taught by such missionaries as Philip—men who will hear the voice of God and go where He sends them. There are many who are reading the Scriptures who cannot understand their true import. All over the world men and women are looking wistfully to heaven. Prayers and tears and inquiries go up from 194 souls longing for light, for grace, for the Holy Spirit. Many are on the verge of the kingdom, waiting only to be gathered in. {OFC 193.7} [OFC 194.1] An angel guided Philip to the one who was seeking for light and who was ready to receive the gospel, and today angels will guide the footsteps of those workers who will allow the Holy Spirit to sanctify their tongues and refine and ennoble their hearts. {OFC 194.1} [OFC 194.2] He who sent Philip to the Ethiopian councilor, Peter to the Roman centurion, and the little Israelitish maiden to the help of Naaman, the Syrian captain, sends men and women and youth today as His representatives to those in need of divine help and guidance. {OFC 194.2} [OFC 194.3] Saul To Paul And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do. Acts 9:6. {OFC 194.3} [OFC 194.4] In the wonderful conversion of Paul we see the miraculous power of God. . . . Jesus, whose name of all others he most hated and despised, revealed Himself to Paul for the purpose of arresting his mad yet honest career, that He might make this most unpromising instrument a chosen vessel to bear the gospel to the Gentiles. . . . The light of heavenly illumination had taken away Paul’s eyesight; but Jesus, the Great Healer of the blind, does not restore it. He answers the question of Paul in these words: “Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.” Jesus could not only have healed Paul of his blindness, but He could have forgiven his sins and told him his duty by marking out his future course. From Christ all power and mercies were to flow; but He did not give Paul an experience, in his conversion to truth, independent of His church recently organized upon the earth. {OFC 194.4} [OFC 194.5] The marvelous light given Paul upon that occasion astonished and confounded him. He was wholly subdued. This part of the work man could not do for Paul, but there was a work still to be accomplished which the servants of Christ could do. Jesus directs him to His agents in the church for a further knowledge of duty. Thus He gives authority and sanction to His organized church. Christ had done the work of revelation and conviction, and now Paul was in a condition to learn of those whom God had ordained to teach the truth. Christ directs Paul to His chosen servants, thus placing him in connection with His church. The very men whom Paul was purposing to destroy were to be his instructors in the very religion that he had despised and persecuted. . . . {OFC 194.5} [OFC 194.6] An angel is sent to Ananias, directing him to go to a certain house 195 where Saul is praying to be instructed in what he is to do next. . . . In Christ’s stead Ananias touches his eyes that they may receive sight; in Christ’s stead he lays his hands upon him, prays in Christ’s name, and Saul receives the Holy Ghost. {OFC 194.6} [OFC 195.1] Toward The Mark This one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:13, 14. {OFC 195.1} [OFC 195.2] Paul did many things. He was a wise teacher. His many letters are full of instructive lessons setting forth correct principles. He worked with his hands, for he was a tent-maker, and in this way earned his daily bread. . . . He carried a heavy burden for the churches. He strove most earnestly to present their errors before them, that they might correct them, and not be deceived and led away from God. He was always seeking to help them in their difficulties; and yet he declares, “One thing I do.” . . . The responsibilities of his life were many, yet he kept always before him this “one thing.” The constant sense of the presence of God constrained him to keep his eye ever looking unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of his faith. {OFC 195.2} [OFC 195.3] The great purpose that constrained Paul to press forward in the face of hardship and difficulty should lead every Christian worker to consecrate himself wholly to God’s service. Worldly attractions will be presented to draw his attention from the Saviour, but he is to press on toward the goal, showing to the world, to angels, and to men that the hope of seeing the face of God is worth all the effort and sacrifice that the attainment of this hope demands. {OFC 195.3} [OFC 195.4] The lowliest disciple of Christ may become an inhabitant of heaven, an heir of God to an inheritance incorruptible, and that fadeth not away. O that every one might make choice of the heavenly gift, become an heir of God to that inheritance whose title is secure from any destroyer, world without end! O, choose not the world, but choose the better inheritance! Press, urge your way toward the mark for the prize of your high calling in Christ Jesus. {OFC 195.4} [OFC 195.5] Soon we shall witness the coronation of our King. Those whose lives have been hidden with Christ, those who on this earth have fought the good fight of faith, will shine forth with the Redeemer’s glory in the kingdom of God. {OFC 195.5} [OFC 196.1] Hitherto Hath The Lord Helped Us O give thanks unto the Lord; call upon his name: make known his deeds among the people. Sing unto him, sing psalms unto him: talk ye of all his wondrous works. Psalm 105:1, 2. {OFC 196.1} [OFC 196.2] The dealings of God with His people should be often repeated. How frequently were the waymarks set up by the Lord in His dealings with ancient Israel! Lest they should forget the history of the past, He commanded Moses to frame these events into song, that parents might teach them to their children. They were to gather up memorials and to lay them up in sight. Special pains were taken to preserve them, that when the children should inquire concerning these things, the whole story might be repeated. Thus the providential dealings and the marked goodness and mercy of God in His care and deliverance of His people were kept in mind. We are exhorted to “call to remembrance the former days, in which, after ye were illuminated, ye endured a great fight of afflictions” (Hebrews 10:32). For His people in this generation the Lord has wrought as a wonder-working God. . . . We need often to recount God’s goodness and to praise Him for His wonderful works. {OFC 196.2} [OFC 196.3] Let us not cast away our confidence, but have firm assurance, firmer than ever before. “Hitherto hath the Lord helped us,” and He will help us to the end (1 Samuel 7:12). Let us look to the monumental pillars, reminders of what the Lord has done to comfort us and to save us from the hand of the destroyer. Let us keep fresh in our memory all the tender mercies that God has shown us—the tears He has wiped away, the pains He has soothed, the anxieties removed, the fears dispelled, the wants supplied, the blessings bestowed—thus strengthening ourselves for all that is before us through the remainder of our pilgrimage. {OFC 196.3} [OFC 196.4] We cannot but look forward to new perplexities in the coming conflict, but we may look on what is past as well as on what is to come, and say, “Hitherto hath the Lord helped us.”“As thy days, so shall thy strength be” (Deuteronomy 33:25). The trial will not exceed the strength that shall be given us to bear it. Then let us take up our work just where we find it, believing that whatever may come, strength proportionate to the trial will be given. {OFC 196.4} [OFC 197.1] Chapter 8—God’s Amazing Grace God’s Kingdom In The Heart Behold, the kingdom of God is within you. Luke 17:21. {OFC 197.1} [OFC 197.2] The government under which Jesus lived was corrupt and oppressive; on every hand were crying abuses—extortion, intolerance, and grinding cruelty. Yet the Saviour attempted no civil reforms. He attacked no national abuses, nor condemned the national enemies. He did not interfere with the authority or administration of those in power. He who was our example kept aloof from earthly governments. Not because He was indifferent to the woes of men, but because the remedy did not lie in merely human and external measures. To be efficient, the cure must reach men individually, and must regenerate the heart. {OFC 197.2} [OFC 197.3] Some of the Pharisees had come to Jesus demanding “when the kingdom of God should come” (Luke 17:20). More than three years had passed since John the Baptist gave the message that like a trumpet call had sounded through the land, “The kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 3:2). And as yet these Pharisees saw no indication of the establishment of the kingdom. . . . {OFC 197.3} [OFC 197.4] Jesus answered, “The kingdom of God cometh not with outward show ［margin］: neither shall they say, Lo here! or lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.” The kingdom of God begins at the heart. Look not here or there for manifestations of earthly power to mark its coming. {OFC 197.4} [OFC 197.5] The works of Christ not only declared Him to be the Messiah, but showed in what manner His kingdom was to be established. . . . It comes through the gentleness of the inspiration of His word, through the inward working of His Spirit, the fellowship of the soul with Him who is its life. The greatest manifestation of its power is seen in human nature brought to the perfection of the character of Christ. . . . {OFC 197.5} [OFC 197.6] When God gave His Son to our world, He endowed human beings with imperishable riches—riches compared with which the treasured wealth of men since the world began is nothingness. Christ came to the earth and stood before the children of men with the hoarded love of eternity, and this is the treasure that, through our connection with Him, we are to receive, to reveal, and to impart. {OFC 197.6} [OFC 198.1] Like Yeast The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened. Matthew 13:33. {OFC 198.1} [OFC 198.2] In the Saviour’s parable, leaven is used to represent the kingdom of heaven. It illustrates the quickening, assimilating power of the grace of God. . . . {OFC 198.2} [OFC 198.3] The grace of God must be received by the sinner before he can be fitted for the kingdom of glory. All the culture and education which the world can give will fail of making a degraded child of sin a child of heaven. The renewing energy must come from God. . . . As the leaven, when mingled with the meal, works from within outward, so it is by the renewing of the heart that the grace of God works to transform the life. . . . {OFC 198.3} [OFC 198.4] The leaven hidden in the flour works invisibly to bring the whole mass under its leavening process; so the leaven of truth works secretly, silently, steadily, to transform the soul. The natural inclinations are softened and subdued. New thoughts, new feelings, new motives, are implanted. A new standard of character is set up—the life of Christ. The mind is changed; the faculties are roused to action in new lines. . . . The conscience is awakened. . . . {OFC 198.4} [OFC 198.5] The heart of him who receives the grace of God overflows with love for God and for those for whom Christ died. Self is not struggling for recognition. . . . He is kind and thoughtful, humble in his opinion of himself, yet full of hope, always trusting in the mercy and love of God. . . . {OFC 198.5} [OFC 198.6] The grace of Christ is to control the temper and the voice. Its working will be seen in politeness and tender regard shown by brother for brother, in kind, encouraging words. An angel presence is in the home. The life breathes a sweet perfume, which ascends to God as holy incense. Love is manifested in kindness, gentleness, forbearance, and long-suffering. The countenance is changed. Christ abiding in the heart shines out in the faces of those who love Him and keep His commandments. . . . As these changes are effected, angels break forth in rapturous song, and God and Christ rejoice over souls fashioned after the divine similitude. {OFC 198.6} [OFC 199.1] The Royal Robe And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints. Revelation 19:8. {OFC 199.1} [OFC 199.2] The parable of the wedding garment ［Matthew 22:1-14］ opens before us a lesson of the highest consequence. . . . By the wedding garment in the parable is represented the pure, spotless character which Christ’s true followers will possess. . . . The fine linen, says the Scripture, “is the righteousness of saints.” It is the righteousness of Christ, His own unblemished character, that through faith is imparted to all who receive Him as their personal Saviour. {OFC 199.2} [OFC 199.3] The white robe of innocence was worn by our first parents when they were placed by God in holy Eden. They lived in perfect conformity to the will of God. . . . A beautiful soft light, the light of God, enshrouded the holy pair. . . . But when sin entered, they severed their connection with God, and the light that had encircled them departed. Naked and ashamed, they tried to supply the place of the heavenly garments by sewing together fig leaves for a covering. {OFC 199.3} [OFC 199.4] We cannot provide a robe of righteousness for ourselves, for the prophet says, “All our righteousness are as filthy rags” (Isaiah 64:6). There is nothing in us from which we can clothe the soul so that its nakedness shall not appear. We are to receive the robe of righteousness woven in the loom of heaven, even the spotless robe of Christ’s righteousness. {OFC 199.4} [OFC 199.5] God has made ample provision that we may stand perfect in His grace, wanting in nothing, waiting for the appearing of our Lord. Are you ready? Have you the wedding garment on? That garment will never cover deceit, impurity, corruption, or hypocrisy. The eye of God is upon you. It is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. We may conceal our sins from the eyes of men, but we can hide nothing from our Maker. {OFC 199.5} [OFC 199.6] Let the youth and the little children be taught to choose for themselves that royal robe woven in heaven’s loom—the “fine linen, clean and white,” which all the holy ones of earth will wear. This robe, Christ’s own spotless character, is freely offered to every human being. But all who receive it will receive and wear it here. {OFC 199.6} [OFC 200.1] God With Us They shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. Matthew 1:23. {OFC 200.1} [OFC 200.2] From the days of eternity the Lord Jesus Christ was one with the Father; He was “the image of God,” the image of His greatness and majesty, “the outshining of his glory.” It was to manifest this glory that He came to our world. To this sin-darkened earth He came to reveal the light of God’s love—to be “God with us.”. . . {OFC 200.2} [OFC 200.3] Our little world is the lesson book of the universe. God’s wonderful purpose of grace, the mystery of redeeming love, is the theme into which “angels desire to look”, and it will be their study throughout endless ages. Both the redeemed and the unfallen beings will find in the cross of Christ their science and their song. It will be seen that the glory shining in the face of Jesus is the glory of self-sacrificing love. In the light from Calvary it will be seen that the law of self-renouncing love is the law of life for earth and heaven; that the love which “seeketh not her own” has its source in the heart of God. . . . {OFC 200.3} [OFC 200.4] Jesus might have remained at the Father’s side. He might have retained the glory of heaven, and the homage of the angels. But He chose to give back the scepter into the Father’s hands, and to step down from the throne of the universe, that He might bring light to the benighted, and life to the perishing. . . . {OFC 200.4} [OFC 200.5] This great purpose had been shadowed forth in types and symbols. The burning bush, in which Christ appeared to Moses, revealed God. . . . The all-merciful God shrouded His glory in a most humble type, that Moses could look upon it and live. So in the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night, God communicated with Israel, revealing to men His will, and imparting to them His grace. God’s glory was subdued, and His majesty veiled, that the weak vision of finite men might behold it. So Christ was to come in “the body of our humiliation” (Philippians 3:21, R.V.), “in the likeness of men.”. . . His glory was veiled, His greatness and majesty were hidden, that He might draw near to sorrowful, tempted men. {OFC 200.5} [OFC 200.6] Adopted Sons And Daughters Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, to the praise 201 of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. Ephesians 1:5, 6. {OFC 200.6} [OFC 201.1] Before the foundations of the earth were laid the covenant was made that all who were obedient, all who should through the abundant grace provided become holy in character and without blame before God by appropriating that grace, should be children of God. {OFC 201.1} [OFC 201.2] We owe everything to grace, free grace, sovereign grace. Grace in the covenant ordained our adoption. Grace in the Saviour effected our redemption, our regeneration, and our adoption to heirship with Christ. {OFC 201.2} [OFC 201.3] As we fully believe that we are His by adoption, we may have a foretaste of heaven. . . . We have a nearness to Him, and can hold sweet communion with Him. We obtain distinct views of His tenderness and compassion, and our hearts are broken and melted with contemplation of the love that is given to us. We feel indeed an abiding Christ in the soul. We abide in Him, and feel at home with Jesus. . . . We have a realizing sense of the love of God, and we rest in His love. No language can describe it, it is beyond knowledge. We are one with Christ, our life is hid with Christ in God. We have the assurance that when He who is our life shall appear, then shall we also appear with Him in glory. With strong confidence we can call God our Father. {OFC 201.3} [OFC 201.4] All who have been born into the heavenly family are in a special sense the brethren of our Lord. The love of Christ binds together the members of His family, and wherever that love is manifest there the divine relationship is revealed. . . . {OFC 201.4} [OFC 201.5] Love to man is the earthward manifestation of the love of God. It was to implant this love, to make us children of one family, that the King of glory became one with us. And when His parting words are fulfilled, “Love one another, as I have loved you” (John 15:12); when we love the world as He has loved it, then for us His mission is accomplished. We are fitted for heaven; for we have heaven in our hearts. {OFC 201.5} [OFC 201.6] Blessings Through Obedience I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart. Psalm 40:8. {OFC 201.6} [OFC 201.7] What a God is our God! He rules over His kingdom with diligence and care, and He has built a hedge—the Ten Commandments—about His subjects to preserve them from the results of transgression. In requiring obedience to the laws of His kingdom, God gives His people health and 202 happiness, peace and joy. He teaches them that the perfection of character He requires can be attained only by becoming familiar with His Word. {OFC 201.7} [OFC 202.1] The true seeker, who is striving to be like Jesus in word, life, and character, will contemplate his Redeemer and, by beholding, become changed into His image, because he longs and prays for the same disposition and mind that was in Christ Jesus. . . . He longs after God. The history of his Redeemer, the immeasurable sacrifice that He made, becomes full of meaning to him. Christ, the Majesty of heaven, became poor, that we through His poverty might become rich; not rich merely in endowments, but rich in attainments. {OFC 202.1} [OFC 202.2] These are the riches that Christ earnestly longs that His followers shall possess. As the true seeker after the truth reads the Word and opens his mind to receive the Word, he longs after truth with his whole heart. The love, the pity, the tenderness, the courtesy, the Christian politeness, which will be the elements in the heavenly mansions that Christ has gone to prepare for those that love Him, take possession of his soul. His purpose is steadfast. He is determined to stand on the side of righteousness. Truth has found its way into the heart, and is planted there by the Holy Spirit, who is the truth. When truth takes hold of the heart, the man gives sure evidence of this by becoming a steward of the grace of Christ. {OFC 202.2} [OFC 202.3] Each steward has his own special work to do for the advancement of God’s kingdom. . . . The talents of speech, memory, influence, property, are to accumulate for the glory of God and the advancement of His kingdom. He will bless the right use of His gifts. {OFC 202.3} [OFC 202.4] In The Most Holy Place The Lord is in his holy temple: let all the earth keep silence before him. Habakkuk 2:20. {OFC 202.4} [OFC 202.5] I saw a throne, and on it sat the Father and the Son. I gazed on Jesus’ countenance and admired His lovely person. The Father’s person I could not behold, for a cloud of glorious light covered Him. I asked Jesus if His Father had a form like Himself. He said He had, but I could not behold it, for said He, “If you should once behold the glory of His person, you would cease to exist.” . . . {OFC 202.5} [OFC 202.6] I saw the Father rise from the throne, and in a flaming chariot go into the holy of holies within the veil, and sit down. . . . Then a cloudy chariot, with wheels like flaming fire, surrounded by angels, came to where Jesus was. He stepped into the chariot and was borne to the holiest, where the Father sat. There I beheld Jesus, a great High Priest, standing before the Father. {OFC 202.6} [OFC 203.1] 203 Two lovely cherubs, one on each side of the ark, stood with their wings outstretched above it, and touching each other above the head of Jesus as He stood before the mercy seat. Their faces were turned toward each other, and they looked downward to the ark, representing all the angelic host looking with interest at the law of God. Between the cherubim was a golden censer, and as the prayers of the saints, offered in faith, came up to Jesus, and He presented them to His Father, a cloud of fragrance arose from the incense, looking like smoke of most beautiful colors. Above the place where Jesus stood, before the ark, was exceedingly bright glory that I could not look upon; it appeared like the throne of God. {OFC 203.1} [OFC 203.2] Our crucified Lord is pleading for us in the presence of the Father at the throne of grace. His atoning sacrifice we may plead for our pardon, our justification, and our sanctification. The lamb slain is our only hope. Our faith looks up to Him, grasps Him as the One who can save to the uttermost, and the fragrance of the all-sufficient offering is accepted of the Father. . . . Christ’s glory is concerned in our success. He has a common interest in all humanity. He is our sympathizing Saviour. {OFC 203.2} [OFC 203.3] Source Of Compassion And Mercy Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: the sceptre of thy kingdom is a right sceptre. Psalm 45:6. {OFC 203.3} [OFC 203.4] Though now He has ascended to the presence of God, and shares the throne of the universe, Jesus has lost none of His compassionate nature. Today, the same tender, sympathizing heart is open to all the woes of humanity. Today the hand that was pierced is reached forth to bless more abundantly His people that are in the world. . . . {OFC 203.4} [OFC 203.5] Through all our trials we have a never-failing Helper. He does not leave us alone to struggle with temptation, to battle with evil, and be finally crushed with burdens and sorrow. Though now He is hidden from mortal sight, the ear of faith can hear His voice saying, Fear not; I am with you. “I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive forevermore” (Revelation 1:18). {OFC 203.5} [OFC 203.6] Those who put away iniquity from their hearts and stretch out their hands in earnest supplication unto God will have that help which God alone can give them. A ransom has been paid for the souls of men, that they may have an opportunity to escape from the thralldom of sin and obtain pardon, purity, and heaven. . . . Those who frequent the throne of grace, offering up sincere, earnest petitions for divine wisdom and power, will not fail to become active, useful servants of Christ. They may not possess great 204 talents, but with humility of heart and firm reliance upon Jesus they may do a good work in bringing souls to Christ. . . . {OFC 203.6} [OFC 204.1] Thousands have a false conception of God and His attributes. . . . God is a God of truth. Justice and mercy are the attributes of His throne. He is a God of love, of pity and tender compassion. Thus He is represented in His Son, our Saviour. He is a God of patience and long-suffering. If such is the being whom we adore and to whose character we are seeking to assimilate, we are worshiping the true God. {OFC 204.1} [OFC 204.2] If we are following Christ, His merits, imputed to us, come up before the Father as sweet odor. And the graces of our Saviour’s character, implanted in our hearts, will shed around us a precious fragrance. {OFC 204.2} [OFC 204.3] To Draw Us To God I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee. Jeremiah 31:3. {OFC 204.3} [OFC 204.4] The Lord of life and glory clothed His divinity with humanity to demonstrate to man that God through the gift of Christ would connect us with Him. Without a connection with God no one can possibly be happy. Fallen man is to learn that our Heavenly Father cannot be satisfied until His love embraces the repentant sinner, transformed through the merits of the spotless Lamb of God. {OFC 204.4} [OFC 204.5] The work of all the heavenly intelligences is to this end. Under the command of their General they are to work for the reclaiming of those who by transgression have separated themselves from their Heavenly Father. A plan has been devised whereby the wondrous grace and love of Christ shall stand revealed to the world. In the infinite price paid by the Son of God to ransom man, the love of God is revealed. This glorious plan of redemption is ample in its provisions to save the whole world. Sinful and fallen man may be made complete in Jesus through the forgiveness of sin and the imputed righteousness of Christ. {OFC 204.5} [OFC 204.6] In all the gracious deeds that Jesus did, He sought to impress upon men the parental, benevolent attributes of God. . . . Jesus would have us understand the love of the Father, and He seeks to draw us to Him by presenting His parental grace. He would have the whole field of our vision filled with the perfection of God’s character. . . . It was only by living among men that He could reveal the mercy, compassion, and love of His heavenly Father; for it was only by actions of benevolence that He could set forth the grace of God. {OFC 204.6} [OFC 204.7] Christ came to manifest the love of God to the world, to draw the hearts of all men to Himself. . . . The first step toward salvation is to 205 respond to the drawing of the love of Christ. . . . It is that men may understand the joy of forgiveness, the peace of God, that Christ draws them through the manifestation of His love. If they respond to His drawing, yielding their hearts to His grace, He will lead them on step by step, to a full knowledge of Himself, and this is life eternal. {OFC 204.7} [OFC 205.1] Terms Of The Covenant If ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people. Exodus 19:5. {OFC 205.1} [OFC 205.2] In the beginning, God gave His law to mankind as a means of attaining happiness and eternal life. {OFC 205.2} [OFC 205.3] The ten commandments, Thou shalt, and Thou shalt not, are ten promises, assured to us if we render obedience to the law governing the universe. “If ye love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15). Here is the sum and substance of the law of God. The terms of salvation for every son and daughter of Adam are here outlined. . . . {OFC 205.3} [OFC 205.4] That law of ten precepts of the greatest love that can be presented to man is the voice of God from heaven speaking to the soul in promise, “This do, and you will not come under the dominion and control of Satan.” There is not a negative in that law, although it may appear thus. It is DO and Live. {OFC 205.4} [OFC 205.5] The condition of eternal life is now just what it always has been—just what it was in Paradise before the fall of our first parents—perfect obedience to the law of God, perfect righteousness. If eternal life were granted on any condition short of this, then the happiness of the whole universe would be imperiled. The way would be open for sin, with all its train of woe and misery, to be immortalized. {OFC 205.5} [OFC 205.6] Christ does not lessen the claims of the law. In unmistakable language He presents obedience to it as the condition of eternal life—the same condition that was required of Adam before his fall. . . . The requirement under the covenant of grace is just as broad as the requirement made in Eden—harmony with God’s law, which is holy, just, and good. {OFC 205.6} [OFC 205.7] The standard of character presented in the Old Testament is the same that is presented in the New Testament. This standard is not one to which we cannot attain. In every command or injunction that God gives there is a promise, the most positive, underlying the command. God has made provision that we may become like unto Him, and He will accomplish this for all who do not interpose a perverse will and thus frustrate His grace. {OFC 205.7} [OFC 206.1] Written On The Heart After those days, saith the Lord, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts. . . . I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more. Jeremiah 31:33, 34. {OFC 206.1} [OFC 206.2] The same law that was engraved upon the tables of stone, is written by the Holy Spirit upon the tables of the heart. Instead of going about to establish our own righteousness we accept the righteousness of Christ. His blood atones for our sins. His obedience is accepted for us. Then the heart renewed by the Holy Spirit will bring forth “the fruits of the Spirit.” Through the grace of Christ we shall live in obedience to the law of God written upon our hearts. Having the Spirit of Christ, we shall walk even as He walked. {OFC 206.2} [OFC 206.3] There are two errors against which the children of God—particularly those who have just come to trust in His grace—especially need to guard. The first . . . is that of looking to their own works, trusting to anything they can do, to bring themselves into harmony with God. He who is trying to become holy by his own works in keeping the law, is attempting an impossibility. . . . {OFC 206.3} [OFC 206.4] The opposite and no less dangerous error is, that belief in Christ releases men from keeping the law of God; that since by faith alone we become partakers of the grace of Christ, our works have nothing to do with our redemption. . . . If the law is written in the heart, will it not shape the life? . . . Instead of releasing man from obedience, it is faith, and faith only, that makes us partakers of the grace of Christ, which enables us to render obedience. . . . {OFC 206.4} [OFC 206.5] Where there is not only a belief in God’s Word, but a submission of the will to Him; where the heart is yielded to Him, the affections fixed upon Him, there is faith—faith that works by love, and purifies the soul. Through this faith the heart is renewed in the image of God. And the heart that in its unrenewed state is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be, now delights in its holy precepts, exclaiming with the psalmist, “O how love I thy law! it is my meditation all the day” (Psalm 119:97). And the righteousness of the law is fulfilled in us, “who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit” (Romans 8:1). {OFC 206.5} [OFC 207.1] God’s Eternal Pledge He hath remembered his covenant forever, the word which he commanded to a thousand generations. Psalm 105:8. {OFC 207.1} [OFC 207.2] God stands back of every promise He has made. With your Bibles in your hands, say: “I have done as Thou hast said. I present Thy promise, ‘Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you’ (Matthew 7:7).” . . . {OFC 207.2} [OFC 207.3] The rainbow about the throne is an assurance that God is true; that in Him is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. We have sinned against Him and are undeserving of His favor; yet He Himself has put into our lips that most wonderful of pleas: “Do not abhor us, for thy name’s sake, do not disgrace the throne of thy glory: remember, break not thy covenant with us” (Jeremiah 14:21). He has pledged Himself to give heed to our cry when we come to Him confessing our unworthiness and sin. The honor of His throne is staked for the fulfillment of His word to us. {OFC 207.3} [OFC 207.4] To everyone who offers himself to the Lord for service, withholding nothing, is given power for the attainment of measureless results. The Lord God is bound by an eternal pledge to supply power and grace to everyone who is sanctified through obedience to the truth. {OFC 207.4} [OFC 207.5] Nehemiah pressed into the presence of the King of kings and won to his side a power that can turn hearts as rivers of waters are turned. ［See Nehemiah 1 and 2.］ {OFC 207.5} [OFC 207.6] To pray as Nehemiah prayed in his hour of need is a resource at the command of the Christian under circumstances when other forms of prayer may be impossible. Toilers in the busy walks of life, crowded and almost overwhelmed with perplexity, can send up a petition to God for divine guidance. . . . In times of sudden difficulty or peril the heart may send up its cry for help to One who has pledged Himself to come to the aid of His faithful, believing ones whenever they call upon Him. In every circumstance, under every condition, the soul weighed down with grief and care, or fiercely assailed by temptation, may find assurance, support, and succor in the unfailing love and power of a covenant-keeping God. {OFC 207.6} [OFC 207.7] Unutterable Loneliness I have trodden the winepress alone; and of the people there was none with me. Isaiah 63:3. {OFC 207.7} [OFC 207.8] Through childhood, youth, and manhood, Jesus walked alone. In His 208 purity and His faithfulness, He trod the winepress alone, and of the people there was none with Him. He carried the awful weight of responsibility for the salvation of men. He knew that unless there was a decided change in the principles and purposes of the human race, all would be lost. This was the burden of His soul, and none could appreciate the weight that rested upon Him. {OFC 207.8} [OFC 208.1] Throughout His life His mother and His brothers did not comprehend His mission. Even His disciples did not understand Him. He had dwelt in eternal light, as one with God, but His life on earth must be spent in solitude. As one with us, He must bear the burden of our guilt and woe. The Sinless One must feel the shame of sin. The peace lover must dwell with strife, the truth must abide with falsehood, purity with vileness. Every sin, every discord, every defiling lust that transgression had brought, was torture to His spirit. {OFC 208.1} [OFC 208.2] Alone He must tread the path; alone He must bear the burden. Upon Him who had laid off His glory and accepted the weakness of humanity the redemption of the world must rest. He saw and felt it all, but His purpose remained steadfast. Upon His arm depended the salvation of the fallen race, and He reached out His hand to grasp the hand of Omnipotent love. {OFC 208.2} [OFC 208.3] The loneliness of Christ, separated from the heavenly courts, living the life of humanity, was never understood or appreciated by the disciples as it should have been. . . When Jesus was no longer with them, . . . they began to see how they might have shown Him attentions that would have brought gladness to His heart. . . . {OFC 208.3} [OFC 208.4] The same want is evident in our world today. But few appreciate all that Christ is to them. If they did, the great love of Mary ［Matthew 26:6-13］ would be expressed, the anointing would be freely bestowed. . . . Nothing would be thought too costly to give for Christ, no self-denial or self-sacrifice too great to be endured for His sake. {OFC 208.4} [OFC 208.5] The Sins Of The World He was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. Isaiah 53:5. {OFC 208.5} [OFC 208.6] Some have limited views of the atonement. They think that Christ suffered only a small portion of the penalty of the law of God; they suppose that, while the wrath of God was felt by His dear Son, He had, through all His painful sufferings, the evidence of His Father’s love and acceptance; that the portals of the tomb before Him were illuminated with bright hope, 209 and that He had the abiding evidence of His future glory. Here is a great mistake. Christ’s keenest anguish was a sense of His Father’s displeasure. His mental agony because of this was of such intensity that man can have but faint conception of it. {OFC 208.6} [OFC 209.1] With many the story of the condescension, humiliation, and sacrifice of our divine Lord awakens no deeper interest . . . than does the history of the death of the martyrs of Jesus. Many have suffered death by slow tortures; others have suffered death by crucifixion. In what does the death of God’s dear Son differ from these? . . . If the sufferings of Christ consisted in physical pain alone, then His death was no more painful than that of some of the martyrs. But bodily pain was but a small part of the agony of God’s dear Son. The sins of the world were upon Him, also the sense of His Father’s wrath as He suffered the penalty of the law transgressed. It was these that crushed His divine soul. . . . The separation that sin makes between God and man was fully realized and keenly felt by the innocent, suffering Man of Calvary. He was oppressed by the powers of darkness. He had not one ray of light to brighten the future. . . . It was in this terrible hour of darkness, the face of His Father hidden, legions of evil angels enshrouding Him, the sins of the world upon Him, that the words were wrenched from His lips: “My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?” . . . {OFC 209.1} [OFC 209.2] In comparison with the enterprise of everlasting life, every other sinks into insignificance. {OFC 209.2} [OFC 209.3] So Costly—and Yet Free By the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. Romans 5:18. {OFC 209.3} [OFC 209.4] Money cannot buy it, intellect cannot grasp it, power cannot command it; but to all who will accept it, God’s glorious grace is freely given. But men may feel their need, and, renouncing all self-dependence, accept salvation as a gift. Those who enter heaven will not scale its walls by their own righteousness, nor will its gates be opened to them for costly offerings of gold or silver, but they will gain an entrance to the many mansions of the Father’s house through the merits of the cross of Christ. {OFC 209.4} [OFC 209.5] For sinful men, the highest consolation, the greatest cause of rejoicing, is that Heaven has given Jesus to be the sinner’s Saviour. . . . He offered to go over the ground where Adam stumbled and fell; to meet the tempter on the field of battle, and conquer him in man’s behalf. Behold Him in the wilderness of temptation. Forty days and forty nights He fasted, enduring the fiercest assaults of the powers of darkness. He trod the “winepress 210 alone; and of the people there was none with” Him (Isaiah 63:3). It was not for Himself, but that He might break the chain that held the human race in slavery to Satan. {OFC 209.5} [OFC 210.1] As Christ in His humanity sought strength from His Father, that He might be enabled to endure trial and temptation, so are we to do. We are to follow the example of the sinless Son of God. Daily we need help and grace and power from the Source of all power. We are to cast our helpless souls upon the One who is ready to help us in every time of need. Too often we forget the Lord. Self gives way to impulse, and we lose the victories that we should gain. {OFC 210.1} [OFC 210.2] If we are overcome let us not delay to repent, and to accept the pardon that will place us on vantage ground. If we repent and believe, the cleansing power from God will be ours. His saving grace is freely offered. His pardon is given to all who will receive it. . . . Over every sinner that repents the angels of God rejoice with songs of joy. Not one sinner need be lost. Full and free is the gift of saving grace. {OFC 210.2} [OFC 210.3] A Comforter Like Christ Nevertheless I tell you the truth; it is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. John 16:7. {OFC 210.3} [OFC 210.4] The Comforter that Christ promised to send after He ascended to heaven, is the Spirit in all the fullness of the Godhead, making manifest the power of divine grace to all who receive and believe in Christ as a personal Saviour. {OFC 210.4} [OFC 210.5] With the consecrated worker for God, in whatever place he may be, the Holy Spirit abides. The words spoken to the disciples are spoken also to us. The Comforter is ours as well as theirs. {OFC 210.5} [OFC 210.6] There is no comforter like Christ, so tender and so true. He is touched with the feeling of our infirmities. His Spirit speaks to the heart. Circumstances may separate us from our friends; the broad, restless ocean may roll between us and them. Though their sincere friendship may still exist, they may be unable to demonstrate it. . . . But no circumstances, no distance, can separate us from the heavenly Comforter. Wherever we are, wherever we may go, He is always there, one given in Christ’s place, to act in His stead. He is always at our right hand, to speak soothing, gentle words; to support, sustain, uphold, and cheer. The influence of the Holy Spirit is the life of Christ in the soul. This Spirit works in and through every one who receives Christ. Those who know the indwelling of this 211 Spirit reveal its fruit—love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith. {OFC 210.6} [OFC 211.1] The Holy Spirit ever abides with him who is seeking for perfection of Christian character. The Holy Spirit furnishes the pure motive, the living, active principle, that sustains striving, wrestling, believing souls in every emergency and under every temptation. The Holy Spirit sustains the believer amid the world’s hatred, amid the unfriendliness of relatives, amid disappointment, amid the realization of imperfection, and amid the mistakes of life. Depending upon the matchless purity and perfection of Christ, the victory is sure to him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith. . . . He has borne our sins, in order that through Him we might have moral excellence, and attain unto the perfection of Christian character. {OFC 211.1} [OFC 211.2] Purifying, Vitalizing Power Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. Psalm 51:10. {OFC 211.2} [OFC 211.3] The Lord purifies the heart very much as we air a room. We do not close the doors and windows, and throw in some purifying substance; but we open the doors and throw wide the windows, and let heaven’s purifying atmosphere flow in. . . . The windows of impulse, of feeling must be opened up toward heaven, and the dust of selfishness and earthliness must be expelled. The grace of God must sweep through the chambers of the mind, the imagination must have heavenly themes for contemplation, and every element of the nature must be purified and vitalized by the Spirit of God. {OFC 211.3} [OFC 211.4] He who lives the principles of Bible religion, will not be found weak in moral power. Under the ennobling influence of the Holy Spirit, the tastes and inclinations become pure and holy. Nothing takes so strong a hold upon the affections, nothing reaches so fully down to the deepest motives of action, nothing exerts so potent an influence upon the life, and gives so great firmness and stability to the character, as the religion of Christ. It leads its possessor ever upward, inspiring him with noble purposes, teaching him propriety of deportment, and imparting a becoming dignity to every action. {OFC 211.4} [OFC 211.5] The church is the object of God’s tenderest love and care. If the members will allow Him, He will reveal His character through them. He says to them, “Ye are the light of the world” (Matthew 5:14). Those who walk and talk with God practice the gentleness of Christ. In their lives, forbearance, meekness, and self-restraint are united with holy earnestness 212 and diligence. As they advance heavenward, the sharp, rough edges of character are worn off, and godliness is seen. The Holy Spirit, full of grace and power, works upon mind and heart. {OFC 211.5} [OFC 212.1] The heart in which Jesus makes his abode will be quickened, purified, guided, and ruled by the Holy Spirit, and the human agent will make strenuous efforts to bring his character into harmony with God. He will avoid everything that is contrary to the revealed will and mind of God. {OFC 212.1} [OFC 212.2] The Latter Rain Ask ye of the Lord rain in the time of the latter rain; so the Lord shall make bright clouds, and give them showers of rain, to every one grass in the field. Zechariah 10:1. {OFC 212.2} [OFC 212.3] Under the figure of the early and the latter rain, that falls in Eastern lands at seedtime and harvest, the Hebrew prophets foretold the bestowal of spiritual grace in extraordinary measure upon God’s church. The outpouring of the Spirit in the days of the apostles was the beginning of the early, or former rain, and glorious was the result.... But near the close of earth’s harvest, a special bestowal of spiritual grace is promised to prepare the church for the coming of the Son of man. This outpouring of the Spirit is likened to the falling of the latter rain; and it is for this added power that Christians are to send their petitions to the Lord of the harvest “in the time of the latter rain.” {OFC 212.3} [OFC 212.4] As Christ was glorified on the day of Pentecost so will He again be glorified in the closing work of the gospel, when He shall prepare a people to stand the final test, in the closing conflict of the great controversy. {OFC 212.4} [OFC 212.5] Many . . . will be seen hurrying hither and thither, constrained by the Spirit of God to bring the light to others. The truth, the Word of God, is as a fire in their bones, filling them with a burning desire to enlighten those who sit in darkness. Many, even among the uneducated, now proclaim the words of the Lord. Children are impelled by the Spirit to go forth and declare the message from heaven. The Spirit is poured out upon all who will yield to its promptings, and ... they will declare the truth with the might of the Spirit’s power. {OFC 212.5} [OFC 212.6] But unless the members of God’s church today have a living connection with the Source of all spiritual growth, they will not be ready for the time of reaping. Unless they keep their lamps trimmed and burning, they will fail of receiving added grace in times of special need. {OFC 212.6} [OFC 212.7] Divine grace is needed at the beginning, divine grace at every step of advance, and divine grace alone can complete the work. There is no place for us to rest in a careless attitude....By prayer and faith we are continually to seek more of the Spirit. {OFC 212.7} [OFC 213.1] It Takes Time I the Lord do keep it; I will water it every moment: lest any hurt it, I will keep it night and day. Isaiah 27:3. {OFC 213.1} [OFC 213.2] The mind of a man or a woman does not come down in a moment from purity and holiness to depravity, corruption, and crime. It takes time to transform the human to the divine, or to degrade those formed in the image of God to the brutal or the satanic. By beholding we become changed. Though formed in the image of his Maker, man can so educate his mind that sin which he once loathed will become pleasant to him. As he ceases to watch and pray, he ceases to guard the citadel, the heart....Constant war against the carnal mind must be maintained; and we must be aided by the refining influence of the grace of God, which will attract the mind upward and habituate it to meditate upon pure and holy things. {OFC 213.2} [OFC 213.3] Character does not come by chance. It is not determined by one outburst of temper, one step in the wrong direction. It is the repetition of the act that causes it to become habit, and molds the character either for good or for evil. Right characters can be formed only by persevering, untiring effort, by improving every entrusted talent and capability to the glory of God. {OFC 213.3} [OFC 213.4] God expects us to build characters in accordance with the pattern set before us. We are to lay brick by brick, adding grace to grace, finding our weak points and correcting them in accordance with the directions given. {OFC 213.4} [OFC 213.5] God gives us strength, reasoning power, time, in order that we may build characters on which He can place His stamp of approval. He desires each child of His to build a noble character, by the doing of pure, noble deeds, that in the end he may present a symmetrical structure, a fair temple, honored by man and God.... {OFC 213.5} [OFC 213.6] He who would grow into a beautiful building for the Lord must cultivate every power of the being. It is only by the right use of the talents that the character can be developed harmoniously. Thus we bring to the foundation that which is represented in the Word as gold, silver, precious stones—material that will stand the test of God’s purifying fires. {OFC 213.6} [OFC 214.1] Perfection Now? Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect. Matthew 5:48. {OFC 214.1} [OFC 214.2] When God gave His Son to the world, He made it possible for men and women to be perfect by the use of every capability of their beings to the glory of God. In Christ He gave to them the riches of His grace, and a knowledge of His will. As they would empty themselves of self, and learn to walk in humility, leaning on God for guidance, men would be enabled to fulfill God’s high purpose for them. {OFC 214.2} [OFC 214.3] Perfection of character is based upon that which Christ is to us. If we have constant dependence on the merits of our Saviour, and walk in His footsteps, we shall be like Him, pure and undefiled. {OFC 214.3} [OFC 214.4] Our Saviour does not require impossibilities of any soul. He expects nothing of His disciples that He is not willing to give them grace and strength to perform. He would not call upon them to be perfect if He had not at His command every perfection of grace to bestow on the ones upon whom He would confer so high and holy a privilege. . . . {OFC 214.4} [OFC 214.5] Our work is to strive to attain in our sphere of action the perfection that Christ in His life on the earth attained in every phase of character. He is our example. In all things we are to strive to honor God in character. . . . We are to be wholly dependent on the power that He has promised to give us. {OFC 214.5} [OFC 214.6] Jesus revealed no qualities, and exercised no powers, that men may not have through faith in Him. His perfect humanity is that which all His followers may possess, if they will be in subjection to God as He was. {OFC 214.6} [OFC 214.7] Our Saviour is a Saviour for the perfection of the whole man. He is not the God of part of the being only. The grace of Christ works to the disciplining of the whole human fabric. He made all. He has redeemed all. He has made the mind, the strength, the body as well as the soul, partaker of the divine nature, and all is His purchased possession. He must be served with the whole mind, heart, soul, and strength. Then the Lord will be glorified in His saints in even the common, temporal things with which they are connected. “Holiness unto the Lord” will be in the inscription placed upon them. {OFC 214.7} [OFC 214.8] Awaiting Our Demand Ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full. John 16:24. {OFC 214.8} [OFC 214.9] Prayer is heaven’s ordained means of success in the conflict with sin 215 and the development of Christian character. The divine influences that come in answer to the prayer of faith will accomplish in the soul of the suppliant all for which he pleads. For the pardon of sin, for the Holy Spirit, for a Christlike temper, for wisdom and strength to do His work, for any gift He has promised, we may ask; and the promise is, “Ye shall receive.” {OFC 214.9} [OFC 215.1] Jesus is our helper; in Him and through Him we must conquer. . . . The grace of Christ is waiting your demand upon it. He will give you grace and strength as you need it if you ask Him. . . . The religion of Christ will bind and restrain every unholy passion, will stimulate to energy, to self-discipline, and industry, even in the matters of homely, everyday life, leading us to learn economy, tact, and self-denial, and to endure even privation without a murmur. The Spirit of Christ in the heart will be revealed in the character, will develop noble qualities and powers. “My grace is sufficient” (2 Corinthians 12:9) says Christ. {OFC 215.1} [OFC 215.2] Make every effort to keep open the communion between Jesus and your own soul. . . . We should pray in the family circle, and above all we must not neglect secret prayer; for this is the life of the soul. It is impossible for the soul to flourish while prayer is neglected. Family or public prayer alone is not sufficient. In solitude let the soul be laid open to the inspecting eye of God. Secret prayer is to be heard only by the prayer-hearing God. No curious ear is to receive the burden of such petitions. In secret prayer the soul is free from surrounding influences, free from excitement. . . . By calm, simple faith, the soul holds communion with God, and gathers to itself rays of divine light to strengthen and sustain it in the conflict with Satan. . . . {OFC 215.2} [OFC 215.3] Pray in your closet, and as you go about your daily labor, let your heart be often uplifted to God. It was thus that Enoch walked with God. These silent prayers rise like precious incense before the throne of grace. Satan cannot overcome him whose heart is thus stayed upon God. {OFC 215.3} [OFC 215.4] Angel Reinforcements Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy. Luke 10:19. {OFC 215.4} [OFC 215.5] Fallen man is Satan’s lawful captive. The mission of Christ was to rescue him from the power of his great adversary. Man is naturally inclined to follow Satan’s suggestions, and he cannot successfully resist so terrible a foe unless Christ, the mighty Conqueror, dwells in him, guiding his desires, and giving him strength. God alone can limit the power of Satan. . . . Satan knows better than God’s people the power that they can have over him when their strength is in Christ. When they humbly entreat the 216 mighty Conqueror for help, the weakest believer in the truth, relying firmly upon Christ, can successfully repulse Satan and all his host. . . . {OFC 215.5} [OFC 216.1] Satan will call to his aid legions of his angels to oppose the advance of even one soul, and, if possible, wrest it from the hand of Christ. . . . But if the one in danger perseveres, and in his helplessness casts himself upon the merits of the blood of Christ, our Saviour listens to the earnest prayer of faith, and sends a reinforcement of those angels that excel in strength to deliver him. Satan cannot endure to have his powerful rival appealed to, for he fears and trembles before His strength and majesty. At the sound of fervent prayer, Satan’s whole host trembles. {OFC 216.1} [OFC 216.2] Nothing but Christ’s loving compassion, His divine grace, His almighty power, can enable us to baffle the relentless foe, and subdue the opposition of our own hearts. What is our strength? The joy of the Lord. Let the love of Christ fill our hearts, and then we shall be prepared to receive the power that He has for us. . . . {OFC 216.2} [OFC 216.3] Beholding Christ for the purpose of becoming like Him, the seeker after truth sees the perfection of the principles of God’s law, and he becomes dissatisfied with everything but perfection. . . . A battle must be fought with the attributes that Satan has been strengthening for his own use. . . . But he knows that with the Redeemer there is saving power that will gain for him the victory in the conflict. The Saviour will strengthen and help him as he comes pleading for grace and efficiency. {OFC 216.3} [OFC 216.4] The Christian’s Badge Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us. Ephesians 3:20. {OFC 216.4} [OFC 216.5] The Lord is waiting to manifest through His people His grace and power. But He requires that those who engage in His service shall keep their minds ever directed to Him. Every day they should have time for reading the Word of God and for prayer. . . . {OFC 216.5} [OFC 216.6] Individually we are to walk and talk with God; then the sacred influence of the gospel of Christ in all its preciousness will appear in our lives. {OFC 216.6} [OFC 216.7] There is an eloquence far more powerful than the eloquence of words in the quiet, consistent life of a pure, true Christian. What a man is has more influence than what he says. {OFC 216.7} [OFC 216.8] The officers who were sent to Jesus came back with the report that never man spoke as He spoke. But the reason for this was that never man lived as He lived. Had His life been other than it was, He could not have spoken as He did. His words bore with them a convincing power, because 217 they came from a heart pure and holy, full of love and sympathy, benevolence and truth. {OFC 216.8} [OFC 217.1] It is our own character and experience that determine our influence upon others. In order to convince others of the power of Christ’s grace, we must know its power in our own hearts and lives. The gospel we present for the saving of souls must be the gospel by which our own souls are saved. Only through a living faith in Christ as a personal Saviour is it possible to make our influence felt in a skeptical world. If we would draw sinners out of the swift-running current, our own feet must be firmly set upon the Rock, Christ Jesus. {OFC 217.1} [OFC 217.2] The badge of Christianity is not an outward sign, not the wearing of a cross or a crown, but it is that which reveals the union of man with God. By the power of His grace manifested in the transformation of character the world is to be convinced that God has sent His Son as its Redeemer. No other influence that can surround the human soul has such power as the influence of an unselfish life. The strongest argument in favor of the gospel is a loving and lovable Christian. {OFC 217.2} [OFC 217.3] Conditions Of Christian Growth And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; . . . being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God. Philippians 1:9-11. {OFC 217.3} [OFC 217.4] Where there is life, there will be growth and fruit-bearing; but unless we grow in grace, our spirituality will be dwarfed, sickly, fruitless. It is only by growing, by bearing fruit, that we can fulfill God’s purpose for us. “Herein is my Father glorified,” Christ said, “that ye bear much fruit” (John 15:8). In order to bear much fruit, we must make the most of our privileges. We must use every opportunity granted us for obtaining strength. {OFC 217.4} [OFC 217.5] A pure, noble character, with all its grand possibilities, has been provided for every human being. But there are many who have not an earnest longing for such a character. They are not willing to part with the evil that they may have the good. . . . They neglect to grasp the blessings that would place them in harmony with God. . . . They cannot grow. {OFC 217.5} [OFC 217.6] One of the divine plans for growth is impartation. The Christian is to gain strength by strengthening others. “He that watereth shall be watered also himself” (Proverbs 11:25). This is not merely a promise; it is a divine law, a law by which God designs that the streams of benevolence, like the 218 waters of the great deep, shall be kept in constant circulation, continually flowing back to their source. In the fulfilling of this law is the secret of spiritual growth. . . . {OFC 217.6} [OFC 218.1] If we come to God in faith, He will receive us and give us strength to climb upward to perfection. If we watch every word and action, that we may do nothing to dishonor the One who has trusted us, if we improve every opportunity granted us, we shall grow into the full stature of men and women in Christ. . . . {OFC 218.1} [OFC 218.2] Christians, is Christ revealed in us? Are we doing all in our power to gain a body that is not easily enfeebled, a mind that looks beyond self to the cause and effect of every movement, that can wrestle with hard problems and conquer them, a will that is firm to resist evil and defend the right? Are we crucifying self? Are we growing up into the full stature of men and women in Christ, preparing to endure hardness as good soldiers of the cross? {OFC 218.2} [OFC 218.3] In Kindness Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering. Colossians 3:12. {OFC 218.3} [OFC 218.4] Let the law of kindness be upon your lips and the oil of grace in your heart. This will produce wonderful results. You will be tender, sympathetic, courteous. You need all these graces. The Holy Spirit must be received and brought into your character; then it will be as holy fire, giving forth incense which will rise up to God, not from lips that condemn, but as a healer of the souls of men. Your countenance will express the image of the divine. . . . By beholding the character of Christ you will become changed into His likeness. The grace of Christ alone can change your heart and then you will reflect the image of the Lord Jesus. God calls upon us to be like Him—pure, holy, and undefiled. We are to bear the divine image. . . . {OFC 218.4} [OFC 218.5] The Lord Jesus is our only helper. Through His grace we shall learn to cultivate love, to educate ourselves to speak kindly and tenderly. Through His grace our cold, harsh manners will be transformed. The law of kindness will be upon our lips, and those who are under the precious influences of the Holy Spirit, will not feel that it is an evidence of weakness to weep with those who weep, to rejoice with them that rejoice. We are to cultivate heavenly excellences of character. We are to learn what it means to have good-will toward all men, a sincere desire to be as sunshine and not as shadow in the lives of others. {OFC 218.5} [OFC 219.1] 219 Seize every opportunity to contribute to the happiness of those around you, sharing with them your affection. Words of kindness, looks of sympathy, expressions of appreciation, would to many a struggling, lonely one be as a cup of cold water to a thirsty soul. . . . {OFC 219.1} [OFC 219.2] Live in the sunshine of the Saviour’s love. Then your influence will bless the world. Let the Spirit of Christ control you. Let the law of kindness be ever on your lips. Forbearance and unselfishness mark the words and actions of those who are born again, to live the new life in Christ. {OFC 219.2} [OFC 219.3] A Divine Prescription That the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and ye in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Thessalonians 1:12. {OFC 219.3} [OFC 219.4] Many are longing to grow in grace; they pray over the matter, and are surprised that their prayers are not answered. The Master has given them a work to do whereby they shall grow. Of what value is it to pray when there is need of work? The question is, Are they seeking to save souls for whom Christ died? Spiritual growth depends upon giving to others the light that God has given to you. You are to put forth your best thoughts in active labor to do good, and only good, in your family, in your church, and in your neighborhood. {OFC 219.4} [OFC 219.5] In place of growing anxious with the thought that you are not growing in grace, just do every duty that presents itself, carry the burden of souls on your heart, and by every conceivable means seek to save the lost. Be kind, be courteous, be pitiful; speak in humility of the blessed hope; talk of the love of Jesus; tell of His goodness, His mercy, and His righteousness; and cease to worry as to whether or not you are growing. Plants do not grow through any conscious effort. . . . The plant is not in continual worriment about its growth; it just grows under the supervision of God. {OFC 219.5} [OFC 219.6] If we will consecrate heart and mind to the service of God, doing the work He has for us to do and walking in the footsteps of Jesus, our hearts will become sacred harps, every chord of which will send forth praise and thanksgiving to the Lamb sent by God to take away the sins of the world. . . . {OFC 219.6} [OFC 219.7] The Lord Jesus is our strength and happiness, the great storehouse from which, on every occasion, men may draw strength. As we study Him, talk of Him, become more and more able to behold Him—as we avail ourselves of His grace and receive the blessings He proffers us, we have something with which to help others. Filled with gratitude, we communi- 220 cate to others the blessings that have been freely given us. Thus receiving and imparting, we grow in grace. {OFC 219.7} [OFC 220.1] Union With Christ But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof. Romans 13:14. {OFC 220.1} [OFC 220.2] To effect the salvation of men, God employs various agencies. He speaks to them by His word and by His ministers, and He sends by the Holy Spirit messages of warning, reproof, and instruction. These means are designed to enlighten the understanding of the people, to reveal to them their duty and their sins, and the blessings which they may receive; to awaken in them a sense of spiritual want, that they may go to Christ and find in Him the grace they need. . . . {OFC 220.2} [OFC 220.3] Every individual, by his own act, either puts Christ from him by refusing to cherish His spirit and follow His example, or he enters into a personal union with Christ by self-renunciation, faith, and obedience. We must, each for himself, choose Christ, because He has first chosen us. This union with Christ is to be formed by those who are naturally at enmity with Him. It is a relation of utter dependence, to be entered into by a proud heart. This is close work, and many who profess to be followers of Christ know nothing of it. They nominally accept the Saviour, but not as the sole ruler of their hearts. . . . {OFC 220.3} [OFC 220.4] To renounce their own will, perhaps their chosen object of affection or pursuit, requires an effort, at which many hesitate and falter and turn back. Yet this battle must be fought by every heart that is truly converted. We must war against temptations without and within. We must gain the victory over self, crucify the affections and lusts; and then begins the union of the soul with Christ. . . . After this union is formed, it can be preserved only by continual, earnest, painstaking effort. Christ exercises His power to preserve and guard this sacred tie, and the dependent, helpless sinner must act his part with untiring energy, or Satan by his cruel, cunning power will separate him from Christ. . . . {OFC 220.4} [OFC 220.5] Your birth, your reputation, your wealth, your talents, your virtues, your piety, your philanthropy, . . will not form a bond of union between your soul and Christ. Your connection with the church . . . will be of no avail unless you believe in Christ. It is not enough to believe about Him. You must believe in Him. You must rely wholly upon His saving grace. {OFC 220.5} [OFC 221.1] Praise God! I will mention the lovingkindnesses of the Lord, and the praises of the Lord, according to all that the Lord hath bestowed on us, and the great goodness toward the house of Israel. Isaiah 63:7. {OFC 221.1} [OFC 221.2] When a sense of the loving-kindness of God is constantly refreshing the soul, it will be revealed in the countenance by an expression of peace and joy. It will be manifest in the words and works. And the generous, holy Spirit of Christ, working upon the heart, will yield in the life a converting influence upon others. . . . {OFC 221.2} [OFC 221.3] Have we not reason to talk of God’s goodness and to tell of His power? When friends are kind to us we esteem it a privilege to thank them for their kindness. How much more should we count it a joy to return thanks to the Friend who has given us every good and perfect gift. Then let us, in every church, cultivate thanksgiving to God. Let us educate our lips to praise God in the family circle. . . . Let our gifts and offerings declare our gratitude for the favors we daily receive. In everything we should show forth the joy of the Lord. . . . {OFC 221.3} [OFC 221.4] David declares, “I love the Lord, because he hath heard my voice and my supplications. Because he hath inclined his ear unto me, therefore will I call upon him as long as I live” (Psalm 116:1, 2). God’s goodness in hearing and answering prayer places us under heavy obligation to express our thanksgiving for the favors bestowed upon us. We should praise God much more than we do. The blessings received in answer to prayer should be promptly acknowledged. . . . {OFC 221.4} [OFC 221.5] We grieve the Spirit of Christ by our complaints and murmurings and repinings. We should not dishonor God by the mournful relation of trials that appear grievous. All trials that are received as educators will produce joy. The whole religious life will be uplifting, elevating, ennobling, fragrant with good words and works. {OFC 221.5} [OFC 221.6] Let the peace of God reign in your soul. Then you will have strength to bear all suffering, and you will rejoice that you have grace to endure. Praise the Lord; talk of His goodness; tell of His power. Sweeten the atmosphere that surrounds your soul. . . . Praise with heart and soul and voice, Him who is the health of your countenance, your Saviour, and your God. {OFC 221.6} [OFC 222.1] While We Wait Let your loins be girded about, and your lights burning; and ye yourselves like unto men that wait for their Lord. Luke 12:35, 36. {OFC 222.1} [OFC 222.2] Now is the time to prepare for the coming of our Lord. Readiness to meet Him cannot be attained in a moment’s time. Preparatory to that solemn scene there must be vigilant waiting and watching, combined with earnest work. So God’s children glorify Him. Amid the busy scenes of life their voices will be heard speaking words of encouragement, faith, and hope. All they have and are is consecrated to the Master’s service. . . . {OFC 222.2} [OFC 222.3] Christ tell us when the day of His kingdom shall be ushered in. He does not say that all the world will be converted, but that “this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come” (Matthew 24:14). By giving the gospel to the world, it is in our power to hasten the coming of the day of God. Had the church of Christ done her appointed work as the Lord ordained, the whole world would before this have been warned, and the Lord Jesus would have come to the earth in power and great glory. {OFC 222.3} [OFC 222.4] Living power must attend the message of Christ’s second appearing. We must not rest until we see many souls converted to the blessed hope of the Lord’s return. In the days of the apostles the message that they bore wrought a real work, turning souls from idols to serve the living God. The work to be done today is just as real, and the truth is just as much truth; only we are to give the message with as much more earnestness as the coming of the Lord is nearer. The message for this time is positive, simple, and of the deepest importance. We must act like men and women who believe it. Waiting, watching, working, praying, warning the world—this is our work. {OFC 222.4} [OFC 222.5] I have been deeply impressed by scenes that have recently passed before me in the night season. There seemed to be a great movement—a work of revival—going forward in many places. Our people were moving into line, responding to God’s call. My brethren, the Lord is speaking to us. Shall we not heed His call? Shall we not trim our lamps, and act like men who look for their Lord to come? {OFC 222.5} [OFC 222.6] What A Reward! If any man’s work abide . . . , he shall receive a reward. 1 Corinthians 3:14. {OFC 222.6} [OFC 222.7] Glorious will be the reward bestowed when the faithful workers gather 223 about the throne of God and of the Lamb. When John in his mortal state beheld the glory of God, he fell as one dead; he was not able to endure the sight. But when the children of God shall have put on immortality, they will “see him as he is” (1 John 3:2). They will stand before the throne, accepted in the Beloved. All their sins have been blotted out, all their transgressions borne away. Now they can look upon the undimmed glory of the throne of God. They have been partakers with Christ in His sufferings, they have been workers together with Him in the plan of redemption, and they are partakers with Him in the joy of seeing souls saved in the kingdom of God, there to praise God through all eternity. . . . {OFC 222.7} [OFC 223.1] In that day the redeemed will shine forth in the glory of the Father and the Son. The angels, touching their golden harps, will welcome the King and His trophies of victory. . . A song of triumph will peal forth, filling all heaven. Christ has conquered. He enters the heavenly courts, accompanied by His redeemed ones, the witnesses that His mission of suffering and sacrifice has not been in vain. . . . {OFC 223.1} [OFC 223.2] There are homes for the pilgrims of earth. There are robes for the righteous, with crowns of glory and palms of victory. All that has perplexed us in the providences of God will in the world to come be made plain. The things hard to be understood will then find explanation. The mysteries of grace will unfold before us. Where our finite minds discovered only confusion and broken promises, we shall see the most perfect and beautiful harmony. We shall know that infinite love ordered the experiences that seemed most trying. As we realize the tender care of Him who makes all things work together for our good, we shall rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory. {OFC 223.2} [OFC 223.3] I urge you to prepare for the coming of Christ in the clouds of heaven. . . . Prepare for the judgment, that when Christ shall come, to be admired in all them that believe, you may be among those who will meet Him in peace. {OFC 223.3} [OFC 223.4] Look Up! Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God. Speak ye comfortably to Jerusalem, and cry unto her, that her warfare is accomplished, that her iniquity is pardoned. Isaiah 40:1, 2. {OFC 223.4} [OFC 223.5] In the darkest days of her long conflict with evil, the church of God has been given revelations of the eternal purpose of Jehovah. His people have been permitted to look beyond the trials of the present to the triumphs of the future, when, the warfare having been accomplished, the redeemed will enter into possession of the promised land. These visions of future 224 glory, scenes pictured by the hand of God, should be dear to His church today, when the controversy of the ages is rapidly closing and the promised blessings are soon to be realized in all their fullness. {OFC 223.5} [OFC 224.1] To us who are standing on the very verge of their fulfillment, of what deep moment, what living interest, are these delineations of the things to come—events for which, since our first parents turned their steps from Eden, God’s children have watched and waited, longed and prayed! {OFC 224.1} [OFC 224.2] Fellow pilgrim, we are still amid the shadows and turmoil of earthly activities; but soon our Saviour is to appear to bring deliverance and rest. Let us by faith behold the blessed hereafter as pictured by the hand of God. He who died for the sins of the world is opening wide the gates of Paradise to all who believe on Him. Soon the battle will have been fought, the victory won. Soon we shall see Him in whom our hopes of eternal life are centered. And in His presence the trials and sufferings of this life will seem as nothingness. The former things “shall not be remembered, nor come into mind.”“Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompense of reward. For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry.”“Israel shall be saved . . . with an everlasting salvation: ye shall not be ashamed nor confounded world without end.” {OFC 224.2} [OFC 224.3] Look up, look up, and let your faith continually increase. Let this faith guide you along the narrow path that leads through the gates of the city into the great beyond, the wide, unbounded future of glory that is for the redeemed. {OFC 224.3} [OFC 224.4] Chapter 9—This Day With God The Conflict Over For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Matthew 5:18. {OFC 224.4} [OFC 224.5] When Christ entered upon His campaign, Satan met Him and contested every inch of ground, exerting his utmost powers to conquer Him. Much was involved in this controversy. Intense interests were at stake. The questions to be answered were: “Is God’s law imperfect, in need of being amended or abrogated? or is it immutable? Is God’s government stable? or is it in need of changes?” Not only before those living in the city of God, but before the inhabitants of all the heavenly universe, were these questions to be answered. . . . {OFC 224.5} [OFC 224.6] From the manger to the cross Satan followed the Son of God. Temptations beat upon Him like a tempest. But the more fierce the conflict, the more familiar He became with the temptations wherewith man 225 is beset, and the better prepared He was to succor the tempted. {OFC 224.6} [OFC 225.1] The severity of the trial through which Christ passed was proportionate to the value of the object to be gained or lost by His success or failure. Not merely the interests of one world were involved. This world was the battlefield, but all the worlds that God has created were affected by the result of the conflict. . . .Satan sought to make it appear that he was working for the liberty of the universe. Even while Christ was on the cross, the enemy was determined to make his arguments so varied, so deceptive, so insidious, that all would be convinced that God’s law was tyrannical. He himself laid every scheme, planned every evil, inflamed every mind to bring affliction on Christ. He himself instigated the false accusations against One who had done only good. He himself inspired the cruel deeds that added to the suffering of the Son of God—the pure, the holy, the innocent. {OFC 225.1} [OFC 225.2] By this course of action Satan has forged a chain by which he himself will be bound. The heavenly universe will bear witness to the justice of God in punishing him. Heaven itself saw what heaven would be, if he were in it. . . . {OFC 225.2} [OFC 225.3] Not merely in the minds of a few finite creatures in this world, but in the minds of all the inhabitants of the heavenly universe, has the immutability of God’s law been established. . . . With one voice they extolled God as righteous, merciful, self-denying, just. {OFC 225.3} [OFC 225.4] Agents For Heaven Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous. 1 Peter 3:8. {OFC 225.4} [OFC 225.5] What great need there is of cultivating tenderness and gentleness. None should be ashamed to manifest a tender, compassionate spirit for those who err; for those who think they make no mistakes and far from being without fault before God. No one need to think that the manifestation of compassion is something for which he need be ashamed. . . . {OFC 225.5} [OFC 225.6] When a crisis comes in the life of any soul, and another attempts to give advice, that advice and counsel will have only the weight of influence for good that their example and spirit of the adviser has accumulated for him. It is the consistent life, the revelation of a sincere, Christlike interest for the soul in peril, that will make counsel effectual to persuade and win into safe paths. Those who are quick to censure others, who speak words that cut and bruise the already wounded soul, are doing Satan’s work, and are laborers with the prince of darkness. . . . {OFC 225.6} [OFC 225.7] Let the tempted and tried souls remember that when chastisement 226 comes upon them, it is the Lord who would save them from death. Let the souls to whom reproof comes, remember that “as many as I love, I rebuke and chasten” (Revelation 3:19). {OFC 225.7} [OFC 226.1] The human agent, imbued with the Spirit of Christ, will watch for souls as they that must give an account. The claims of Christ are upon us, and we must understand our duty, and do it in the fear of God, with an eye single to His glory, and not prove unfaithful. Let no thought of self or of natural feelings be cherished to keep the lips silent. Speak, and be not afraid. With the heart full of tenderness and love for souls, warn, exhort, and entreat. {OFC 226.1} [OFC 226.2] Never cease to labor for a soul while there is one ray of hope. Your words may cut to the soul. Oh, then be cautious, and clothe them with the love and tenderness of Jesus. Soften every accent with love and sympathy. . . . As you deal with others, as you judge others, so the Lord will judge and deal with you. Let the agent who claims to be a child of God, practice the lessons of Christ. If he is compelled to wound, let him feel the duty of healing as compulsory upon him. The truth is ever to be spoken in love, with the Spirit of Christ abiding in the soul. {OFC 226.2} [OFC 226.3] How To Make An Impact Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus. Acts 4:13. {OFC 226.3} [OFC 226.4] When Christ was upon this earth, He did not direct fishermen to leave their nets and boats, and go to the Jewish teachers to gain a preparation for the gospel ministry. Walking by the Sea of Galilee, He saw “two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. And they straightway left their nets, and followed him. And going on from thence, he saw other two brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them. And they immediately left the ship and their father, and followed him” (Matthew 4:18-22). {OFC 226.4} [OFC 226.5] This prompt obedience, without any question, without one promise of wages, seems remarkable. But the words of Christ were an invitation that implied all that He meant it should. There was an impelling influence in His words. There was no long explanation, but what He said had a drawing power. . . . {OFC 226.5} [OFC 226.6] Christ would make these humble fishermen, in connection with Himself, the means of taking men out of the service of Satan, and making 227 them believers in Christ, teaching them in regard to the kingdom of God. In this work they would become His ministers, fishers of men. . . . {OFC 226.6} [OFC 227.1] Christ chose the foolish things of the world—those whom the world pronounced unlearned and ignorant—to confound the wise men of the world. The disciples were unlearned in the traditions of the rabbis, but with Christ as their example and teacher, they were gaining an education of the highest order; for they had before them a divine Example. Christ was presenting to them truths of the highest character. {OFC 227.1} [OFC 227.2] Those whom God employs to do service for Him, He would have fitted in His way for that service. Those who preach Christ must learn of Christ daily, in order to understand the mystery of saving and serving the souls for whom He has died. . . . They must pattern after Him in all things, sharing His tender compassion and His sternness against all evil working. {OFC 227.2} [OFC 227.3] For The Fearful, Faint, And Feeble Trust in the Lord, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed. Psalm 37:3. {OFC 227.3} [OFC 227.4] “Trust in the Lord.” Each day has its burdens, its cares, and perplexities; and when we meet, how ready we are to talk of our difficulties and trials. So many borrowed troubles intrude, so many fears are indulged, such a weight of anxiety is expressed, that one might almost suppose that we had no pitying, loving Saviour, ready to hear all our requests, and to be to us a present help in every time of need. {OFC 227.4} [OFC 227.5] Some are always fearing and borrowing trouble. Every day they are surrounded by the tokens of God’s love, every day they are enjoying the bounties of His providence; but they overlook these present blessings. Their minds are continually dwelling upon something disagreeable which they fear may come: or some difficulty may really exist, which, though small, blinds their eyes to the many things which demand gratitude. The difficulties which they encounter, instead of driving them to God, the only source of help, separate them from Him, because they awaken unrest and repining. {OFC 227.5} [OFC 227.6] Brethren and sisters, do we well to be thus unbelieving? Why should we be ungrateful and distrustful? Jesus is our friend. All heaven is interested in our welfare; and our anxiety and fear grieve the Holy Spirit of God. We should not indulge in a solicitude which only frets and wears us, but does not help us to bear trials. No place should be given to that distrust of God which leads us to make a preparation against future want the chief pursuit of life, as though our happiness consisted in these earthly things, 228 and we could gain them while ignoring the fact that God controls all things. {OFC 227.6} [OFC 228.1] You may be perplexed in business; your prospects may grow darker and darker, and you may be threatened with loss. But do not become discouraged; cast your care upon God, and remain calm and cheerful. Begin every day with earnest prayer, not omitting to offer praise and thanksgiving. Ask for wisdom to manage your affairs with discretion, and thus prevent loss and disaster. Do all you can on your part to bring about favorable results. Jesus has promised divine aid, but not aside from human efforts. {OFC 228.1} [OFC 228.2] The Only Security Verily my sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. Exodus 31:13. {OFC 228.2} [OFC 228.3] Let every one seek the Lord for himself. Eternity is before us. You cannot afford to let another day pass without taking your position on the Lord’s side. Will you not act the part that God has appointed you to act in the closing scenes of this earth’s history? {OFC 228.3} [OFC 228.4] It is impossible to give any idea of the experience of the people of God who will be alive on the earth when past woes and celestial glory will be blended. They will walk in the light proceeding from the throne of God. By the means of the angels there will be constant communication between heaven and earth. And Satan, surrounded by evil angels, and claiming to be God, will work miracles of all kinds, to deceive, if possible, the very elect. God’s people will not find their safety in working miracles; for Satan would counterfeit any miracle that might be worked. God’s tried and tested people will find their power in the sign spoken of in Exodus 31:12-18. They are to take their stand on the living Word—”It is written.” This is the only foundation upon which they can stand securely. Those who have broken their covenant with God will in that day be without hope and without God in the world. {OFC 228.4} [OFC 228.5] The worshipers of God will be especially distinguished by their regard for the fourth commandment—since this is the sign of His creative power, and the witness to His claim upon man’s reverence and homage. The wicked will be distinguished by their efforts to tear down the Creator’s memorial, to exalt the institution of Rome. In the issue of the contest, all Christendom will be divided into two great classes—those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, and those who worship the beast and his image and receive his mark. . . . {OFC 228.5} [OFC 228.6] Fearful tests and trials await the people of God. The spirit of war is 229 stirring the nations from one end of the earth to the other. But in the midst of the time of trouble that is coming—a time of trouble such as has not been since there was a nation—God’s chosen people will stand unmoved. Satan and his angels cannot destroy them; for angels that excel in strength will protect them. {OFC 228.6} [OFC 229.1] Open The Top Windows! Seek the Lord and his strength, seek his face continually. 1 Chronicles 16:11. {OFC 229.1} [OFC 229.2] Now just now is our opportunity to open the windows of the soul heavenward and to close the windows earthward. Now is the time for every church member to say, I will close my heart to everything that would hinder my communion with Christ; I will open the windows of my soul heavenward that I may understand spiritual things. {OFC 229.2} [OFC 229.3] Believers need to talk with God in regard to their individual need of the Holy Spirit. The Word of God must be their assurance. All heaven is inviting us to receive the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness into our lives. If we will talk faith and hope and courage, our souls will be strengthened, and our hope and courage and faith will increase. Let us seek this great gift of the Sun of Righteousness, that it may shine forth in our lives to others. Let us seek the Lord that we may learn how to work His works in the world. This will make us successful missionaries, able to help others to a hopeful, courageous experience. {OFC 229.3} [OFC 229.4] In our service for the Master, let not the little things be overlooked. Every human being has a life web to weave, and if the pattern is complete and perfected at last, every thread of the pattern must be carefully and faithfully worked. The grace of Christ will enable us to weave skillfully and well. Day by day we are to put forth personal diligent effort to improve. Every day we are to use our Christian intelligence in the work of strengthening the weak, and encouraging the desponding. A great test is coming to every soul. Shall we not then work and watch and pray and praise the Lord? This will give us a most precious experience. Very much has been lost to many believers because they have neglected to seek the Lord with earnestness and with a faith that will not be denied. {OFC 229.4} [OFC 229.5] Words spoken and works performed in a simple, humble, encouraging way will inspire faith in other hearts. The Lord is soon to come, and the natural heart must be daily converted. We must learn to speak words in the meekness of Christ; our works and our spirit must testify that we are serving the Lord. {OFC 229.5} [OFC 230.1] Assurance Of Victory Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father. Galatians 1:4. {OFC 230.1} [OFC 230.2] By giving His life for the life of the world, Christ bridged the gulf that sin had made, joining this sin-cursed earth to the universe of heaven as a province. God chose this world to be the theater of His mighty works of grace. While the sentence of condemnation was suspended over it because of the rebellion of its inhabitants, while the clouds of wrath were accumulating because of the transgression of the law of God, a mysterious voice was heard in heaven, “Lo, I come. . . to do thy will, O God” (Psalm 40:7, 8). Our substitute and surety came from heaven declaring that He had brought with Him the vast and inestimable donation of eternal life. Pardon is offered to all who will return their allegiance to the law of God. But there are those who refuse to accept a “thus saith the Lord.” They will not reverence and respect His law. They make rigorous human enactments in opposition to a “thus saith the Lord,” and by precept and example lead men, women, and children into sin. They exalt human enactments above the divine law. But the condemnation and wrath of God are suspended over the disobedient. The clouds of God’s justice are gathering. The material of destruction has been piled up for ages; and still apostasy, rebellion, and disloyalty against God is continually increasing. The remnant people of God, who keep His commandments, will understand the word spoken by Daniel, “Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand” (Daniel 12:10). {OFC 230.2} [OFC 230.3] Satan has called this world his territory. Here his seat is, and he holds in allegiance to himself all who refuse to keep God’s commandments, who reject a plain, “thus saith the Lord.” They stand under the enemy’s banner; for there are but two parties in the world. All rank either under the banner of the obedient or under the banner of the disobedient. {OFC 230.3} [OFC 230.4] Jesus is now sending His message to a fallen world. He delights to take apparently hopeless material, those through whom Satan has worked, and make them the subjects of His grace. He rejoices to deliver them from the wrath which is to fall upon the disobedient. {OFC 230.4} [OFC 231.1] Heavenly Guarantee Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. Matthew 7:7. {OFC 231.1} [OFC 231.2] Oh, if every one would only know by personal experience how much of heaven’s promised rest can be secured to the soul, even now, by sincere prayer. If one has not learned this lesson, every other lesson of life ［had］ better not be learned till he shall learn in the school of Christ how to master this lesson. {OFC 231.2} [OFC 231.3] As Christians we want a new and living experience every day. We want to learn how to trust Jesus, to believe in Him and confide everything to Him. Jacob was raised from a man of feebleness and defects, through faith in God in prayer, to be a prince with God. He prevailed through faith. God is omnipotent. Man is finite. In converse with God, we may lay the most secret thing of the soul open to Him—for He knows it all—but not to man. . . . {OFC 231.3} [OFC 231.4] Do not become careless and separate from the Source of your strength. Watch your thoughts, watch your words, and in all things you seek to do, seek to glorify God. The more closely you lie at the foot of the cross, the more clearly will you see the matchless charms of Jesus and the unparalleled love He has evidenced for fallen man. . . . {OFC 231.4} [OFC 231.5] Let not the pressure of business separate you from God, for if you ever need counsel and clear forethought and sharp ideas, it is when you have much work on your hands. It is then that you need to take time to pray, to have increased faith and implicit trust in the counsel of the Physician in Chief. Ask Him to help you. Pray the oftener the more critical the work you have to do. . . . {OFC 231.5} [OFC 231.6] Oh what a theme to contemplate that man, depraved and lost in his natural condition, may be renewed and saved by the gracious help that Christ gives him in the gospel. The love of Jesus in the soul will drive out the enemy who is seeking to take possession of man. Every trial patiently borne, every blessing thankfully received, every temptation faithfully resisted, will make you a strong man in Jesus Christ. All this grace may be gained in the prayer of faith. . . . {OFC 231.6} [OFC 231.7] Lay hold upon strength from above. Even Jesus, when preparing for some great trial, would resort to the solitude of the mountains and spend the night in prayer to His Father. {OFC 231.7} [OFC 232.1] Living The New Life Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets. Matthew 7:12. {OFC 232.1} [OFC 232.2] Christ came to teach us, not only what we ought to know and believe, but also what we ought to do in our relations with God and with our fellow men. The golden rule of equity demands that we do unto others as we would they should do unto us. We are to keep their eternal interests in view, saying to ourselves, “They are the purchase of the Saviour’s blood, bought with a price.” {OFC 232.2} [OFC 232.3] In all our dealing with our fellow men, whether they be believers or unbelievers, we are to treat them as Christ would treat them were He in our place. If it is for our present and eternal good to obey the law of God, it will be for their present and eternal good also to do this. Our highest aim is to be to them medical missionary workers after Christ’s order. . . . {OFC 232.3} [OFC 232.4] All who enter through the pearly gates into the city of God must have set forth Christ in all their dealings. It is this that constitutes them the messengers of Christ, His witnesses. They are to bear a plain, decided testimony against all evil practices, pointing them to the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. He gives to all who receive Him, power to become the sons of God. {OFC 232.4} [OFC 232.5] Regeneration is the only path by which we can reach the holy city. It is narrow and the gate by which we enter is strait, but along it we are to lead men and women and children, teaching them that in order to be saved, they must have a new heart and a new spirit. The old hereditary traits of character are to be overcome. The natural desires of the soul must be changed. All deception, all falsifying, all evil-speaking must be put away. The new life, which makes men and women Christlike, is to be lived. We are, as it were, to swim against the current of evil. {OFC 232.5} [OFC 232.6] The way to heaven is narrow, hedged in by the divine law of Jehovah. Those who follow this way must constantly deny self. They must obey the teachings of Christ. . . . Let us not trust in man, but in Jesus Christ, who died that He might win us to righteousness. {OFC 232.6} [OFC 232.7] Essentials Of Salvation For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light. Ephesians 5:8. {OFC 232.7} [OFC 233.1] 233 He who commanded the light to shine out of darkness sheds light into the mind of every one who will properly behold Him, loving Him supremely, showing unswerving faith and trust in Him. His light shines into the chambers of the mind and into the soul temple. The heart is filled with the light of the knowledge of the glory that shines in the face of Jesus Christ. And with this light comes spiritual discernment. . . . {OFC 233.1} [OFC 233.2] Yielding willingly to the evidence of truth, and walking in the light that shines in our pathway, we receive still greater light. Through the power of the manifestation of divine glory, we constantly advance in spiritual understanding. {OFC 233.2} [OFC 233.3] Christ’s knowledge of truth was direct, positive, without a shadow. The closer the acquaintance a man has with Jesus Christ, the more careful he will be to treat his fellow men respectfully, courteously, righteously. He has learned of Christ, and he follows His example in word and action. By faith he is united with Christ. “We are labourers together with God” (1 Corinthians 3:9). . . . {OFC 233.3} [OFC 233.4] Christ’s prayer was for unity among His followers. This unity is the evidence that is to convince the world that God sent His Son to save sinners. We serve Christ by revealing true, pure, holy love for one another. Those who are chosen to connect with the Lord’s institutions are to be devoted, self-denying, self-sacrificing men, living not to please themselves, but to please the Master. These are the men who will do honor to the Lord’s institutions. {OFC 233.4} [OFC 233.5] A knowledge of God and of Christ is positively essential to salvation. We lose much every day that we do not learn more of the meekness and lowliness of Christ. Those who learn of Christ obtain the very highest class of education. Through faith and dependence on the saving grace of Christ, they increase in knowledge and wisdom. They love and praise the Saviour. . . . {OFC 233.5} [OFC 233.6] Those who are saved must in this life make it their daily business to receive grace from God, not to hoard in selfishness, but to impart for the blessing of those connected with them, to aid them in obtaining an education in spiritual things. {OFC 233.6} [OFC 233.7] Being Alive Unto God Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven. But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven. Matthew 10:32, 33. {OFC 233.7} [OFC 233.8] How is it? Are we confessing Christ in our daily life? Do we confess 234 Him in our dress, adorning ourselves with plain and modest apparel? Is our adorning that of the meek and quiet spirit which is of so great price in the sight of God? Are we seeking to advance the cause of the Master? Is the line of demarcation between you and the world distinct, or are you seeking to follow the fashions of this degenerate age? Is there no difference between you and the worldling? Does the same spirit work in you that works in the children of disobedience? {OFC 233.8} [OFC 234.1] If we are Christians, we shall follow Christ, even though the path in which we are to walk cuts right across our natural inclinations. There is no use in telling you that you must not wear this or that, for if the love of these vain things is in your heart, your laying off your adornments will only be like cutting the foliage off a tree. The inclinations of the natural heart would again assert themselves. You must have a conscience of your own. {OFC 234.1} [OFC 234.2] O, did we remember that Christ became poor, that we through His poverty might become rich, would we not seek to honor His name, and advance His cause? We are to abide in Him as the branch abides in the vine. Jesus says, “I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. . . . Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples” (John 15:5-8). {OFC 234.2} [OFC 234.3] If we fulfilled this command of our Lord, there would be a different state of affairs in our churches, and we should know what it is to have the deep movings of the Spirit of God. What we want is to have the ax laid at the root of the tree. We want to be dead to the world, dead to self, and alive unto God. Our life must be his with Christ in God, that when He shall appear, we also may appear with Him in glory. We need to come close to Christ, that men may know that we have been with Christ and learned of Him. . . . Keep your eye fixed upon Christ. With humility of mind seek for a nearness to God. In words, in conduct, in life, confess Christ. {OFC 234.3} [OFC 234.4] The Compassionate Christian The prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me. John 14:30. {OFC 234.4} [OFC 234.5] In all His habits of life, the Saviour gave an example of what God designs His church on earth to be. Tell this to the people. Christ desires to present His church before the Father without spot or blemish. {OFC 234.5} [OFC 234.6] From His earliest years the Saviour’s life was one of poverty. His childhood days were spent in toil. Working at the carpenter’s bench, bearing the burdens that came to Him as a member of the family, He often became weary. He lived in a corrupt age. Yet He was uncorrupted by the 235 evil that surrounded Him, uninfluenced by the characters of those who were artificial and wicked. In the open fields and amid the scenes of nature He found rest from toil and food for spiritual life. Looking beneath the surface, He gathered knowledge from the mysteries of nature that filled Him with peace and joy. {OFC 234.6} [OFC 235.1] During the years of His public ministry, the Saviour was continually watched by crafty and hypocritical men. Spies were continually upon His track to catch something from His lips which they could use to create prejudice against Him. Again and again they tried to make Him appear guilty of wrong. There were occasions when they laid traps for Him by presenting to Him questions, the answers to which they hoped to use to cause His condemnation by the people. But at every attempt they were compelled to retire from the field confounded; their actions were revealed in their true light by the answers of Christ. The Saviour’s discourses presented a power of truth to the multitudes who listened. Even the men who were sent to spy upon His actions were forced to return with the report to those who sent them, “Never man spake like this man” (John 7:46). . . . {OFC 235.1} [OFC 235.2] Let your conversation be with grace, for Christ is listening to the words you speak. Let compassion for one another be blended with all you say, then you will reveal the character of Christ. The manners of Christ were gentle and unassuming. As His followers we are to partake of His nature. We need to be daily learners of the great Teacher, that the atmosphere surrounding the soul may be filled with spiritual life. {OFC 235.2} [OFC 235.3] Unreserved Surrender I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. Galatians 2:20. {OFC 235.3} [OFC 235.4] God will accept nothing less than unreserved surrender. Half-hearted, sinful Christians can never enter heaven. There they would find no happiness; for they know nothing of the high, holy principles that govern the members of the royal family. {OFC 235.4} [OFC 235.5] The true Christian keeps the windows of the soul open heavenward. He lives in fellowship with Christ. His will is conformed to the will of Christ. His highest desire is to become more and more Christlike. . . . {OFC 235.5} [OFC 235.6] Earnestly and untiringly we are to strive to reach God’s ideal for us. Not as a penance are we to do this, but as the only means of gaining true happiness. The only way to gain peace and joy is to have a living connection with Him who gave His life for us, who died that we might 236 live, and who lives to unite His power with the efforts of those who are striving to overcome. {OFC 235.6} [OFC 236.1] Holiness is constant agreement with God. Shall we not strive to be that which Christ so greatly desires us to be—Christians in deed and in truth—that the world may see in our lives a revelation of the saving power of truth? This world is our preparatory school. While here we shall meet with trials and difficulties. Continually the enemy of God will seek to draw us away from our allegiance. But while we cleave to Him who gave Himself for us, we are safe. {OFC 236.1} [OFC 236.2] The whole world was gathered into the embrace of Christ. He died on the cross to destroy him who had the power of death, and to take away the sin of every believing soul. He calls upon us to offer ourselves on the altar of service, a living, consuming sacrifice. We are to make an unreserved consecration to God of all that we have and are. {OFC 236.2} [OFC 236.3] In this lower school of earth we are to learn the lessons that will prepare us to enter the higher school, where our education will continue under the personal instruction of Christ. Then He will open to us the meaning of His Word. Shall we not, in the few days of probation remaining to us, act like men and women who are seeking for life in the kingdom of God, even an eternity of bliss. {OFC 236.3} [OFC 236.4] Without Spot Even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; . . . that he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. Ephesians 5:25-27. {OFC 236.4} [OFC 236.5] We bear the name of Christian. Let us be true to this name. To be a Christian means to be Christlike. It means to follow Christ in self-denial, bearing aloft His banner of love, honoring Him by unselfish words and deeds. In the life of the true Christian there is nothing of self—self is dead. There was no selfishness in the life that Christ lived while on this earth. Bearing our nature, He lived a life wholly devoted to the good of others. . . . {OFC 236.5} [OFC 236.6] In word and deed Christ’s followers are to be pure and true. In this world—a world of iniquity and corruption—Christians are to reveal the attributes of Christ. All they do and say is to be free from selfishness. Christ desires to present them to the Father “without spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing,” purified through His grace, bearing His likeness. {OFC 236.6} [OFC 236.7] In His great love, Christ surrendered Himself for us. He gave Himself for us to meet the necessities of the striving, struggling soul. We are to 237 surrender ourselves to Him. When this surrender is entire, Christ can finish the work He began for us by the surrender of Himself. Then He can bring to us complete restoration. {OFC 236.7} [OFC 237.1] Christ gave Himself for the redemption of the race, that all who believe in Him may have everlasting life. Those who appreciate this great sacrifice receive from the Saviour that most precious of all gifts—a clean heart. They gain an experience that is more valuable than gold or silver or precious stones. They sit together in heavenly places in Christ, enjoying in communion with Him the joy and peace that He alone can give. They love Him with heart and mind and soul and strength, realizing that they are His blood-bought heritage. Their spiritual eyesight is not dimmed by worldly policy or worldly aims. They are one with Christ as He is one with the Father. {OFC 237.1} [OFC 237.2] Think you not that Christ values those who live wholly for Him? Think you not that He visits those who, like the beloved John, are for His sake in hard and trying places? He finds His faithful ones, and holds communion with them, encouraging and strengthening them. {OFC 237.2} [OFC 237.3] Truth Will Triumph Not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God. 2 Corinthians 4:2. {OFC 237.3} [OFC 237.4] There is to be no undermining of the fundamental truths that the Lord has submitted by many miraculous evidences. A voice is to be heard in clear affirmation of the truth, in contradiction to the skepticism and fallacies that have been coming in from the enemy of truth. Reformations will take place, and the working out of the principles of divine truth will reveal growth in grace, for the divine agencies are efficient to enlighten and sanctify the human understanding. {OFC 237.4} [OFC 237.5] The truth as it is in Jesus, as it was proclaimed by Him when He was enshrouded by the billowy cloud, is verity and truth in this our day, and will just as surely renovate the mind of the receiver as it has renovated minds in the past. Christ has declared, “If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead” (Luke 16:31). {OFC 237.5} [OFC 237.6] As a people, we must prepare the way of the Lord, under the overruling guidance of the Holy Spirit, for the spread of the gospel in its purity. The stream of living water is to deepen and widen in its course. In all fields, nigh and afar off, men will be called from the plow and from the more common commercial business vocations that largely occupy the 238 mind, and will become educated in connection with men who have had experience—men who understand the truth. Through most wonderful workings of God, mountains of difficulty will be removed and cast into the sea. . . . {OFC 237.6} [OFC 238.1] Those who preach the truth will strive to demonstrate the truth by a well-ordered life and godly conversation. And as they do this, they will become powerful in advocating the truth and in giving it the sure application that God has given it. . . . {OFC 238.1} [OFC 238.2] The call is to go forth, “Son, go labor today in My vineyard.” As this call is obeyed, the message that means so much to the dwellers on the earth, will be heard and understood. Men will know what is truth. Onward, and still onward, will the work advance. And marked events of Providence will be seen and recognized, in judgments and in blessings. The truth will bear away the victory. {OFC 238.2} [OFC 238.3] Matchless Love And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. John 17:22, 23. {OFC 238.3} [OFC 238.4] O what love, what matchless love! Fallen human beings may become so closely united with Christ that they are glorified with Him. On this earth they have followed in His footsteps, laboring as He labored for the souls for whom He died, and when He comes to claim His own, they enter in to His joy, sitting with Him at His table in His kingdom. “Where I am,” He says, “there shall also my servant be” (John 12:26). . . . {OFC 238.4} [OFC 238.5] What a wonderful thought it is that we, poor, fallen sinners, can become one with Christ, partakers of His divine nature, through His grace refined, purified, glorified. We may overcome, and sit down with . . . Christ. We are to be conformed to His image. He loves, and He will help us. We are to be passive in His hands. {OFC 238.5} [OFC 238.6] We have His promise. We hold the title deeds to real estate in the kingdom of glory. Never were title deeds drawn up more strictly according to law, or signed more legibly, than those that give God’s people a right to the heavenly mansions. “Let not your heart be troubled,” Christ says: “ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also” (chap. 14:1-3). . . . {OFC 238.6} [OFC 239.1] 239 All who will may come under the covenant promise. Precious is the price paid for our redemption—the blood of the only begotten Son of God. Christ was tried by the sharp proving of affliction. His human nature was tried to the uttermost. He bore the death penalty of man’s transgression. He became the sinner’s substitute and surety. He is able to show the fruit of His sufferings and death, in His resurrection from the dead. From the rent sepulcher of Joseph rings forth the proclamation, “I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in Me, and do the works of righteousness that I do, are justified, sanctified, made white and tried. They have obtained godliness and eternal life.” {OFC 239.1} [OFC 239.2] An Ever Present Help The Lord is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him. Nahum 1:7. {OFC 239.2} [OFC 239.3] We have rich promises in the Word of God, if we only believe and trust in Him. We are in danger of trusting to our own poor human efforts, and not putting our trust in God. Everyone who has any part to act in this great preparation of the work of God for these last days should come close to God. When God sends out His workers to do a special errand for Him, He has pledged Himself to be one with them, if they will be one with God. But if they draw apart from God, and try to do this work in their own strength, they will find difficulties and discouragements at every step. Here we have the promise that in working for the Lord He is by our right hand to help us and work with us. {OFC 239.3} [OFC 239.4] It would be the greatest folly in the world for any of us to take any of the credit to ourselves for any success we may have. The more humbly we walk with God, the more will He manifest Himself to us to help us. The Lord never designed to send out His servants to do a work for Him with all the opposition of Satan and evil angels against them unless He gives them divine help. The reason that we do not have greater success in the work is because we depend on our own efforts rather than upon the help God will give us. It is our privilege to feel our weakness, our unworthiness, and then claim the help that God has provided for us. We can take the Word in our distress, and while we feel the burden of souls upon us, and say, “Here, Lord, Thou hast promised, and I believe Thy word.” {OFC 239.4} [OFC 239.5] We must learn to go to our heavenly Father just as a child goes to its earthly parents. He says, “Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good 240 things to them that ask him?” (Matthew 7:9-11). . . . {OFC 239.5} [OFC 240.1] While every one of God’s workmen should cultivate his powers to the best of his ability, yet he should not trust in these powers. Make of yourselves everything that it is possible for you to make and then trust the rest to God. {OFC 240.1} [OFC 240.2] The Divine Substitute For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him. 2 Corinthians 5:21. {OFC 240.2} [OFC 240.3] “He saved others; himself he cannot save” (Mark 15:31). It is because Christ would not save Himself that the sinner has any hope of pardon or favor with God. If, in His undertaking to save the sinner, Christ had failed or become discouraged, the last hope of every son and daughter of Adam would have been at an end. The entire life of Christ was one of self-denial and self-sacrifice; and the reason that there are so few stalwart Christians is because of their self-indulgence and self-pleasing in the place of self-denial and self-sacrifice. {OFC 240.3} [OFC 240.4] Oh, what soul hunger and longing had Christ to save that which was lost! The body crucified upon the cross did not detract from His divinity, His power of God to save through the human sacrifice, all who would accept His righteousness. In dying upon the cross, He transferred the guilt from the person of the transgressor to that of the divine Substitute through faith in Him as his personal Redeemer. The sins of a guilty world, which in figure are represented as “red as crimson,” were imputed to the divine Surety. . . {OFC 240.4} [OFC 240.5] Divinity was doing its work while humanity was suffering from the hatred and revenge of a God-hating people, because Christ had acknowledged Himself the Son of God. He alone could respond to the poor suffering thief. He alone was free to undertake the suretyship of the guilty criminal. The dying Redeemer saw him to be far less guilty than the ones who had condemned Him to death, far less guilty than the priests, the scribes, and rulers who had taken an active part in demanding the death of the Son of God. {OFC 240.5} [OFC 240.6] What a faith had that dying thief upon the cross! He accepted Christ when apparently it was an utter impossibility that He should be the Son of God, the Redeemer of the world. In the prayer of the poor thief, there was a note different from that which was sounding on every side; it was a note of faith, and it reached to Christ. The faith of the dying man in Him was as sweetest music in the ears of Christ. The glad note of redemption and 241 salvation was heard amid His dying agonies. God was glorified in and through His Son. {OFC 240.6} [OFC 241.1] Cultivate Tenderness In The Home And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. 1 Peter 4:8. {OFC 241.1} [OFC 241.2] The young man who came to Jesus asked what he should do that he might inherit eternal life. Jesus told him to keep the commandments, and enumerated several of the precepts of the law. The young man said, “All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet?” (Matthew 19:20). The first four commandments enjoin upon man the duty of loving God supremely and the last six present the requirement of loving our neighbors as ourselves. How many are truly, sincerely, and wholeheartedly doing this? {OFC 241.2} [OFC 241.3] The Lord is coming in a little while, and are we performing the duties that result from righteousness? Love is the basis of godliness. No man has love to God, no matter what his profession may be, unless he has unselfish love for his brother. As we love God because He first loved us, we shall love all for whom Christ died. We shall not feel like letting the soul who is in the greatest peril, and in the greatest need, go unwarned, unlabored for, and uncared for. We shall not feel like holding the erring off, and being critical and exacting, or letting them alone to plunge into further unhappiness and discouragement, and to fall on Satan’s battleground, for God will deal with us as He deals with our brethren or the younger members of the Lord’s family. {OFC 241.3} [OFC 241.4] Cultivate tenderness of heart; surround yourselves in your home life with the atmosphere of love. But the spirit that has largely pervaded the church is an offense to God. Everyone who has been free to condemn, to dishearten, and to discourage, who has failed to give tender kindness, sympathy, and compassion to the tempted and the tried, will in his own experience be brought over the ground which others have passed over, and suffered with their hardheartedness, and will feel what others have suffered because of his want of sympathy, until he shall abhor his hardness of heart and open the door for Jesus to come in. {OFC 241.4} [OFC 241.5] The converting power of God must come to every soul who has any connection with the work and cause of God that each one may be filled with the love and compassion of Christ or many will never see the kingdom of heaven. {OFC 241.5} [OFC 242.1] Take Hold Of Divine Strength Then thou spakest in vision to thy holy one, and saidst, I have laid help upon one that is mighty. Psalm 89:19. {OFC 242.1} [OFC 242.2] The Lord loves you. The Lord is of tender compassion. His promise is, “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you” (James 4:8). When the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up for you a standard against him. Bear in mind that Jesus Christ is your hope. In the sad, discouraging things that shall come to you at any time, Christ says to you, “Let him take hold of my strength, that he may make peace with me; and he shall make peace with me” (Isaiah 27:5). {OFC 242.2} [OFC 242.3] Your work is to take hold of the strength that is as firm as is the eternal throne. Believe in God. Trust in Him. Be cheerful under all circumstances. Although you may have trials, know that Christ suffered these afflicting things in behalf of His heritage. Nothing is as dear to the Lord as His church. The Lord looks at the heart. He knows who are His. The Lord will test and prove every soul that lives. “Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand” (Daniel 12:10). . . . {OFC 242.3} [OFC 242.4] Let those who love God and are doers of His word sing praise and thanksgiving rather than speak words of accusing and faultfinding and murmuring. The Lord will bless those who make for peace. . . . {OFC 242.4} [OFC 242.5] Trust in the Lord. Let not the feelings, the speeches, or the attitude of any human agent depress you. Be careful that in words or act you do not give others any opportunity to obtain the advantage in hurting you. Keep looking unto Jesus. He is your strength. By beholding Jesus you will become changed into His likeness. He will be the health of your countenance and your God. . . . {OFC 242.5} [OFC 242.6] The church needs you, and you need to soften and subdue your own feelings for Christ’s sake. He wants you to have His Holy Spirit to work you. Then you may impart life and comfort to the church. Let your words be well chosen that you may be a real blessing to the church. Do not afflict your souls over the inconsistencies of others. Take yourselves in hand, and be consistent in all things. {OFC 242.6} [OFC 243.1] In The World, But Not Of It Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God. James 4:4. {OFC 243.1} [OFC 243.2] The great day of the Lord is near at hand. When Christ appears in the clouds of heaven, those who have not sought Him with all the heart, those who have allowed themselves to be deceived, will surely perish. Our only safety is to be found through repentance and conversion, and the blotting out of sins. Those who will now seek the Lord earnestly, humbling their hearts before Him, and forsaking their sins, will, through the sanctification of the truth, be fitted to unite with the members of the royal family, and will see the King in His beauty. . . . {OFC 243.2} [OFC 243.3] Whatever his educational attainments, only he who realizes his accountability to God, and who is led by the Holy Spirit, can be an effectual teacher, or be successful in winning to God those who are brought under his influence. Shall those who do not heed the divine counsel be acknowledged as leaders in the Lord’s institutions?—God forbid. How can we regard as safe guides those who manifest a spirit of unbelief, and who, in words and character, fail of revealing true godliness? {OFC 243.3} [OFC 243.4] “Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children ［in learning the way of the Lord］, ye shall not enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:3). {OFC 243.4} [OFC 243.5] Self needs to be brought into submission to the yoke of Christ. The great Teacher invites all to learn of Him. . . . “The Son of man is come to save that which was lost” (verse 11). But those who desire to be saved must be willing to be saved in the Lord’s appointed way, and not in a way of their own choosing. The free grace of God is man’s only hope. God is in earnest with every one of us. . . . {OFC 243.5} [OFC 243.6] We are called to be the Lord’s special people in a much higher sense than many have realized. The world lies in wickedness, and God’s people are to come out of the world, and be separate. They are to be free from worldly customs and worldly habits. They are not to accord with worldly sentiments, but are to stand out distinct, as the Lord’s peculiar people, earnest in all their service. They are to have no fellowship with the works of darkness. {OFC 243.6} [OFC 244.1] Divine Grace, Our Greatest Need Though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of. 1 Corinthians 9:16. {OFC 244.1} [OFC 244.2] Genuine conversion brings us daily into communion with God. There will be temptations to meet, and a strong undercurrent drawing us from God to our former state of indifference and sinful forgetfulness of God. No human heart can remain strong without divine grace. No man can remain converted unless he takes care of himself and the Master has a care for him. Unless the heart holds fast to God, and God holds fast to him, he will become self-confident and exalted and will surely stumble and fall. The power of God through faith was Paul’s dependence. “I live; yet not I,” he exclaims in his humility, “but Christ liveth in me” (Galatians 2:20). “I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: but I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway” (1 Corinthians 9:26, 27). {OFC 244.2} [OFC 244.3] Paul was in such constant dread, lest his evil propensities should get the better of him, that he was constantly battling, with firm resistance, unruly appetites and passions. If the great apostle felt like trembling in view of his weakness, who has a right to feel self-confident and boastful? The moment we begin to feel self-sufficient and confident then we are in danger of a disgraceful failure. {OFC 244.3} [OFC 244.4] Our only sure defense against besetting sins is prayer, daily and hourly prayer. Not one day zealous and the next careless, but through watchfulness and earnestness becoming vitalized by intercourse with God. Prayer is necessary, and we should not wait for feeling, but pray, earnestly pray, whether we feel like it or not. Heaven is open to our prayers. Prayer is the channel that conducts our gratitude and yearnings of soul for the divine blessing to the throne of God, to be returned to us in refreshing showers of divine grace. With very many, this channel is allowed to freeze up, and then the connection with heaven is interrupted. . . . Oh, that we would spend more time upon our knees and less time in planning for ourselves and in thinking we may do some great thing. {OFC 244.4} [OFC 245.1] The Banquet Of God’s Word I am the living bread which came down from heaven: . . . and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world. John 6:51. {OFC 245.1} [OFC 245.2] The only safety for any of us is to plant our feet upon the Word of God and study the Scriptures, making God’s Word our constant meditation. Tell the people to take no man’s word regarding the Testimonies, but to read them and study them for themselves, and then they will know that they are in harmony with the truth. The Word of God is the truth. Of a good man the psalmist declares, “His delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night” (Psalm 1:2). He who puts mind and heart into this work gains a solid, valuable experience. The Holy Spirit is in the Word of God. Here is the living, undying element so distinctly represented in the sixth chapter of John. . . . {OFC 245.2} [OFC 245.3] Let us believe the Word. He who thus eats the bread of heaven is nourished every day and will know what these words mean, “Needeth not that any man teach you.” We have lessons pure from the lips of Him who owns us, who has bought us with the price of His own blood. The precious Word of God is a solid foundation upon which to build. When men come to you with their suppositions, tell them that the Great Teacher has left you His Word, which is of incalculable value, that He has sent a Comforter in His own name, even the Holy Ghost. “He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you” (John 14:26). . . . {OFC 245.3} [OFC 245.4] Here is presented before us a rich banquet, of which all who believe in Christ as a personal Saviour may eat. He is the Tree of life to all who continue to feed on Him. . . . {OFC 245.4} [OFC 245.5] All who study these precious utterances may have strong consolation. If they will feed upon the banquet of God’s Word, they will gain an experience of the highest value. They will see that in comparison with the word of God, the word of man is as chaff to the wheat. {OFC 245.5} [OFC 245.6] I am instructed by the Word of God that His promises are for me and for every child of God. The banquet is spread before us; we are invited to eat the Word of God, which will strengthen spiritual muscle and sinew. {OFC 245.6} [OFC 246.1] The Final Battle Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame. Revelation 16:15. {OFC 246.1} [OFC 246.2] A terrible contest is before us. We are nearing the battle of the great day of God Almighty. That which has been held in control is to be let loose. The angel of mercy is folding its wings, preparing to step down from the golden throne and leave the world to the control of Satan, the king it has chosen, a murderer and a destroyer from the beginning. {OFC 246.2} [OFC 246.3] The principalities and powers of earth are in bitter revolt against the God of heaven. They are filled with hatred against all who serve Him, and soon, very soon, is to be fought the last great battle between good and evil. The earth is to be the battlefield—the scene of the final contest and the final victory. Here, where for so long Satan has led men against God, rebellion is to be forever suppressed. {OFC 246.3} [OFC 246.4] Christ came to this earth in human form that He might stand as the Captain of our salvation, so that we should not be overcome by Satan’s power. And when the enemy has seemed to be gaining a signal victory over righteousness, God has been working in mercy and power to counteract his designs. {OFC 246.4} [OFC 246.5] Determined to efface the image of God in man, Satan works with an intensity of effort to hide God from view. Not openly does he work, but secretly, mingling the human and the divine, the spurious and the genuine, so seeking to bring confusion and distress. But in proportionate power divine mercy is revealed to counteract this wicked working, and bring to light the enemy’s hidden purposes. {OFC 246.5} [OFC 246.6] God’s people are to hear a bold, decided testimony for the truth, unfolding the purposes of God by the witness of pen and voice. In place after place they are to proclaim the message of God’s Word, arousing men and women to comprehend the truth. . . . {OFC 246.6} [OFC 246.7] There is a reality in sound doctrine. It is not as a vapor, which passes away. Light is to shine forth from the Word of God. God calls upon His people to draw near to Him. Let no one interpose between Him and His people. Christ is knocking at the door of the heart, seeking for entrance. Will you let Him in? {OFC 246.7} [OFC 247.1] Things Wrought By Prayer Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith. Hebrews 10:22. {OFC 247.1} [OFC 247.2] There can be no true prayer without true faith. “Without faith it is impossible to please him” (Hebrews 11:6). Prayer and faith are the arms by which the soul hangs upon the neck of infinite love, and grasps the hand of infinite power. God does not recognize dumb children, as far as experience in His truth is concerned. Faith is an active, working power. The newborn faith in Christ is revealed by prayer and praise. Prayer is a relief and a comfort to the troubled soul. The sincere, humble suppliant at the throne of grace may know that he is communing with God, through the divinely appointed means, and that it is his privilege to understand what God is to the believing soul. We must have a realization of our needs. We must hunger and thirst after life in Christ and through Christ. Then we shall come to Him in humility and sincerity, and He will give us the faith that works by love and purifies the soul. . . . {OFC 247.2} [OFC 247.3] Christ gave Himself willingly and cheerfully to the carrying out the will of God. “He . . . became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross” (Philippians 2:8). In view of all that He has done, should we feel it a hardship to deny ourselves? Shall we draw back from being partakers of Christ’s sufferings? His death ought to stir every fiber of our beings, making us willing to consecrate to His work all that we have and are. {OFC 247.3} [OFC 247.4] As we think of what He has done for us, our hearts should be filled with gratitude and love, and we should renounce all selfishness and sin. What duty could the heart refuse to perform, under the constraining influence of the love of God and Christ? “I am crucified with Christ,” the apostle Paul declared: “nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me” (Galatians 2:20). {OFC 247.4} [OFC 247.5] Let us relate ourselves to God in self-denying, self-sacrificing obedience. Faith in Christ always leads to willing, cheerful obedience. He died to redeem us from all iniquity, and to purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. There is to be perfect conformity, in thought, word, and deed, to the will of God. Heaven is only for those who have purified their souls through obedience to the truth. {OFC 247.5} [OFC 248.1] Present Advantages And Future Benefits Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:2. {OFC 248.1} [OFC 248.2] We should ever cherish feelings of gratitude to those who have shown us favors in times of need. But these feelings that are so readily called into exercise by the kindness and disinterestedness of our friends should respond to the love and compassion of our benevolent heavenly Friend. . . . The friendship expressed by nearest and dearest relatives and friends is so far surpassed by the revelation of Jesus Christ that the former is dumb and expressionless when compared with the latter. It is natural that the heart should entertain sentiments of the warmest affection toward those who have done or suffered something for us. {OFC 248.2} [OFC 248.3] Let me lead you to the scene of the crucifixion and show you the Son of God dying in your stead. Will not the spectacle of the cross of Christ awaken every feeling of gratitude? Will it not sweep away the coldness and indifference which steels the senses to the great sacrifice made in our behalf? . . . {OFC 248.3} [OFC 248.4] Satan, the adversary of souls, is constantly at work with his devices and enchantments, stealing away the senses and deadening the feelings to our highest interest. To all the little matters of life the affections are given free play, but in eternal interest the affections are trammeled, bound as by magical cords. . . . {OFC 248.4} [OFC 248.5] There are so many who endure privation and pursue at considerable sacrifice a course which promises advantages in the future. They forego present comfort for a future inducement as an equivalent, but here Jesus presents eternal life as the reward of obedience, and if paltry things of earthly gain will be sacrificed for some future good, how much more should ease, pleasure, and present worldly advantages be sacrificed for the incomparable riches and glory of the future immortal life. Let not the sorcery of earthly enchantments steal the affections from God and harden the heart to eternal interest. Look at the things that are unseen. Enshrine Jesus in the heart. Love Him with your whole soul. {OFC 248.5} [OFC 249.1] The Holy Spirit—The Gift Of Gifts And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Philippians 2:8. {OFC 249.1} [OFC 249.2] In proportion to Christ’s humiliation and suffering is His exaltation. He could have become the Saviour, the Redeemer, only by first being the Sacrifice. What a mystery there is in the godliness of Christ. Having magnified the law and made it honorable by accepting its conditions in saving a world from ruin, Christ hastened to heaven to perfect His work, and to accomplish His mission by sending the Holy Spirit to His disciples. Thus He would assure His believing ones that He had not forgotten them, though now in the presence of God, where there is fullness of joy forevermore. {OFC 249.2} [OFC 249.3] The Holy Spirit was to descend on those in this world who loved Christ. By this they would be qualified, in and through the glorification of their Head, to receive every endowment necessary for the fulfilling of their mission. The Life-giver held in His hands, not only the keys of death, but a whole heaven of rich blessings. All power in heaven and earth was given to Him, and having taken His place in the heavenly courts, He could dispense these blessings to all who receive Him. {OFC 249.3} [OFC 249.4] Christ has said to His disciples, “It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you” (John 16:7). This was the gift of gifts. The Holy Spirit was sent as the most priceless treasure man could receive. The church was baptized with the Spirit’s power. The disciples were fitted to go forth and proclaim Christ, first in Jerusalem, where the shameful work of dishonoring the rightful King had been done, and then to the uttermost parts of the earth. . . . {OFC 249.4} [OFC 249.5] How full and free are the blessings to be bestowed on all who come to God in the name of His Son. If they will observe the conditions laid down in His Word, He will open to them the windows of heaven, and pour them down a blessing that there will not be room enough to receive it. . . . If God’s people will sanctify themselves by obedience to His precepts, the Lord will work in their midst. He will renew humble, contrite souls, making their characters pure and holy. {OFC 249.5} [OFC 250.1] The Lord’s Philosophy To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them. Isaiah 8:20. {OFC 250.1} [OFC 250.2] The Lord’s philosophy, plainly outlined in His Word, is to be our rule of life. The entire being is to be under the control of the One who knows the end from the beginning. The Bible, and the Bible only is to be our guide. We must follow and obey the life-giving principles of heaven, not only for our inclinations. The wisdom and the power of God, working upon the receptive heart, brings mind and character into harmony with the laws and rules of heaven. Individually we must have the guidance of the Holy Spirit, in order to communicate to the world the great facts of truth and righteousness. . . . {OFC 250.2} [OFC 250.3] We are bidden to sound an alarm to the people. The watchmen must not fail now. They must watch unto prayer, that they may have a clear perception of their obligation to Him who, though the only begotten Son of God, came to our world to lead men and women away from the guidance of Satan. {OFC 250.3} [OFC 250.4] We are to instruct and guide souls to look to Christ’s example, to realize their obligation to Him, whose they are by creation and by redemption. He is the owner of every man and woman and child who comes into the world. This He became by paying the redemption price. If fallen human beings will consent to become sons and daughters of God in willing obedience, they will become one with Christ. The Saviour has bought them by giving His life to pay the penalty of sin. . . . Those who are truly converted will reveal the saving grace of Christ by laboring for these souls blinded by Satan. In their own lives God’s workers are to show forth the power of truth and righteousness. The world is soon to meet the great Lawgiver over His broken law. Those only can hope for pardon who turn from transgression to obedience. {OFC 250.4} [OFC 250.5] We are to raise the banner on which is inscribed, “The commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.” This is the great issue. Let it not be put out of sight. We must strive to arouse church members and those who make no profession, to see and obey the claims of the law of heaven. We are to magnify this law and make it honorable. We are to arouse those who are sunk in spiritual slumber. {OFC 250.5} [OFC 251.1] When Truth Controls The Life He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. John 8:12. {OFC 251.1} [OFC 251.2] The Lord Jesus took upon Him the form of sinful man, clothing His divinity with humanity. But He was holy, even as God is holy. If He had not been without spot or stain of sin, He could not have been the Saviour of mankind. He was a Sinbearer, needing no atonement. One with God in purity and holiness of character, He could make a propitiation for the sins of the whole world. {OFC 251.2} [OFC 251.3] Christ is the light of the world. Through Him light is shining amid the moral darkness. If He were not light, the darkness would not be apparent, because light reveals darkness. The clearer the light, the more manifest the contrast between light and darkness. Let the light be removed, and there is nought but darkness. {OFC 251.3} [OFC 251.4] Christ has declared our position. “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life” (John 8:12). He is Himself the bright and morning Star. He is the Sun of Righteousness, the brightness of His Father’s glory. He is the “true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world” (chap. 1:9). A Physician, a Healer, He came to restore the moral image of God that was lost by transgression. {OFC 251.4} [OFC 251.5] When Christ abides in the soul by faith, He makes the one who loves Him all light in the Lord. It is true that many who say they believe the truth have only a nominal faith. They are not doers of the Word. They profess to believe, but their profession will not convert them. . . . {OFC 251.5} [OFC 251.6] When Christ dwells in the heart, His presence is apparent. Good and pleasant words and actions reveal the Spirit of Christ. Sweetness of temper is manifested. There is no angry passion, no obstinacy, no evil-surmising. There is no hatred in the heart, because . . ideas and methods . . . are not accepted and appreciated by others. . . . {OFC 251.6} [OFC 251.7] When the truth controls the life, there is purity and freedom from sin. The glory, the fullness, the completeness of the gospel plan is fulfilled in the life. The light of truth irradiates the soul temple. The understanding takes hold of Christ. {OFC 251.7} [OFC 252.1] Walk In The Footsteps Of Jesus And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability. Matthew 25:15. {OFC 252.1} [OFC 252.2] Study the instruction found in Matthew 25:14-46. Compare this instruction with your life record. Let every man put away his boasting. . . . Let us walk in the footsteps of Christ in all the humility of true faith. Let us put away all self-trust, committing ourselves, day by day and hour by hour, to the Saviour, constantly receiving and imparting His grace. I beg those who profess to believe in Christ to walk humbly before God. Pride and self-exaltation are an offense to Him. “If any man will come after me,” Christ declares, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me” (Matthew 16:24). Those only who obey this word will He recognize as His believing ones. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God” (John 1:12, 13). {OFC 252.2} [OFC 252.3] “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us” (verse 14). O wonderful condescension! The Prince of heaven, the Commander of the heavenly hosts, stepped down from His high position, laid aside His royal robe and kingly crown, and clothed His divinity with humanity, that He might become the divine Teacher of all classes of men, and live before human beings a life free from all selfishness and sin, setting them an example of what, through His grace, they may become. {OFC 252.3} [OFC 252.4] “The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth” (verse 14). Praise God for this wonderful statement. The possibilities that it presents seem almost too great for us to grasp, and put to shame our weakness and our unbelief. I praise God that I can see my Saviour by faith. My soul grasps the great gift. Our only hope in this life is to reach forth the hand of faith, and grasp the hand outstretched to save. “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (verse 29). If we would look away from self to Jesus, making Him our Guide, the world would see in our churches a power that it does not now see. {OFC 252.4} [OFC 253.1] Chapter 10—The Upward Look The Need For A Reformation But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 6:22, 23. {OFC 253.1} [OFC 253.2] Paul felt that the Lord’s requirements must be obeyed, His judgments avoided. Like Paul, we must make every effort to obtain the crown of life, which brings eternal honor to every victor. We must not be content to live useless lives. {OFC 253.2} [OFC 253.3] What is humility? That sense of sin and unworthiness which leads to repentance. But we must be assured of the malignity of a disease before we feel our need of a cure. Those who do not realize the sinfulness of sin are not able to appreciate the value of the atonement and the necessity of being cleansed from all sin. The sinner measures himself by himself and by those who like himself are sinners. He does not look at the purity and holiness of Christ. But when the law of God brings conviction to his heart, he says with Paul, “I was alive without the law once: but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died” (Romans 7:9). . . . {OFC 253.3} [OFC 253.4] God created man for His glory. He will not, cannot endure the presence of sin in His dominion. If there are in the church those who are willfully sinning against God, every possible means should be used to bring them to repentance. If this is not done, God’s name is dishonored. He is too pure to look upon iniquity with favor. . . . {OFC 253.4} [OFC 253.5] Adam’s sin would be regarded by the churches of today as a simple mistake, to be at once forgiven and no more thought of. But God’s standard is high and His word immutable, and all selfish, covetous practices are an abomination in His sight. The hearts of believers need to be purified, sanctified, refined, ennobled. . . . {OFC 253.5} [OFC 253.6] Look up, my brethren. Has the gospel lost its power to impress hearts? Is it because the regenerating influence of the Spirit of Christ has died away that hearts are not purified, sanctified, and prepared for the Holy Spirit? No; the Sword of the Spirit, the Word of the living God, is with us yet; but it must be wielded with earnestness. Let us use it as did God’s sanctified ones of old. By its living, quickening power it will cut its way to hearts. . . . {OFC 253.6} [OFC 253.7] The Lord calls for a reformation all through our ranks. . . . When the church is awakened, decided changes will be made. Men and women will be converted, and so filled will they be by the Spirit of God that they will pass from country to country, from city to city, proclaiming the message of truth. With hearts filled with earnest love for souls, they will open their Bibles and present the Word. {OFC 253.7} [OFC 254.1] I Am A Child Of God And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. Romans 8:17. {OFC 254.1} [OFC 254.2] The influence of grace is to soften the heart, to refine and purify the feelings, giving a heaven-born delicacy and sense of propriety. A Christian cannot be self-exalted, for this is not Christlike. The world’s Redeemer, the sinner’s substitute and surety, says, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). . . {OFC 254.2} [OFC 254.3] But let us continually bear in mind that the meek and lowly Jesus has the spirit and the ambition of a conqueror. The vast dominions over which earthly potentates hold sway form no adequate theater for the exercise of His grace, the expression of His love, and the manifestation of His glory. He who loves the Lord Jesus Christ in truth and sincerity will love those whom Christ died to save, and will eagerly embrace every opportunity to minister to Christ in the person of His disciples. {OFC 254.3} [OFC 254.4] We must look at our lives as sons and daughters of God, as laborers with Jesus Christ, living for a noble purpose. We are representatives of Jesus Christ in character, and are to serve Him with our undivided affections. Not only will we reveal the fact that we love God, but will, in accordance with His holy character, live a pure, perfect life. We must live perfection, because in looking at Jesus we see in Him the embodiment of perfection; and the great Center upon whom our hope of eternal life and happiness is centered will lead us to unity and harmony. . . . {OFC 254.4} [OFC 254.5] The life we now live must be by faith in Jesus Christ. If we are Christ’s followers our lives will not be as pieced out by little cheap spasmodic actions according to circumstances and surroundings—jerking actions, revealing feelings to be our master, indulging in little frettings, envious faultfindings, jealousies, and selfish vanity. These put us all out of harmony with the harmonious life of Jesus Christ, and we cannot be overcomers if we retain these defects. . . . {OFC 254.5} [OFC 254.6] When exposed to varied scenes in life, and words are spoken that are calculated to cut and bruise the soul, speak to yourself: “I am a child of God, an heir with Jesus Christ, a colaborer with God. I must not therefore have a cheap mind, easily to take offense, always thinking of myself, for this will naturally produce an inharmonious character. It is unworthy of my noble calling. The heavenly Father has given me my work to do; let me be worthy of the trust.” {OFC 254.6} [OFC 255.1] Infallible Assurance And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever. Daniel 12:3. {OFC 255.1} [OFC 255.2] Many, very many, will be terribly surprised when the Lord shall come suddenly as a thief in the night. Let us watch and pray, lest coming suddenly He find us sleeping. My soul is deeply stirred as I consider how much we ought to do for perishing souls. The prediction of Daniel, “Many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased” (Daniel 12:4), is to be fulfilled in our giving of the warning message; many are to be enlightened regarding the sure word of prophecy. . . . {OFC 255.2} [OFC 255.3] The salvation of souls should be our first consideration. I am troubled when I see many rejoicing in temporal prosperity, for those who possess worldly treasure seldom seek earnestly to secure the heavenly. They are in danger of falling into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown man in destruction. . . . {OFC 255.3} [OFC 255.4] We need a more firm reliance upon a “Thus saith the Lord.” If we have this, we shall not trust to feeling, and be ruled by feeling. God asks us to rest in His love. It is our privilege to know the Word of God as a sure and tried guide, an infallible assurance. Let us work on the faith side of the question. Let us believe and trust, and talk faith and hope and courage. Let the praise of God be in our hearts and on our lips oftener than it is. “Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me” (Psalm 50:23). Keep the mind stayed upon God, and know the love of Christ as the Word of God reveals it. This Word is life. Talk of Christ; call others to behold Him as your Redeemer. {OFC 255.4} [OFC 255.5] It is our privilege to rest in an active, living faith in Christ as the Life-giver. It is our privilege to comprehend with all saints, what is the length and depth and height, and to know the love of God which passeth knowledge, and be filled with all the fullness of God. Let us contemplate Christ as the One in whom all fullness dwells. Beholding Him as our personal Saviour, we shall appreciate the value of His saving grace. We should think about Jesus more than we do. We should let His praise be in our hearts. We should speak of the love that has been so abundantly expressed for us. We certainly have every reason to praise God with heart and soul and voice, saying, I will praise the Lord for His great love wherewith He hath loved me. . . . {OFC 255.5} [OFC 255.6] Lift Him up, the Christ of Calvary; lift Him up, that the world may behold Him. Talk of His goodness, sing of His love, and give Him the grateful thanks of your hearts. {OFC 255.6} [OFC 256.1] God’s Plans Are Perfect By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: for he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God. Hebrews 11:9, 10. {OFC 256.1} [OFC 256.2] Jesus ascended to the Father as a representative of the human race, and God will bring those who reflect His image to behold and share with Him His glory. There are homes for the pilgrims of earth. There are robes for the righteous, with crowns of glory and palms of victory. All that perplexed us in the providences of God will then be made plain. The things hard to be understood will then find an explanation. The mysteries of grace will unfold before us. Where our finite minds discovered only confusion and broken purposes, we shall see the most perfect and beautiful harmony. We shall know that infinite love ordered the experiences that seemed most trying and hard to bear. As we realize the tender care of Him who makes all things work together for our good, we shall rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory. {OFC 256.2} [OFC 256.3] Pain cannot exist in the atmosphere of heaven. In the home of the redeemed there will be no tears, no funeral trains, no badges of mourning. “The inhabitant shall not say, I am sick: the people that dwell therein shall be forgiven their iniquity” (Isaiah 33:24). One rich tide of happiness will flow and deepen as eternity rolls on. Think of this; tell it to the children of suffering and sorrow, and bid them rejoice in hope. {OFC 256.3} [OFC 256.4] The nearer we come to Jesus, the more clearly we behold the purity and greatness of His character, the less we shall feel like exalting self. The contrast between our characters and His will lead to humiliation of soul and deep heart searching. The more we love Jesus, the more entirely will self be humbled and forgotten. . . . {OFC 256.4} [OFC 256.5] He who is meek in spirit, he who is purest and most childlike, will be made strong for the battle. He will be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man. He who feels his weakness, and wrestles with God as did Jacob, and like this servant of old cries, “I will not let thee go, except thou bless me,” will go forth with the fresh anointing of the Holy Spirit. The atmosphere of heaven will surround him. He will go about doing good. His influence will be a positive force in favor of the religion of Christ. . . . {OFC 256.5} [OFC 256.6] Our God is a very present help in time of need. He is acquainted with the most secret thoughts of our hearts, with all the intents and purposes of our souls. When we are in perplexity, even before we open to Him our distresses, He is making arrangements for our deliverance. {OFC 256.6} [OFC 257.1] Christ Lived A Life Of Humble Obedience Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him. Hebrews 5:8, 9. {OFC 257.1} [OFC 257.2] Christ came to our world, and lived in the home of a peasant. He wore the best garments His parents could provide, but they were the humble garments of the peasants. He walked the rough paths, and climbed the steeps of the hillsides and mountains. When He walked the streets He was apparently alone, for human eyes did not behold His heavenly attendants. He learned the trade of a carpenter, that He might stamp all honest labor as honorable and ennobling to all who work with an eye single to the glory of God. . . . {OFC 257.2} [OFC 257.3] Christ, the Lord of the whole earth, was a humble artisan. He was unrecognized, neglected, and despised. But He held His commission and authority from the highest power, the Sovereign of heaven. Angels were His attendants, for Christ was doing His Father’s business just as much when toiling at the bench as a carpenter, as when working miracles for the multitude. But He concealed the secret from the world. He attached no high titles to His name, to make His position understood, but He lived the royal law of God. His work must begin in consecrating the humble trade of the craftsmen who have toiled for their daily bread. Had Christ passed His life among the grand and the rich, the world of toilers would have been deprived of the inspiration which the Lord intended they should have. {OFC 257.3} [OFC 257.4] Meek and lowly was the life of Christ. He chose this life that He might help the human family. He did not take His place upon a throne as Commander of the whole earth. He laid aside His royal robe, He laid off His kingly crown, that He might be made one of the human family. He took not on Him the nature of angels. His work was not the priestly office after the appointments of men. It was impossible for man to understand His exalted position, unless the Holy Spirit should make it known. For our sake, He clothed His divinity with humanity, and stepped down from the royal throne. He resigned His position as Commander in the heavenly courts, and for our sakes became poor, that we through His poverty might be made rich. Thus, He hid His glory under the guise of humanity, that He might touch humanity with His divine, transforming power. . . . {OFC 257.4} [OFC 257.5] Those to whom Christ has given a probation in which to form characters for the mansions He has gone to prepare are to enter into His life example. {OFC 257.5} [OFC 258.1] The Ministry Of Angels And Elisha prayed, and said, Lord, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And the Lord opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha. 2 Kings 6:17. {OFC 258.1} [OFC 258.2] How few contemplate the unseen agencies. Men are acting their part either for God or for Satan, the Prince of light, or the prince of darkness. All heaven is intensely interested in human beings who seem to be so full of activity, and yet have no thought for the unseen. Their thoughts are not on the Word of God and its instruction. If they would appropriate the Word of God, they would be astonished that there are agencies, good and evil, observing every word and deed. They are in every assembly for business transactions, in councils, and in meetings for the worship of God. There are more listeners in these public assemblies than can be seen with the natural sight, and every man has his work to do. Those unseen agencies are co-laborers with God or with Satan, and they work more mightily and more constantly than do men. Sometimes the heavenly intelligences draw aside the curtain that hides the unseen world, that we may have our minds withdrawn from the hurry and rush, and consider that there are witnesses to all we do and say when we ［are］ engaged in business, or when we think ourselves alone. {OFC 258.2} [OFC 258.3] The Lord would have our perceptions keen to understand that these mighty ones who visit our world have borne an active part in all the work which we have called our own. These heavenly beings are ministering angels, and they frequently disguise themselves in the form of human beings. As strangers they converse with those who are engaged in the work of God. In lonely places they have been the companions of the traveler in peril. In tempest-tossed ships angels in human form have spoken words of encouragement to allay fear and inspire hope in the hour of danger, and the passengers have thought that it was one of their number to whom they had never before spoken. {OFC 258.3} [OFC 258.4] Many, under different circumstances, have listened to the voices of the inhabitants of other worlds. They have come to act a part in this life. They have spoken in assemblies, and opened before assemblies human histories, and have done works which it was impossible for human agencies to do. Time and again have they been the generals of armies. They have been sent forth to cleanse away pestilence. They have eaten at the humble board of families. Often they have appeared as weary travelers in need of shelter for the night. {OFC 258.4} [OFC 258.5] We need to understand better than we do the work of these angel visitants. {OFC 258.5} [OFC 259.1] We May Overcome As Christ Overcame ［He］ was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Hebrews 4:15. {OFC 259.1} [OFC 259.2] Christ, at an infinite cost, by a painful process, mysterious to angels as well as to men, assumed humanity. Hiding His divinity, laying aside His glory, He was born a babe in Bethlehem. In human flesh He lived the law of God, that He might condemn sin in the flesh, and bear witness to heavenly intelligences that the law was ordained to life and to ensure the happiness, peace, and eternal good of all who obey. . . . {OFC 259.2} [OFC 259.3] This is the mystery of godliness, that One equal with the Father should clothe His divinity with humanity, and laying aside all the glory of His office as Commander in heaven, ［should］ descend step after step in the path of humiliation, enduring severe and still more severe abasement. Sinless and undefiled, He stood in the judgment hall, to be tried, to have His case investigated and pronounced upon by the very nation He had delivered from slavery. The Lord of glory was rejected and condemned, yea, spat upon. With contempt for what they regarded as His pretentious claims, men smote Him in the face. . . . {OFC 259.3} [OFC 259.4] Pilate pronounced Christ innocent, declaring that he found no fault in Him. Yet to please the Jews, he commanded Him to be scourged and then delivered Him up, bruised and bleeding, to suffer the cruel death of crucifixion. The Majesty of heaven was led as a lamb to the slaughter, and amid scoffing and jeers, ridicule and false accusation, He was nailed to the cross. The crowd, in whose hearts humanity seemed to be dead, sought to aggravate the cruel sufferings of the Son of God by their revilings. But as a sheep before His shearers is dumb, so He opened not His mouth. He was giving His life for the life of the world, that all who believed in Him should not perish. . . . {OFC 259.4} [OFC 259.5] Christ bore the sins of the whole world. He endured our punishment—the wrath of God against transgression. His trial involved the fierce temptation of thinking that He was forsaken by God. His soul was tortured by the pressure of a horror of great darkness. . . . He could not have been tempted in all points like as man is tempted had there been no possibility of His failing. He was a free agent, placed on probation, as was Adam and as is man. Unless there is a possibility of yielding, temptation is no temptation. Temptation comes and is resisted when man is powerfully influenced to do a wrong action, and knowing that he can do it, resists by faith, with a firm hold upon divine power. {OFC 259.5} [OFC 260.1] Our Christian Experience Must Be Animated I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. Revelation 3:18, 19. {OFC 260.1} [OFC 260.2] Our conscience must be purged from dead works to serve the living God. Sanctification means perfect love, perfect obedience, entire conformity to the will of God. If our lives are conformed to the life of Christ through the sanctification of mind, soul, and body, our example will have a powerful influence on the world. We are not perfect, but it is our privilege to cut away from the entanglements of self and sin, and go on unto perfection. . . . {OFC 260.2} [OFC 260.3] Great possibilities, high and holy attainments, are placed within the reach of all who have true faith. Shall we not anoint our eyes with eyesalve, that we may discern the wondrous things here brought before us? Why do we not with persevering earnestness, work out this prayer, advancing onward and upward, reaching the standard of holiness? We are laborers together with God, and we must work in harmony with one another and with God, “for it is God which worketh in . . . ［us］ both to will and to do of his good pleasure.” . . . {OFC 260.3} [OFC 260.4] The Lord takes no pleasure in seeing us spiritually weak. “God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.” We have conflicts and trials to meet, but we need not fail or be discouraged. . . . {OFC 260.4} [OFC 260.5] God can only be honored when we who profess to believe in Him are conformed to His image. We are to represent to the world the beauty of holiness, and we shall never enter the gates of the city of God until we perfect a Christlike character. If we, with trust in God, strive for sanctification, we shall receive it. Then as witnesses for Christ, we are to make known what the grace of God has wrought in us. {OFC 260.5} [OFC 260.6] The greatest disquietude we can have is uncertainty. The acceptance of the blessings of God brings righteousness and peace. The fruit of righteousness is quietness and assurance forever. We must have simplicity and Godlike sincerity. We must have that wisdom which cometh from above. Our Christian experience must be animated by piety, and instinct with the divine life. {OFC 260.6} [OFC 261.1] Christlike Love Blends Heart With Heart With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love. Ephesians 4:12. {OFC 261.1} [OFC 261.2] God is love. The love of the Father and the Son is an attribute of every believer. The Word of God is the channel through which divine love is communicated to man. God’s truth is the medium by which the intellect is reached. The Holy Spirit is given to the human agent who works in cooperation with divine agencies. It transforms mind and character, enabling man to endure as seeing Him who is invisible. Perfect love can be enjoyed only through the belief of the truth and the reception of the Holy Spirit. . . . {OFC 261.2} [OFC 261.3] Christ prayed that His disciples might realize the importance of the love that He expressed by giving His life for the world. He desired them to understand something in regard to His infinite sacrifice. If they had more fully understood His self-sacrificing love, they would never have engaged in alienation and strife. {OFC 261.3} [OFC 261.4] I urge all who claim to believe present truth to practice that truth. If they do this, they will have a stronger and more powerful influence for good. The world will see that the love expressed by believers is the central and controlling principle of Christ’s followers. Christlike love blends heart with heart. The truth draws men together. It brings into harmony and unity all who have an earnest, living faith in the Saviour. Christ designs those who believe in Him to develop and become strong by association with one another. All who work unselfishly in the Master’s service bear credentials to the world that God has sent His Son to this earth. {OFC 261.4} [OFC 261.5] Although a company of Christians united in church capacity have not all the same talents, yet it is the duty of everyone to work. Talents differ, but to every man is given his work. All are dependent upon Christ in God. He is the glorious Head of all grades and classes of people associated through faith in the Word of God. Bound together by a common belief in heavenly principles, they are all dependent on Him who is the Author and Finisher of their faith. He has created the principles that produce universal oneness, universal love. His followers should meditate upon His love. They should not stop short of reaching the standard set before them. If the principles of Christianity are lived, they will produce universal harmony and perfect peace. When the heart is imbued with the Spirit of Christ, there is no quarreling, no seeking for the supremacy, no striving to be reigning lords. {OFC 261.5} [OFC 262.1] Things Thou Knowest Not Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not. Jeremiah 33:3. {OFC 262.1} [OFC 262.2] We do not always consider that the sanctification we so earnestly desire and for which we pray so earnestly is brought about through the truth and, by the providence of God, in a manner we least expect. When we look for joy, behold there is sorrow. When we expect peace, we frequently have distrust and doubt because we find ourselves plunged into trials we cannot avoid. In these trials we are having the answers to our prayers. In order for us to be purified, the fire of affliction must kindle upon us, and our will must be brought into conformity to the will of God. In order to be conformed to the image of our Saviour, we pass through a most painful process of refining. The very ones that we regard the most dear upon the earth may cause us the greatest sorrow and trial. They may view us in the wrong light. They may think us in error, and that we are deceiving and degrading ourselves because we follow the dictates of enlightened conscience in seeking for the truth as for hid treasures. . . . {OFC 262.2} [OFC 262.3] Our prayers for conformity to the image of Christ may not be answered exactly as we desire. We may be tested and proved, for God sees it best to put us under a course of discipline which is essential for us before we are fit subjects for the blessing we crave. We should not become discouraged and give way to doubt, and think that our prayers are not noticed. We should rely more securely upon Christ and leave our case with God to answer our prayers in His own way. God has not promised to bestow His blessings through the channels we have marked out. God is too wise to err and too regardful of our good to allow us to choose for ourselves. {OFC 262.3} [OFC 262.4] The plans of God are always the best, although we may not always discern them. Perfection of Christian character can be obtained only through labor, conflict, and self-denial. . . . {OFC 262.4} [OFC 262.5] How inestimably precious are the gifts of God—the graces of His Spirit—and we shall not shrink from the trying, testing process, be it ever so painful or humiliating to us. How easy would be the way to heaven if there were no self-denial or cross! How worldlings would rush in the way, and hypocrites would travel in it without number! Thank God for the cross, the self-denial. The ignominy and shame our Saviour endured for us is none too humiliating for those saved by the purchase of His blood. Heaven will indeed be cheap enough. {OFC 262.5} [OFC 263.1] The Word Of God Your Guide Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. Psalm 119:105. {OFC 263.1} [OFC 263.2] If we would work wisely and intelligently, our human passions, our hereditary and cultivated tendencies, must be brought under the control of a higher and more commanding generalship than human ability. . . . {OFC 263.2} [OFC 263.3] “Cease to do evil; learn to do well.” This is the lesson everyone should learn day by day. The training due to one’s self comes first. The influence exerted by a life of strict integrity will be a continual education to others. Those who are restrained and guided by the moral and religious principles plainly laid down in God’s Word walk in accordance with the mind and will of God, who is too wise to err and too good to do us harm. {OFC 263.3} [OFC 263.4] If you would walk wisely, walk in the way of God’s commandments. The Word of God you have in your keeping, right at hand. This Word is so plain that none need go astray unless they allow themselves to be led by their hereditary and cultivated tendencies to wrong. Your Redeemer met Satan’s treacherous advances with the words, “It is written,” and with the imperative command, “Get thee behind me, Satan.” I counsel you to receive with meekness the engrafted Word, which is able to save your soul. The Word of God is your haven. It is a tower of strength, into which you may run and be safe. . . . {OFC 263.4} [OFC 263.5] The earnest, sincere searcher for truth will not mistake truth for error. The Word of God is the bread of life, of which all may partake and obtain eternal life. Error is falsehood and deception. Those who partake of it must suffer in consequence, as did Adam and Eve in Eden. It is the privilege of all to search with prayerful, eager interest for the truth. Truth is the tree of life, the leaves of which the human family are to eat and live. {OFC 263.5} [OFC 263.6] Those who try to interpret the Word according to their own ideas, who read it in accordance with their opinions, will never see the truth, and will die in their sins. Those who eat of the forbidden tree accept Satan’s fallacies in the place of “Thus saith the Lord,” and unless they repent, they will never gain that life which measures with the life of God. As did Adam and Eve, they exclude themselves from the tree of life, the fruit of which perpetuates immortality. . . . {OFC 263.6} [OFC 263.7] We are living amid the solemnities of the judgment. Our souls should be filled with awe, for we are in God’s presence continually. Each one must decide for himself whether he will obey and live or disobey and perish. {OFC 263.7} [OFC 263.8] To those who obey, the Word of God is the tree of life. It is the word of salvation, received unto eternal life. {OFC 263.8} [OFC 264.1] Christ Calls For Unity That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. John 17:21. {OFC 264.1} [OFC 264.2] We each need the help we can receive from other minds. God will work in other minds than ours. The various gifts given to different ones are to blend for the “perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ” (Ephesians 4:12). . . . {OFC 264.2} [OFC 264.3] The Lord Jesus Christ will heal our infirmities and our weaknesses. He owns us. We are His by creation and by redemption. We must all be united in Him. He is the only source of healing. All restoring power comes from Him. He has opened a fountain “to the inhabitants of Jerusalem for sin and for uncleanness.” He gives each one an invitation to come and be healed, and to drink of the water of life. Let us not trust in ourselves, but in Jesus. {OFC 264.3} [OFC 264.4] There will always be obstacles before us, but we are to follow our Leader, and meet our difficulties unitedly, hand in hand. There is only one way to heaven. We must walk in the footsteps of Jesus, doing His works, even as He did the works of His Father. We must study His ways, not man’s ways; we must obey His will, not our own. Walk carefully. Do not go ahead of Christ. Make no move without consulting your Leader. Ask in humble prayer, and “ye shall receive.” He is the Way, the Truth, the Life. {OFC 264.4} [OFC 264.5] Read and study carefully the prayer that Christ offered just before His trial, recorded in the seventeenth chapter of John. Follow its teachings, and you will be brought into unity. Our only hope of reaching heaven is to be one with Christ, and then, in and through Christ, we shall be one with one another. No one is called to walk alone. In Christ life and immortality are brought to light. He has opened the way to the kingdom of heaven to those who believe in Him, but He assigns to no one a path different to that which all must travel. He calls for unity, and unity we must have. God asks us to sink self in Christ. For the natural man this is not easy. But through the power of the incarnation of Christ, God manifest in the flesh, the strength of God is revealed in gentleness and beauty. To “as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God.” By this power we may overcome our evil tendencies and so modify our imperfect dispositions that the will of God may be fulfilled in us. {OFC 264.5} [OFC 265.1] Are You Preparing For Heaven? Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. 1 Corinthians 2:9. {OFC 265.1} [OFC 265.2] What a work is before us. We need greater faith in Christ and the Father, for this we must certainly have, else we shall be counted with the unbelievers. We see great opportunities and a great amount of work to do. We want the sanctification of the Holy Spirit. We cannot afford to miss the mark of the prize of the high calling in Christ Jesus. The sanctification of the truth, confirming man’s steadfastness in the faith, will constitute men laborers together with God. {OFC 265.2} [OFC 265.3] United with the Source of all power, persevering in duty, enlarging the apprehension of the love of God in Christ Jesus, they become one with Christ, until they are complete with Christ in God. {OFC 265.3} [OFC 265.4] The glories that await the faithful overcomer are beyond any description. The Lord will greatly honor and exalt His faithful ones. They shall grow like the cedar, and their comprehension will be certainly increasing. And at every advanced stage of knowledge their anticipation will fall far beneath the reality. “Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him” (1 Corinthians 2:9). Our work now is to prepare for those mansions that God is preparing for those who love Him and keep His commandments.... The Lord Jesus will enlarge every mind and heart for the reception of the Holy Spirit. . . . {OFC 265.4} [OFC 265.5] Time is short. Let the little time you have be employed for your own present and eternal good by active Christian service, doing all the good possible. Redeem the time that has been lost; seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. Then you will have something to impart in good works, in cheerful, consecrated influence. . . . {OFC 265.5} [OFC 265.6] What preparation have you made for the future, eternal world? . . . You want something higher and better than you now have. You may exert a conscious and unconscious influence in right doing. God deserves something better from you as His subject than that which you have given Him. Carefully consider: Are you standing under the banner of Prince Emmanuel, or under the black banner of the prince of darkness? There is an obligation resting upon you to return the influence and money that is lent you of the Lord to advance His cause and glorify His name. {OFC 265.6} [OFC 265.7] The Lord calls upon you, “My son, give me thine heart.” {OFC 265.7} [OFC 266.1] Christ Intercedes For You We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens; a minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man. Hebrews 8:1, 2. {OFC 266.1} [OFC 266.2] The natural eye can never behold the comeliness and beauty of Christ. The inward illumination of the Holy Spirit, revealing to the soul its true hopeless, helpless condition without the mercy and pardon of the Sin-bearer—the all-sufficiency of Christ—can alone enable man to discern His infinite mercy, His immeasurable love, benevolence, and glory. {OFC 266.2} [OFC 266.3] No one ever came to our world on such an errand of grace, infinite compassion, and unspeakable love, as our Saviour; and none ever received such treatment at the hands of fallen man. “Ye are not your own; ye are bought with a price” (see 1 Corinthians 6:19, 20). We are Christ’s by creation, His by redemption. He is the only sinless Being who endured suffering, shameful humiliation, and rejection in our behalf. . . . {OFC 266.3} [OFC 266.4] Then, how should those who become new creatures in Christ Jesus, saved by His merits, conduct themselves before the universe of heaven? Shall they complain? Shall they accuse one another? Would not a meek and submissive spirit be more becoming? “Learn of me,” said the great Teacher, “for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Shall we reveal this spirit in our characters? Shall we wear His yoke, and lift His burdens? . . . {OFC 266.4} [OFC 266.5] Could all see Christ before the throne, waiting for their prayers, waiting for them to surrender their will, to cease their rebellion and come back to their allegiance to God, in deep penitence they would pray the Father to forgive their transgression of His law, and forgive them for the influence they have exercised in causing others to disregard the law of Jehovah. The confederacies of the enemy’s army are triumphing in their delay. Will they longer remain under the condemnation of the law? Or, will they stand on the side of Christ, and with their influence help the betrayed, rebellious race by their own experimental knowledge? Will they now become co-workers with Jesus Christ, who is making personal intercession for them before the Father? Angels are keeping back the destroying agencies, for they have an intense interest for these rebellious sons, and they want to help them to return to the fold in safety and peace, that they may finally be overcomers, and be saved, eternally saved with the family of God in heaven. {OFC 266.5} [OFC 267.1] God’s Hand Is On The Wheel Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Ephesians 6:10. {OFC 267.1} [OFC 267.2] The future is before us, and unforeseen events will surely take place, changing the present aspect of things in the world. Lust and greed are striving for the supremacy. Oppression and hatred will be exercised to destroy. Inspired by a power from beneath, Satan’s instrumentalities will work with intensity to carry out his will. “The wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand” (Daniel 12:10). Every truly converted soul will put on the whole armor of God, and will bravely face the unseen foe. God’s servants will realize the necessity of partaking of the divine nature. . . . {OFC 267.2} [OFC 267.3] Now is our time of peril. Our only safety is in walking in the footsteps of Christ, and wearing His yoke. Troublous times are before us. In many instances, friends will become alienated. Without cause, men will become our enemies. The motives of the people of God will be misinterpreted, not only by the world, but by their own brethren. The Lord’s servants will be put in hard places. A mountain will be made out of a molehill to justify men in pursuing a selfish, unrighteous course. {OFC 267.3} [OFC 267.4] The work that men have done faithfully will be disparaged and underrated, because apparent prosperity did not attend their efforts. By misrepresentation, these men will be clothed in the dark vestments of dishonesty, because circumstances beyond their control made their work perplexing. They will be pointed to as men that cannot be trusted. And this will be done by the members of the church. God’s servants must arm themselves with the mind of Christ. They must not expect to escape insult and misjudgment. They will be called enthusiasts and fanatics. But let them not become discouraged. God’s hand is on the wheel of His providence, guiding His work to the glory of His name. {OFC 267.4} [OFC 267.5] God calls upon His people to be bright lights in the world shining amid the darkness of sin. Living the life of the Life-giver brings its reward. He went about doing good. This, every true follower of His will do, filled with a sacred sense of his loyalty to God and his duty to his fellow beings. Through the knowledge of the truth as it is in Jesus, Christians are to grow in grace, constantly drawing nearer perfection of character. {OFC 267.5} [OFC 268.1] Let God Work His Will In You The God of peace . . . make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Hebrews 13:20, 21. {OFC 268.1} [OFC 268.2] By studying the Word of God, and carrying out its precepts in all their business transactions, men may carefully discern the spirit that controls the actions. In the place of following human impulse and natural inclination, they may learn, by diligent study, the principles that should control the sons and daughters of Adam. {OFC 268.2} [OFC 268.3] The Bible is the guidebook that is to decide the many difficult problems that rise in minds that are selfishly inclined. It is a reflection of the wisdom of God, and not only furnishes great and important principles, but supplies practical lessons for the life and conduct of man toward his fellow man. It gives minute particulars that decide our relation to God and to each other. It is a complete revelation of the attributes and will of God in the person of Jesus Christ, and in it is set forth the obligation of the human agent to render wholehearted service to God, and to inquire at every step of the way, “Is this the way of the Lord?” . . . {OFC 268.3} [OFC 268.4] A deceiving crookedness is discernible in the minds of those whose eyes are not anointed with the heavenly eyesalve that they may see all things in the light of God’s Word. The will becomes enslaved, bound to pursue a course which the Word of God will not justify. The will of the human agent is not to be given into the control of any other man. When merged into the will of other men, it is misleading. . . . {OFC 268.4} [OFC 268.5] If the human agent consents, God can and will so identify His will with all our thoughts and aims, so blend our hearts and minds into conformity to His Word, that when obeying His will, we are only carrying out the impulses of our minds. All such will not possess an unsanctified, selfish disposition, ready to carry out their own wills, but will have a jealous, earnest, determined zeal for the glory of God. They will not want to do anything in their own strength, and will guard strictly against the danger of promoting self. {OFC 268.5} [OFC 268.6] All who would perfect a Christian character must wear the yoke of Christ. If they would sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus, they must learn of Him while on this earth. Our natures are in need of discipline. They must be conformed to the nature of Jesus Christ, that He may accomplish the good He designs to do for all who will submit to be molded by yielding their natures to His authority. The great Teacher will yoke up with every soul who will bear His yoke. {OFC 268.6} [OFC 269.1] Christ’s Love Cannot Be Measured For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38, 39. {OFC 269.1} [OFC 269.2] Christ might, because of our guilt, have moved far from us. But instead of moving farther away from us, He came and dwelt among us, filled with all the fullness of the Godhead, to be one with us, that through His grace we might attain to perfection. By a death of shame and suffering He paid man’s ransom. What self-sacrificing love is this! From the highest excellency He came, His divinity clothed with humanity, descending step by step to the very depths of humiliation. No line can measure the depth of this love. Christ has shown us how much God can love and our Redeemer suffer in order to secure our complete restoration. He desires His children to reveal His character, to exert His influence, that other minds may be drawn into harmony with His mind. {OFC 269.2} [OFC 269.3] Christ, our Saviour, in whom dwelt absolute perfection, became sin for the fallen race. He did not know sin by the experience of sinning, but He bore the terrible weight of the guilt of the whole world. He became our propitiation, that all who receive Him may become sons of God. The cross was erected to save man. Christ lifted on the cross was the means devised in heaven for awakening in the repenting soul a sense of the sinfulness of sin. By the cross Christ sought to draw all to Himself. He died as the only hope of saving those who, because of sin, were in the gall of bitterness. Through the agency of the Holy Spirit, a new principle of mental and spiritual power was to be brought to man, who, through association with divinity, was to become one with God. {OFC 269.3} [OFC 269.4] To break down the barriers that Satan had erected between God and man, Christ made a full and complete sacrifice, revealing unexampled self-denial. He revealed to the world the amazing spectacle of God living in human flesh, and sacrificing Himself to save fallen man. What wonderful love! As I consider it, I weep to think that so many of those who claim to believe the truth are encrusted with selfishness. . . . {OFC 269.4} [OFC 269.5] I marvel that professing Christians do not grasp the divine resources; that they do not see the cross more clearly as the medium of forgiveness and pardon, the means of bringing the proud, selfish heart of man into direct contact with the Holy Spirit, that the riches of Christ may be poured into the mind, and the human agent be adorned with the graces of the Spirit, that Christ may be commended to those who know Him not. {OFC 269.5} [OFC 270.1] Standing By Principle O how love I thy law! it is my meditation all the day. Psalm 119:97. {OFC 270.1} [OFC 270.2] Let those who talk of principle as if they would not on any account depart from it be sure that they understand the principles laid down in the Word of God for our guidance. There are some who follow false principles. Their idea of principle is misleading. Following right principle means the faithful doing of the first four and the last six commandments. In obedience to these divine commands, we eat the flesh and drink the blood of Christ, appropriating all that is embraced in the atonement made on Calvary. Christ will stand by the side of all who receive Him as their Saviour. To them He will give power to become the sons of God. “The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth” (John 1:14). {OFC 270.2} [OFC 270.3] The One here referred to as the Word is the Son of God, who was the Commander in the heavenly courts, and who came to this world to open heavenly things to fallen human beings. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. He is the Word that was with God before the world was. In clothing His divinity with humanity, He became possessed of two natures, the divine and the human. And because of this, He was fully able to accomplish for the human race their complete redemption, and their restoration to the privileges of the higher life. {OFC 270.3} [OFC 270.4] He began His earthly life as human beings begin theirs, coming to this world as a helpless babe. And while here, He lived the life that every human being may live who will receive the great gift that the Lord made to our world in sending His Son to work out the plan of salvation. {OFC 270.4} [OFC 270.5] Christ bore the penalty of sin, the stroke of divine justice, that human beings might not be left to perish. He bore in His body the sentence pronounced against sinners. This is the science of salvation, which can safely be searched into, and which it is profitable to strive to understand. . . . {OFC 270.5} [OFC 270.6] Those who continue in transgression will be judged according to their refusal of light. They choose to stand on the side of the prince of darkness, to become the helping hand of him who, if it were possible, would deceive the very elect. They refuse the wonderful gift of heaven, and though they may profess righteousness, and talk of “adherence to principle,” they are at the same time following principles opposed to the noble principles of heaven, and they teach others to follow the same corrupting principles. {OFC 270.6} [OFC 271.1] Our Sanctuary Doctrine Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the sanctuary be cleansed. Daniel 8:14. {OFC 271.1} [OFC 271.2] God bids us give our time and strength to the work of preaching to the people the messages that stirred men and women in 1843 and 1844. . . . {OFC 271.2} [OFC 271.3] My brethren, take your position where God bids you. Leave alone those who, after light has been repeatedly given them, have taken a stand on the opposite side. . . . Take up the work which has been given us. With the Word of God as your message, stand on the platform of truth and proclaim the soon coming of Christ. Truth, eternal truth, will prevail. {OFC 271.3} [OFC 271.4] For more than half a century ［i.e., since 1844］ the different points of present truth have been questioned and opposed. New theories have been advanced as truth, which were not truth, and the Spirit of God revealed their error. As the great pillars of our faith have been presented, the Holy Spirit has borne witness to them, and especially is this so regarding the truths of the sanctuary question. Over and over again the Holy Spirit has in a marked manner endorsed the preaching of this doctrine. But today, as in the past, some will be led to form new theories and to deny the truths upon which the Spirit of God has placed His approval. {OFC 271.4} [OFC 271.5] Any man who seeks to present theories which would lead us from the light that has come to us on the ministration in the heavenly sanctuary should not be accepted as a teacher. A true understanding of the sanctuary question means much to us as a people. When we were earnestly seeking the Lord for light on that question, light came. In vision I was given such a view of the heavenly sanctuary, and the ministration connected with the holy place, that for many days I could not speak of it. {OFC 271.5} [OFC 271.6] I know from the light that God has given me that there should be a revival of the messages that have been given in the past, because men will seek to bring in new theories, and will try to prove that these theories are scriptural, whereas they are error, which, if allowed a place, will undermine faith in the truth. We are not to accept these suppositions and pass them along as truth. No, no; we must not move from the platform of truth on which we have been established. {OFC 271.6} [OFC 271.7] There will always be those who are seeking for something new, and who stretch and strain the Word of God to make it support their ideas and theories. Let us, brethren, take the things that God has given us, and which His Spirit has taught us is truth, and believe them, leaving alone those theories which His Spirit has not endorsed. {OFC 271.7} [OFC 272.1] Eating The Leaves Of The Tree Of Life In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. Revelation 22:2. {OFC 272.1} [OFC 272.2] Must we wait until we are translated before we eat of the leaves of the tree of life? He who receives into his heart the words of Christ knows what it means to eat the leaves of the tree of life. . . . {OFC 272.2} [OFC 272.3] The knowledge that comes from God is the bread of life. It is the leaves of the tree of life which are for the healing of the nations. The current of spiritual life thrills the soul as the words of Christ are believed and practiced. Thus it is that we are made one with Christ. The experience that was weak and feeble becomes strong. It is eternal life to us if we hold the beginning of our confidence firm unto the end. {OFC 272.3} [OFC 272.4] All truth is to be received as the life of Jesus. Truth cleanses us from all impurity, and prepares the soul for Christ’s presence. Christ is formed within, the hope of glory. . . . {OFC 272.4} [OFC 272.5] It is essential that those who pledge themselves to keep God’s commandments have an intelligent knowledge of the Scriptures. Thus we learn to deny self and to be strictly honest with God in using His goods. It was in order that we might understand the divine will that God gave us the Bible. We cannot obey His commandments until we know what these commandments are. {OFC 272.5} [OFC 272.6] Parents are without excuse if they fail to obtain a clear understanding of God’s will, that they may obey the laws of His kingdom. Only thus can they lead their children to heaven. My brethren and sisters, it is your duty to understand God’s requirements. How can you educate your children in the things of God unless you first know yourselves what is right and what is wrong, unless you realize that obedience means eternal life and disobedience eternal death? {OFC 272.6} [OFC 272.7] We must make it our lifework to understand the will of God. Only as we do this can we train our children aright. Your every word and action is to be in accordance with the will of God, irrespective of the opinions and practices of those who refuse to obey God. . . . {OFC 272.7} [OFC 272.8] “The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul” (Psalm 19:7). The Lord has kept back nothing that is necessary for the enlightenment of His children. No one can plead in excuse for transgression that he was left in ignorance, that the way to heaven was not clearly marked out. We have not been left to serve God in a vague, uncertain way. {OFC 272.8} [OFC 273.1] Only One Light To Illuminate The Way But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day. Proverbs 4:18. {OFC 273.1} [OFC 273.2] Christ’s love in the heart, revealing through the life its wondrous power—this is the greatest miracle that can be performed before a fallen, quarreling world. Let us try to work this miracle, not in our own power, but in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, whose we are and whom we serve. Let us put on Christ, and the miracle-working power of His grace will be so plainly revealed in the transformation of character that the world will be convinced that God has sent His Son into the world to make men as angels in character and life. {OFC 273.2} [OFC 273.3] Those who truly believe in Christ sit together with Him in heavenly places. Let us accept the badge of Christianity. This is not an outward sign, not the wearing of a cross or a crown, but it is something that reveals the union of man with God. Let us “put off the old man with his deeds; and . . . put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him” (Colossians 3:9, 10). The beauty of holiness is revealed as Christians draw near together, blending in Christlike love. {OFC 273.3} [OFC 273.4] “Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh; and having an high priest over the house of God; let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) and let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is, but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching” (Hebrews 10:19-25). {OFC 273.4} [OFC 273.5] There is only one true religion, only one way to heaven; only one light to illuminate the way as the pilgrims press on. As we follow on to know the Lord, we shall acknowledge at every step that Christ is the Light of the world, that He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life; and we shall find that the path that He bids us follow is “as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day” (Proverbs 4:18). . . . {OFC 273.5} [OFC 273.6] The Lord is good and greatly to be praised. . . . How blest, how doubly blest, is the home in which father, mother, and children are consecrated to the service of Christ. {OFC 273.6} [OFC 274.1] Christ Has Power For Us And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power. Colossians 2:10. {OFC 274.1} [OFC 274.2] We are to live in the warm, genial rays of the Sun of Righteousness. Nothing but His loving compassion, His divine grace, His almighty power, can enable us to baffle the relentless foe and subdue the opposition of the human heart. What is our strength? The joy of the Lord. Let the melting love of Christ fill the heart, and we are softened and subdued, prepared to receive the power that He has for us. {OFC 274.2} [OFC 274.3] Let us thank God every day for the blessings that are ours. If the human agent will humble himself before God, realizing how inappropriate it is for him to cherish a feeling of self-sufficiency; realizing his utter inability to do the work that needs to be done in order for his soul to be purified, casting away, making of no account, his own righteousness, Christ will engrave His own image upon his soul. . . . {OFC 274.3} [OFC 274.4] Christ will never neglect the work that has been placed in His hands. He will inspire the resolute disciple with a sense of the perversity, the sin-stained condition, the depravity, of the heart upon which He is working. The true penitent has learned the uselessness of self-importance. Looking to Jesus, comparing his own defective character with the Saviour’s perfect character, he can say, In my hand no price I bring; Simply to Thy cross I cling. {OFC 274.4} [OFC 274.5] With Isaiah he declares, “Lord, thou wilt ordain peace for us: for thou also hast wrought all our works in us. O Lord our God, other lords beside thee have had dominion over us: but by thee only will we make mention of thy name” (Isaiah 26:12, 13). {OFC 274.5} [OFC 274.6] Beholding Christ for the purpose of becoming like Him, the seeker after truth sees the perfection of the principles of God’s law, and he becomes dissatisfied with everything but perfection. Hiding his life in the life of Christ, he sees that the holiness of the divine law is revealed in the character of Christ, and more and more earnestly he strives to be like Him. A warfare may be expected at any time, for the tempter sees that he is losing one of his subjects. A battle must be fought with the attributes which Satan has been strengthening for his own use. {OFC 274.6} [OFC 274.7] The human agent sees what he has to contend with—a strange power opposed to the idea of attaining the perfection that Christ holds out. But with Christ there is saving power that will gain for him victory in the conflict. The Saviour will strengthen and help him as he comes pleading for grace and efficiency. {OFC 274.7} [OFC 275.1] Help For The Conflict Promised Thus saith the Lord that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine. Isaiah 43:1. {OFC 275.1} [OFC 275.2] Every obstacle to the redemption of the people of God is to be removed by the opening of the Word of God and the presentation of a plain “Thus saith the Lord.” The true light is to shine forth, for darkness covers the earth and gross darkness the people. The truth of the living God is to appear in contrast with error. Proclaim the glad tidings: We have a Saviour who has given His life that all who believe in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. {OFC 275.2} [OFC 275.3] Obstacles to the advancement of the work of the Lord will appear, but fear not. To the omnipotence of the King of kings, our covenant-keeping God unites the gentleness and care of a tender shepherd. Nothing can stand in His way. His power is absolute, and is the pledge of the sure fulfillment of His promises to His people. He can remove all obstructions to the advancement of His work. . . . {OFC 275.3} [OFC 275.4] The church of Christ is God’s agency for the proclamation of truth, empowered by Him to do a special work, and if she is loyal to God, obedient to all His commandments, there will dwell within her the excellency of divine power. If she will honor the Lord God of Israel, there is no power that can stand against her. If she will be true to her allegiance, the forces of the enemy will be no more able to overpower her than is the chaff to resist the whirlwind. {OFC 275.4} [OFC 275.5] There is before the church the dawn of a bright, glorious day, if she will put on the robe of Christ’s righteousness, withdrawing from all alliance with the world. The members of the church need now to confess their backslidings, and press together. My brethren and sisters, allow nothing to come in that will separate you from one another and from God. Talk not of differences of opinion, but unite in the love of the truth as it is in Jesus. Come before God and plead the shed blood of the Saviour as a reason that you should receive help in the warfare against evil. I assure you that you will not plead in vain. As you draw near to God, with heartfelt contrition and in full assurance of faith, the enemy who seeks to destroy you will be overcome. {OFC 275.5} [OFC 275.6] Turn to the Lord, ye prisoners of hope. Seek strength from God, the living God. Show an unwavering, humble faith in His power and willingness to save. From Christ is flowing the living stream of salvation. He is the Fountain of life and the Source of all power. {OFC 275.6} [OFC 276.1] Service To God Begins On Earth That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 1:17. {OFC 276.1} [OFC 276.2] Those who work against the natural laws of the being must suffer the penalty of transgression. But the Saviour pities us, even when we suffer from infirmities caused by our own wrong course of action. In Him there is a healing power for us. Let us praise God for the tree of life, the leaves of which are for the healing of the nations. . . . {OFC 276.2} [OFC 276.3] Everywhere the effects of the curse are seen. Let us praise God that in the earth made new “there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him” (Revelation 22:3). Some little know what true service means. Those who expect to sing in an entertainment spend time in practicing, to familiarize themselves with the music and the words. That we may learn how to serve the Lord in heaven, we must enter His service now, becoming acquainted with Him and learning to be faithful servants. . . . {OFC 276.3} [OFC 276.4] It is our privilege to understand the blessed Word of God. We have fallen, it is true, but we are not always to remain in sin. We have been placed on vantage ground. The Lord God of heaven “so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). What a precious hope we have in Christ! . . . {OFC 276.4} [OFC 276.5] Temptations will come. But when Satan throws his hellish shadow before us, we should reach in faith through the shadow to the light of life—to Him who has not only created man but who by His own blood has redeemed him. We are Christ’s cherished heritage. In living faith we must cooperate with Him in working out our own salvation. Amid trials and temptations His hand upholds and sustains us. Those who rest in Christ Jesus are never restless or uneasy. He means just what He says when He bids us commit the keeping of our souls unto Him, as to a faithful Creator. {OFC 276.5} [OFC 276.6] Those who hold fast their faith unto the end will come forth from the furnace of trial as fine gold seven times purified. Of this work the prophet Isaiah says, “I will make a man more precious than fine gold; even a man than the golden wedge of Ophir” (Isaiah 13:12). When in trouble, remember that faith tried in the furnace of affliction is more precious than gold tried with fire. Remember that there is One watching every movement, to see when the last particle of dross is taken away from your character. {OFC 276.6} [OFC 277.1] The Meaning Of Communion With God That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. 1 John 1:3. {OFC 277.1} [OFC 277.2] Communion with God is the life of the soul. It is not something that we cannot interpret, something that we can clothe with beautiful words but which does not give us the genuine experience that makes our words of real value. Communion with God gives a daily experience that does indeed make our joy full. {OFC 277.2} [OFC 277.3] Those who have this union with Christ will declare it in spirit and word and work. Profession is nothing unless in word and work good fruit is manifest. Unity, fellowship with one another and with Christ—this is the fruit borne on every branch of the living vine. The cleansed soul, born again, has a clear, distinct testimony to bear. . . . {OFC 277.3} [OFC 277.4] To know God is, in the scriptural sense of the term, to be one with Him in heart and mind, having an experimental knowledge of Him, holding reverential communion with Him as the Redeemer. Only through sincere obedience can this communion be obtained. Where this communion is lacking, the heart is not in any sense a temple of God, but is controlled by the foe, who is working out his own purposes through the human agency. Such a man, whatever his profession or claims, is not a temple of the Holy Spirit. {OFC 277.4} [OFC 277.5] The experience is perfected by fruit bearing. He who does not bear good fruit in words and deeds, in the strength of elevated, ennobling principle, is a bad tree. The fruit that he bears is unpalatable to God. His professed knowledge of Christ is a falsehood, a deception. . . . {OFC 277.5} [OFC 277.6] In the light of the love of Christ, the gospel is an open book. This is the true light, which Christ came to bring to the world. The Saviour’s true disciples have received this love. . . . {OFC 277.6} [OFC 277.7] From the light that God has given me, I know that men’s great danger is in being self-deceived. Satan is watching his chance. He will come to men in human form, and will speak to them most entrancing words. He will bring against them the same temptations that he brought against Christ. Unless their minds and hearts are filled with the pure, unselfish, sanctified love that Christ revealed, they will fall under Satan’s power, and will do and say and write strange things, to deceive, if it were possible, the very elect. . . . {OFC 277.7} [OFC 277.8] Following Christ’s example of unselfish service, trusting like little children in His merits, and obeying His commands, we shall receive the approval of God. {OFC 277.8} [OFC 278.1] Heaven, The Christian’s Summer Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ. Titus 2:13. {OFC 278.1} [OFC 278.2] Christ is soon to come the second time. Of this we should often talk. It should be the uppermost thought in our minds. He is coming, with power and great glory, and every eye shall see Him. All the holy angels will accompany Him. Of this company John writes, “I beheld, and heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beast and the elders: and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands” (Revelation 5:11). {OFC 278.2} [OFC 278.3] The trumpet has not yet sounded. Those who have gone down into the grave have not yet cried, “O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?” (1 Corinthians 15:55). The righteous dead have not yet been caught up with the living saints to meet their Lord in the air. But the time is near when the words spoken by the apostle Paul will have their fulfillment, “For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord” (1 Thessalonians 4:16-18). {OFC 278.3} [OFC 278.4] In order for us to be like the Saviour, we must be changed (see Philippians 3:20, 21). Now is the time for us to bring into the daily life the virtues of Christ’s life. We have no time to lose. Should we fail in our character building, we shall lose eternal life. We must build on the true foundation. . . . We must do the work of Christ, and be constantly watching and praying. Then we shall be ready for His appearing, prepared to receive eternal life. {OFC 278.4} [OFC 278.5] All who will can be overcomers. Let us strive earnestly to reach the standard set before us. Christ knows our weakness, and to Him we can go daily for help. It is not necessary for us to gain strength a month ahead. We are to conquer from day to day. {OFC 278.5} [OFC 278.6] This earth is the place of preparation for heaven. The time spent here is the Christian’s winter. Here the chilly winds of affliction blow upon us, and the waves of trouble roll against us. But in the near future, when Christ comes, sorrow and sighing will be forever ended. Then will be the Christian’s summer. All trials will be over, and there will be no more sickness or death. “God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away” (Revelation 21:4). {OFC 278.6} [OFC 279.1] We Have The Blessed Assurance I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. Hebrews 13:5. {OFC 279.1} [OFC 279.2] We have but one life to live, and through our daily connection with God we have, in and through the merits of the Lord Jesus Christ, a constant sustenance in doing the things that will represent Christ to the world. We may not have all the conveniences that some have in ease and comfort and in earthly goods, but we have the blessed assurance which Christ gave to His believing disciples. . . . To them He said, “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also” (John 14:1-3). . . . {OFC 279.2} [OFC 279.3] Blessed words! We may receive Him into our hearts, and He will be unto us hope and courage and sustaining grace. The Lord would have us trust fully and entirely in Him. Then we will, in the simplicity of our faith, believe that Christ will do for us all that He has promised. Let all come to the Saviour in the full assurance that He will do all that He has promised. {OFC 279.3} [OFC 279.4] We cannot please our Saviour more than by having faith in His promises. His mercies can come to you, and your prayers can come to Him. Nothing can break this line of communication. We must learn to bring all perplexities to Jesus Christ, for He will help us. He will listen to our requests. We may come to Him in full assurance of faith, nothing doubting, for He is the living Way. . . . {OFC 279.4} [OFC 279.5] The more we press our petitions to His throne, the more sure we are of constantly receiving the great grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. You do not give strength to the road you are traveling by ［having］ faith. But you increase in strength and in assurance because you have a Guide right by your side, and you can ask Him with perfect faith to guide your steps aright. {OFC 279.5} [OFC 279.6] Then trust in the Lord Jesus to lead you step by step into the right path. You can derive assurance and strength at every step you advance, for you can be assured that your hand is in His hand. You can “run and not be weary”; you can “walk and not faint,” for you can realize by faith that you have your hand in the hand of Christ. You will not sink under discouragement, for as you follow on to know the Lord, trusting in Him, you will have the assurance that the One who never forsakes those who fully trust Him is your constant Helper. {OFC 279.6} [OFC 280.1] Drop Self Into God’s Hands My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand. John 10:29. {OFC 280.1} [OFC 280.2] We must rise to a higher standard on the subject of faith. We have too little faith. The Word of God is our endorsement. We must take it, simply believing every word. With this assurance, we may claim large things, and according to our faith it will be unto us. . . If we humble our hearts before God, if we seek to abide in Christ, we shall have a higher, holier experience. . . . {OFC 280.2} [OFC 280.3] True faith consists in doing just what God has enjoined, not manufacturing things He has not enjoined. Justice, truth, mercy, are the fruit of faith. We need to walk in the light of God’s law; then good works will be the fruit of our faith, the proceeds of a heart renewed every day. {OFC 280.3} [OFC 280.4] We must not in any way make self our god. God has given Himself to die for us, that He might purify us from all iniquity. The Lord will carry on this work of perfection for us if we will allow ourselves to be controlled by Him. . . . {OFC 280.4} [OFC 280.5] The work of righteousness cannot be carried forward unless we exercise implicit faith. Move every day under God’s mighty working power. The fruit of righteousness is quietness and assurance forever. If we had exercised more faith in God and had trusted less to our own ideas and wisdom, God would have manifested His power in a marked manner on human hearts. By a union with Him, by living faith, we are privileged to enjoy the virtue and efficacy of His mediation. Hence we are crucified with Christ, dead with Christ, risen with Christ, to walk in newness of life with Him. {OFC 280.5} [OFC 280.6] We are not to hold ourselves in our own hands. We are to drop self into the hands of God. . . . Our lack of faith is the reason that we have not seen more of the power of God. We exercise more faith in our own working than in God’s working for us. God designs that everything possible shall be done to enable us to stand heart to heart, mind to mind, shoulder to shoulder. This lack of love and confidence in one another weakens our faith in God. {OFC 280.6} [OFC 280.7] We need to pray as we never have prayed before for the baptism of the Holy Spirit, for if there was ever a time when we needed this baptism, it is now. There is nothing the Lord has more frequently told us He would bestow upon us, and nothing by which His name would be more glorified in bestowing, than the Holy Spirit. When we partake of this Spirit, men and women will be born again. . . . Souls once lost will be found, and brought back. {OFC 280.7} [OFC 281.1] The Meaning Of Christian Perfection I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. Philippians 4:13. {OFC 281.1} [OFC 281.2] What does God require? Perfection; nothing less than perfection. But if we would be perfect, we must put no confidence in self. Daily we must know and understand that self is not to be trusted. We need to grasp God’s promises with firm faith. We need to ask for the Holy Spirit with a full realization of our own helplessness. Then when the Holy Spirit works, we shall not give self the glory. The Holy Spirit will graciously take the heart into His keeping, bringing to it all the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness. We shall be kept by the power of God through faith. {OFC 281.2} [OFC 281.3] When we are daily under the control of God’s Spirit, we shall be commandment-keeping people. We may show to the world that obedience to God’s commands brings its own reward, even in this life, and in the future life eternal blessedness. Notwithstanding our profession of faith, the Lord by whom our actions are weighed sees but an imperfect representation of Christ. He has declared that such a condition of things cannot glorify Him. {OFC 281.3} [OFC 281.4] It means much to commit the keeping of the soul to God. It means that we are to live and walk by faith, not trusting in or glorifying self, but looking to Jesus our Advocate as the Author and Finisher of our faith. The Holy Spirit will do its work upon a heart that is contrite, but never can He work upon a self-important, self-righteous soul. In his own wisdom such a one would mend himself. He interposes between his soul and the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit will work if self will not interpose. . . . {OFC 281.4} [OFC 281.5] The Holy Spirit is ready to cooperate with all who will receive Him and be taught by Him. All who lay hold on the truth and are sanctified through the truth are so united with Christ that they can represent Him in word and action. . . . May the Holy Spirit speak to the hearts of God’s chosen people, that their words may be as choice as gold as they give the bread of life to those in transgression and sin. . . . {OFC 281.5} [OFC 281.6] It is God’s pleasure and will that the blessings bestowed on man shall be given in perfect completeness. He has made provision that every difficulty may be overcome, every want supplied through the Holy Spirit. Thus He designs that man shall perfect a Christian character. God would have us contemplate His love, His promises, given so freely to those who have no merit in themselves, He would have us depend fully, gratefully, rejoicingly in the righteousness provided for us in Christ. To all who come to God in His appointed way, He freely listens. {OFC 281.6} [OFC 282.1] Shine With Living Brightness And they shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him. Malachi 3:17. {OFC 282.1} [OFC 282.2] Christians are Christ’s jewels, bought with an infinite price. They are to shine brightly for Him, shedding forth the light of His loveliness. And ever they are to remember that all the luster that Christian character possesses is received from the Sun of Righteousness. {OFC 282.2} [OFC 282.3] The luster of Christ’s jewels depends on the polishing that they receive. God does not compel us to be polished. We are left free to choose to be polished or to remain unpolished. But everyone who is pronounced worthy of a place in the Lord’s temple must submit to the polishing process. He must consent to have the sharp edges cut away from his character, that it may be shapely and beautiful, fitted to represent the perfection of Christ’s character. . . . {OFC 282.3} [OFC 282.4] The divine Worker spends little time on worthless material. Only the precious jewels does He polish after the similitude of a palace. With hammer and chisel He cuts away the rough edges, preparing us for a place in God’s temple. The process is severe and trying. It hurts human pride. Christ cuts deep into the experience that man in his self-sufficiency regarded as complete, and takes away self-uplifting from the character. He cuts away the surplus surface, and putting the stone to the polishing wheel, presses it close, that all roughness may be worn off. Then holding the jewel up to the light the Master sees in it a reflection of His own image, and it is pronounced worthy of a place in His temple. {OFC 282.4} [OFC 282.5] Blessed be the experience, however severe, that gives new value to the stone, enabling it to shine with living brightness! . . . {OFC 282.5} [OFC 282.6] ［The Lord］ has workers whom He will call forth from poverty and obscurity. Engaged in the common duties of life, and clothed with coarse raiment, they are looked upon by men as of little value. But Christ sees in them infinite possibilities, and in His hands they will become precious jewels, to shine brightly in the kingdom of God. “They shall be mine, saith the Lord of Host, in that day when I make up my jewels.” (Malachi 3:17). {OFC 282.6} [OFC 282.7] Christ’s perfect knowledge of human character fits Him to deal with minds. God knows just how to treat each soul. He judges not as man judges. He knows the real value of the material upon which He is working in fitting men and women for positions of trust. {OFC 282.7} [OFC 283.1] We Are Objects Of Infinite Love But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ. Ephesians 2:4, 5. {OFC 283.1} [OFC 283.2] The heart surrendered to God’s wise discipline will trust every working out of His providence. . . . Temptation will come to discourage, but what is gained by yielding to any such temptations? Is the soul made any better by murmuring and complaining of its only source of strength? Is the anchor cast within the vail. Will it hold in sickness? Will it be the testimony borne in the last closing scenes of life when the lips are becoming palsied with death? The anchor holds! I know that my Redeemer liveth. . . . {OFC 283.2} [OFC 283.3] O Precious, loving, long-suffering, long-forbearing Jesus, how my soul adores Thee! That a poor, unworthy, sin-polluted soul can stand before the Holy God, complete in the righteousness of our Substitute and Surety! Wonder, O Heavens, and be astonished, O earth, that fallen man is the object of His infinite love and delight. He rejoices over them with celestial songs, and man defiled with sin, having become cleansed through the righteousness of Christ, is presented to the Father free from every spot and stain of sin, “not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing” (Ephesians 5:27). “Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth” (Romans 8:33). {OFC 283.3} [OFC 283.4] Let every weak, tempest-tossed soul find anchorage in Jesus Christ and not become so self-centered that he can think only of his little disappointments and the interruption of his plans and hopes. Is not the subject of the plan of salvation all-absorbing? If the infinite God justifies me, “who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died” (verse 34). He has in His dying for man revealed how much He loves man—enough to die for Him! The law condemns the sinner and drives him to Christ. It is God that justifies and pardons. {OFC 283.4} [OFC 283.5] Satan will accuse and seek permission to destroy, but it is God that opens the door of refuge. It is God that justifieth him that entereth that door. Then if God be for us, who can be against us? Oh, the bright glorious truth. Why do not men discern it? Why not walk in its bright beams? Why do not all who believe talk of Christ’s matchless love? . . . {OFC 283.5} [OFC 283.6] God lives and reigns. All who are saved must fight manfully as soldiers of Jesus Christ; then they will be registered in heaven’s books as true and faithful. They are to work the works of Jesus Christ, fight the good fight of faith. {OFC 283.6} [OFC 284.1] Chapter 11—Reflecting Christ Christ’s Compassion Knew No Limit This was to fulfil what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah, “He took our infirmities and bore our diseases.” Matthew 8:17, R.S.V. {OFC 284.1} [OFC 284.2] Our Lord Jesus Christ came to this world as the unwearied servant of man’s necessity. He “took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses,” that He might minister to every need of humanity. The burden of disease and wretchedness and sin He came to remove. It was His mission to bring to men complete restoration; He came to give them health and peace and perfection of character. {OFC 284.2} [OFC 284.3] Varied were the circumstances and needs of those who besought His aid, and none who came to Him went away unhelped. From Him flowed a stream of healing power, and in body and mind and soul men were made whole. {OFC 284.3} [OFC 284.4] The Saviour’s work was not restricted to any time or place. His compassion knew no limit. On so large a scale did He conduct His work of healing and teaching that there was no building in Palestine large enough to receive the multitudes that thronged to Him. On the green hillslopes of Galilee, in the thoroughfares of travel, by the seashore, in the synagogues, and in every place where the sick could be brought to Him was to be found His hospital. In every city, every town, every village through which He passed, He laid His hands upon the afflicted ones, and healed them. Wherever there were hearts ready to receive His message, He comforted them with the assurance of their heavenly Father’s love. All day He ministered to those who came to Him; in the evening He gave attention to such as through the day must toil to earn a pittance for the support of their families. {OFC 284.4} [OFC 284.5] Jesus carried the awful weight of responsibility for the salvation of men. He knew that unless there was a decided change in the principles and purposes of the human race, all would be lost. This was the burden of His soul, and none could appreciate the weight that rested upon Him. Through childhood, youth, and manhood, He walked alone. . . . {OFC 284.5} [OFC 284.6] Day by day He met trials and temptations; day by day He was brought into contact with evil, and witnessed its power upon those whom He was seeking to bless and to save. Yet He did not fail nor become discouraged. . . . {OFC 284.6} [OFC 284.7] He was always patient and cheerful, and the afflicted hailed Him as a messenger of life and peace. He saw the needs of men and women, children and youth, and to all He gave the invitation, “Come unto me.” . . . {OFC 284.7} [OFC 285.1] 285 As He passed through the towns and cities, He was like a vital current, diffusing life and joy. {OFC 285.1} [OFC 285.2] Christ A Perfect Example For All And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man. Luke 2:52. {OFC 285.2} [OFC 285.3] Man has fallen. God’s image in him is defaced. By disobedience he is depraved in inclination and weakened in power, unable, apparently, to look forward to anything but tribulation and wrath. But God, through Christ, has wrought out a way of escape, and He says to everyone, “Be ye therefore perfect.” It is His purpose that man shall stand before Him upright and noble, and He will not be defeated. He sent His Son to this world to bear the penalty of sin, and to show man how to live a sinless life. {OFC 285.3} [OFC 285.4] Christ is our ideal. He has left a perfect example for childhood, youth, and manhood. He came to this earth, and passed through the different phases of human experience. In His life sin found no place. From the beginning to the close of His earthly life, He preserved unsullied His loyalty to God. The Word says of Him, “The child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon Him.” He “increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.” {OFC 285.4} [OFC 285.5] The Saviour lived not to please Himself. . . . He had no home in this world, only as the kindness of His friends provided Him one, yet it was heaven to be in His presence. Day by day He met trials and temptations, yet He did not fail or become discouraged. He was always patient and cheerful, and the afflicted hailed Him as a messenger of life and peace and health. His life held nothing that was not pure and noble. . . . {OFC 285.5} [OFC 285.6] God’s promise is, “Ye shall be holy; for I am holy.” Holiness is the reflection of God’s glory. But in order to reflect this glory, we must cooperate with God. Heart and mind must be emptied of all that leads to wrong. The Word of God must be read and studied with a sincere desire to gain from it spiritual strength. This Word is the Bread of heaven. Those who receive it, and make it a part of their lives, grow strong in the strength of God. Our sanctification is God’s object in all His dealing with us. He has chosen us from eternity, that we may be holy. Christ declares, “This is the will of God, even your sanctification.” Is it your will, also, that your desires and inclinations shall be brought into conformity to the divine will? . . . {OFC 285.6} [OFC 285.7] Living the life of the Saviour, overcoming every selfish desire, fulfilling bravely and cheerfully our duty to God and to those around us—this makes us more than conquerors. This prepares us to stand before 286 the great white throne free from spot or wrinkle, having washed our robes of character, and made them white in the blood of the lamb. {OFC 285.7} [OFC 286.1] Jesus Provided A Model Of Character For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory. Colossians 3:3, 4. {OFC 286.1} [OFC 286.2] Let your light shine forth in good works. Said Christ, “Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.” I fear that there are many who are in this condition. All have not the same work to do; different circumstances and talents qualify individuals for different kinds of work in God’s vineyard. There are some who fill more responsible positions than do others; but to each one is given his work, and if he does his work with fidelity and zeal, he is a faithful steward of the grace of God. {OFC 286.2} [OFC 286.3] God does not intend that your light shall so shine that your good words or works shall bring the praise of men to yourself; but that the Author of all good shall be glorified and exalted. Jesus, in His life, gave to men a model of character. How little power did the world have over Him to mold Him according to its standard! All its influence was thrown off. He declared, “My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work!” If we had this devotion to the work of God, doing it with an eye single to His glory, we should be able to say with Christ, “I seek not mine own glory.” His life was full of good works, and it is our duty to live as our great Example lived. Our life must be hid with Christ in God, and then the light will be reflected from Jesus to us, and we shall reflect it upon those around us, not in mere talk and profession, but in good works, and by manifesting the character of Christ. Those who are reflecting the light of God will cherish a loving disposition. They will be cheerful, willing, obedient to all the requirements of God. They will be meek and self-sacrificing, and will work with devoted love for the salvation of souls. . . . {OFC 286.3} [OFC 286.4] All who are true lightbearers will reflect light upon the pathway of others. Let those who have named the name of Christ, depart from all iniquity. If you yield to the claims of God, and become permeated with His love, and filled with His fullness, children, youth, and young disciples will look to you for their impressions of what constitutes practical godliness; and you may thus be the means of leading them in the path of obedience 287 to God. You will then be exerting an influence which will bear the test of God, and your work will be compared to gold, silver, and precious stones, for it will be of an imperishable nature. {OFC 286.4} [OFC 287.1] True Followers Obey God’s Law Sin is the transgression of the law. 1 John 3:4. {OFC 287.1} [OFC 287.2] The desire for an easy religion that requires no striving, no self-denial, no divorce from the follies of the world, has made the doctrine of faith, and faith only, a popular doctrine; but what saith the Word of God? Says the apostle James: “What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him? . . . Wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead? Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar? Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect?. . . Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only” (James 2:14-24). {OFC 287.2} [OFC 287.3] The testimony of the Word of God is against this ensnaring doctrine of faith without works. It is not faith that claims the favor of Heaven without complying with the conditions upon which mercy is to be granted, it is presumption; for genuine faith has its foundation in the promises and provisions of the Scriptures. . . . {OFC 287.3} [OFC 287.4] The commission of a known sin silences the witnessing voice of the Spirit and separates the soul from God. “Sin is the transgression of the law.” And “whosoever sinneth ［transgresseth the law］ hath not seen him, neither known him” (1 John 3:6). Though John in his Epistles dwells so fully upon love, yet he does not hesitate to reveal the true character of that class who claim to be sanctified while living in transgression of the law of God. “He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected” (chap. 2:4, 5). {OFC 287.4} [OFC 287.5] Here is the test of every man’s profession. We cannot accord holiness to any man without bringing him to the measurement of God’s only standard of holiness in heaven and in earth. If men feel no weight of the moral law, if they belittle and make light of God’s precepts, if they break one of the least of these commandments, and teach men so, they shall be of no esteem in the sight of Heaven, and we may know that their claims are without foundation. {OFC 287.5} [OFC 287.6] And the claim to be without sin is, in itself, evidence that he who makes this claim is far from holy. It is because he has no true conception 288 of the infinite purity and holiness of God or of what they must become who shall be in harmony with His character; because he has no true conception of the purity and exalted loveliness of Jesus, and the malignity and evil of sin, that man can regard himself as holy. {OFC 287.6} [OFC 288.1] It was the righteousness revealed in His ［Christ’s］ life that distinguished Him from the world. {OFC 288.1} [OFC 288.2] How We May Keep God’s Law His work is honourable and glorious: and his righteousness endureth for ever. Psalm 111:3. {OFC 288.2} [OFC 288.3] One ray of the glory of God, one gleam of the purity of Christ, penetrating the soul, makes every spot of defilement painfully distinct, and lays bare the deformity and defects of the human character. How can anyone who is brought before the holy standard of God’s law, which makes apparent the evil motives, the unhallowed desires, the infidelity of the heart, the impurity of the lips, and that lays bare the life, make any boast of holiness? His acts of disloyalty in making void the law of God are exposed to his sight, and his spirit is stricken and afflicted under the searching influences of the Spirit of God. He loathes himself as he views the greatness, the majesty, the pure and spotless character of Jesus Christ. {OFC 288.3} [OFC 288.4] When the Spirit of Christ stirs the heart with its marvelous awakening power, there is a sense of deficiency in the soul, that leads to contrition of mind, and humiliation of self, rather than to proud boasting of what has been acquired. When Daniel beheld the glory and majesty surrounding the heavenly messenger that was sent unto him, he exclaimed, as he described the wonderful scene, “Therefore I was left alone, and saw this great vision, and there remained no strength in me: for my comeliness was turned in me into corruption, and I retained no strength.” {OFC 288.4} [OFC 288.5] The soul that is thus touched will never wrap itself about with self-righteousness, or a pretentious garb of holiness; but will hate its selfishness, abhor its self-love, and will seek, through Christ’s righteousness, for that purity of heart which is in harmony with the law of God and the character of Christ. He will then reflect the character of Christ, the hope of glory. It will be the greatest mystery to him that Jesus should have made so great a sacrifice to redeem him. {OFC 288.5} [OFC 288.6] He will exclaim, with humble mien and quivering lip, “He loved me. He gave Himself for me. He became poor that I, through His poverty, might be made rich. The Man of Sorrows did not spurn me, but poured out His inexhaustible, redeeming love that my heart might be made clean; and He has brought me back into loyalty and obedience to all His commandments. 289 His condescension, His humiliation, His crucifixion, are the crowning miracles in the marvelous exhibition of the plan of salvation....All this He has done to make it possible to impart to me His own righteousness, that I may keep the law I have transgressed. For this I adore Him. I will proclaim Him to all sinners.” {OFC 288.6} [OFC 289.1] The Repentant Sinner Accepted In Christ For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us. Hebrews 9:24. {OFC 289.1} [OFC 289.2] Christ is our sacrifice, our substitute, our surety, our divine intercessor; He is made unto us righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. “For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us.” {OFC 289.2} [OFC 289.3] The intercession of Christ in our behalf is that of presenting His divine merits in the offering of Himself to the Father as our substitute and surety; for He ascended up on high to make an atonement for our transgressions....”Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins” (1 John 4:10). “He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them” (Hebrews 7:25). {OFC 289.3} [OFC 289.4] From these scriptures it is evident that it is not God’s will that you should be distrustful, and torture your soul with the fear that God will not accept you because you are sinful and unworthy. . . . Present your case before Him, pleading the merits of the blood shed for you upon Calvary’s cross. Satan will accuse you of being a great sinner, and you must admit this, but you can say: “I know I am a sinner, and that is the reason I need a Saviour. Jesus came into the world to save sinners. ‘The blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.’...I have no merit or goodness whereby I may claim salvation, but I present before God the all-atoning blood of the spotless Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. This is my only plea. The name of Jesus gives me access to the Father. His ear, His heart, is open to my faintest pleading, and He supplies my deepest necessities.” {OFC 289.4} [OFC 289.5] It is the righteousness of Christ that makes the penitent sinner acceptable to God and works his justification. However sinful has been his life, if he believes in Jesus as his personal Saviour, he stands before God in the spotless robes of Christ’s imputed righteousness. {OFC 289.5} [OFC 290.1] 290 The sinner so recently dead in trespasses and sins is quickened by faith in Christ. He sees by faith that Jesus is his Saviour, and alive forevermore, able to save unto the uttermost all that come unto God by Him. In the atonement made for him the believer sees such breadth, and length, and height, and depth of efficiency, sees such completeness of salvation, purchased at such an infinite cost, that his soul is filled with praise and thanksgiving. {OFC 290.1} [OFC 290.2] Justified Souls Walk In The Light God presented him ［Christ Jesus］ as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood. . . . He did it to demonstrate his justice at the present time, so as to be just and the one who justifies the man who has faith in Jesus. Romans 3:25, 26, N.I.V. {OFC 290.2} [OFC 290.3] “Being justified freely by his grace,” the apostle Paul says, “through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; to declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.” {OFC 290.3} [OFC 290.4] Here the truth is laid out in plain lines. This mercy and goodness is wholly undeserved. The grace of Christ is freely to justify the sinner without merit or claim on his part. Justification is a full, complete pardon of sin. The moment a sinner accepts Christ by faith, that moment he is pardoned. The righteousness of Christ is imputed to him, and he is no more to doubt God’s forgiving grace. {OFC 290.4} [OFC 290.5] There is nothing in faith that makes it our saviour. Faith cannot remove our guilt. Christ is the power of God unto salvation to all them that believe. The justification comes through the merits of Jesus Christ. He has paid the price for the sinner’s redemption. Yet it is only through faith in His blood that Jesus can justify the believer. {OFC 290.5} [OFC 290.6] The sinner cannot depend upon his own good works as a means of justification. He must come to the point where he will renounce all his sin, and embrace one degree of light after another, as it shines upon his pathway. He simply grasps by faith the free and ample provision made in the blood of Christ. He believes the promises of God which through Christ are made unto him sanctification and righteousness and redemption. {OFC 290.6} [OFC 290.7] And if he follows Jesus, he will walk humbly in the light, rejoicing in the light, and diffusing that light to others. Being justified by faith, he carries cheerfulness with him in his obedience in all his life. Peace with God is the result of what Christ is to him. The souls who are in 291 subordination to God, who honor Him, and are doers of His Word, will receive divine enlightenment. In the precious Word of God, there is purity and loftiness as well as beauty that, unless assisted by God, the highest powers of man cannot attain to. . . . {OFC 290.7} [OFC 291.1] We are none of us excusable, under any form of trial, for letting our hold upon God become loosened. Although the compassion of man may fail, still God loves and pities, and reaches out His helping hand. God’s everlasting arms encircle the soul that turns to Him for aid.... God loves to have His children ask Him, and trust Him to do for them those things which they cannot do for themselves. {OFC 291.1} [OFC 291.2] Sanctified By Faith And Obedience Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples. John 15:8. {OFC 291.2} [OFC 291.3] Many shrink from such a life as our Saviour lived. They feel that it requires too great a sacrifice to imitate the Pattern, to bring forth fruit in good works, and then patiently endure the pruning of God that they may bring forth more fruit. But when the Christian regards himself as only a humble instrument in the hands of Christ, and endeavors to faithfully perform every duty, relying upon the help which God has promised, then he will wear the yoke of Christ and find it easy; then he will bear burdens for Christ, and pronounce them light. He can look up with courage and with confidence, and say, “I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him” (2 Timothy 1:12). {OFC 291.3} [OFC 291.4] If we meet obstacles in our path, and faithfully overcome them; if we encounter opposition and reproach, and in Christ’s name gain the victory; if we bear responsibilities and discharge our duties in the spirit of our Master—then, indeed, we gain a precious knowledge of His faithfulness and power. We no longer depend upon the experience of others, for we have the witness in ourselves. Like the Samaritans of old, we can say, “We have heard him ourselves, and know that this is indeed the Christ, the Saviour of the world” (John 4:42). {OFC 291.4} [OFC 291.5] The more we contemplate the character of Christ, and the more we experience of His saving power, the more keenly shall we realize our own weakness and imperfection, and the more earnestly shall we look to Him as our strength and our Redeemer. . . . By faith in Christ and obedience to the law of God we may be sanctified, and thus obtain a fitness for the society of holy angels and the white-robed redeemed ones in the kingdom of glory. {OFC 291.5} [OFC 292.1] 292 It is not only the privilege but the duty of every Christian to maintain a close union with Christ and to have a rich experience in the things of God. Then his life will be fruitful in good works. . . . {OFC 292.1} [OFC 292.2] When we read the lives of men who have been eminent for their piety we often regard their experiences and attainments as far beyond our reach. But this is not the case. Christ died for all; and we are assured in His Word that He is more willing to give His Holy Spirit to them that ask than are earthly parents to give good gifts to their children. {OFC 292.2} [OFC 292.3] The prophets and apostles did not perfect Christian character by a miracle. They used the means which God had placed within their reach; and all who will put forth the same effort will secure the same results. {OFC 292.3} [OFC 292.4] A Faith That Works Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. Proverbs 3:5. {OFC 292.4} [OFC 292.5] When we speak of faith, there is a distinction that should be borne in mind. There is a kind of belief that is wholly distinct from faith. The existence and power of God, the truth of His Word, are facts that even Satan and his hosts cannot at heart deny. The Bible says that “the devils also believe, and tremble” (James 2:19); but this is not faith. Where there is not only a belief in God’s Word, but a submission of the will to Him; where the heart is yielded to Him, the affections fixed upon Him, there is faith—faith that works by love and purifies the soul. {OFC 292.5} [OFC 292.6] Through this faith the heart is renewed in the image of God. And the heart that in its unrenewed state is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be, now delights in its holy precepts, exclaiming with the psalmist, “O how love I thy law! it is my meditation all the day” (Psalm 119:97). And the righteousness of the law is fulfilled in us, “who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit” (Romans 8:1). {OFC 292.6} [OFC 292.7] There are those who have known the pardoning love of Christ and who really desire to be children of God, yet they realize that their character is imperfect, their life faulty, and they are ready to doubt whether their hearts have been renewed by the Holy Spirit. To such I would say, Do not draw back in despair. We shall often have to bow down and weep at the feet of Jesus because of our shortcomings and mistakes, but we are not to be discouraged. Even if we are overcome by the enemy, we are not cast off, not forsaken and rejected of God. No; Christ is at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. Said the beloved John, “These things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous” (1 John 2:1). {OFC 292.7} [OFC 293.1] 293 And do not forget the words of Christ, “the Father himself loveth you” (John 16:27). He desires to restore you to Himself, to see His own purity and holiness reflected in you. And if you will but yield yourself to Him, He that hath begun a good work in you will carry it forward to the day of Jesus Christ. Pray more fervently; believe more fully. . . . {OFC 293.1} [OFC 293.2] The less we see to esteem in ourselves, the more we shall see to esteem in the infinite purity and loveliness of our Saviour. A view of our sinfulness drives us to Him who can pardon; and when the soul, realizing its helplessness, reaches out after Christ, He will reveal Himself in power. The more our sense of need drives us to Him and to the Word of God, the more exalted views we shall have of His character, and the more fully we shall reflect His image. {OFC 293.2} [OFC 293.3] True Religion Promotes Health ［Wisdom’s］ ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace. Proverbs 3:17. {OFC 293.3} [OFC 293.4] This world is not all sorrow and misery. “God is love” is written upon every opening bud, upon the petals of every flower, and upon every spire of grass. Though the curse of sin has caused the earth to bring forth thorns and thistles, there are flowers upon the thistles and the thorns are hidden by roses. All things in nature testify to the tender, fatherly care of our God and to His desire to make His children happy. His prohibitions and injunctions are not intended merely to display His authority, but in all that He does He has the well-being of His children in view. He does not require them to give up anything that it would be for their best interest to retain. {OFC 293.4} [OFC 293.5] The opinion which prevails in some classes of society, that religion is not conducive to health or to happiness in this life, is one of the most mischievous of errors. The Scripture says: “The fear of the Lord tendeth to life: and he that hath it shall abide satisfied” (Proverbs 19:23). “What man is he that desireth life, and loveth many days, that he may see good? Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking guile. Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it” (Psalm 34:12-14). The words of wisdom “are life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh” (Proverbs 4:22). {OFC 293.5} [OFC 293.6] True religion brings man into harmony with the laws of God, physical, mental, and moral. It teaches self-control, serenity, temperance. Religion ennobles the mind, refines the taste, and sanctifies the judgment. It makes the soul a partaker of the purity of heaven. Faith in God’s love and overruling providence lightens the burdens of anxiety and care. It fills the heart with joy and contentment in the highest or the lowliest lot. Religion 294 tends directly to promote health, to lengthen life, and to heighten our enjoyment of all its blessings. It opens to the soul a never-failing fountain of happiness. Would that all who have not chosen Christ might realize that He has something vastly better to offer them than they are seeking for themselves. . . . {OFC 293.6} [OFC 294.1] There is an intimate relation between the mind and the body, and in order to reach a high standard of moral and intellectual attainment the laws that control our physical being must be heeded. To secure a strong, well-balanced character, both the mental and the physical powers must be exercised and developed. What study can be more important . . . than that which treats of this wonderful organism that God has committed to us, and of the laws by which it may be preserved in health? {OFC 294.1} [OFC 294.2] Enlightened To Full Radiance If we follow on to know the Lord: his going forth is prepared as the morning. Hosea 6:3. {OFC 294.2} [OFC 294.3] We are living amid the perils of the last days, and we are to cleanse ourselves from all defilement, and put on the robe of Christ’s righteousness. The work of God is to be steadily carried forward. We are to bring ourselves, body, soul, and spirit, into subjection to Christ. Unless we do this, the health of both body and soul will be endangered. {OFC 294.3} [OFC 294.4] God desires His workers to gain daily an understanding of how to reason logically from cause to effect, arriving at wise, safe conclusions. He desires them to add to the strength of the memory. We cannot afford to make mistakes. As little children we are to sit at the feet of Christ, learning of Him how to work successfully. We are to ask God for sound judgment, and for light to impart to others. There is need of knowledge that is the fruit of experience. We should not allow a day to pass without gaining an increase of knowledge in temporal and spiritual things. We are to plant no stakes that we are not willing to take up and plant farther on, nearer the heights we hope to ascend. {OFC 294.4} [OFC 294.5] The highest education is to be found in training the mind to advance day to day. The close of each day should find us a day’s march nearer the overcomer’s reward. Day by day our understanding is to ripen. Day by day we are to work out conclusions that will bring a rich reward in this life, and in the life to come. Looking daily to Jesus, instead of to what we ourselves have done, we shall make decided advancement in temporal as well as spiritual knowledge. {OFC 294.5} [OFC 294.6] The end of all things is at hand. What we have done must not be allowed to place the period to our work. The Captain of our salvation says, 295 “Advance. The night cometh, in which no man can work.” Constantly we are to increase in usefulness. Our lives are always to be under the power of Christ. Our lamps are to be kept burning brightly. {OFC 294.6} [OFC 295.1] Prayer is a heaven-ordained means of success. Appeals, petitions, entreaties, between man and man, move men, and act as a part in controlling the affairs of nations. But prayer moves heaven. That power alone that comes in answer to prayer will make men wise in the wisdom of heaven, and enable them to work in the unity of the Spirit, joined together by the bonds of peace. Prayer, faith, confidence in God, bring a divine power that sets human calculations at their real worth—nothingness. . . . {OFC 295.1} [OFC 295.2] He who places himself where God can enlighten him advances, as it were, from the partial obscurity of dawn to the full radiance of noonday. {OFC 295.2} [OFC 295.3] The Temple Of God He died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again. 2 Corinthians 5:15. {OFC 295.3} [OFC 295.4] Man is God’s workmanship, His masterpiece, created for a high and holy purpose; and on every part of the human tabernacle God desires to write His law. Every nerve and muscle, every mental and physical endowment, is to be kept pure. {OFC 295.4} [OFC 295.5] God designs that the body shall be a temple for His Spirit. How solemn then is the responsibility resting on every soul. If we defile our bodies, we are doing harm not only to ourselves, but to many others. . . . {OFC 295.5} [OFC 295.6] Christ died that the moral image of God might be restored in humanity, that men and women might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. We are to use no power of our being for selfish gratification; for all our powers belong to Him, and are to be used to His glory. . . . {OFC 295.6} [OFC 295.7] The human house, God’s building, requires close, watchful guardianship. With David we can exclaim, “I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” God’s workmanship is to be preserved, that the heavenly universe and the apostate race may see that men and women are temples of the living God. {OFC 295.7} [OFC 295.8] The perfection of character which God requires is the fitting up of the whole being as a temple for the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. The Lord requires the service of the entire being. He desires men and women to become all that He has made it possible for them to be. It is not enough for certain parts of the human machinery to be used. All parts must be brought into action, or the service is deficient. . . . {OFC 295.8} [OFC 296.1] 296 The physical life is to be carefully educated, cultivated, and developed, that through men and women the divine nature may be revealed in its fullness. God expects men to use the intellect He has given them. He expects them to use every reasoning power for Him. They are to give the conscience the place of supremacy that has been assigned to it. The mental and physical powers, with the affections, are to be so cultivated that they can reach the highest efficiency. Thus Christ is represented to the world. . . . {OFC 296.1} [OFC 296.2] Is God pleased to see any of the organs or faculties He has given man neglected, misused, or deprived of the health and efficiency it is possible for them to have? Then cultivate the gift of faith. Be brave, and overcome every practice which mars the soul temple. We are wholly dependent on God, and our faith is strengthened be believing, though we cannot see God’s purpose in His dealing with us, or the consequence of this dealing. Faith points forward and upward to things to come, laying hold of the only power that can make us complete in Him. {OFC 296.2} [OFC 296.3] An Argument Infidels Cannot Resist While ye have light, believe in the light, that ye may be the children of light. John 12:36. {OFC 296.3} [OFC 296.4] A well-ordered Christian household is an argument that the infidel cannot resist. He finds no place for his cavils ［trivial faultfinding］. And the children of such a household are prepared to meet the sophistries of infidelity. They have accepted the Bible as the basis of their faith, and they have a firm foundation that cannot be swept away by the incoming tide of skepticism. {OFC 296.4} [OFC 296.5] Said Christ, “Ye are the light of the world.” He has committed talents to our keeping. What are we doing with His entrusted gifts? Are we letting our light shine by using them for His glory and the benefit of our fellow men, or are we using them to advance our own selfish interests? Many are using them selfishly. They do not seem to realize that we are all judgment-bound, and must soon give an account for the use we have made of our God-given opportunities to do good. But what excuse will they give in that great day for not using in the cause of God their skill, their education, their tact, and their perseverance and zeal? {OFC 296.5} [OFC 296.6] We need divine help if we would keep our lights burning. But Jesus died to provide that aid. He extends the invitation: “Let him take hold of my strength, that he may make peace with me; and he shall make peace with me.” Cling to the arm of Infinite Power; then you will find Him 297 precious to your soul, and all heaven will be at your command. “If we walk in the light, as he is in the light,” we shall have the companionship of holy angels. To “Joshua” it was said, “Thus saith the Lord of hosts: If thou wilt walk in my ways, and if thou wilt keep my charge,...I will give thee places to walk among these that stand by.” And who are “these that stand by”? They are the angels of God. Joshua must have a living, confiding trust in God every day; and then angels would walk with him, and the power of God would rest upon him in all his labors. {OFC 296.6} [OFC 297.1] Then, Christian friends, fathers and mothers, let your light grow dim—no, never! Let your heart grow faint, or your hands weary—no, never! And by and by the portals of the celestial city will be opened to you; and you may present yourselves and your children before the throne, saying, “Here am I, and the children whom Thou hast given me.” And what a reward for faithfulness that will be, to see your children crowned with immortal life in the beautiful city of God! {OFC 297.1} [OFC 297.2] Family Worship Not To Be Neglected Trust. . .in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy. 1 Timothy 6:17. {OFC 297.2} [OFC 297.3] We should be much happier and more useful, if our homelife and social intercourse were governed by the principles of the Christian religion, and illustrated the meekness and simplicity of Christ. . . . Let visitors see that we try to make all around us happy by our cheerfulness, sympathy, and love. {OFC 297.3} [OFC 297.4] While we endeavor to secure the comfort and happiness of our guests, let us not overlook our obligation to God. The hour of prayer should not be neglected for any consideration. . . . At an early hour of the evening, when you can pray unhurriedly and understandingly, present your supplication, and raise your voices in happy, grateful praise. Let all who visit Christians see that the hour of prayer is the most sacred, the most precious, and the happiest hour of the day. Such an example will not be without effect. {OFC 297.4} [OFC 297.5] These seasons of devotion exert a refining, elevating influence upon all who participate in them. Right thoughts and new and better desires will be awakened in the hearts of the most careless. The hour of prayer brings a peace and rest grateful to the weary spirit; for the very atmosphere of a Christian home is that of peace and restfulness. {OFC 297.5} [OFC 297.6] In every act the Christian should seek to represent his Master, to make His service appear attractive. . . . {OFC 297.6} [OFC 297.7] Nine tenths of the trials and perplexities that so many worry over are 298 either imaginary, or brought upon themselves by their own wrong course. They should cease to talk of these trials, and ［cease］ to magnify them. The Christian may commit every worriment, every disturbing thing to God. Nothing is too small for our compassionate Saviour to notice; nothing is too great for Him to carry. {OFC 297.7} [OFC 298.1] Then let us set our hearts and homes in order; let us teach our children that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; and let us, by a cheerful, happy, well-ordered life, express our gratitude and love to Him “who giveth us richly all things to enjoy.” But above all things, let us fix our thoughts and the affections of our hearts on the dear Saviour who suffered for guilty man, and thus opened heaven for us. {OFC 298.1} [OFC 298.2] Love to Jesus cannot be hidden, but will make itself seen and felt. It exerts a wondrous power. It makes the timid bold, the slothful diligent, the ignorant wise. It makes the stammering tongue eloquent, and rouses the dormant intellect into new life and vigor. It makes the desponding hopeful, the gloomy joyous. Love to Christ will lead its possessor to accept responsibilities and cares for His sake, and to bear them in His strength. {OFC 298.2} [OFC 298.3] Families To Reflect The Goodness Of God As the father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those that fear him. Psalm 103:13, N.I.V. {OFC 298.3} [OFC 298.4] Bring the sunshine of heaven into your conversation. By speaking words that encourage and cheer, you will reveal that the sunshine of Christ’s righteousness dwells in your soul. Children need pleasant words. It is essential to their happiness to feel approval resting upon them. Strive to overcome harshness of expression, and cultivate soft tones. Catch the beauty contained in the lessons of God’s Word, and cherish this as essential to the happiness and success of your homelife. In a happy environment the children will develop dispositions that are sweet and sunshiny. {OFC 298.4} [OFC 298.5] True beauty of character is not something that shines out only on special occasions; the grace of Christ dwelling in the soul is revealed under all circumstances. He who cherishes this grace as an abiding presence in the life will reveal beauty in character under trying as well as under easy circumstances. In the home, in the world, in the church, we are to live the life of Christ. There are souls all around in need of conversion. When the law of God is written upon the heart, and is witnessed to in a holy character, those who know not the power of the grace of Christ will be led to desire it, and will be converted. {OFC 298.5} [OFC 299.1] 299 A solemn review is now taking place in the courts above. The thought of the decisions now being made in heaven should urge parents to diligence in training their children in the fear and love of God. Not by severe words and punishment for wrongdoing will the most be accomplished, but by watchfulness and prayer, lest they be taken by the snares of the enemy. . . . {OFC 299.1} [OFC 299.2] Every family that has a knowledge of the truth for this time, is to make it known to others. The Lord’s people are to get ready for the doing of a special work. The children as well as the older members of the family are to act their part in seeking to save those who are perishing. From His youth Christ was, to all with whom He associated, an influence that drew them toward higher things. So the youth today may exert a power for good that will draw souls to God. {OFC 299.2} [OFC 299.3] Parents need to appreciate more fully the responsibility and honor that God has placed upon them, in making them, to the child, the representative of Himself. The character revealed in the contact of daily life will interpret to the child, for good or for evil, those words of God: {OFC 299.3} [OFC 299.4] “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him.”“As one whom his mother comforteth, so will I comfort you.” {OFC 299.4} [OFC 299.5] Be One, As Christ And The Father Are One Now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are. John 17:11. {OFC 299.5} [OFC 299.6] Where shall we find the purity, goodness, and holiness where we shall be secure? Where is the fold where no wolves will enter? I tell you . . . the Lord has an organized body through whom He will work. There may be more than a score of Judases among them; there may be a rash Peter who will under circumstances of trial deny his Lord; there may be persons represented by John whom Jesus loved, but he may have a zeal that would destroy men’s lives by calling down fire from heaven upon them to revenge an insult to Christ and to the truth. But the great Teacher seeks to give lessons of instruction to correct these existing evils. He is doing the same today with His church. He is pointing out their dangers. He is presenting before them the Laodicean message. {OFC 299.6} [OFC 299.7] He shows them that all selfishness, all pride, all self-exaltation, all unbelief and prejudice, which lead to resistance of the truth and turn away from the true light, are dangerous, and unless repented of, those who cherish these things will be left in darkness as was the Jewish nation. Let every soul now seek to answer the prayer of Christ. Let every soul echo 300 that prayer in mind, in petitions, in exhortations, that they all may be one even as Christ is one with the Father, and work to this end. In the place of turning the weapons of warfare within our own ranks, let them be turned against the enemies of God and the truth. Echo the prayer of Christ with your whole heart: “Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are. . . . I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil” (John 17:11-15). . . . {OFC 299.7} [OFC 300.1] The door of the heart must be opened to the Holy Spirit, for this is the sanctifier, and the truth is the medium. There must be an acceptance of the truth as it is in Jesus. This is the only genuine sanctification: “Thy word is truth.” Oh, read the prayer of Christ for unity, “Keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one as we are.” The prayer of Christ is not only for those who are now His disciples, but for all those who shall believe on Christ through the words of His disciples, even to the end of the world. . . . {OFC 300.1} [OFC 300.2] The Lord has had a church from that day, through all the changing scenes of time to the present period. . . . The Bible sets before us a model church. They are to be in unity with each other, and with God. When believers are united in Christ the living vine, the result is that they are one with Christ, full of sympathy and tenderness and love. {OFC 300.2} [OFC 300.3] The Route To Greater Spiritual Life In The Church Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. John 3:7. {OFC 300.3} [OFC 300.4] The question is often asked, Why is there not more power in the church? why not more vital godliness? The reason is, the requirements of God’s Word are not complied with in verity and in truth; God is not loved supremely, and our neighbor as ourselves. This covers the entire ground. Upon these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets. Let these two requirements of God be obeyed explicitly, and there would be no discord in the church, no inharmonious notes in the family. With many the work is too superficial. Outward forms take the place of the inner work of grace. . . . The theory of the truth has converted the head, but the soul temple has not been cleansed from its idols. . . . {OFC 300.4} [OFC 300.5] True conviction of sin, real heart sorrow because of wickedness, death to self, the daily overcoming of defects of character, and the new birth—these, represented as old things, Paul says had passed away, and all things had become new. Such a work many know nothing of. They grafted the truth into their natural hearts, and then went on as before, manifesting 301 the same unhappy traits of character. What is now needed is the plain testimony borne in love from lips touched with living fire. {OFC 300.5} [OFC 301.1] Church members do not show that living connection with God that they must have in order to win souls from darkness to light. Make the tree good, and good fruit will be the result. The work of the Spirit of God upon the heart is essential to godliness. It must be received into the hearts of those who accept the truth, and create in them clean hearts, before one of them can keep His commandments and be doers of the Word. “Marvel not,” said the great Teacher unto the astonished Nicodemus, “Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.” {OFC 301.1} [OFC 301.2] The Bible is not studied as much as it should be; it is not made the rule of life. Were its precepts conscientiously followed, and made the basis of character, there would be steadfastness of purpose that no business speculations or worldly pursuits could seriously influence. A character thus formed, and supported by the Word of God, will abide the day of trial, of difficulties, and dangers. The conscience must be enlightened, and the life sanctified by the love of the truth received into the heart, before the influence will be saving upon the world. {OFC 301.2} [OFC 301.3] What is needed is men of action for the time, prompt, determined, firm as a rock to principle, and prepared to meet any emergency. Why we are so weak, why there are so many irresponsible men among us, is because they do not connect with God; they have not an indwelling Saviour, and do not feel the love of Christ ever fresh and new. . . . No earthly relationship is as strong as this love. Nothing can compare with it. {OFC 301.3} [OFC 301.4] Reflecting Light From The Sun Of Righteousness And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him. Acts 5:32. {OFC 301.4} [OFC 301.5] God wants every member of the church to stand faithfully at his post of duty, to realize his responsibility, and create a heavenly atmosphere about his soul by continually gathering the bright rays of the Sun of Righteousness to shed upon the pathway of those about him. . . . {OFC 301.5} [OFC 301.6] We are to be representatives of Christ, as Christ was a representative of the Father. We want to be able to attract souls to Jesus, to point them to the Lamb of Calvary, who taketh away the sin of the world. Christ does not clothe sin with His righteousness, but He removes the sin, and in its place He imputes His own righteousness. When your sin is cleansed, the righteousness of Christ goes before you, and the glory of the Lord is your rearward. Your influence will then be decidedly on the side of Christ; for 302 instead of making self a center, you will make Christ a center, and will feel that you are a guardian of sacred trusts. {OFC 301.6} [OFC 302.1] When you remember that Christ has paid the price of His own blood for your redemption and for the redemption of others, you will be moved to catch the bright rays of His righteousness, that you may shed them upon the pathway of those around you. You are not to look to the future, thinking that at some distant day you are to be made holy; it is now that you are to be sanctified through the truth. . . . Jesus says, “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me. . . unto the uttermost part of the earth” (Acts 1:8). We are to receive the Holy Ghost. . . . The Holy Spirit is the Comforter that Christ promised to His disciples to bring all things to their remembrance whatsoever He had said unto them. {OFC 302.1} [OFC 302.2] Then let us cease to look to ourselves, but look to Him from whom all virtue comes. No one can make himself better, but we are to come to Jesus as we are, earnestly desiring to be cleansed from every spot and stain of sin, and receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. . . . By living faith we must lay hold of His promise, for He has said, “Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.” {OFC 302.2} [OFC 302.3] We are to be witnesses for Christ, reflecting upon others the light which the Lord permits to shine upon us. We are to be as faithful soldiers marching under the bloodstained banner of Prince Emmanuel. . . . The Captain of our salvation knows the plan of the battle, and we shall come off more than conquerors through Him. {OFC 302.3} [OFC 302.4] Praise To God Has Irresistible Power They that feared the Lord spake often one to another: and the Lord hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon his name. Malachi 3:16. {OFC 302.4} [OFC 302.5] To the Christian is granted the joy of gathering rays of eternal light from the throne of glory, and of reflecting these rays not only on his own path, but on the paths of those with whom he associates. By speaking words of hope and encouragement, of grateful praise and kindly cheer, he may strive to make those around him better, to elevate them, to point them to heaven and glory, and to lead them to seek, above all earthly things, the eternal substance, the immortal inheritance, the riches that are imperishable. {OFC 302.5} [OFC 303.1] 303 “Rejoice in the Lord alway,” says the apostle, “and again I say, Rejoice.” Wherever we go, we should carry an atmosphere of Christian hopefulness and cheer; then those who are out of Christ will see attractiveness in the religion we profess; unbelievers will see the consistency of our faith. We need to have more distinct glimpses of heaven, the land where all is brightness and joy. We need to know more of the fullness of the blessed hope. If we are constantly “rejoicing in hope,” we shall be able to speak words of encouragement to those whom we meet. . . . {OFC 303.1} [OFC 303.2] Not alone in daily association with believers and unbelievers are we to glorify God by speaking often one to another in words of gratitude and rejoicing. As Christians, we are exhorted not to forsake the assembling of ourselves together, for our own refreshing, and to impart the consolation we have received. In these meetings, held from week to week, we should dwell upon God’s goodness and manifold mercies, upon His power to save from sin. In features, in temper, in words, in character, we are to witness that the service of God is good. Thus we proclaim that “the law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul.” {OFC 303.2} [OFC 303.3] Our prayer and social meetings should be seasons of special help and encouragement. . . . This can best be done by having a fresh experience daily in the things of God, and by not hesitating to speak of His love in the assemblies of His people. . . . {OFC 303.3} [OFC 303.4] If we thought and talked more of Jesus, and less of ourselves, we should have much more of His presence. If we abide in Him, we shall be so filled with peace, faith, and courage, and shall have so victorious an experience to relate when we come to meeting, that others will be refreshed by our clear, strong testimony for God. These precious acknowledgments to the praise of the glory of His grace, when supported by a Christlike life, have an irresistible power, which works for the salvation of souls. {OFC 303.4} [OFC 303.5] Jesus Was A Friend To Every Human Being Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. Hebrews 10:9. {OFC 303.5} [OFC 303.6] Christ’s dignity as a divine teacher was of an order higher than the dignity of priests and rulers. It was distinct from all worldly pomp; for it was divine. He dispensed with all worldly display, and showed that He regarded the gradations of society, fixed by opulence and rank, as of no value. He had . . . stepped down from His high command to bring to human beings power to become the sons of God; and earthly rank was not of the least value with Him. He could have brought with Him ten thousand angels if they would have helped Him in His work of redeeming the race. {OFC 303.6} [OFC 304.1] 304 Christ passed by the homes of the wealthy, the courts of royalty, the renowned seats of learning, and made His home in obscure and despised Nazareth. His life, from its beginning to its close, was a life of lowliness and humility. Poverty was made sacred by His life of poverty. He would not put on a dignity of attitude that would debar men and women, however lowly, from coming into His presence and listening to His teaching. . . . {OFC 304.1} [OFC 304.2] No teacher ever placed such signal honor upon man as did our Lord Jesus Christ. He was known as the friend of publicans and sinners. He mingled with all classes, and sowed the world with truth. In the marketplace and the synagogue He proclaimed His message. He relieved every species of suffering, both physical and spiritual. Beside all waters He sowed the seeds of truth. His one desire was that all might have spiritual and physical soundness. He was the friend of every human being. Was He not pledged to bring life and light to all who would receive Him? Was He not pledged to give them power to become the sons of God? He gave Himself wholly and entirely to the work of soul-saving. . . . {OFC 304.2} [OFC 304.3] As He “went about doing good,” every day’s experience was an outpouring of His life. In one way only could such a life be sustained. Jesus lived in dependence upon God and communion with Him. To the secret place of the Most High, under the shadow of the Almighty, men now and then repair; they abide for a season, and the result is manifest in noble deeds; then their faith fails, the communion is interrupted, and the lifework marred. But the life of Jesus was a life of constant trust, sustained by continual communion; and His service for heaven and earth was without failure or faltering. As a man He supplicated the throne of God, until His humanity was charged with a heavenly current that connected humanity with divinity. Receiving life from God, He imparted life to men. {OFC 304.3} [OFC 304.4] Encourage A Spirit Of Kindliness To speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all men. Titus 3:2, R.S.V. {OFC 304.4} [OFC 304.5] How many useful and honored workers in God’s cause have received a training amid the humble duties of the most lowly positions in life! Moses was the prospective ruler of Egypt, but God could not take him from the king’s court to do the work appointed him. Only when he had been for forty years a faithful shepherd was he sent to be the deliverer of his people. Gideon was taken from the threshing-floor to be the instrument in the hands of God for delivering the armies of Israel. Elisha was called to leave the plow and do the bidding of God. Amos was a husbandman, a tiller of 305 the soil, when God gave him a message to proclaim. {OFC 304.5} [OFC 305.1] All who become coworkers with Christ will have a great deal of hard, uncongenial labor to perform, and their lessons of instruction should be wisely chosen, and adapted to their peculiarities of character, and the work which they are to pursue. {OFC 305.1} [OFC 305.2] The Lord has presented to me, in many ways and at various times, how carefully we should deal with the young—that it requires the finest discrimination to deal with minds. Everyone who has to do with the education and training of youth needs to live very close to the great Teacher, to catch His spirit and manner of work. Lessons are to be given which will affect their character and lifework. {OFC 305.2} [OFC 305.3] They should be taught that the gospel of Christ tolerates no spirit of caste, that it gives no place to unkind judgment of others, which tends directly to self-exaltation. The religion of Jesus never degrades the receiver, nor makes him coarse and rough; nor does it make him unkind in thought and feeling toward those for whom Christ died. . . . {OFC 305.3} [OFC 305.4] Some are in danger of making the externals all-important, of overestimating the value of mere conventionalities. . . . {OFC 305.4} [OFC 305.5] Anything that would encourage ungenerous criticism, a disposition to notice and expose every defect or error, is wrong. It fosters distrust and suspicion, which are contrary to the character of Christ, and detrimental to the mind thus exercised. Those who are engaged in this work gradually depart from the true spirit of Christianity. {OFC 305.5} [OFC 305.6] The most essential, enduring education is that which will develop the nobler qualities, which will encourage a spirit of universal kindliness, leading the youth to think no evil of anyone, lest they misjudge motives and misinterpret words and actions. The time devoted to this kind of instruction will yield fruit to everlasting life. {OFC 305.6} [OFC 305.7] The Eternal Reward Of Reaching Out When thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind: and thou shalt be blessed; for they cannot recompense thee: for thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of the just. Luke 14:13, 14. {OFC 305.7} [OFC 305.8] It is the reward of Christ’s workers to enter into His joy. That joy, to which Christ Himself looks forward with eager desire, is presented in His request to His Father, “I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am.” {OFC 305.8} [OFC 305.9] The angels were waiting to welcome Jesus, as He ascended after His 306 resurrection. The heavenly host longed to greet again their loved Commander, returned to them from the prison house of death. Eagerly they pressed about Him as He entered the gates of heaven. But He waved them back. His heart was with the lonely, sorrowing band of disciples whom He had left upon Olivet. It is still with His struggling children on earth, who have the battle with the destroyer yet to wage. “Father,” He says, “I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am.” {OFC 305.9} [OFC 306.1] Christ’s redeemed ones are His jewels, His precious and peculiar treasure. “They shall be as the stones of a crown””the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints.” In them “he shall see the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied.” {OFC 306.1} [OFC 306.2] And will not His workers rejoice when they, too, behold the fruit of their labors? . . . {OFC 306.2} [OFC 306.3] Every impulse of the Holy Spirit leading men to goodness and to God is noted in the books of heaven, and in the day of God everyone who has given himself as an instrument for the Holy Spirit’s working will be permitted to behold what his life has wrought. {OFC 306.3} [OFC 306.4] Wonderful will be the revealing as the lines of holy influence, with their precious results, are brought to view. What will be the gratitude of souls that will meet us in the heavenly courts, as they understand the sympathetic, loving interest which has been taken in their salvation! All praise, honor, and glory will be given to God and to the Lamb for our redemption; but it will not detract from the glory of God to express gratitude to the instrumentality He has employed in the salvation of souls ready to perish. {OFC 306.4} [OFC 306.5] The redeemed will meet and recognize those whose attention they have directed to the uplifted Saviour. What blessed converse they have with these souls! “I was a sinner,” it will be said, . . . “and you came to me, and drew my attention to the precious Saviour as my only hope. And I believed in Him.” . . . What rejoicing there will be as these redeemed ones meet and greet those who have had a burden in their behalf! {OFC 306.5} [OFC 306.6] Strict Integrity To Mark The Christian Thou shalt have a perfect and just weight, a perfect and just measure shalt thou have: that thy days may be lengthened in the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee. Deuteronomy 25:15. {OFC 306.6} [OFC 306.7] In all the details of life, Christians are to follow the principles of strict integrity. These are not the principles that govern the world; for there Satan is master, and his principles of deception and oppression bear sway. But 307 Christians serve under a different Master, and their actions must be wrought in God. They must put aside all desire for selfish gain. {OFC 306.7} [OFC 307.1] To some, deviation from perfect fairness in business deals may look like a small thing, but our Saviour does not thus regard it. His words on this point are plain and explicit: “He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much; and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much.” A man who will overreach in a small matter will overreach in a larger matter if the temptation comes to him. {OFC 307.1} [OFC 307.2] Christ’s followers are obliged to be more or less connected with the world in business matters. In His prayer for them the Saviour says, “I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil.” Christians are to buy and sell with the realization that the eye of God is upon them. Never are they to use false balances or deceitful weights. . . . {OFC 307.2} [OFC 307.3] In every action of life the true Christian is just what he desires those around him to think he is. He is guided by truth and uprightness. He does not scheme; therefore he has nothing to gloss over. He may be criticized, he may be tested; but through all, his unbending integrity shines out like pure gold. He is a friend and benefactor to all connected with him; and his fellow men place confidence in him; for he is trustworthy. {OFC 307.3} [OFC 307.4] Does he employ laborers to gather in his harvest? He does not keep back their hard-earned money. Has he means for which he has no immediate use? He relieves the necessities of his less fortunate brother. He does not seek to enlarge his possessions by taking advantage of the untoward circumstances of his neighbor. He accepts only a fair price for that which he sells. If there are defects in the articles sold, he frankly tells the buyer, even though by so doing he may seem to work against his own pecuniary interests. {OFC 307.4} [OFC 307.5] A man may not have a pleasant exterior; but if he has a reputation for straightforward, honest dealing, he is respected. . . . A man who steadfastly adheres to the truth wins the confidence of all. Not only do Christians trust him; worldlings are constrained to acknowledge the worth of his character. {OFC 307.5} [OFC 307.6] We Are To Reflect Christ’s Love Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. John 20:21. {OFC 307.6} [OFC 307.7] We should earnestly seek to know and appreciate the truth, that we may present it to others as it is in Jesus. We need to have a correct estimate 308 of the value of our own souls; then we would not be as reckless in regard to our course of action as at present. We would seek most earnestly to know God’s way; we would work an opposite direction from selfishness, and our constant prayer would be that we might have the mind of Christ, that we might be molded and fashioned after His likeness. It is in looking to Jesus and beholding His loveliness, having our eyes steadfastly fixed upon Him, that we become changed into His image. He will give grace to all that keep His way, and do His will, and walk in truth. . . . {OFC 307.7} [OFC 308.1] I beseech you whose names are registered on the church book as worthy members, to be indeed worthy, through the virtue of Christ. Mercy and truth and the love of God are promised to the humble and contrite soul. . . . {OFC 308.1} [OFC 308.2] All heaven is filled with amazement, that when this love, so broad, so deep, so rich and full, is presented to men who have known the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, they are so indifferent, so cold and unmoved. . . . {OFC 308.2} [OFC 308.3] The infinite treasures of truth have been accumulating from age to age. No representation could adequately impress us with the extent, the richness, of these vast resources. They are awaiting the demand of those who appreciate them. These gems of truth are to be gathered up by God’s remnant people, to be given by them to the world; but self-confidence and obduracy of soul refuse the blessed treasure. “God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” Such love cannot be measured, neither can it be expressed. John calls upon the world to behold “what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God.” It is a love that passeth knowledge. {OFC 308.3} [OFC 308.4] In the fullness of the sacrifice, nothing was withheld. Jesus gave Himself. God designs that His people shall love one another as Christ loved us. They are to educate and train the soul for this love. They are to reflect this love in their own character, to reflect it to the world. Each should look upon this as his work. . . . Christ’s fullness is to be presented to the world by those who have become partakers of His grace. They are to do that for Christ which Christ did for the Father—represent His character. {OFC 308.4} [OFC 308.5] Character Is Power We have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: by whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. Romans 5:1, 2. {OFC 308.5} [OFC 308.6] Christ has given us no assurance that to attain perfection of character 309 is an easy matter. A noble, all-round character is not inherited. It does not come to us by accident. A noble character is earned by individual effort through the merits and grace and Christ. God gives the talents, the powers of the mind; we form the character. It is formed by hard, stern battles with self. Conflict after conflict must be waged against hereditary tendencies. We shall have to criticize ourselves closely, and allow not one unfavorable trait to remain uncorrected. . . . {OFC 308.6} [OFC 309.1] A character formed according to the divine likeness is the only treasure that we can take from this world to the next. Those who are under the instruction of Christ in this world will take every divine attainment with them to the heavenly mansions. . . . {OFC 309.1} [OFC 309.2] The heavenly intelligences will work with the human agent who seeks with determined faith that perfection of character which will reach out to perfection in action. To everyone engaged in this work Christ says, I am at your right hand to help you. {OFC 309.2} [OFC 309.3] As the will of man cooperates with the will of God, it becomes omnipotent. Whatever is to be done at His command may be accomplished in His strength. All His biddings are enablings. {OFC 309.3} [OFC 309.4] Character is power. The silent witness of a true, unselfish, godly life carries an almost irresistible influence. By revealing in our own life the character of Christ we cooperate with Him in the work of saving souls. It is only by revealing in our life His character that we can cooperate with Him. And the wider the sphere of our influence, the more good we may do. When those who profess to serve God follow Christ’s example, practicing the principles of the law in their daily life; when every act bears witness that they love God supremely and their neighbor as themselves, then will the church have power to move the world. . . . {OFC 309.4} [OFC 309.5] We know not what results a day, an hour, or a moment may determine, and never should we begin the day without committing our ways to our heavenly Father. . . . When unconsciously we are in danger of exerting a wrong influence, the angels will be by our side, prompting us to a better course, choosing our words for us, and influencing our actions. Thus our influence may be a silent, unconscious, but mighty power in drawing others to Christ and the heavenly world. {OFC 309.5} [OFC 309.6] Jesus Showed Us How To Live I received mercy for this reason, that in me, . . . Jesus Christ might display his perfect patience for an example to those who were to believe in him for eternal life. 1 Timothy 1:16, R.S.V. {OFC 309.6} [OFC 309.7] He ［Jesus］ was a teacher, such an educator as the world never saw or 310 heard before. He spake as one having authority, and yet He invites the confidence of all. “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30). {OFC 309.7} [OFC 310.1] The only-begotten Son of the infinite God has, by His words, His practical example, left us a plain pattern which we are to copy. By His words He has educated us to obey God, and by His own practice He has showed us how we can obey God. This is the very work He wants every man to do, to obey God intelligently, by precept and example teach others what they must do in order to be obedient children of God. {OFC 310.1} [OFC 310.2] Jesus has helped the whole world to an intelligent knowledge of His divine mission and work. He came to represent the character of the Father to our world, and as we study the life, the words, and works of Jesus Christ, we are helped in every way in the education of obedience to God; and as we copy the example He has given us, we are living epistles known and read of all men. We are the living human agencies to represent in character Jesus Christ to the world. {OFC 310.2} [OFC 310.3] Not only did Christ give explicit rules showing how we may become obedient children, but He showed us in His own life and character just how to do those things which are right and acceptable with God, so there is no excuse why we should not do those things which are pleasing in His sight. . . . {OFC 310.3} [OFC 310.4] The great Teacher came to our world to stand at the head of humanity, to thus elevate and sanctify humanity by His holy obedience to all of God’s requirements, showing it is possible to obey all the commandments of God. He has demonstrated that a lifelong obedience is possible. Thus He gives chosen, representative men to the world, as the Father gave the Son, to exemplify in their life the life of Jesus Christ. {OFC 310.4} [OFC 310.5] In Him was found the perfect ideal. To reveal this ideal as the only true standard for attainment; to show what every human being might become; what, through the indwelling of humanity by divinity, all who received Him would become—for this, Christ came to the world. He came to show how men are to be trained as befits the sons of God; how on earth they are to practice the principles and to live the life of heaven. {OFC 310.5} [OFC 310.6] The Value Of Pain For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. Romans 8:18. {OFC 310.6} [OFC 310.7] In the experience of the apostle John under persecution, there is a 311 lesson of wonderful strength and comfort for the Christian. God does not prevent the plottings of wicked men, but He causes their devices to work for good to those who in trial and conflict maintain their faith and loyalty. Often the gospel laborer carries on his work amid storms of persecution, bitter opposition, and unjust reproach. At such times let him remember that the experience to be gained in the furnace of trial and affliction is worth all the pain it costs. Thus God brings His children near to Him, that He may show them their weakness and His strength. He teaches them to lean on Him. Thus He prepares them to meet emergencies, to fill positions of trust, and to accomplish the great purpose for which their powers were given them. {OFC 310.7} [OFC 311.1] In all ages God’s appointed witnesses have exposed themselves to reproach and persecution for the truth’s sake. Joseph was maligned and persecuted because he preserved his virtue and integrity. David, the chosen messenger of God, was hunted like a beast of prey by his enemies. Daniel was cast into a den of lions because he was true to his allegiance to heaven. Job was deprived of his worldly possessions, and so afflicted in body that he was abhorred by his relatives and friends; yet he maintained his integrity. {OFC 311.1} [OFC 311.2] Jeremiah could not be deterred from speaking the words that God had given him to speak; and his testimony so enraged the king and princes that he was cast into a loathsome pit. Stephen was stoned because he preached Christ and Him crucified. Paul was imprisoned, beaten with rods, stoned, and finally put to death because he was a faithful messenger for God to the Gentiles. And John was banished to the Isle of Patmos “for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ.” {OFC 311.2} [OFC 311.3] These examples of human steadfastness bear witness to the faithfulness of God’s promises—of His abiding presence and sustaining grace. They testify to the power of faith to withstand the powers of the world. . . . {OFC 311.3} [OFC 311.4] They bore witness to the power of One mightier than Satan. . . . Through trial and persecution the glory—the character—of God is revealed in His chosen ones. The believers in Christ, hated and persecuted by the world, are educated and disciplined in the school of Christ. On earth they walk in narrow paths; they are purified in the furnace of affliction. {OFC 311.4} [OFC 311.5] Those Who Return To The Old Paths And the ransomed of the Lord shall return, and come to Zion with songs and everlasting joy upon their heads: they shall obtain joy 312 and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away. Isaiah 35:10. {OFC 311.5} [OFC 312.1] The world is full of men and women who manifest no sense of obligation to God for their entrusted gifts. They do not realize that God has entrusted them with talents, not for self-glorification, but for His own name’s glory. They are eager for distinction. . . . {OFC 312.1} [OFC 312.2] There are men whom God has qualified with more than ordinary ability. They are deep thinkers, energetic, and thorough. But many of them are bent upon the attainment of their own selfish ends, without regard to the honor and glory of God. Some of these have seen the light of truth, but because they honored themselves, and did not make God first and last and best in everything, they have wandered away from Bible truth into skepticism and infidelity. When these are arrested by the chastisements of God, and through affliction are led to inquire for the old paths, the mist of skepticism is swept from their minds. Some of them repent, return to the old love, and set their feet in the way cast up for the ransomed of the Lord to walk in. No longer are they actuated by the love of money or by selfish ambition. The Spirit of God working upon the heart is valued by them more highly than gold or the praise of men. When this amazing change is wrought, the thoughts are directed by the Spirit of God into new channels, the character is transformed, and the aspirations of the soul reach out toward heavenly things. {OFC 312.2} [OFC 312.3] True religion has power today. It enables men to overcome the stubborn influence of pride, selfishness, and unbelief, and in the simplicity of true godliness to reveal a living connection with heaven. The grace which Christ imparts makes it possible for men to rise superior to all the infatuating temptations of Satan. It will lead them to the cross of Jesus as active, devoted, loyal workers for the advancement of the truth of heaven. {OFC 312.3} [OFC 312.4] Fidelity to God has marked the heroes of faith from age to age. As they have been brought conspicuously before the world their light has shone forth. Their obedience to the command of Christ, “Go forward,” has led others to glorify God. {OFC 312.4} [OFC 312.5] There are today moral heroes, men and women who are living noble lives of self-denial. They have no ambition for worldly fame. Their will is subordinate to the will of God. The love of God inspires their ministry. To do good and to save souls is their highest aim. {OFC 312.5} [OFC 312.6] These have gained genuine knowledge, even the knowledge set forth by Christ in the words, “This is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent” (John 17:3). {OFC 312.6} [OFC 313.1] God Has A Tender Care For His People The eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous, and his ears are open unto their cry. Psalm 34:15. {OFC 313.1} [OFC 313.2] You must not sink down discouraged. The fainthearted will be made strong; the desponding will be made to hope. God has a tender care for His people. His ear is open unto their cry. I have no fears for God’s cause. He will take care of His own cause. Our duty is to fill our lot and place, live...humble at the foot of the cross, and live faithful, holy lives before Him. While we do this we shall not be ashamed, but our souls will confide in God with holy boldness. {OFC 313.2} [OFC 313.3] God has released us from burdens; He has set us free. . . . Our enemies may triumph. They may speak lying words, and their slandering tongue frame slander, deceit, guile; yet will we not be moved. We know in whom we believe. We have not run in vain, neither labored in vain. Jesus knows us. . . . A reckoning day is coming and all will be judged according to the deeds that are done in the body. . . . {OFC 313.3} [OFC 313.4] It is true the world is dark. Opposition may wax strong. The trifler and scorner may grow bolder and harder in their iniquity. Yet, for all this, we will not be moved. We have not run as uncertain. No, no. My heart is fixed, trusting in God. We have a whole Saviour. We can rejoice in His rich fullness. I long to be more devoted to God, more consecrated to Him. This world is too dark for me. Jesus said He would go away and prepare mansions for us, that where He is we may be also. Praise God for this. My heart leaps with joy at the cheering prospect. {OFC 313.4} [OFC 313.5] Religion is made to dwell too much in an iron case. Pure religion and undefiled leads us to a childlike simplicity. We want to pray and talk with humility, having a single eye to the glory of god. There has been too much of a form of godliness without the power. The outpouring of the Spirit of God will lead to a grateful acknowledgment of the same; and while we feel and realize the wondrous love of God, we shall not hold our peace, we shall sacrifice to God with the voice of thanksgiving and make melody to Him with our hearts and voices. Let us plant our feet upon the Rock of Ages and then we will have abiding support and consolation. Our soul will repose in God with unshaken confidence. {OFC 313.5} [OFC 313.6] Why do we so seldom visit the fountain when it is full and free? Our souls often need to drink at the fountain in order to be refreshed and flourish in the Lord. Salvation we must have. Without vital godliness our religion is vain. A form will be of no advantage to us. We must have the deep workings of the Spirit of God. {OFC 313.6} [OFC 314.1] Christians To Reflect The Light Of Heaven A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Matthew 5:14, 15. {OFC 314.1} [OFC 314.2] “Ye are the light of the world,” said Christ to His disciples. As the sun goes forth in the heavens, dispelling the shades of night, and filling the world with brightness, so must the followers of Jesus let their light shine to dispel the moral darkness of a world lying in sin. But they have no light of themselves; it is the light of Heaven which they are to reflect to the world. {OFC 314.2} [OFC 314.3] “A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid.” Our thoughts and purposes are the secret springs of action, and hence determine the character. The purpose formed in the heart need not be expressed in word or deed in order to make it sin, and bring the soul into condemnation. Every thought, feeling, and inclination, though unseen by men, is discerned by the eye of God. But it is only when the evil that has taken root in the heart reaches its fruition in the unlawful word or deed that man can judge the character of his fellowman. {OFC 314.3} [OFC 314.4] The Christian is Christ’s representative. He is to show to the world the transforming power of divine grace. He is a living epistle of the truth of God, known and read of all men. The rule given by Christ by which to determine who are His true followers is, “By their fruits ye shall know them.” . . . {OFC 314.4} [OFC 314.5] The Christian’s godly life and holy conversation are a daily testimony against sin and sinners. But he must present Christ, not self. Christ is the great remedy for sin. Our compassionate Redeemer has provided for us the help we need. He is waiting to impute His righteousness to the sincere penitent, and to kindle in his heart such divine love as only our gracious Redeemer can inspire. Then let us who profess to be His witnesses on earth, His ambassadors from the court of heaven, glorify Him whom we represent, by being faithful to our trust as light bearers to the world. {OFC 314.5} [OFC 314.6] Everyone who at last secures eternal life will here manifest zeal and devotion in the service of God. He will not desert the post of duty at the approach of trial, hardship, or reproach. He will be a diligent student of the Scriptures, and will follow the light as it shines upon his pathway. When some plain, scriptural requirement is presented he will not stop to inquire, What will my friends say, if I take my position with the people of God? Knowing his duty, he will do it heartily and fearlessly. {OFC 314.6} [OFC 314.7] Of such truehearted followers Jesus declares that He is not ashamed to call them brethren. The God of truth will be on their side, and will never 315 forsake them. All apparent losses for Christ’s sake will count to them as infinite gain. {OFC 314.7} [OFC 315.1] Chapter 12—Maranatha The Keynote Of Scripture I know that my Redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth. Job 19:25. {OFC 315.1} [OFC 315.2] One of the most solemn and yet most glorious truths revealed in the Bible is that of Christ’s second coming, to complete the great work of redemption. To God’s pilgrim people, so long left to sojourn in “the region and shadow of death,” a precious, joy-inspiring hope is given in the promise of His appearing, who is “the resurrection and the life,” to “bring home again His banished.” The doctrine of the second advent is the very key-note of the Sacred Scriptures. From the day when the first pair turned their sorrowing steps from Eden, the children of faith have waited the coming of the Promised One to break the destroyer’s power and bring them again to the lost Paradise. ... Enoch, only the seventh in descent from them that dwelt in Eden, he who for three centuries on earth walked with his God, was permitted to behold from afar the coming of the Deliverer. “Behold,” he declared, “the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints, to execute judgment upon all.” The patriarch Job in the night of his affliction exclaimed with unshaken trust: “I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth:...in my flesh shall I see God: whom I shall see for myself, and mine eyes shall behold, and not another.” {OFC 315.2} [OFC 315.3] May the God of all grace so enlighten your understanding that you may discern eternal things, that by the light of truth your own errors, which are many, may be discovered to you just as they are, that you may make the necessary effort to put them away, and in the place of this evil, bitter fruit may bring forth fruit which is precious unto eternal life. {OFC 315.3} [OFC 315.4] Humble your poor, proud, self-righteous heart before God; get low, very low, all broken in your sinfulness at His feet. Devote yourself to the work of preparation. Rest not until you can truly say: My Redeemer liveth, and, because He lives, I shall live also. {OFC 315.4} [OFC 315.5] If you lose heaven, you lose everything; if you gain heaven, you gain everything. Do not make a mistake in this matter, I implore you. Eternal interests are here involved. {OFC 315.5} [OFC 316.1] He Shall Reign Forever The seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever. Revelation 11:15. {OFC 316.1} [OFC 316.2] The coming of Christ to usher in the reign of righteousness has inspired the most sublime . . . utterances of the sacred writers. . . . The psalmist sang of the power and majesty of Israel’s King:...”Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad . . . before the Lord: for he cometh, for he cometh to judge the earth: he shall judge the world with righteousness, and the people with his truth.” Psalm 96:11-13. {OFC 316.2} [OFC 316.3] Said the prophet Isaiah:…”He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord God will wipe away tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of his people shall he take away from off all the earth; for the Lord hath spoken it....” Isaiah 25:8.... {OFC 316.3} [OFC 316.4] When the Saviour was about to be separated from His disciples, He comforted them in their sorrow with the assurance that He would come again: “Let not your heart be troubled....In my Father’s house are many mansions....I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself.” John 14:1-3.... {OFC 316.4} [OFC 316.5] The angels who lingered upon Olivet after Christ’s ascension repeated to the disciples the promise of His return: “This same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.” Acts 1:11. And the apostle Paul, speaking by the Spirit of Inspiration, testified: “The Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God.” 1 Thessalonians 4:16. Says the prophet of Patmos: “Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him.” Revelation 1:7. {OFC 316.5} [OFC 316.6] About His coming cluster the glories of that “restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began.” Acts 3:21. Then the long-continued rule of evil shall be broken; “the kingdoms of this world” will become “the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever.” Revelation 11:15. {OFC 316.6} [OFC 317.1] Uplift Jesus As The Center I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star. Revelation 22:16. {OFC 317.1} [OFC 317.2] The perils of the last days are upon us, and in our work we are to warn the people of the danger they are in. Let not the solemn scenes which prophecy has revealed be left untouched. If our people were half awake, if they realized the nearness of the events portrayed in the Revelation, a reformation would be wrought in our churches, and many more would believe the message. We have no time to lose. . . . Advance new principles, and crowd in the clear-cut truth. It will be as a sword cutting both ways. But be not too ready to take a controversial attitude. There will be times when we must stand still and see the salvation of God. Let Daniel speak, let the Revelation speak, and tell what is truth. But whatever phase of the subject is presented, uplift Jesus as the center of all hope, “the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star.” {OFC 317.2} [OFC 317.3] We do not go deep enough in our search for truth. Every soul who believes present truth will be brought where he will be required to give a reason of the hope that is in him. The people of God will be called upon to stand before kings, princes, rulers, and great men of the earth, and they must know that they do know what is truth. They must be converted men and women. God can teach you more in one moment by His Holy Spirit than you could learn from the great men of the earth. The universe is looking upon the controversy that is going on upon the earth. At an infinite cost, God has provided for every man an opportunity to know that which will make him wise unto salvation. How eagerly do angels look to see who will avail himself of this opportunity! When a message is presented to God’s people, they should not rise up in opposition to it; they should go to the Bible, comparing it with the law and the testimony, and if it does not bear this test, it is not true. God wants our minds to expand. He desires to put His grace upon us. We may have a feast of good things every day, for God can open the whole treasure of heaven to us. {OFC 317.3} [OFC 317.4] God’s Judgments In The Land Men’s hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth. Luke 21:26. {OFC 317.4} [OFC 317.5] O that God’s people had a sense of the impending destruction of 318 thousands of cities, now almost given to idolatry! . . . {OFC 317.5} [OFC 318.1] Not long ago a very impressive scene passed before me. I saw an immense ball of fire falling among some beautiful mansions, causing their instant destruction. I heard someone say, “We knew that the judgments of God were coming upon the earth, but we did not know that they would come so soon.” Others said, “You knew? Why then did you not tell us? We did not know.” On every side I heard such words spoken. . . . {OFC 318.1} [OFC 318.2] Soon grievous troubles will arise among the nations—trouble that will not cease until Jesus comes. As never before we need to press together, serving Him who has prepared His throne in the heavens and whose kingdom ruleth over all. God has not forsaken His people, and our strength lies in not forsaking Him. {OFC 318.2} [OFC 318.3] The judgments of God are in the land. The wars and rumors of wars, the destruction by fire and flood, say clearly that the time of trouble, which is to increase until the end, is very near at hand. We have no time to lose. The world is stirred with the spirit of war. The prophecies of the eleventh of Daniel have almost reached their final fulfillment. . . . {OFC 318.3} [OFC 318.4] Last Friday morning, just before I awoke, a very impressive scene was presented before me. I seemed to awake from sleep but was not in my home. From the windows I could behold a terrible conflagration. Great balls of fire were falling upon houses, and from these balls fiery arrows were flying in every direction. It was impossible to check the fires that were kindled, and many places were being destroyed. The terror of the people was indescribable. {OFC 318.4} [OFC 318.5] Strictly will the cities of the nations be dealt with, and yet they will not be visited in the extreme of God’s indignation, because some souls will yet break away from the delusions of the enemy, and will repent and be converted, while the mass will be treasuring up wrath against the day of wrath. {OFC 318.5} [OFC 318.6] A High Standard And ye shall be holy unto me: for I the Lord am holy, and have severed you from other people, that ye should be mine. Leviticus 20:26. {OFC 318.6} [OFC 318.7] I also saw many do not realize what they must be in order to live in the sight of the Lord without a high priest in the sanctuary through the time of trouble. Those who receive the seal of the living God and are protected in the time of trouble must reflect the image of Jesus fully. {OFC 318.7} [OFC 318.8] I saw that many were neglecting the preparation so needful and were looking to the time of “refreshing” and the “latter rain” to fit them to stand in the day of the Lord and to live in His sight. Oh, how many I saw 319 in the time of trouble without a shelter! They had neglected the needful preparation; therefore they could not receive the refreshing that all must have to fit them to live in the sight of a holy God. Those who . . . fail to purify their souls in obeying the whole truth . . . will come up to the time of the falling of the plagues, and then see that they needed to be hewed and squared for the building. But there will be . . . no Mediator to plead their cause before the Father. Before this time the awfully solemn declaration has gone forth, “He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still.” {OFC 318.8} [OFC 319.1] I saw that none could share the “refreshing” unless they obtain the victory over every besetment, over pride, selfishness, love of the world, and over every wrong word and action. We should, therefore, be drawing nearer and nearer to the Lord and be earnestly seeking that preparation necessary to enable us to stand in the battle in the day of the Lord. Let all remember that God is holy and that none but holy beings can ever dwell in His presence. {OFC 319.1} [OFC 319.2] We are today to watch that we offend not in word or deed. . . . We must today seek God and be determined that we will not rest satisfied without His presence. We should watch and work and pray as though this were the last day that would be granted us. How intensely earnest, then, would be our life. How closely would we follow Jesus in all our words and deeds. {OFC 319.2} [OFC 319.3] Spiritual Giant Or Dwarf? Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. 2 Corinthians 7:1. {OFC 319.3} [OFC 319.4] The Lord reproves and corrects the people who profess to keep His law. He points out their sins and lays open their iniquity because He wishes to separate all sin and wickedness from them, that they may perfect holiness in His fear and be prepared to die in the Lord or to be translated to heaven. . . . {OFC 319.4} [OFC 319.5] God will accept nothing but purity and holiness; one spot, one wrinkle, one defect in the character, will forever debar them from heaven, with all its glories and treasures. {OFC 319.5} [OFC 319.6] Most professed Christians have no sense of the spiritual strength they might obtain were they as ambitious, zealous, and persevering to gain a knowledge of divine things as they are to obtain the paltry, perishable things of this life. The masses professing to be Christians have been 320 satisfied to be spiritual dwarfs. They have no disposition to make it their object to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness; hence godliness is a hidden mystery to them, they cannot understand it. They know not Christ by experimental knowledge. {OFC 319.6} [OFC 320.1] Ample provisions have been made for all who sincerely, earnestly, and thoughtfully set about the work of perfecting holiness in the fear of God. Strength, grace, and glory have been provided through Christ, to be brought by ministering angels to the heirs of salvation. None are so low, so corrupt and vile, that they cannot find in Jesus, who died for them, strength, purity, and righteousness, if they will put away their sins, cease their course of iniquity, and turn with full purpose of heart to the living God. He is waiting to strip them of their garments, stained and polluted by sin, and to put upon them the white, bright robes of righteousness; and He bids them live and not die. In Him they may flourish. Their branches will not wither nor be fruitless. If they abide in Him, they can draw sap and nourishment from Him, be imbued with His Spirit, walk even as He walked, overcome as He overcame, and be exalted to His own right hand. {OFC 320.1} [OFC 320.2] A Crisis Ahead Alas for the day! for the day of the Lord is at hand, and as a destruction from the Almighty shall it come. Joel 1:15. {OFC 320.2} [OFC 320.3] The prophecies which the great I AM has given in His word, uniting link after link in the chain of events, from eternity in the past to eternity in the future, tell us where we are today in the procession of the ages, and what may be expected in the time to come. All that prophecy has foretold as coming to pass, until the present time, has been traced on the pages of history, and we may be assured that all which is yet to come will be fulfilled in its order. {OFC 320.3} [OFC 320.4] Today the signs of the times declare that we are standing on the threshold of great and solemn events. Everything in our world is in agitation. Before our eyes is fulfilling the Saviour’s prophecy of the events to precede His coming: “Ye shall hear of wars and rumors of wars. . . . Nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.” {OFC 320.4} [OFC 320.5] The present is a time of overwhelming interest to all living. Rulers and statesmen, men who occupy positions of trust and authority, thinking men and women of all classes, have their attention fixed upon the events taking place about us. They are watching the relations that exist among the nations. They observe the intensity that is taking possession of every earthly element, and they recognize that something great and decisive is 321 about to take place—that the world is on the verge of a stupendous crisis. {OFC 320.5} [OFC 321.1] The Bible, and the Bible only, gives a correct view of these things. Here are revealed the great final scenes in the history of our world, . . . the sound of their approach causing the earth to tremble and men’s hearts to fail them for fear. {OFC 321.1} [OFC 321.2] Today men and nations are being tested by the plummet in the hand of Him who makes no mistake. All are by their own choice deciding their destiny, and God is overruling all for the accomplishment of His purposes. {OFC 321.2} [OFC 321.3] Christians should be preparing for what is soon to break upon the world as an overwhelming surprise, and this preparation they should make by diligently studying the word of God and striving to conform their lives to its precepts. {OFC 321.3} [OFC 321.4] Teaching From House To House I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publickly, and from house to house. Acts 20:20. {OFC 321.4} [OFC 321.5] Among the members of our churches there should be more house-to-house labor in giving Bible readings and distributing literature. . . . As we sow beside all waters we shall realize that “he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.” {OFC 321.5} [OFC 321.6] Christ’s example must be followed by those who claim to be His children. Relieve the physical necessities of your fellow men, and their gratitude will break down the barriers and enable you to reach their hearts. . . . Women as well as men can engage in the work. . . . They can do in families a work that men cannot do, a work that reaches the inner life. They can come close to the hearts of those whom men cannot reach. Their work is needed. Discreet and humble women can do a good work in explaining the truth to the people in their homes. The word of God thus explained will do its leavening work, and . . whole families will be converted. . . . {OFC 321.6} [OFC 321.7] In the home circle, at your neighbor’s fireside, at the bedside of the sick, in a quiet way you may read the Scriptures and speak a word for Jesus and the truth. Precious seed may thus be sown that will spring up and bring forth fruit. . . . {OFC 321.7} [OFC 321.8] There is missionary work to be done in many unpromising places. The missionary spirit needs to take hold of our souls, inspiring us to reach classes for whom we had not planned to labor and in ways and places that we had no idea of working. The Lord has His plan for the sowing of the gospel seed. In sowing according to His will, we shall so multiply the seed 322 that His word may reach thousands who have never heard the truth. {OFC 321.8} [OFC 322.1] Thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand angels are waiting to co-operate with members of our churches in communicating the light that God has generously given, that a people may be prepared for the coming of Christ. {OFC 322.1} [OFC 322.2] Our sisters, the youth, the middle-aged, and those of advanced years, may act a part in the closing work for this time; and in doing this as they have opportunity, they will obtain an experience of the highest value to themselves. In forgetfulness of self, they will grow in grace. {OFC 322.2} [OFC 322.3] A Character The World Will Recognize That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world. Philippians 2:15. {OFC 322.3} [OFC 322.4] It is God’s purpose to manifest through His people the principles of His kingdom. That in life and character they may reveal these principles, He desires to separate them from the customs, habits, and practices of the world. . . . By beholding the goodness, the mercy, the justice, and the love of God revealed in His church, the world is to have a representation of His character. And when the law of God is thus exemplified in the life, even the world will recognize the superiority of those who love and fear and serve God above every other people in the world. {OFC 322.4} [OFC 322.5] Seventh-day Adventists, above all people, should be patterns of piety, holy in heart and in conversation. To them have been entrusted the most solemn truths ever committed to mortals. Every endowment of grace and power and efficiency has been liberally provided. They look for the near return of Christ in the clouds of heaven. For them to give to the world the impression that their faith is not a dominating power in their lives is greatly to dishonor God. {OFC 322.5} [OFC 322.6] Because of the increasing power of Satan’s temptations, the times in which we live are full of peril for the children of God, and we need to learn constantly of the Great Teacher, that we may take every step in surety and righteousness. Wonderful scenes are opening before us; and at this time a living testimony is to be borne in the lives of God’s professed people, so that the world may see that in this age, when evil reigns on every side, there is yet a people who are laying aside their will and are seeking to do God’s will—a people in whose hearts and lives God’s law is written. . . . {OFC 322.6} [OFC 322.7] Their thoughts are to be pure, their words noble and uplifting. The religion of Christ is to be interwoven with all that they do and say. They 323 are to be a sanctified, purified, holy people, communicating light to all with whom they come in contact. It is His purpose that by exemplifying the truth in their lives, they shall be a praise in the earth. The grace of Christ is sufficient to bring this about. {OFC 322.7} [OFC 323.1] Prove All Things Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Matthew 7:15. {OFC 323.1} [OFC 323.2] In the work in which my husband and I were called by the providence of God to act a part, even from its very beginning in 1843 and 1844, we have had the Lord to devise and plan for us, and He has worked out His plans through His living agents. False paths have been so often pointed out to us, and the true and safe paths so clearly defined in all the enterprises connected with the work given us to do, that I can say of a truth I am not ignorant of Satan’s devices, nor of the ways and works of God. We have had to tax every power of mind, relying upon wisdom from God to guide us in our investigations, as we have had to review the different theories brought to our attention, weighing their merits and defects in the light shining from the Word of God and the things God has revealed to me through His Word and the testimonies, in order that we might not be deceived nor deceive others. We surrendered our will and way to God, and most earnestly supplicated His aid; and we never sought in vain. Many years of painful experience in connection with the work of God have made me acquainted with all kinds of false movements. Many times I have been sent to different places with the message, “I have a work for you to do in that place; I will be with you.” When the occasion came, the Lord gave me a message for those who were having false dreams and visions, and in the strength of Christ I bore my testimony at the Lord’s bidding. . . . {OFC 323.2} [OFC 323.3] During the past forty-five years, I have had to meet persons claiming to have from God messages of reproof to others. This phase of religious fanaticism has sprung up again and again since 1844. Satan has worked in many ways to establish error. Some things spoken in these visions came to pass; but many things—in regard to the time of Christ’s coming, the end of probation, and the events to take place—proved utterly false. . . . {OFC 323.3} [OFC 323.4] “Take heed therefore how ye hear” (Luke 8:18), is an admonition of Christ. . . . Examine closely, “prove all things” (1 Thessalonians 5:21). . . . This is the counsel of God; shall we heed it? {OFC 323.4} [OFC 324.1] Moving Into Line The humble shall see this, and be glad: and your heart shall live that seek God. Psalm 69:32. {OFC 324.1} [OFC 324.2] It is your privilege to be glad in the Lord, and to rejoice in the knowledge of His sustaining grace. Let His love take possession of mind and heart. Guard against becoming overwearied, careworn, depressed. Bear an uplifting testimony. Turn your eyes away from that which is dark and discouraging, and behold Jesus, our great Leader, under whose watchful supervision the cause of present truth, to which we are giving our lives and our all, is destined to triumph gloriously. . . . {OFC 324.2} [OFC 324.3] Oh, let it be seen . . . that Jesus is abiding in the heart, sustaining, strengthening, comforting. It is your privilege to be endowed, from day to day, with a rich measure of His Holy Spirit, and to have broadened views of the importance and scope of the message we are proclaiming to the world. The Lord is willing to reveal to you wondrous things out of His law. Wait before Him with humility of heart. Pray most earnestly for an understanding of the times in which we live, for a fuller conception of His purpose, and for increased efficiency in soulsaving. . . . {OFC 324.3} [OFC 324.4] It will be well for us to consider what is soon to come upon the earth. This is no time for trifling or self-seeking. If the times in which we are living fail to impress our minds seriously, what can reach us? . . . {OFC 324.4} [OFC 324.5] Men of clear understanding are needed now. God calls upon those who are willing to be controlled by the Holy Spirit to lead out in a work of thorough reformation. I see a crisis before us, and the Lord calls for His laborers to come into line. Every soul should now stand in a position of deeper, truer consecration to God than during the years that have passed. . . . {OFC 324.5} [OFC 324.6] I have been deeply impressed by scenes that have recently passed before me in the night season. There seemed to be a great movement—a work of revival—going forward in many places. Our people were moving into line, responding to God’s call. . . . Shall we not heed His voice? Shall we not trim our lamps, and act like men who look for their Lord to come? The time is one that calls for light bearing, for action. {OFC 324.6} [OFC 325.1] Preparation For What Lies Ahead Seek ye the Lord, all ye meek of the earth, which have wrought his judgment; seek righteousness, seek meekness: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the Lord’s anger. Zephaniah 2:3. {OFC 325.1} [OFC 325.2] Transgression has almost reached its limit. Confusion fills the world, and a great terror is soon to come upon human beings. The end is very near. God’s people should be preparing for what is to break upon the world as an overwhelming surprise. {OFC 325.2} [OFC 325.3] The “time of trouble, such as never was,” is soon to open upon us; and we shall need an experience which we do not now possess and which many are too indolent to obtain. It is often the case that trouble is greater in anticipation than in reality; but this is not true of the crisis before us. The most vivid presentation cannot reach the magnitude of the ordeal. In that time of trial, every soul must stand for himself before God. “Though Noah, Daniel, and Job” were in the land, “as I live, saith the Lord God, they shall deliver neither son nor daughter; they shall but deliver their own souls by their righteousness.” Ezekiel 14:20. {OFC 325.3} [OFC 325.4] The last great conflict between truth and error is but the final struggle of the long-standing controversy concerning the law of God. Upon this battle we are now entering—a battle between the laws of men and the precepts of Jehovah, between the religion of the Bible and the religion of fable and tradition. {OFC 325.4} [OFC 325.5] We should study the great waymarks that point out the times in which we are living. . We should now pray most earnestly that we may be prepared for the struggles of the great day of God’s preparation. {OFC 325.5} [OFC 325.6] Those who place themselves under God’s control, to be led and guided by Him, will catch the steady tread of the events ordained by Him to take place. Inspired with the Spirit of Him who gave His life for the life of the world, they will no longer stand still in impotency, pointing to what they cannot do. Putting on the armor of heaven, they will go forth to the warfare, willing to do and dare for God, knowing that His omnipotence will supply their need. {OFC 325.6} [OFC 326.1] Relief Of Physical Suffering And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give. Matthew 10:7, 8. {OFC 326.1} [OFC 326.2] Perilous times are before us. The whole world will be involved in perplexity and distress, disease of every kind will be upon the human family, and such ignorance as now prevails concerning the laws of health would result in great suffering and the loss of many lives that might be saved. . . . {OFC 326.2} [OFC 326.3] As religious aggression subverts the liberties of our nation, those who would stand for freedom of conscience will be placed in unfavorable positions. For their own sake, they should, while they have opportunity, become intelligent in regard to disease, its causes, prevention, and cure. And those who do this will find a field of labor anywhere. There will be suffering ones, plenty of them, who will need help, not only among those of our own faith, but largely among those who know not the truth. {OFC 326.3} [OFC 326.4] The medical work done in connection with the giving of the third angel’s message, is to accomplish wonderful results. It is to be a sanctifying, unifying work, corresponding to the work which the great Head of the church sent forth the first disciples to do. {OFC 326.4} [OFC 326.5] Calling these disciples together, Christ gave them their commission: . . . “And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give.”“Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.” Matthew 10:7, 8, 16. {OFC 326.5} [OFC 326.6] It is well for us to read this chapter and let its instruction prepare us for our labors. The early disciples were going forth on Christ’s errands, under His commission. His spirit was to prepare the way before them. They were to feel that with such a message to give, such blessings to impart, they should receive a welcome in the homes of the people. {OFC 326.6} [OFC 326.7] God reaches hearts through the relief of physical suffering. A seed of truth is dropped into the mind, and is watered by God. Much patience may be required before this seed shows signs of life, but at last it springs up, and bears fruit unto eternal life. {OFC 326.7} [OFC 326.8] How slow men are to understand God’s preparation for the day of His power! {OFC 326.8} [OFC 327.1] The Corruption Of Truth Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ, or there; believe it not. Matthew 24:23. {OFC 327.1} [OFC 327.2] Before the last developments of the work of apostasy there will be a confusion of faith. There will not be clear and definite ideas concerning the mystery of God. One truth after another will be corrupted. {OFC 327.2} [OFC 327.3] After the truth has been proclaimed as a witness to all nations, every conceivable power of evil will be set in operation, and minds will be confused by many voices crying. “Lo, here is Christ; lo, He is there. This is the truth, I have the message from God, He has sent me with great light.” Then there will be a removing of the landmarks, and an attempt to tear down the pillars of our faith. A more decided effort will be made to exalt the false sabbath, and to cast contempt upon God Himself by supplanting the day He has blessed and sanctified. This false sabbath is to be enforced by an oppressive law. {OFC 327.3} [OFC 327.4] In the future, deception of every kind is to arise, and we want solid ground for our feet. We want solid pillars for the building. Not one pin is to be removed from that which the Lord has established. The enemy will bring in false theories, such as the doctrine that there is no sanctuary. This is one of the points on which there will be a departing from the faith. {OFC 327.4} [OFC 327.5] There will be false dreams and false visions, which have some truth, but lead away from the original faith. The Lord has given men a rule by which to detect them: “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them” (Isaiah 8:20). {OFC 327.5} [OFC 327.6] As we near the end of time, falsehood will be so mingled with truth, that only those who have the guidance of the Holy Spirit will be able to distinguish truth from error. We need to make every effort to keep the way of the Lord. We must in no case turn from His guidance to put our trust in man. The Lord’s angels are appointed to keep strict watch over those who put their faith in the Lord, and these angels are to be our special help in every time of need. Every day we are to come to the Lord with full assurance of faith, and to look to Him for wisdom. . . . Those who are guided by the Word of the Lord will discern with certainty between falsehood and truth, between sin and righteousness. {OFC 327.6} [OFC 328.1] The Shaking Time And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. Matthew 24:12. {OFC 328.1} [OFC 328.2] Just as soon as the people of God are sealed in their foreheads—it is not any seal or mark that can be seen, but a settling into the truth, both intellectually and spiritually, so they cannot be moved—just as soon as God’s people are sealed and prepared for the shaking, it will come. Indeed, it has begun already; the judgments of God are now upon the land, to give us warning, that we may know what is coming. {OFC 328.2} [OFC 328.3] The days are fast approaching when there will be great perplexity and confusion. Satan, clothed in angel robes, will deceive, if possible, the very elect. There will be gods many and lords many. Every wind of doctrine will be blowing. . . . {OFC 328.3} [OFC 328.4] The mark of the beast will be urged upon us. Those who have step by step yielded to worldly demands and conformed to worldly customs will not find it a hard matter to yield to the powers that be, rather than subject themselves to derision, insult, threatened imprisonment, and death. The contest is between the commandments of God and the commandments of men. In this time the gold will be separated from the dross in the church. True godliness will be clearly distinguished from the appearance and tinsel of it. Many a star that we have admired for its brilliancy will then go out in darkness. Chaff like a cloud will be borne away on the wind, even from places where we see only floors of rich wheat. All who assume the ornaments of the sanctuary, but are not clothed with Christ’s righteousness, will appear in the shame of their own nakedness. {OFC 328.4} [OFC 328.5] But there are men who will receive the truth, and these will take the places made vacant by those who become offended and leave the truth.... {OFC 328.5} [OFC 328.6] Men of true Christian principle will take their place, and will become faithful, trustworthy householders, to advocate the word of God in its true bearings, and in its simplicity. The Lord will work so that the disaffected ones will be separated from the true and loyal ones....The ranks will not be diminished. Those who are firm and true will close up the vacancies that are made by those who become offended and apostatize. {OFC 328.6} [OFC 329.1] The Sealing And The Latter Rain Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity. 2 Timothy 2:19. {OFC 329.1} [OFC 329.2] Before the work is closed up and the sealing of God’s people is finished, we shall receive the outpouring of the Spirit of God. Angels from heaven will be in our midst. {OFC 329.2} [OFC 329.3] Our heavenly Father claims not at our hands that which we cannot perform. He desires His people to labor earnestly to carry out His purpose for them. They are to pray for power, expect power, and receive power, that they may grow up into the full stature of men and women in Christ Jesus. {OFC 329.3} [OFC 329.4] Not all members of the church are cultivating personal piety; therefore they do not understand their personal responsibility. They do not realize that it is their privilege and duty to reach the high standard of Christian perfection. . . . Are we looking forward to the latter rain, confidently hoping for a better day, when the church shall be endued with power from on high and thus fitted for work? The latter rain will never refresh and invigorate the indolent, who do not use the powers God has given them. {OFC 329.4} [OFC 329.5] We are in great need of the pure, life-giving atmosphere that nurtures and invigorates the spiritual life. We need greater earnestness. The solemn message given us to give to the world is to be proclaimed with greater fervency, even with an intensity that will impress unbelievers, leading them to see that the Most High is working with us, that He is the source of our efficiency and strength. . . . {OFC 329.5} [OFC 329.6] Are you using all your powers in an effort to bring the lost sheep back to the fold? There are thousands upon thousands in ignorance who might be warned. Pray as you have never prayed before for the power of Christ. Pray for the inspiration of His Spirit, that you may be filled with a desire to save those who are perishing. Let the prayer ascend to heaven, “God be merciful unto us, and bless us; and cause his face to shine upon us; that thy way may be known upon earth, thy saving health among all nations” (Psalm 67:1, 2). {OFC 329.6} [OFC 330.1] “In These Hours Of Probation” I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation. 2 Corinthians 6:2. {OFC 330.1} [OFC 330.2] We believe without a doubt that Christ is soon coming. This is not a fable to us; it is a reality. We have no doubt, neither have we had a doubt for years, that the doctrines we hold today are present truth, and that we are nearing the judgment. We are preparing to meet Him who, escorted by a retinue of holy angels, is to appear in the clouds of heaven to give the faithful and the just the finishing touch of immortality. When He comes He is not to cleanse us of our sins, to remove from us the defects in our characters, or to cure us of the infirmities of our tempers and dispositions. If wrought for us at all, this work will all be accomplished before that time. When the Lord comes, those who are holy will be holy still. Those who have preserved their bodies and spirits in holiness, in sanctification and honor, will then receive the finishing touch of immortality. But those who are unjust, unsanctified, and filthy will remain so forever. No work will then be done for them to remove their defects and give them holy characters. The Refiner does not then sit to pursue His refining process and remove their sins and their corruption. This is all to be done in these hours of probation. It is now that this work is to be accomplished for us. {OFC 330.2} [OFC 330.3] We embrace the truth of God with our different faculties, and as we come under the influence of that truth, it will accomplish the work for us which is necessary to give us a moral fitness for the kingdom of glory and for the society of the heavenly angels. We are now in God’s workshop. Many of us are rough stones from the quarry. But as we lay hold upon the truth of God, its influence affects us. It elevates us and removes from us every imperfection and sin, of whatever nature. Thus we are prepared to see the King in His beauty and finally to unite with the pure and heavenly angels in the kingdom of glory. It is here that this work is to be accomplished for us, here that our bodies and spirits are to be fitted for immortality. {OFC 330.3} [OFC 331.1] High Spiritual State Attainable Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy. Jude 24. {OFC 331.1} [OFC 331.2] Christ was obedient to every requirement of the law. . . . {OFC 331.2} [OFC 331.3] By His perfect obedience He has made it possible for every human being to obey God’s commandments. When we submit ourselves to Christ, the heart is united with His heart, the will is merged in His will, the mind becomes one with His mind, the thoughts are brought into captivity to Him; we live His life. This is what it means to be clothed with the garment of His righteousness. Then as the Lord looks upon us He sees, not the fig-leaf garment, not the nakedness and deformity of sin, but His own robe of righteousness, which is perfect obedience to the law of Jehovah. {OFC 331.3} [OFC 331.4] Through the plan of redemption, God has provided means for subduing every sinful trait, and resisting every temptation, however strong. {OFC 331.4} [OFC 331.5] The strongest temptation is no excuse for sin. However great the pressure brought to bear upon the soul, transgression is our own act. It is not in the power of earth or hell to compel any one to sin. The will must consent, the heart must yield, or passion cannot overbear reason, nor iniquity triumph over righteousness. {OFC 331.5} [OFC 331.6] If you will stand under the bloodstained banner of Prince Emmanuel, faithfully doing His service, you need never yield to temptation; for One stands by your side who is able to keep you from falling. {OFC 331.6} [OFC 331.7] We need not retain one sinful propensity. . . . ［Ephesians 2:1-6 quoted.］ . . . {OFC 331.7} [OFC 331.8] As we partake of the divine nature, hereditary and cultivated tendencies to wrong are cut away from the character, and we are made a living power for good. Ever learning of the divine Teacher, daily partaking of His nature, we cooperate with God in overcoming Satan’s temptations. God works, and man works, that man may be one with Christ as Christ is one with God. Then we sit together with Christ in heavenly places. The mind rests with peace and assurance in Jesus. {OFC 331.8} [OFC 331.9] Who Receive The Seal? And in their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault before the throne of God. Revelation 14:5. {OFC 331.9} [OFC 331.10] Only those who receive the seal of the living God will have the 332 passport through the gates of the Holy City. . . . {OFC 331.10} [OFC 332.1] The seal of the living God will be placed upon those only who bear a likeness to Christ in character. {OFC 332.1} [OFC 332.2] As wax takes the impression of the seal, so the soul is to take the impression of the Spirit of God and retain the image of Christ. {OFC 332.2} [OFC 332.3] Many will not receive the seal of God because they do not keep His commandments or bear the fruits of righteousness. {OFC 332.3} [OFC 332.4] The great mass of professing Christians will meet with bitter disappointment in the day of God. They have not upon their foreheads the seal of the living God. Lukewarm and halfhearted, they dishonor God far more than the avowed unbeliever. They grope in darkness, when they might be walking in the noonday light of the Word, under the guidance of One who never errs. . . . {OFC 332.4} [OFC 332.5] Those whom the Lamb shall lead by the fountains of living waters, and from whose eyes He shall wipe away all tears, will be those now receiving the knowledge and understanding revealed in the Bible, the Word of God. . . . {OFC 332.5} [OFC 332.6] We are to copy no human being. There is no human being wise enough to be our criterion. We are to look to the man Christ Jesus, who is complete in the perfection of righteousness and holiness. He is the author and finisher of our faith. He is the pattern man. His experience is the measure of the experience that we are to gain. His character is our model. Let us, then, take our minds off the perplexities and the difficulties of this life, and fix them on Him, that by beholding we may be changed into His likeness. We may behold Christ to good purpose. We may safely look to Him; for He is all-wise. As we look to Him and think of Him, He will be formed within, the hope of glory. {OFC 332.6} [OFC 332.7] Let us strive with all the power that God has given us to be among the hundred and forty-four thousand. {OFC 332.7} [OFC 332.8] A Time Of Trouble Such As Never Was And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book. Daniel 12:1. {OFC 332.8} [OFC 332.9] When the third angel’s message closes, mercy no longer pleads for the guilty inhabitants of the earth. The people of God have accomplished their work. They have received “the latter rain,”“the . . . refreshing . . . from 333 the presence of the Lord,” and they are prepared for the trying hour before them. Angels are hastening to and fro in heaven. An angel returning from the earth announces that his work is done; the final test has been brought upon the world, and all who have proved themselves loyal to the divine precepts have received “the seal of the living God.” Then Jesus ceases His intercession in the sanctuary above. He lifts His hands and with a loud voice says, “It is done.” . . . {OFC 332.9} [OFC 333.1] When He leaves the sanctuary, darkness covers the inhabitants of the earth. In that fearful time the righteous must live in the sight of a holy God without an intercessor. The restraint which has been upon the wicked is removed, and Satan has entire control of the finally impenitent. God’s long-suffering has ended. The world has rejected His mercy, despised His love, and trampled upon His law. The wicked have passed the boundary of their probation; the Spirit of God, persistently resisted, has been at last withdrawn. Unsheltered by divine grace, they have no protection from the wicked one. Satan will then plunge the inhabitants of the earth into one great, final trouble. As the angels of God cease to hold in check the fierce winds of human passion, all the elements of strife will be let loose. The whole world will be involved in ruin more terrible than that which came upon Jerusalem of old. {OFC 333.1} [OFC 333.2] Those only who have clean hands and pure hearts will stand in that trying time. . . . Now is the time, while the four angels are holding the four winds, to make our calling and election sure. {OFC 333.2} [OFC 333.3] Angelic Protection In The Time Of Trouble Come, my people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee: hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast. Isaiah 26:20. {OFC 333.3} [OFC 333.4] In the day of fierce trial He ［Christ］ will say, “Come, my people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee: hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast.” What are the chambers in which they are to hide? They are the protection of Christ and holy angels. The people of God are not at this time all in one place. They are in different companies, and in all parts of the earth. {OFC 333.4} [OFC 333.5] I saw the saints leaving the cities and villages, and associating together in companies, and living in the most solitary places. Angels provided them food and water, while the wicked were suffering from hunger and thirst. {OFC 333.5} [OFC 333.6] During the night a very impressive scene passed before me. There seemed to be great confusion and the conflict of armies. A messenger from 334 the Lord stood before me, and said, “Call your household. I will lead you; follow me.” He led me down a dark passage, through a forest, then through the clefts of mountains, and said, “Here you are safe.” There were others who had been led to this retreat. The heavenly messenger said. “The time of trouble has come as a thief in the night, as the Lord warned you it would come.” {OFC 333.6} [OFC 334.1] In the time of trouble just before the coming of Christ, the righteous will be preserved through the ministration of heavenly angels; but there will be no security for the transgressor of God’s law. Angels cannot then protect those who are disregarding one of the divine precepts. {OFC 334.1} [OFC 334.2] In the closing period of earth’s history the Lord will work mightily in behalf of those who stand steadfastly for the right. . . . In the midst of the time of trouble—trouble such as has not been since there was a nation—His chosen ones will stand unmoved. Satan with all the hosts of evil cannot destroy the weakest of God’s saints. Angels that excel in strength will protect them, and in their behalf Jehovah will reveal Himself as a “God of gods,” able to save to the uttermost those who have put their trust in Him. {OFC 334.2} [OFC 334.3] God’s People Delivered Thus saith the Lord, Even the captives of the mighty shall be taken away, and the prey of the terrible shall be delivered: for I will contend with him that contendeth with thee, and I will save thy children. Isaiah 49:25. {OFC 334.3} [OFC 334.4] When the protection of human laws shall be withdrawn from those who honor the law of God, there will be, in different lands, a simultaneous movement for their destruction. As the time appointed in the decree draws near, the people will conspire to root out the hated sect. It will be determined to strike in one night a decisive blow, which shall utterly silence the voice of dissent and reproof. {OFC 334.4} [OFC 334.5] The people of God—some in prison cells, some hidden in solitary retreats in the forests and the mountains—still plead for divine protection, while in every quarter companies of armed men, urged on by hosts of evil angels, are preparing for the work of death. It is now, in the hour of utmost extremity, that the God of Israel will interpose for the deliverance of His chosen. . . . {OFC 334.5} [OFC 334.6] With shouts of triumph, jeering, and imprecation, throngs of evil men are about to rush upon their prey, when, lo, a dense blackness, deeper than the darkness of the night, falls upon the earth. Then a rainbow, shining with the glory from the throne of God, spans the heavens and seems to 335 encircle each praying company. The angry multitudes are suddenly arrested. Their mocking cries die away. The objects of their murderous rage are forgotten. With fearful forebodings they gaze upon the symbol of God’s covenant and long to be shielded from its overpowering brightness. {OFC 334.6} [OFC 335.1] By the people of God a voice, clear and melodious, is heard saying, “Look up,” and lifting their eyes to the heavens, they behold the bow of promise. The black, angry clouds that covered the firmament are parted, and like Stephen they look up steadfastly into heaven and see the glory of God and the Son of man seated upon His throne. {OFC 335.1} [OFC 335.2] While all the world is plunged in darkness, there will be light in every dwelling of the saints. They will catch the first light of His second appearing. {OFC 335.2} [OFC 335.3] The Day And Hour Of Christ’s Coming Announced But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only. Matthew 24:36. {OFC 335.3} [OFC 335.4] The voice of God is heard from heaven, declaring the day and hour of Jesus’ coming, and delivering everlasting covenant to His people. Like peals of loudest thunder His words roll through the earth. {OFC 335.4} [OFC 335.5] He spoke one sentence, and then paused, while the words were rolling through the earth. The Israel of God stood with their eyes fixed upward, listening to the words as they came from the mouth of Jehovah and rolled through the earth like peals of loudest thunder. It was awfully solemn. At the end of every sentence the saints shouted, “Glory! Hallelujah!” {OFC 335.5} [OFC 335.6] The living saints, 144,000 in number, knew and understood the voice, while the wicked thought it was thunder and an earthquake. {OFC 335.6} [OFC 335.7] The Israel of God stand listening, with their eyes fixed upward. Their countenances are lighted up with His glory, and shine as did the face of Moses when he came down from Sinai. The wicked cannot look upon them. And when the blessing is pronounced on those who have honored God by keeping His Sabbath holy, there is a mighty shout of victory. {OFC 335.7} [OFC 335.8] Then commenced the jubilee, when the land should rest. {OFC 335.8} [OFC 335.9] A glorious light shone upon them ［the saints］. How beautiful they then looked! All marks of care and weariness were gone, and health and beauty were seen in every countenance. Their enemies, the heathen around them, fell like dead men; they could not endure the light that shone upon the delivered, holy ones. This light and glory remained upon them, until Jesus was seen in the clouds of heaven. {OFC 335.9} [OFC 335.10] And I saw a flaming cloud come where Jesus stood. Then Jesus . . . 336 took His place on the cloud which carried Him to the East, where it first appeared to the saints on earth—a small black cloud which was the sign of the Son of man. While the cloud was passing from the Holiest to the East, which took a number of days, the synagogue of Satan worshipped at the saint’s feet. {OFC 335.10} [OFC 336.1] The General Resurrection Of The Righteous Awake and sing, ye that dwell in dust: for thy dew is as the dew of herbs, and the earth shall cast out the dead. Isaiah 26:19. {OFC 336.1} [OFC 336.2] The King of kings descends upon the cloud, wrapped in flaming fire. The heavens are rolled together as a scroll, the earth trembles before Him, and every mountain and island is moved out of its place. . . . {OFC 336.2} [OFC 336.3] Amid the reeling of the earth, the flash of lightning, and the roar of thunder, the voice of the Son of God calls forth the sleeping saints. He looks upon the graves of the righteous, then, raising His hands to heaven, He cries: “Awake, awake, awake, ye that sleep in the dust, and arise!” Throughout the length and breadth of the earth the dead shall hear that voice, and they that hear shall live. And the whole earth shall ring with the tread of the exceeding great army of every nation, kindred, tongue, and people. From the prison house of death they come, clothed with immortal glory, crying: “O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?” 1 Corinthians 15:55. And the living righteous and the risen saints unite their voices in a long, glad shout of victory. {OFC 336.3} [OFC 336.4] All come forth from their graves the same in stature as when they entered the tomb. . . But all arise with the freshness and vigor of eternal youth. . . . The mortal, corruptible form, devoid of comeliness, once polluted with sin, becomes perfect, beautiful, and immortal. All blemishes and deformities are left in the grave. . . . {OFC 336.4} [OFC 336.5] The living righteous are changed “in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye.” At the voice of God they were glorified; now they are made immortal and with the risen saints are caught up to meet their Lord in the air. Angels “gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.” {OFC 336.5} [OFC 336.6] As the little infants come forth immortal from their dusty beds, they immediately wing their way to their mothers’ arms. {OFC 336.6} [OFC 336.7] Friends long separated by death are united, nevermore to part, and with songs of gladness ascend together to the City of God. {OFC 336.7} [OFC 337.1] We Shall Recognize Each Other Then shall I know even as also I am known. 1 Corinthians 13:12. {OFC 337.1} [OFC 337.2] We shall know our friends, even as the disciples knew Jesus. They may have been deformed, diseased, or disfigured, in this mortal life, and they rise in perfect health and symmetry; yet in the glorified body their identity will be perfectly preserved. . . . In the face radiant with the light shining from the face of Jesus, we shall recognize the lineaments of those we love. {OFC 337.2} [OFC 337.3] The redeemed will meet and recognize those whose attention they have directed to the uplifted Saviour. What blessed converse they have with these souls! “I was a sinner,” it will be said, “without God and without hope in the world, and you came to me and drew my attention to the precious Saviour as my only hope. . . .” Others will say, “I was a heathen in heathen lands. You left your friends and comfortable home and came to teach me how to find Jesus and believe in Him as the only true God. I demolished my idols and worshiped God, and now I see Him face to face. I am saved, eternally saved, ever to behold Him whom I love. . . .” {OFC 337.3} [OFC 337.4] Others will express their gratitude to those who fed the hungry and clothed the naked. “When despair bound my soul in unbelief, the Lord sent you to me,” they say, “to speak words of hope and comfort. You brought me food for my physical necessities, and you opened to me the Word of God, awakening me to my spiritual needs. You treated me as a brother. You sympathized with me in my sorrows, and restored my bruised and wounded soul, so that I could grasp the hand of Christ that was reached out to save me. In my ignorance you taught me patiently that I had a Father in heaven who cared for me. You read to me the precious promises of God’s Word. You inspired in me the faith that He would save me. My heart was softened, subdued, broken, as I contemplated the sacrifice which Christ had made for me. . . . I am here, saved, eternally saved, ever to live in His presence and to praise Him who gave His life for me.” {OFC 337.4} [OFC 337.5] What rejoicing there will be as these redeemed ones meet and greet those who have had a burden in their behalf! And those who have lived, not to please themselves, but to be a blessing to the unfortunate who have so few blessings—how their hearts will thrill with satisfaction! {OFC 337.5} [OFC 338.1] Families Will Be Reunited Thus saith the Lord; Refrain thy voice from weeping, and thine eyes from tears: for thy work shall be rewarded, saith the Lord; and they shall come again from the land of the enemy. And there is hope in thine end, saith the Lord, that thy children shall come again to their own border. Jeremiah 31:16, 17. {OFC 338.1} [OFC 338.2] Christ is coming with clouds and with great glory. A multitude of shining angels will attend Him. He will come to raise the dead, and to change the living saints from glory to glory. He will come to honor those who have loved Him, and kept His commandments, and to take them to Himself. He has not forgotten them nor His promise. There will be a relinking of the family chain. {OFC 338.2} [OFC 338.3] The day of God will reveal how much the world owes to godly mothers. . . . {OFC 338.3} [OFC 338.4] When the judgment shall sit, and the books shall be opened; when the “well done” of the great Judge is pronounced, and the crown of immortal glory is placed upon the brow of the victor, many will raise their crowns in sight of the assembled universe, and pointing to their mother say: “She made me all I am through the grace of God. Her instruction, her prayers, have been blessed to my eternal salvation.” {OFC 338.4} [OFC 338.5] With joy unutterable, parents see the crown, the robe, the harp, given to their children. The days of hope and fear are ended. The seed sown with tears and prayers may have seemed to be sown in vain, but their harvest is reaped with joy at last. Their children have been redeemed. {OFC 338.5} [OFC 338.6] Oh, wonderful redemption! long talked of, long hoped for, contemplated with eager anticipation, but never fully understood. {OFC 338.6} [OFC 338.7] To His faithful followers Christ has been a daily companion and familiar friend. They have lived in close contact, in constant communion with God. Upon them the glory of the Lord has risen. In them the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ has been reflected. Now they rejoice in the undimmed rays of the brightness and glory of the King in His majesty. They are prepared for the communion of heaven; for they have heaven in their hearts. {OFC 338.7} [OFC 338.8] Welcome To The City Of God His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many 339 things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. Matthew 25:23. {OFC 338.8} [OFC 339.1] With unutterable love, Jesus welcomes His faithful ones to the joy of their Lord. The Saviour’s joy is in seeing, in the kingdom of glory, the souls that have been saved by His agony and humiliation. And the redeemed will be sharers in His joy, as they behold, among the blessed, those who have been won to Christ through their prayers, their labors, and their loving sacrifice. As they gather about the great white throne, gladness unspeakable will fill their hearts, when they behold those whom they have won for Christ, and see that one has gained others, and these still others, all brought into the haven of rest, there to lay their crowns at Jesus’ feet and praise Him through the endless cycles of eternity. {OFC 339.1} [OFC 339.2] As the ransomed ones are welcomed to the City of God, there rings out upon the air an exultant cry of adoration. The two Adams are about to meet. The Son of God is standing with outstretched arms to receive the father of our race—the being whom He created, who sinned against his Maker, and for whose sin the marks of the crucifixion are borne upon the Saviour’s form. As Adam discerns the prints of the cruel nails, he does not fall upon the bosom of his Lord, but in humiliation casts himself at His feet, crying: “Worthy, worthy is the Lamb that was slain!” Tenderly the Saviour lifts him up and bids him look once more upon the Eden home from which he has so long been exiled. {OFC 339.2} [OFC 339.3] After his expulsion from Eden, Adam’s life on earth was filled with sorrow. Every dying leaf, every victim of sacrifice, every blight upon the fair face of nature, every stain upon man’s purity, was a fresh reminder of his sin. . . . With patient humility he bore, for nearly a thousand years, the penalty of transgression. Faithfully did he repent of his sin and trust in the merits of the promised Saviour, and he died in the hope of a resurrection. The Son of God redeemed man’s failure and fall; and now, through the work of the atonement, Adam is reinstated in his first dominion. {OFC 339.3} [OFC 339.4] Think On Heavenly Things These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. Revelation 7:14. {OFC 339.4} [OFC 339.5] John, while in vision, saw a company clothed in white robes. . . . They were seen in the temple of God. This will be the result for all who will lay hold of the merits of Christ and wash their robes in His blood. Every provision has been made so that we can sit with Christ upon His throne, but the condition is that we be in harmony with the law of God. . . . {OFC 339.5} [OFC 339.6] We cannot afford to lose heaven. We ought to have our conversation on heavenly things. There there is no death nor pain. Why are we so 340 reluctant to talk of these things? Why do we dwell upon earthly things? The apostle exhorts us to have our conversation in heaven. “For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ” (Philippians 3:20). . . . Christ will soon return to gather those who are prepared, and take them to this glorious place. “So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation” (Hebrews 9:28). {OFC 339.6} [OFC 340.1] Do we love to think of this event or do we want to put it off? . . . The more we talk of Jesus, the more we shall reflect His divine image. By beholding we become transformed. We need to bring Christ into our religious experience. When you assemble together, let the conversation be on Christ and His salvation. . . . The more we talk of Jesus the more of His matchless charms we shall behold. {OFC 340.1} [OFC 340.2] Those who take no pleasure in thinking and talking of God in this life, will not enjoy the life that is to come, where God is ever present, dwelling among His people. But those who love to think of God will be in their element, breathing in the atmosphere of heaven. Those who on earth love the thought of heaven will be happy in its holy associations and pleasures. . . . “And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him: and they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads” (Revelation 22:3, 4). {OFC 340.2} [OFC 340.3] Only One Reminder Of Sin Behold, the righteous shall be recompensed in the earth: much more the wicked and the sinner. Proverbs 11:31. {OFC 340.3} [OFC 340.4] The wicked receive their recompense in the earth. Proverbs 11:31. They “shall be stubble: and the day that cometh shall burn them up, saith the Lord of hosts.” Malachi 4:1. Some are destroyed as in a moment, while others suffer many days. All are punished “according to their deeds.” The sins of the righteous having been transferred to Satan, he is made to suffer not only for his own rebellion, but for all the sins which he has caused God’s people to commit. His punishment is to be far greater than that of those whom he has deceived. After all have perished who fell by his deceptions, he is still to live and suffer on. In the cleansing flames the wicked are at last destroyed, root and branch—Satan the root, his followers the branches. {OFC 340.4} [OFC 340.5] Satan and all who have joined him in rebellion will be cut off. . . . Then “the wicked shall not be: yea, thou shalt diligently consider his place, and it shall not be”; “they shall be as though they had not been.” Psalm 37:10; Obadiah 16. {OFC 340.5} [OFC 341.1] 341 The justice of God is satisfied, and the saints and all the angelic host say with a loud voice, Amen. {OFC 341.1} [OFC 341.2] While the earth is wrapped in the fire of God’s vengeance, the righteous abide safely in the Holy City. Upon those that had part in the first resurrection, the second death has no power. (Revelation 20:6.) While God is to the wicked a consuming fire, He is to His people both a sun and a shield. (Psalm 84:11.) {OFC 341.2} [OFC 341.3] The fire that consumes the wicked purifies the earth. Every trace of the curse is swept away. No eternally burning hell will keep before the ransomed the fearful consequences of sin. {OFC 341.3} [OFC 341.4] One reminder alone remains: our Redeemer will ever bear the marks of His crucifixion. . . . {OFC 341.4} [OFC 341.5] All that was lost by sin has been restored. . . . God’s original purpose in the creation of the earth is fulfilled as it is made the eternal abode of the redeemed. “The righteous shall inherit the land, and dwell therein for ever.” Psalm 37:29. {OFC 341.5} [OFC 341.6] The Immortal Inheritance Giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. Colossians 1:12, R.S.V. {OFC 341.6} [OFC 341.7] The ransom has been paid, and it is possible for all to come to God, and through a life of obedience to attain unto everlasting life. Then how sad it is that men turn from the immortal inheritance, and live for the gratification of pride, for selfishness and display, and . . . lose the blessing which they might have both in this life and in the life to come. They might enter into the palaces of heaven, and associate on terms of freedom and equality with Christ and heavenly angels, and with the princes of God; and yet, incredible as it may seem, they turn from heavenly attractions. {OFC 341.7} [OFC 341.8] The Creator of all worlds proposes to love those who believe in His only-begotten Son as their personal Saviour, even as He loves His Son. Even here and now His gracious favor is bestowed upon us to this marvelous extent. He has given to men the gift of the Light and Majesty of heaven, and with Him He has bestowed all the treasures of heaven. Much as He has promised us for the life to come, He also bestows princely gifts upon us in this life, and as subjects of His grace, He would have us enjoy everything that will ennoble, expand, and elevate our characters. It is His design to fit us for the heavenly courts above. {OFC 341.8} [OFC 341.9] But Satan is contending for the souls of men.... He would not have them catch a glimpse of the future honor, the eternal glories, laid up for those who shall be inhabitants of heaven, or have a taste of the experience 342 that gives a foretaste of the happiness of heaven.... {OFC 341.9} [OFC 342.1] Those who accept Christ as their Saviour have the promise of the life that now is, and that which is to come.... The lowliest disciple of Christ may become an inhabitant of heaven, an heir of God to an inheritance incorruptible, and that fadeth not away. O that every one might make choice of the heavenly gift, become an heir of God to that inheritance whose title is secure from any destroyer, world without end! O, choose not the world, but choose the better inheritance! Press, urge your way toward the mark for the prize of your high calling in Christ Jesus. {OFC 342.1} [OFC 342.2] Our Saviour’s Highest Honor And one shall say unto him, What are these wounds in thine hands? Then he shall answer, Those with which I was wounded in the house of my friends. Zechariah 13:6. {OFC 342.2} [OFC 342.3] “I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away.” Revelation 21:1. The fire that consumes the wicked purifies the earth. Every trace of the curse is swept away. . . . {OFC 342.3} [OFC 342.4] One reminder alone remains: Our Redeemer will ever bear the marks of His crucifixion. Upon His wounded head, upon His side, His hands and feet, are the only traces of the cruel work that sin has wrought. Says the prophet, beholding Christ in His glory: “He had bright beams coming out of his side: and there was the hiding of his power.” Habakkuk 3:4, margin. That pierced side whence flowed the crimson stream that reconciled man to God—there is the Saviour’s glory, there “the hiding of his power.” . . . And the tokens of His humiliation are His highest honor; through the eternal ages the wounds of Calvary will show forth His praise and declare His power. {OFC 342.4} [OFC 342.5] The cross of Christ will be the science and the song of the redeemed through all eternity. In Christ glorified they will behold Christ crucified. Never will it be forgotten that He whose power created and upheld the unnumbered worlds through the vast realms of space, the Beloved of God, the Majesty of heaven, He whom cherub and shining seraph delighted to adore—humbled Himself to uplift fallen man; that He bore the guilt and shame of sin, and the hiding of His Father’s face, till the woes of a lost world broke His heart and crushed out His life on Calvary’s cross. That the Maker of all worlds, the Arbiter of all destinies, should lay aside His glory and humiliate Himself from love to man will ever excite the wonder and adoration of the universe. As the nations of the saved look upon their Redeemer and behold the eternal glory of the Father shining in His countenance; as they behold His throne, which is from everlasting to 343 everlasting, and know that His kingdom is to have no end, they break forth in rapturous song: “Worthy, worthy is the Lamb that was slain, and hath redeemed us to God by His own most precious blood!” {OFC 342.5} [LDE 9] LDE - Last Day Events (1992) TO THE READER SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISTS BELIEVE THEY HAVE BEEN ESPECIALLY CALLED OF GOD TO PROCLAIM THE GOOD NEWS OF CHRIST'S SOON COMING TO A CONFUSED AND DYING WORLD. "GREAT PAINS," ELLEN WHITE WROTE, "SHOULD BE TAKEN TO KEEP THIS SUBJECT BEFORE THE PEOPLE" (FE 336). IN HER BOOK THE GREAT CONTROVERSY BETWEEN CHRIST AND SATAN, SHE GRAPHICALLY OUTLINED THE GRAND AND DREADFUL EVENTS OF THE FUTURE. THERE IS NO OTHER BOOK LIKE IT. MARANATHA, A 1976 BOOK COMPILED FROM HER WRITINGS, ALSO DEALS WITH THE FULFILLMENT OF LAST-DAY BIBLE PROPHECIES. AS A FURTHER EFFORT TO "KEEP THIS SUBJECT BEFORE THE PEOPLE," WE HAVE PREPARED THE PRESENT VOLUME, LAST DAY EVENTS. MANY OF THE CITATIONS IN THIS BOOK HAVE BEEN DRAWN FROM PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED ELLEN WHITE SOURCES, BUT A FAIR PERCENTAGE OF THE MATERIALS HAVE NEVER BEFORE BEEN PUBLISHED. WHILE WE HAVE NOT INCLUDED ALL OF ELLEN WHITE'S STATEMENTS ON EARTH'S CLOSING EVENTS, WE HAVE ENDEAVORED TO INCLUDE THE MOST SIGNIFICANT ONES. AT THE CLOSE OF EACH EXCERPT, WE HAVE PROVIDED A SOURCE CREDIT AS WELL AS THE DATE WHEN THE PASSAGE WAS WRITTEN, OR A DATE WHEN IT WAS PUBLISHED DURING ELLEN WHITE'S LIFETIME. WE ALSO HAVE INCLUDED A FEW FOOTNOTES, WHERE WE HAVE THOUGHT THAT ADDITIONAL INFORMATION OR EXPLANATIONS WOULD BE HELPFUL. WE HAVE ATTEMPTED TO PRESENT ELLEN WHITE'S TEACHINGS ON END-TIME EVENTS IN A LOGICAL ARRANGEMENT. 8 HOWEVER, WE DO NOT CLAIM THAT WE HAVE LISTED ALL FUTURE EVENTS IN THE EXACT ORDER OF THEIR OCCURRENCE. IN A MATTER OF SUCH GREAT IMPORTANCE AS THE EXPERIENCE OF GOD'S PEOPLE IN THE DAYS AHEAD, WHEN EVERYONE WILL HAVE TO STAND ALONE, "AS THOUGH THERE WERE NOT ANOTHER PERSON IN THE WORLD" (7BC 983), IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT ALL CHRISTIANS HAVE THEIR OWN CONVICTIONS, BASED UPON THEIR OWN STUDY AND THEIR OWN PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH THE LORD. ELLEN WHITE DECLARES THAT "OUR LITTLE WORLD IS THE LESSON BOOK OF THE UNIVERSE" (DA 19), AND THAT THE INVISIBLE WORLD IS WATCHING "WITH INEXPRESSIBLE INTEREST" (PK 148) THE CLOSING SCENES OF THIS WORLD'S HISTORY. MAY WE ALL ENDEAVOR TO CATCH SOMETHING OF THE SIGNIFICANCE OF EARTH'S CLIMACTIC EVENTS AS WE VIEW THEM IN THEIR RELATION TO THE GREAT CONTROVERSY BETWEEN GOOD AND EVIL. AND MAY WE SHARE WITH OTHERS THE GLORIOUS TRUTH THAT JESUS IS COMING SOON. The Trustees of the Ellen G. White Estate {LDE 9} [LDE 10] Table of Contents 1. Earth's Last Crisis .................................. 11 2. Signs of Christ's Soon Return ........................ 18 3. "When Shall These Things Be?" ........................ 32 4. God's Last Day Church ................................ 43 5. Devotional Life of the Remnant ....................... 63 6. Lifestyle and Activities of the Remnant .............. 75 7. Country Living ....................................... 94 8. The Cities .......................................... 109 9. Sunday Laws ......................................... 123 10. The Little Time of Trouble .......................... 143 11. Satan's Last Day Deceptions ......................... 155 12. The Shaking ......................................... 172 13. The Latter Rain ..................................... 183 14. The Loud Cry ........................................ 197 15. The Seal of God and the Mark of the Beast ........... 215 16. The Close of Probation .............................. 227 17. The Seven Last Plagues and the Wicked ............... 238 18. The Seven Last Plagues and the Righteous ............ 253 19. Christ's Return ..................................... 271 20. The Inheritance of the Saints ....................... 283 {LDE 10} [LDE 11.1] Chap. 1. - Earth's Last Crisis Widespread Apprehension About the Future The present is a time of overwhelming interest to all living. Rulers and statesmen, men who occupy positions of trust and authority, thinking men and women of all classes, have their attention fixed upon the events taking place about us. They are watching the relations that exist among the nations. They observe the intensity that is taking possession of every earthly element and they recognize that something great and decisive is about to take place--that the world is on the verge of a stupendous crisis.--PK 537 (c. 1914). {LDE 11.1} [LDE 11.2] The calamities by land and sea, the unsettled state of society, the alarms of war, are portentous. They forecast approaching events of the greatest magnitude. The agencies of evil are combining their forces and consolidating. They are strengthening for the last great crisis. Great changes are soon to take place in our world, and the final movements will be rapid ones.--9T 11 (1909). {LDE 11.2} [LDE 12.1] Troublous Times Soon to Come The time of trouble, which is to increase until the end, is very near at hand. We have no time to lose. The world is stirred with the spirit of war. The prophecies of the eleventh of Daniel have almost reached their final fulfillment.--RH Nov. 24, 1904. {LDE 12.1} [LDE 12.2] The time of trouble--trouble such as was not since there was a nation ［Daniel 12:1］--is right upon us, and we are like the sleeping virgins. We are to awake and ask the Lord Jesus to place underneath us His everlasting arms, and carry us through the time of trial before us.--3MR 305 (1906). {LDE 12.2} [LDE 12.3] The world is becoming more and more lawless. Soon great trouble will arise among the nations--trouble that will not cease until Jesus comes.--RH Feb. 11, 1904. {LDE 12.3} [LDE 12.4] We are on the very verge of the time of trouble, and perplexities that are scarcely dreamed of are before us.--9T 43 (1909). {LDE 12.4} [LDE 12.5] We are standing on the threshold of the crisis of the ages. In quick succession the judgments of God will follow one another--fire, and flood, and earthquake, with war and bloodshed.--PK 278 (c. 1914). {LDE 12.5} [LDE 12.6] There are stormy times before us, but let us not utter one word of unbelief or discouragement.--ChS 136 (1905). {LDE 12.6} [LDE 13.1] God Has Always Warned of Coming Judgments God has always given men warning of coming judgments. Those who had faith in His message for their time, and who acted out their faith in obedience to His commandments, escaped the judgments that fell upon the disobedient and unbelieving. {LDE 13.1} [LDE 13.2] The word came to Noah, "Come thou and all thy house into the ark; for thee have I seen righteous before Me." Noah obeyed and was saved. The message came to Lot, "Up, get you out of this place; for the Lord will destroy this city" (Genesis 7:1; 19:14). Lot placed himself under the guardianship of the heavenly messengers and was saved. So Christ's disciples were given warning of the destruction of Jerusalem. Those who watched for the sign of the coming ruin, and fled from the city, escaped the destruction. So now we are given warning of Christ's second coming and of the destruction to fall upon the world. Those who heed the warning will be saved.--DA 634 (1898). {LDE 13.2} [LDE 13.3] God Has Told Us What to Expect in Our Day Before His crucifixion the Saviour explained to His disciples that He was to be put to death and to rise again from the tomb, and angels were present to impress His words on minds and hearts. ［See Mark 8:31, 32; 9:31; 10:32-34.］ But the disciples were looking for temporal deliverance from the Roman yoke, and they could not tolerate the thought that He in whom all their hopes centered should suffer an ignominious death. The words which 14 they needed to remember were banished from their minds, and when the time of trial came it found them unprepared. The death of Jesus as fully destroyed their hopes as if He had not forewarned them. {LDE 13.3} [LDE 14.1] So in the prophecies the future is opened before us as plainly as it was opened to the disciples by the words of Christ. The events connected with the close of probation and the work of preparation for the time of trouble, are clearly presented. But multitudes have no more understanding of these important truths than if they had never been revealed.--GC 594 (1911). {LDE 14.1} [LDE 14.2] Last Day Prophecies Demand Our Attention I then saw the third angel ［Revelation 14:9-11］. Said my accompanying angel, "Fearful is his work. Awful is his mission. He is the angel that is to select the wheat from the tares and seal, or bind, the wheat for the heavenly garner. These things should engross the whole mind, the whole attention."--EW 118 (1854). {LDE 14.2} [LDE 14.3] We shall have to stand before magistrates to answer for our allegiance to the law of God, to make known the reasons of our faith. And the youth should understand these things. {LDE 14.3} [LDE 14.4] They should know the things that will come to pass before the closing up of the world's history. These things concern our eternal welfare, and teachers and students should give more attention to them.--6T 128, 129 (1900). {LDE 14.4} [LDE 14.5] We should study the great waymarks that point out the times in which we are living.--4MR 163 (1895). {LDE 14.5} [LDE 15.1] Those who place themselves under God's control, to be led and guided by Him, will catch the steady tread of the events ordained by Him to take place.--7T 14 (1902). {LDE 15.1} [LDE 15.2] We are to see in history the fulfillment of prophecy, to study the workings of Providence in the great reformatory movements, and to understand the progress of events in the marshaling of the nations for the final conflict of the great controversy.--8T 307 (1904). {LDE 15.2} [LDE 15.3] Study the Books of Daniel and Revelation Especially There is need of a much closer study of the Word of God; especially should Daniel and the Revelation have attention as never before. . . . The light that Daniel received from God was given especially for these last days.--TM 112, 113 (1896). {LDE 15.3} [LDE 15.4] Let us read and study the twelfth chapter of Daniel. It is a warning that we shall all need to understand before the time of the end.--15MR 228 (1903). {LDE 15.4} [LDE 15.5] The last book of the New Testament scriptures is full of truth that we need to understand.--COL 133 (1900). {LDE 15.5} [LDE 15.6] The unfulfilled predictions of the book of Revelation are soon to be fulfilled. This prophecy is now to be studied with diligence by the people of God and should be clearly understood. It does not conceal the truth; it 16 clearly forewarns, telling us what will be in the future.--1NL 96 (1903). {LDE 15.6} [LDE 16.1] The solemn messages that have been given in their order in the Revelation are to occupy the first place in the minds of God's people.--8T 302 (1904). {LDE 16.1} [LDE 16.2] The Subject Should Be Kept Before the People There are many who do not understand the prophecies relating to these days and they must be enlightened. It is the duty of both watchmen and laymen to give the trumpet a certain sound.--Ev 194, 195 (1875). {LDE 16.2} [LDE 16.3] Let the watchmen now lift up their voice and give the message which is present truth for this time. Let us show the people where we are in prophetic history.--5T 716 (1889). {LDE 16.3} [LDE 16.4] There is a day that God hath appointed for the close of this world's history: "This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come." Prophecy is fast fulfilling. More, much more, should be said about these tremendously important subjects. The day is at hand when the destiny of souls will be fixed forever. . . . {LDE 16.4} [LDE 16.5] Great pains should be taken to keep this subject before the people. The solemn fact is to be kept not only before the people of the world but before our own churches also, that the day of the Lord will come suddenly, unexpectedly. The fearful warning of the 17 prophecy is addressed to every soul. Let no one feel that he is secure from the danger of being surprised. Let no one's interpretation of prophecy rob you of the conviction of the knowledge of events which show that this great event is near at hand.--FE 335, 336 (1895). {LDE 16.5} [LDE 17.1] Keeping Future Events in Proper Perspective We are not now able to describe with accuracy the scenes to be enacted in our world in the future, but this we do know, that this is a time when we must watch unto prayer, for the great day of the Lord is at hand. --2SM 35 (1901). {LDE 17.1} [LDE 17.2] The mark of the beast is exactly what it has been proclaimed to be. Not all in regard to this matter is yet understood nor will it be understood until the unrolling of the scroll.--6T 17 (1900). {LDE 17.2} [LDE 17.3] Many will look away from present duties, present comfort and blessings, and be borrowing trouble in regard to the future crisis. This will be making a time of trouble beforehand, and we will receive no grace for any such anticipated troubles.--3SM 383, 384 (1884). {LDE 17.3} [LDE 17.4] There is a time of trouble coming to the people of God, but we are not to keep that constantly before the people and rein them up to have a time of trouble beforehand. There is to be a shaking among God's people, but this is not the present truth to carry to the churches.--1SM 180 (1890). {LDE 17.4} [LDE 18.1] Chap. 2. - Signs of Christ's Soon Return Our Lord's Great Prophecy Christ forewarned His disciples of the destruction of Jerusalem and the signs to take place prior to the coming of the Son of man. The whole of the twenty-fourth chapter of Matthew is a prophecy concerning the events to precede this event, and the destruction of Jerusalem is used to typify the last great destruction of the world by fire.--Ms 77, 1899. {LDE 18.1} [LDE 18.2] Christ upon the Mount of Olives rehearsed the fearful judgments that were to precede His second coming: "Ye shall hear of wars and rumors of wars: . . . Nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. All these are the beginning of sorrows" ［Matthew 24:6-8］. While these prophecies received a partial fulfillment at the destruction of Jerusalem, they have a more direct application in the last days.--5T 753 (1899). {LDE 18.2} [LDE 19.1] Signs in the Heavens At the close of the great papal persecution, Christ declared, the sun should be darkened, and the moon should not give her light. Next, the stars should fall from heaven. And He says, "Learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh: so likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that He is near, even at the doors" (Matthew 24:32, 33, margin). {LDE 19.1} [LDE 19.2] Christ has given signs of His coming. He declares that we may know when He is near, even at the doors. He says of those who see these signs, "This generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled." These signs have appeared. ［SEE THE GREAT CONTROVERSY, PP. 306-308, 333, 334.］ Now we know of a surety that the Lord's coming is at hand.--DA 632 (1898). {LDE 19.2} [LDE 19.3] Signs on the Earth Jesus declares: "There shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations" (Luke 21:25; Matthew 24:29; Mark 13:24-26; Revelation 6:12-17). Those who behold these harbingers of His coming are to "know that it is near, even at the doors" (Matthew 24:33).--GC 37, 38 (1911). {LDE 19.3} [LDE 19.4] The nations are in unrest. Times of perplexity are upon us. Men's hearts are failing them for fear of the things that are coming upon the earth. But those who believe in God will hear His voice amid the storm, saying, "It is I; be not afraid."--ST Oct. 9, 1901. {LDE 19.4} [LDE 20.1] Strange and eventful history is being recorded in the books of heaven--events which it was declared should shortly precede the great day of God. Everything in the world is in an unsettled state.--3MR 313 (1908). {LDE 20.1} [LDE 20.2] False Prophets As one of the signs of Jerusalem's destruction, Christ had said, "Many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many" ［Matthew 24:11］. False prophets did rise, deceiving the people and leading great numbers into the desert. Magicians and sorcerers, claiming miraculous power, drew the people after them into the mountain solitudes. But this prophecy was spoken also for the last days. This sign is given as a sign of the second advent.--DA 631 (1898). {LDE 20.2} [LDE 20.3] We shall encounter false claims, false prophets will arise, there will be false dreams and false visions, but preach the Word; be not drawn away from the voice of God in His Word.--2SM 49 (1894). {LDE 20.3} [LDE 20.4] I have been shown many who will claim to be especially taught of God, and will attempt to lead others, and from mistaken ideas of duty they will undertake a work that God has never laid upon them. Confusion will be the result. Let everyone seek God most earnestly for himself that he may individually understand His will.--2SM 72 (1893). {LDE 20.4} [LDE 21.1] An Experience With a False Prophet Last night a young man, a stranger to us all, but professing to be a brother from Victoria ［Australia］, called upon us and asked to see Sister White. It was evening and I declined seeing him. We invited him to remain with us during the night, however, and to take breakfast. After our usual morning worship, as we were about to go to our various employments, this young man arose and with a commanding gesture requested us to sit down. He said, "Have you any hymnbooks? We will sing a hymn, then I have a message to give you." I said, "If you have a message, give it without delay, for we are very much pressed to get off the American mail and have no time to lose." He then began to read something he had written, which stated among other things that the judgment has now begun upon the living. . . . {LDE 21.1} [LDE 21.2] I listened as he went on and finally said, "My brother, you are not exactly in your right mind. State plainly how your message concerns us. Please let us know at once. Your mind is overstrained, you misapprehend your work. Much that you have said is in accordance with the Bible, and we believe every word of that. But you are overexcited. Please state what you have for us." {LDE 21.2} [LDE 21.3] Well, he said that we must pack up and move at once to Battle Creek. I asked his reasons, and he responded, "To give this message that the judgment has begun upon the living." I answered him, "The work which the Lord has given us to do is not yet finished. When our work here is completed we are 22 sure the Lord will let us know that it is time for us to move to Battle Creek, instead of teaching you our duty." . . . I left him for Brother Starr to talk with further while I resumed my writing. {LDE 21.3} [LDE 22.1] He told Brother Starr that when Sister White spoke to him so kindly, and yet with such authority, he began to see that he had made a mistake, that the impressions which had moved him so strongly were not consistent or reasonable. Although our family is large, consisting of ten members, besides three visitors, we decided to have this young man stay with us for a time. We dare not have him go with people who will treat him harshly and condemn him, neither do we want him to repeat his "revelations." We will have him remain for a little time where we can associate with him and if possible lead him in safe, sure paths.--Letter 66, 1894. {LDE 22.1} [LDE 22.2] Gluttony and Intemperance Gluttony and intemperance lie at the foundation of the great moral depravity in our world. Satan is aware of this and he is constantly tempting men and women to indulge the taste at the expense of health and even life itself. Eating, drinking, and dressing are made the aim of life with the world. Just such a state of things existed before the Flood. And this state of dissipation is one of the marked evidences of the soon close of this earth's history.--Letter 34, 1875. {LDE 22.2} [LDE 22.3] The picture which Inspiration has given of the antediluvian world represents too truly the condition to which modern society is fast hastening.--PP 102 (1890). {LDE 22.3} [LDE 23.1] We know that the Lord is coming very soon. The world is fast becoming as it was in the days of Noah. It is given over to selfish indulgence. Eating and drinking are carried to excess. Men are drinking the poisonous liquor that makes them mad.--Letter 308, 1907. {LDE 23.1} [LDE 23.2] Deeds of Violence In the days of Noah the overwhelming majority was opposed to the truth, and enamored with a tissue of falsehoods. The land was filled with violence. War, crime, murder, was the order of the day. Just so will it be before Christ's second coming.--1BC 1090 (1891). {LDE 23.2} [LDE 23.3] The labor unions are quickly stirred to violence if their demands are not complied with. Plainer and plainer is it becoming that the inhabitants of the world are not in harmony with God. No scientific theory can explain the steady march of evil workers under the generalship of Satan. In every mob wicked angels are at work, rousing men to commit deeds of violence. . . . {LDE 23.3} [LDE 23.4] The perversity and cruelty of men will reach such a height that God will reveal Himself in His majesty. Very soon the wickedness of the world will have reached its limit and, as in the days of Noah, God will pour out His judgments.--UL 334 (1903). {LDE 23.4} [LDE 23.5] The terrible reports we hear of murders and robberies, of railway accidents and deeds of violence, tell the story that the end of all things is at hand. Now, just now, we need to be preparing for the Lord's second coming.--Letter 308, 1907. {LDE 23.5} [LDE 24.1] Wars and Disasters The tempest is coming and we must get ready for its fury by having repentance toward God and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ. The Lord will arise to shake terribly the earth. We shall see troubles on all sides. Thousands of ships will be hurled into the depths of the sea. Navies will go down, and human lives will be sacrificed by millions. Fires will break out unexpectedly and no human effort will be able to quench them. The palaces of earth will be swept away in the fury of the flames. Disasters by rail will become more and more frequent. Confusion, collision, and death without a moment's warning will occur on the great lines of travel. The end is near, probation is closing. Oh, let us seek God while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near!--MYP 89, 90 (1890). {LDE 24.1} [LDE 24.2] In the last scenes of this earth's history war will rage. There will be pestilence, plague and famine. The waters of the deep will overflow their boundaries. Property and life will be destroyed by fire and flood. We should be preparing for the mansions that Christ has gone to prepare for them that love Him.--Mar 174 (1897). {LDE 24.2} [LDE 24.3] Great Balls of Fire Last Friday morning, just before I awoke, a very impressive scene was presented before me. I seemed to awake from sleep but was not in my home. From the windows I could behold a terrible conflagration. Great 25 balls of fire were falling upon houses, and from these balls fiery arrows were flying in every direction. It was impossible to check the fires that were kindled, and many places were being destroyed. The terror of the people was indescribable. After a time I awoke and found myself at home.--Ev 29 (1906). {LDE 24.3} [LDE 25.1] I saw an immense ball of fire fall among some beautiful mansions, causing their instant destruction. I heard someone say: "We knew that the judgments of God were coming upon the earth, but we did not know that they would come so soon." Others, with agonized voices, said: "You knew! Why then did you not tell us? We did not know."--9T 28 (1909). {LDE 25.1} [LDE 25.2] Earthquakes and Floods The enemy has worked, and he is working still. He is come down in great power, and the Spirit of God is being withdrawn from the earth. God has withdrawn His hand. We have only to look at Johnstown ［Pennsylvania］. He did not prevent the devil from wiping that whole city out of existence. ［ON MAY 31, 1889, AN ESTIMATED 2,200 PEOPLE LOST THEIR LIVES IN THE JOHNSTOWN FLOOD WHEN A DAM BROKE AFTER MANY DAYS OF HEAVY RAINS.］ And these very things will increase until the close of this earth's history.--1SAT 109 (1889). {LDE 25.2} [LDE 25.3] The earth's crust will be rent by the outbursts of the elements concealed in the bowels of the earth. These elements, once broken loose, will sweep away the treasures of those who for years have been adding to 26 their wealth by securing large possessions at starvation prices from those in their employ. And the religious world, too, is to be terribly shaken, for the end of all things is at hand.--3MR 208 (1891). {LDE 25.3} [LDE 26.1] The time is now come when one moment we may be on solid earth, the next the earth may be heaving beneath our feet. Earthquakes will take place when least expected.--TM 421 (1896). {LDE 26.1} [LDE 26.2] In fires, in floods, in earthquakes, in the fury of the great deep, in calamities by sea and by land, the warning is given that God's Spirit will not always strive with men.--3MR 315 (1897). {LDE 26.2} [LDE 26.3] Before the Son of man appears in the clouds of heaven everything in nature will be convulsed. Lightning from heaven uniting with the fire in the earth will cause the mountains to burn like a furnace and pour out their floods of lava over villages and cities. Molten masses of rock thrown into the water by the upheaval of things hidden in the earth will cause the water to boil and send forth rocks and earth. There will be mighty earthquakes and great destruction of human life.--7BC 946 (1907). {LDE 26.3} [LDE 26.4] Crime, Famines, Pestilence Satan is working in the atmosphere; he is poisoning the atmosphere, and here we are dependent upon God for our lives--our present and eternal lives. And being in the position that we are, we need to be wide awake, wholly devoted, wholly converted, wholly consecrated 27 to God. But we seem to sit as though we were paralyzed. God of heaven, wake us up!--2SM 52 (1890). {LDE 26.4} [LDE 27.1] God has not restrained the powers of darkness from carrying forward their deadly work of vitiating the air, one of the sources of life and nutrition, with a deadly miasma. Not only is vegetable life affected but man suffers from pestilence. . . . These things are the result of drops from the vials of God's wrath ［GOD TAKES RESPONSIBILITY FOR THAT WHICH HE ALLOWS OR DOES NOT PREVENT. SEE EXODUS 7:3; 8:32; 1 CHRONICLES 10:4, 13, 14.］ being sprinkled on the earth, and are but faint representations of what will be in the near future.--3SM 391 (1891). {LDE 27.1} [LDE 27.2] Famines will increase. Pestilences will sweep away thousands. Dangers are all around us from the powers without and satanic workings within, but the restraining power of God is now being exercised.--19MR 382 (1897). {LDE 27.2} [LDE 27.3] I have been shown that the Spirit of the Lord is being withdrawn from the earth. God's keeping power will soon be refused to all who continue to disregard His commandments. The reports of fraudulent transactions, murders, and crimes of every kind are coming to us daily. Iniquity is becoming so common a thing that it no longer shocks the senses as it once did.--Letter 258, 1907. {LDE 27.3} [LDE 27.4] God's Purpose in Calamities What mean the awful calamities by sea--vessels hurled into eternity without a moment's warning? 28 What mean the accidents by land--fire consuming the riches that men have hoarded, much of which has been accumulated by oppression of the poor? The Lord will not interfere to protect the property of those who transgress His law, break His covenant, and trample upon His Sabbath, accepting in its place a spurious rest day. {LDE 27.4} [LDE 28.1] The plagues of God are already falling upon the earth, sweeping away the most costly structures as if by a breath of fire from heaven. Will not these judgments bring professing Christians to their senses? God permits them to come that the world may take heed, that sinners may be afraid and tremble before Him.--3MR 311 (1902). {LDE 28.1} [LDE 28.2] God has a purpose in permitting these calamities to occur. They are one of His means of calling men and women to their senses. By unusual workings through nature God will express to doubting human agencies that which He clearly reveals in His Word.--19MR 279 (1902). {LDE 28.2} [LDE 28.3] How frequently we hear of earthquakes and tornadoes, of destruction by fire and flood, with great loss of life and property! Apparently these calamities are capricious outbreaks of disorganized, unregulated forces of nature, wholly beyond the control of man, but in them all God's purpose may be read. They are among the agencies by which He seeks to arouse men and women to a sense of their danger.--PK 277 (c. 1914). {LDE 28.3} [LDE 29.1] Coming Events Are in the Hands of the Lord The world is not without a ruler. The program of coming events is in the hands of the Lord. The Majesty of heaven has the destiny of nations as well as the concerns of His church in His own charge.--5T 753 (1889). {LDE 29.1} [LDE 29.2] These symbolical representations ［the fiery serpents in the wilderness］ serve a double purpose. From them God's people learn not only that the physical forces of the earth are under the control of the Creator, but also that under His control are the religious movements of the nations. Especially is this true with reference to the enforcement of Sunday observance.--19MR 281 (1902). {LDE 29.2} [LDE 29.3] In the great closing work we shall meet with perplexities that we know not how to deal with, but let us not forget that the three great Powers of heaven are working, that a divine hand is on the wheel, and that God will bring His purposes to pass.--Ev 65 (1902). {LDE 29.3} [LDE 29.4] As the wheel-like complications were under the guidance of the hand beneath the wings of the cherubim, so the complicated play of human events is under divine control. Amidst the strife and tumult of nations, He that sitteth above the cherubim still guides the affairs of the earth. ［See Ezekiel 1:4, 26; 10:8; Daniel 4:17, 25, 32.］--Ed 178 (1903). {LDE 29.4} [LDE 29.5] In the annals of human history, the growth of nations, the rise and fall of empires, appear as if 30 dependent on the will and prowess of man; the shaping of events seems, to a great degree, to be determined by his power, ambition, or caprice. But in the Word of God the curtain is drawn aside, and we behold, above, behind, and through all the play and counterplay of human interest and power and passions, the agencies of the All-merciful One, silently, patiently working out the counsels of His own will.--PK 499, 500 (c. 1914). {LDE 29.5} [LDE 30.1] Heaven's Regard for Earth's Affairs In sparing the life of the first murderer, God presented before the whole universe a lesson bearing upon the great controversy. . . . It was His purpose, not merely to put down the rebellion, but to demonstrate to all the universe the nature of rebellion. . . .The holy inhabitants of other worlds were watching with the deepest interest the events taking place on the earth. . . . {LDE 30.1} [LDE 30.2] God carries with Him the sympathy and approval of the whole universe as step by step His great plan advances to its complete fulfillment.--PP 78, 79 (1890). {LDE 30.2} [LDE 30.3] The act of Christ in dying for the salvation of man would not only make heaven accessible to men, but before all the universe it would justify God and His son in their dealing with the rebellion of Satan.--PP 68, 69 (1890). {LDE 30.3} [LDE 30.4] The whole universe is watching with inexpressible interest the closing scenes of the great controversy between good and evil.--PK 148 (c. 1914). {LDE 30.4} [LDE 31.1] Our little world is the lesson book of the universe.--DA 19 (1898). ［ELLEN WHITE STATES THAT THE UNFALLEN WORLDS AND THE HEAVENLY ANGELS WATCHED CHRIST'S STRUGGLE IN GETHSEMANE "WITH INTENSE INTEREST" (DA 693). IN DISCUSSING CHRIST'S FOUR-THOUSAND-YEAR BATTLE WITH SATAN AND HIS ULTIMATE VICTORY ON THE CROSS SHE USES SUCH PHRASES AS "THE HEAVENLY UNIVERSE BEHELD," "ALL HEAVEN AND THE UNFALLEN WORLDS HAD BEEN WITNESSES," "THEY HEARD," "THEY SAW," "HEAVEN VIEWED," "WHAT A SIGHT FOR THE HEAVENLY UNIVERSE!" SEE THE DESIRE OF AGES, PP. 693, 759, 760.］ {LDE 31.1} [LDE 32.1] Chap. 3. - "When Shall These Things Be?" The Disciples Ask Christ About His Return Christ's words ［Matthew 24:2］ had been spoken in the hearing of a large number of people, but when He was alone, Peter, John, James, and Andrew came to Him as He sat upon the Mount of Olives. "Tell us," they said, "when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of Thy coming, and of the end of the world?" {LDE 32.1} [LDE 32.2] Jesus did not answer His disciples by taking up separately the destruction of Jerusalem and the great day of His coming. He mingled the description of these two events. Had He opened to His disciples future events as He beheld them, they would have been unable to endure the sight. In mercy to them He blended the description of the two great crises, leaving the disciples to study out the meaning for themselves.--DA 628 (1898). {LDE 32.2} [LDE 32.3] Time of Christ's Return Not Known Many who have called themselves Adventists have been time-setters. Time after time has been set for 33 Christ to come, but repeated failures have been the result. The definite time of our Lord's coming is declared to be beyond the ken of mortals. Even the angels, who minister unto those who shall be heirs of salvation, know not the day nor the hour. "But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but My Father only."--4T 307 (1879). {LDE 32.3} [LDE 33.1] We are not to know the definite time either for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit or for the coming of Christ. . . . Why has not God given us this knowledge?--Because we would not make a right use of it if He did. A condition of things would result from this knowledge among our people that would greatly retard the work of God in preparing a people to stand in the great day that is to come. We are not to live upon time excitement. . . . {LDE 33.1} [LDE 33.2] You will not be able to say that He will come in one, two, or five years, neither are you to put off His coming by stating that it may not be for ten or twenty years.--RH March 22, 1892. {LDE 33.2} [LDE 33.3] We are nearing the great day of God. The signs are fulfilling. And yet we have no message to tell us of the day and hour of Christ's appearing. The Lord has wisely concealed this from us that we may always be in a state of expectancy and preparation for the second appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ in the clouds of heaven.--Letter 28, 1897. {LDE 33.3} [LDE 33.4] The exact time of the second coming of the Son of man is God's mystery.--DA 633 (1898). {LDE 33.4} [LDE 34.1] Ours Is Not a Time-setting Message We are not of that class who define the exact period of time that shall elapse before the coming of Jesus the second time with power and great glory. Some have set a time, and when that has passed, their presumptuous spirits have not accepted rebuke, but they have set another and another time. But many successive failures have stamped them as false prophets.--FE 335 (1895). {LDE 34.1} [LDE 34.2] God gives no man a message that it will be five years or ten years or twenty years before this earth's history shall close. He would not give any living being an excuse for delaying the preparation for His appearing. He would have no one say, as did the unfaithful servant, "My lord delayeth his coming," for this leads to reckless neglect of the opportunities and privileges given to prepare us for that great day.--RH Nov. 27, 1900. {LDE 34.2} [LDE 34.3] Time-setting Leads to Unbelief Because the times repeatedly set have passed, the world is in a more decided state of unbelief than before in regard to the near advent of Christ. They look upon the failures of the time-setters with disgust, and because men have been so deceived, they turn from the truth substantiated by the Word of God that the end of all things is at hand.--4T 307 (1879). {LDE 34.3} [LDE 34.4] I understand that Brother ［E. P.］ Daniels has, as it were, set time, stating that the Lord will come 35 within five years. Now I hope the impression will not go abroad that we are time-setters. Let no such remarks be made. They do no good. Seek not to obtain a revival upon any such grounds, but let due caution be used in every word uttered, that fanatical ones will not seize anything they can get to create an excitement and the Spirit of the Lord be grieved. {LDE 34.4} [LDE 35.1] We want not to move the people's passions to get up a stir, where feelings are moved and principle does not control. I feel that we need to be guarded on every side, because Satan is at work to do his uttermost to insinuate his arts and devices that shall be a power to do harm. Anything that will make a stir, create an excitement on a wrong basis, is to be dreaded, for the reaction will surely come.--Letter 34, 1887. {LDE 35.1} [LDE 35.2] There will always be false and fanatical movements made by persons in the church who claim to be led of God--those who will run before they are sent and will give day and date for the occurrence of unfulfilled prophecy. The enemy is pleased to have them do this, for their successive failures and leading into false lines cause confusion and unbelief.--2SM 84 (1897). {LDE 35.2} [LDE 35.3] No Time Prophecy Beyond 1844 I plainly stated at the Jackson camp meeting to these fanatical parties that they were doing the work of the adversary of souls; they were in darkness. They claimed to have great light that probation would close in October, 1884. I there stated in public that the Lord had been pleased to show me that there would be no 36 definite time in the message given of God since 1844.--2SM 73 (1885). {LDE 35.3} [LDE 36.1] Our position has been one of waiting and watching, with no time-proclamation to intervene between the close of the prophetic periods in 1844 and the time of our Lord's coming.--10MR 270 (1888). {LDE 36.1} [LDE 36.2] The people will not have another message upon definite time. After this period of time ［Revelation 10:4-6］, reaching from 1842 to 1844, there can be no definite tracing of the prophetic time. The longest reckoning reaches to the autumn of 1844.--7BC 971 (1900). {LDE 36.2} [LDE 36.3] Ellen White Expected Christ's Return in Her Day I was shown the company present at the Conference. Said the angel: "Some food for worms, some subjects of the seven last plagues, some will be alive and remain upon the earth to be translated at the coming of Jesus."--1T 131, 132 (1856). {LDE 36.3} [LDE 36.4] Because time is short, we should work with diligence and double energy. Our children may never enter college.--3T 159 (1872). {LDE 36.4} [LDE 36.5] It is really not wise to have children now. Time is short, the perils of the last days are upon us, and the little children will be largely swept off before this.--Letter 48, 1876. {LDE 36.5} [LDE 37.1] In this age of the world, as the scenes of earth's history are soon to close and we are about to enter upon the time of trouble such as never was, the fewer the marriages contracted the better for all, both men and women.--5T 366 (1885). {LDE 37.1} [LDE 37.2] The hour will come; it is not far distant, and some of us who now believe will be alive upon the earth, and shall see the prediction verified, and hear the voice of the archangel and the trump of God echo from mountain and plain and sea to the uttermost parts of the earth.--RH July 31, 1888. {LDE 37.2} [LDE 37.3] The time of test is just upon us, for the loud cry of the third angel has already begun in the revelation of the righteousness of Christ, the sin-pardoning Redeemer.--1SM 363 (1892). {LDE 37.3} [LDE 37.4] The Delay Explained The long night of gloom is trying, but the morning is deferred in mercy, because if the Master should come so many would be found unready.--2T 194 (1868). {LDE 37.4} [LDE 37.5] Had Adventists after the great disappointment in 1844 held fast their faith and followed on unitedly in the opening providence of God, receiving the message of the third angel and in the power of the Holy Spirit proclaiming it to the world, they would have seen the salvation of God, the Lord would have wrought mightily with their efforts, the work would have been 38 completed, and Christ would have come ere this to receive His people to their reward. . . . It was not the will of God that the coming of Christ should be thus delayed. . . . {LDE 37.5} [LDE 38.1] For forty years did unbelief, murmuring, and rebellion shut out ancient Israel from the land of Canaan. The same sins have delayed the entrance of modern Israel into the heavenly Canaan. In neither case were the promises of God at fault. It is the unbelief, the worldliness, unconsecration, and strife among the Lord's professed people that have kept us in this world of sin and sorrow so many years.--Ev 695, 696 (1883). {LDE 38.1} [LDE 38.2] Had the church of Christ done her appointed work as the Lord ordained, the whole world would before this have been warned and the Lord Jesus would have come to our earth in power and great glory.--DA 633, 634 (1898). {LDE 38.2} [LDE 38.3] God's Promises Are Conditional The angels of God in their messages to men represent time as very short. ［See Romans 13:11, 12; 1 Corinthians 7:29; 1 Thessalonians 4:15, 17; Hebrews 10:25; James 5:8, 9; 1 Peter 4:7; Revelation 22:6, 7.］ Thus it has always been presented to me. It is true that time has continued longer than we expected in the early days of this message. Our Saviour did not appear as soon as we hoped. But has the Word of the Lord failed? Never! It should be remembered that the promises and threatenings of God are alike conditional. ［See Jeremiah 18:7-10; Jonah 3:4-10.］. . . {LDE 38.3} [LDE 39.1] We may have to remain here in this world because of insubordination many more years, as did the children of Israel, but for Christ's sake His people should not add sin to sin by charging God with the consequence of their own wrong course of action.--Ev 695, 696 (1901). {LDE 39.1} [LDE 39.2] What Christ Is Waiting For Christ is waiting with longing desire for the manifestation of Himself in His church. When the character of Christ shall be perfectly reproduced in His people, then He will come to claim them as His own. {LDE 39.2} [LDE 39.3] It is the privilege of every Christian, not only to look for, but to hasten the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Were all who profess His name bearing fruit to His glory, how quickly the whole world would be sown with the seed of the gospel. Quickly the last great harvest would be ripened, and Christ would come to gather the precious grain.--COL 69 (1900). {LDE 39.3} [LDE 39.4] By giving the gospel to the world it is in our power to hasten our Lord's return. We are not only to look for but to hasten the coming of the day of God (2 Peter 3:12, margin).--DA 633 (1898). {LDE 39.4} [LDE 39.5] He has put it in our power, through cooperation with Him, to bring this scene of misery to an end.--Ed 264 (1903). {LDE 39.5} [LDE 39.6] A Limit to God's Forbearance With unerring accuracy the Infinite One still keeps an account with all nations. While His mercy is 40 tendered with calls to repentance this account will remain open, but when the figures reach a certain amount, which God has fixed, the ministry of His wrath commences.--5T 208 (1882). {LDE 39.6} [LDE 40.1] God keeps a record with the nations. The figures are swelling against them in the books of heaven, and when it shall have become a law that the transgression of the first day of the week shall be met with punishment, then their cup will be full.--7BC 910 (1886). {LDE 40.1} [LDE 40.2] God keeps a reckoning with the nations. . . . When the time fully comes that iniquity shall have reached the stated boundary of God's mercy, His forbearance will cease. When the accumulated figures in heaven's record books shall mark the sum of transgression complete, wrath will come.--5T 524 (1889). {LDE 40.2} [LDE 40.3] While God's mercy bears long with the transgressor, there is a limit beyond which men may not go on in sin. When that limit is reached, then the offers of mercy are withdrawn, and the ministration of judgment begins.--PP 162, 165 (1890). {LDE 40.3} [LDE 40.4] The time is coming when in their fraud and insolence men will reach a point that the Lord will not permit them to pass and they will learn that there is a limit to the forbearance of Jehovah.--9T 13 (1909). {LDE 40.4} [LDE 40.5] There is a limit beyond which the judgments of Jehovah can no longer be delayed.--PK 417 (c. 1914). {LDE 40.5} [LDE 41.1] Transgression Has Almost Reached Its Limit Time will last a little longer until the inhabitants of the earth have filled up the cup of their iniquity, and then the wrath of God, which has so long slumbered, will awake, and this land of light will drink the cup of His unmingled wrath.--1T 363 (1863). {LDE 41.1} [LDE 41.2] The cup of iniquity is nearly filled, and the retributive justice of God is about to descend upon the guilty.--4T 489 (1880). {LDE 41.2} [LDE 41.3] The wickedness of the inhabitants of the world has almost filled up the measure of their iniquity. This earth has almost reached the place where God will permit the destroyer to work his will upon it.--7T 141 (1902). {LDE 41.3} [LDE 41.4] Transgression has almost reached its limit. Confusion fills the world, and a great terror is soon to come upon human beings. The end is very near. We who know the truth should be preparing for what is soon to break upon the world as an overwhelming surprise.--8T 28 (1904). {LDE 41.4} [LDE 41.5] We Should Keep the Great Day of God Before Our Minds We must educate ourselves to be thinking and dwelling upon the great scenes of the judgment just before us and then, as we keep the scenes of the great day of God before us when everything will be revealed, it will have an effect upon our character. One brother said to me, "Sister White, do you think the Lord will come in ten 42 years?" "What difference does it make to you whether He shall come in two, four, or ten years?" "Why," said he, "I think I would do differently in some things than I now do if I knew the Lord was to come in ten years." {LDE 41.5} [LDE 42.1] "What would you do?" said I. {LDE 42.1} [LDE 42.2] "Why," said he, "I would sell my property and begin to search the Word of God and try to warn the people and get them to prepare for His coming, and I would plead with God that I might be ready to meet Him." {LDE 42.2} [LDE 42.3] Then said I, "If you knew that the Lord was not coming for twenty years, you would live differently?" {LDE 42.3} [LDE 42.4] Said he, "I think I would.". . . {LDE 42.4} [LDE 42.5] How selfish was the expression that he would live a different life if he knew his Lord was to come in ten years! Why, Enoch walked with God 300 years. This is a lesson for us that we shall walk with God every day, and we are not safe unless we are waiting and watching.--Ms 10, 1886. {LDE 42.5} [LDE 42.6] The Shortness of Time May the Lord give no rest, day nor night, to those who are now careless and indolent in the cause and work of God. The end is near. This is that which Jesus would have us keep ever before us--the shortness of time.--Letter 97, 1886. {LDE 42.6} [LDE 42.7] When we shall stand with the redeemed upon the sea of glass with harps of gold and crowns of glory and before us the unmeasured eternity, we shall then see how short was the waiting period of probation.--10MR 266 (1886). {LDE 42.7} [LDE 43.1] Chap. 4. - God's Last Day Church God's People Keep His Commandments God has a church on earth who are lifting up the downtrodden law, and presenting to the world the Lamb of God that taketh away the sins of the world. . . . {LDE 43.1} [LDE 43.2] There is but one church in the world who are at the present time standing in the breach and making up the hedge, building up the old waste places. . . . {LDE 43.2} [LDE 43.3] Let all be careful not to make an outcry against the only people who are fulfilling the description given of the remnant people, who keep the commandments of God and have faith in Jesus. . . . God has a distinct people, a church on earth, second to none, but superior to all in their facilities to teach the truth, to vindicate the law of God. . . . My brother, if you are teaching that the Seventh-day Adventist Church is Babylon, you are wrong.--TM 50, 58, 59 (1893). ［THE BOOK OF REVELATION FOCUSES ON TWO SETS OF GOD'S PEOPLE--THE VISIBLE REMNANT (12:17) AND "MY PEOPLE" IN BABYLON (18:4). THIS CHAPTER DEALS WITH THE FORMER, AND CHAPTER 14, "THE LOUD CRY," DEALS WITH THE LATTER.］ {LDE 43.3} [LDE 44.1] They Have the Testimony of Jesus As the end draws near and the work of giving the last warning to the world extends, it becomes more important for those who accept present truth to have a clear understanding of the nature and influence of the testimonies, which God in His providence has linked with the work of the third angel's message from its very rise.--5T 654 (1889). {LDE 44.1} [LDE 44.2] Men may get up scheme after scheme and the enemy will seek to seduce souls from the truth, but all who believe that the Lord has spoken through Sister White and has given her a message will be safe from the many delusions that will come in these last days.--3SM 83, 84 (1906). {LDE 44.2} [LDE 44.3] There will be those who will claim to have visions. When God gives you clear evidence that the vision is from Him, you may accept it, but do not accept it on any other evidence, for people are going to be led more and more astray in foreign countries and in America.--2SM 72 (1905). {LDE 44.3} [LDE 44.4] Their "Landmark" Biblical Doctrines The passing of the time in 1844 was a period of great events, opening to our astonished eyes the cleansing of the sanctuary transpiring in heaven, and having decided relation to God's people upon the earth, ［also］ the first and second angels' messages and the third, unfurling the banner on which was inscribed, "The 45 commandments of God and the faith of Jesus." One of the landmarks under this message was the temple of God, seen by His truth-loving people in heaven, and the ark containing the law of God. The light of the Sabbath of the fourth commandment flashed its strong rays in the pathway of the transgressors of God's law. The nonimmortality of the wicked is an old landmark. I can call to mind nothing more that can come under the head of the old landmarks.--CW 30, 31 (1889). {LDE 44.4} [LDE 45.1] The Distinctive Mission of Seventh-day Adventists The Lord has made us the depositaries of His law; He has committed to us sacred and eternal truth, which is to be given to others in faithful warnings, reproofs, and encouragement.--5T 381 (1885). {LDE 45.1} [LDE 45.2] Seventh-day Adventists have been chosen by God as a peculiar people, separate from the world. By the great cleaver of truth He has cut them out from the quarry of the world and brought them into connection with Himself. He has made them His representatives and has called them to be ambassadors for Him in the last work of salvation. The greatest wealth of truth ever entrusted to mortals, the most solemn and fearful warnings ever sent by God to man, have been committed to them to be given to the world.--7T 138 (1902). {LDE 45.2} [LDE 45.3] In a special sense Seventh-day Adventists have been set in the world as watchmen and light bearers. To them has been entrusted the last warning for a 46 perishing world. On them is shining wonderful light from the Word of God. They have been given a work of the most solemn import--the proclamation of the first, second, and third angels' messages. There is no other work of so great importance. They are to allow nothing else to absorb their attention.--9T 19 (1909). {LDE 45.3} [LDE 46.1] Reasons Why the Seventh-day Adventist Church Was Organized As our numbers increased it was evident that without some form of organization there would be great confusion, and the work would not be carried forward successfully. To provide for the support of the ministry, for carrying the work in new fields, for protecting both the churches and the ministry from unworthy members, for holding church property, for the publication of the truth through the press, and for many other objects, organization was indispensable. . . . {LDE 46.1} [LDE 46.2] Light was given by His Spirit that there must be order and thorough discipline in the church--that organization was essential. System and order are manifest in all the works of God throughout the universe. Order is the law of heaven, and it should be the law of God's people on the earth.--TM 26 (1902). {LDE 46.2} [LDE 46.3] Organization Will Always Be Essential Unless the churches are so organized that they can carry out and enforce order, they have nothing to hope for in the future.--1T 270 (1862). {LDE 46.3} [LDE 47.1] Oh, how Satan would rejoice if he could succeed in his efforts to get in among this people and disorganize the work at a time when thorough organization is essential and will be the greatest power to keep out spurious uprisings and to refute claims not endorsed by the Word of God! We want to hold the lines evenly, that there shall be no breaking down of the system of organization and order that has been built up by wise, careful labor. License must not be given to disorderly elements that desire to control the work at this time. {LDE 47.1} [LDE 47.2] Some have advanced the thought that, as we near the close of time, every child of God will act independently of any religious organization. But I have been instructed by the Lord that in this work there is no such thing as every man's being independent. ［FROM MANUSCRIPT READ BEFORE THE DELEGATES AT THE GENERAL CONFERENCE SESSION, WASHINGTON, D.C., MAY 30, 1909.］--9T 257, 258 (1909). {LDE 47.2} [LDE 47.3] As we near the final crisis, instead of feeling that there is less need of order and harmony of action, we should be more systematic than heretofore.--3SM 26 (1892). {LDE 47.3} [LDE 47.4] The Special Authority of God's Church God has invested His church with special authority and power which no one can be justified in disregarding and despising, for in so doing he despises the voice of God.--3T 417 (1875). {LDE 47.4} [LDE 47.5] God has bestowed the highest power under heaven upon His church. It is the voice of God in His united 48 people in church capacity which is to be respected.--3T 451 (1875). {LDE 47.5} [LDE 48.1] A Time of Spiritual Weakness and Blindness I was confirmed in all I had stated in Minneapolis, that a reformation must go through the churches. Reforms must be made, for spiritual weakness and blindness were upon the people who had been blessed with great light and precious opportunities and privileges. As reformers they had come out of the denominational churches, but they now act a part similar to that which the churches acted. We hoped that there would not be the necessity for another coming out. ［THIS IS THE ONLY KNOWN STATEMENT FROM THE PEN OF ELLEN WHITE INDICATING THAT SHE MIGHT HAVE LOST CONFIDENCE IN THE SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH ORGANIZATION. THE DOUBT WHICH SHE EXPRESSED HERE WAS NEVER REPEATED DURING THE REMAINING TWENTY-SIX YEARS OF HER LIFE.］ While we will endeavor to keep the "unity of the Spirit" in the bonds of peace, we will not with pen or voice cease to protest against bigotry.--EGW'88 356, 357 (1889). {LDE 48.1} [LDE 48.2] Of those who boast of their light and yet fail to walk in it Christ says, "But I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the day of judgment than for you. And thou, Capernaum ［Seventh-day Adventists, who have had great light］, which art exalted unto heaven ［in point of privilege］, shalt be brought down to hell: for if the mighty works which have been done in thee had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day."--RH Aug. 1, 1893. ［THE BRACKETED COMMENTS ARE BY ELLEN WHITE.］ {LDE 48.2} [LDE 49.1] The church is in the Laodicean state. The presence of God is not in her midst.--1NL 99 (1898). {LDE 49.1} [LDE 49.2] Abuse of Power at Church Headquarters The General Conference is itself becoming corrupted with wrong sentiments and principles. . . . {LDE 49.2} [LDE 49.3] Men have taken unfair advantage of those whom they supposed to be under their jurisdiction. They were determined to bring the individuals to their terms; they would rule or ruin. . . . {LDE 49.3} [LDE 49.4] The high-handed power that has been developed, as though position has made men gods, makes me afraid, and ought to cause fear. It is a curse wherever and by whomsoever it is exercised.--TM 359-361 (1895). {LDE 49.4} [LDE 49.5] There are altogether too many weighty responsibilities given to a few men, and some do not make God their Counselor. What do these men know of the necessities of the work in foreign countries? How can they know how to decide the questions which come to them asking for information? It would require three months for those in foreign countries to receive a response to their questions, even if there was no delay in writing.--TM 321 (1896). {LDE 49.5} [LDE 49.6] Those living in distant countries will not do that which their judgment tells them is right unless they first send for permission to Battle Creek. Before they will advance they await Yes or No from that place.--SpT-A(9) 32 (1896). {LDE 49.6} [LDE 50.1] It is not wise to choose one man as president of the General Conference. The work of the General Conference has extended, and some things have been made unnecessarily complicated. A want of discernment has been shown. There should be a division of the field, or some other plan should be devised to change the present order of things.--TM 342 (1896). ［THE SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH WAS ORGANIZED IN 1863 WITH 3,500 MEMBERS, HALF A DOZEN LOCAL CONFERENCES, ABOUT THIRTY MINISTERIAL LABORERS, AND A GENERAL CONFERENCE COMMITTEE OF THREE. THE GENERAL CONFERENCE PRESIDENT WAS WELL ABLE TO PROVIDE THE LEADERSHIP AND COUNSEL REQUIRED BY SUCH A SMALL ORGANIZATION. HE COULD PERSONALLY ATTEND EVERY IMPORTANT MEETING AND IN ADDITION GIVE PERSONAL ATTENTION TO MUCH OF THE BUSINESS CONNECTED WITH THE PUBLISHING WORK. HOWEVER, BY 1896 THE WORK OF THE CHURCH HAD GREATLY EXPANDED IN THE UNITED STATES, AND EXTENDED TO EUROPE, AUSTRALIA, AND AFRICA AS WELL. IT WAS NO LONGER POSSIBLE FOR ONE MAN TO GIVE ADEQUATE SUPERVISION AND DIRECTION TO SUCH A WIDESPREADING WORK. ELLEN WHITE URGED A DIVISION OF THE FIELD, SO THAT OUR CHURCH MEMBERS AROUND THE WORLD WOULD NOT LOOK TO JUST ONE MAN FOR COUNSEL. THIS WAS ACCOMPLISHED BY THE CREATION OF UNION CONFERENCES AND WORLD DIVISIONS.］ {LDE 50.1} [LDE 50.2] Unwise Leaders Do Not Speak for God The voice from Battle Creek, which has been regarded as authority in counseling how the work should be done, is no longer the voice of God.--17MR 185 (1896). {LDE 50.2} [LDE 50.3] It has been some years since I have considered the General Conference as the voice of God.--17MR 216 (1898). {LDE 50.3} [LDE 50.4] That these men should stand in a sacred place, to be as the voice of God to the people, as we once believed 51 the General Conference to be--that is past.--GCB April 3, 1901, p. 25. {LDE 50.4} [LDE 51.1] A New Denomination Not Needed You will take passages in the Testimonies that speak of the close of probation, of the shaking among God's people, and you will talk of a coming out from this people of a purer, holier people that will arise. Now all this pleases the enemy. . . . Should many accept the views you advance, and talk and act upon them, we would see one of the greatest fanatical excitements that has ever been witnessed among Seventh-day Adventists. This is what Satan wants.--1SM 179 (1890). {LDE 51.1} [LDE 51.2] The Lord has not given you a message to call the Seventh-day Adventists Babylon, and to call the people of God to come out of her. All the reasons you may present cannot have weight with me on this subject, because the Lord has given me decided light that is opposed to such a message. . . . {LDE 51.2} [LDE 51.3] I know that the Lord loves His church. It is not to be disorganized or broken up into independent atoms. There is not the least consistency in this; there is not the least evidence that such a thing will be.--2SM 63, 68, 69 (1893). {LDE 51.3} [LDE 51.4] I tell you, my brethren, the Lord has an organized body through whom He will work. . . . When anyone is drawing apart from the organized body of God's commandment-keeping people, when he begins to weigh the church in his human scales and begins to 52 pronounce judgment against them, then you may know that God is not leading him. He is on the wrong track.--3SM 17, 18 (1893). {LDE 51.4} [LDE 52.1] God Will Set Everything in Order There is no need to doubt, to be fearful that the work will not succeed. God is at the head of the work, and He will set everything in order. If matters need adjusting at the head of the work God will attend to that, and work to right every wrong. Let us have faith that God is going to carry the noble ship which bears the people of God safely into port.--2SM 390 (1892). {LDE 52.1} [LDE 52.2] Has God no living church? He has a church, but it is the church militant, not the church triumphant. We are sorry that there are defective members, that there are tares amid the wheat. . . . Although there are evils existing in the church, and will be until the end of the world, the church in these last days is to be the light of the world that is polluted and demoralized by sin. The church, enfeebled and defective, needing to be reproved, warned, and counseled, is the only object upon earth upon which Christ bestows His supreme regard.--TM 45, 49 (1893). {LDE 52.2} [LDE 52.3] The bulwarks of Satan will never triumph. Victory will attend the third angel's message. As the Captain of the Lord's host tore down the walls of Jericho, so will the Lord's commandment-keeping people triumph, and all opposing elements be defeated.--TM 410 (1898). {LDE 52.3} [LDE 53.1] Distribution of Responsibility Urged What we want now is a reorganization. We want to begin at the foundation, and to build upon a different principle. . . . {LDE 53.1} [LDE 53.2] Here are men who are standing at the head of our various institutions, of the educational interests, and of the conferences in different localities and in different States. All these are to stand as representative men, to have a voice in molding and fashioning the plans that shall be carried out. There are to be more than one or two or three men to consider the whole vast field. The work is great, and there is no one human mind that can plan for the work which needs to be done. . . . {LDE 53.2} [LDE 53.3] Now I want to say, God has not put any kingly power in our ranks to control this or that branch of the work. The work has been greatly restricted by the efforts to control it in every line. . . . There must be a renovation, a reorganization; a power and strength must be brought into the committees that are necessary." ［FROM ELLEN WHITE'S OPENING ADDRESS ON APRIL 2, 1901, TO THE GENERAL CONFERENCE SESSION IN BATTLE CREEK.］--GCB April 3, 1901, pp. 25, 26. {LDE 53.3} [LDE 53.4] New Conferences must be formed. It was in the order of God that the Union conference was organized in Australasia. . . . It is not necessary to send thousands of miles to Battle Creek for advice, and then have to wait weeks for an answer. Those who are right on the ground are to decide what shall be done.--GCB April 5, 1901, pp. 69, 70. {LDE 53.4} [LDE 54.1] The 1901 General Conference Session Responds Who do you suppose has been among us since this Conference began? Who has kept away the objectionable features that generally appear in such a meeting? Who has walked up and down the aisles of this Tabernacle? The God of heaven and His angels. And they did not come here to tear you in pieces, but to give you right and peaceable minds. They have been among us to work the works of God, to keep back the powers of darkness, that the work God designed should be done should not be hindered. The angels of God have been working among us. . . . {LDE 54.1} [LDE 54.2] I was never more astonished in my life than at the turn things have taken at this meeting. This is not our work. God has brought it about. Instruction regarding this was presented to me, but until the sum was worked out at this meeting I could not comprehend this instruction. God's angels have been walking up and down in this congregation. I want every one of you to remember this, and I want you to remember also that God has said that He will heal the wounds of His people.--GCB April 25, 1901, pp. 463, 464. {LDE 54.2} [LDE 54.3] During the General Conference the Lord wrought mightily for His people. Every time I think of that meeting, a sweet solemnity comes over me, and sends a glow of gratitude to my soul. We have seen the stately steppings of the Lord our Redeemer. We praise His holy name, for He has brought deliverance to His people.--RH Nov. 26, 1901. {LDE 54.3} [LDE 55.1] It has been a necessity to organize union conferences, that the General Conference shall not exercise dictation over all the separate conferences. The power vested in the Conference is not to be centered in one man, or two men, or six men; there is to be a council of men over the separate divisions.--Ms 26, April 3, 1903. ［FOR FURTHER INFORMATION REGARDING ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGES MADE AT THE 1901 GENERAL CONFERENCE SESSION SEE THE SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST ENCYCLOPEDIA (VOL. 10 OF THE COMMENTARY REFERENCE SERIES), REVISED EDITION, PP. 1050-1053.］ {LDE 55.1} [LDE 55.2] Confidence in SDA Organization Reaffirmed We cannot now step off the foundation that God has established. We cannot now enter into any new organization, for this would mean apostasy from the truth.--2SM 390 (1905). {LDE 55.2} [LDE 55.3] I am instructed to say to Seventh-day Adventists the world over, God has called us as a people to be a peculiar treasure unto Himself. He has appointed that His church on earth shall stand perfectly united in the Spirit and counsel of the Lord of hosts to the end of time.--2SM 397 (1908). {LDE 55.3} [LDE 55.4] At times, when a small group of men entrusted with the general management of the work have, in the name of the General Conference, sought to carry out unwise plans to restrict God's work, I have said that I could no longer regard the voice of the General Conference, represented by these few men, as the voice of God. But this is not saying that the decisions 56 of a General Conference composed of an assembly of duly appointed, representative men from all parts of the field should not be respected. {LDE 55.4} [LDE 56.1] God has ordained that the representatives of His church from all parts of the earth, when assembled in a General Conference, shall have authority. The error that some are in danger of committing is in giving to the mind and judgment of one man, or of a small group of men, the full measure of authority and influence that God has invested in His church in the judgment and voice of the General Conference assembled to plan for the prosperity and advancement of His work.--9T 260, 261 (1909). {LDE 56.1} [LDE 56.2] God has invested His church with special authority and power which no one can be justified in disregarding and despising, for he who does this despises the voice of God.--AA 164 (1911). {LDE 56.2} [LDE 56.3] I am encouraged and blessed as I realize that the God of Israel is still guiding His people and that He will continue to be with them, even to the end.--2SM 406 (1913). ［FROM ELLEN WHITE'S FINAL MESSAGE TO THE SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH IN GENERAL CONFERENCE SESSION. THESE REASSURING WORDS WERE READ TO THE SESSION BY THE GENERAL CONFERENCE PRESIDENT, A. G. DANIELLS, ON MAY 27, 1913.］ {LDE 56.3} [LDE 56.4] A Statement by W. C. White I TOLD HER ［MRS. LIDA SCOTT］ HOW MOTHER REGARDED THE EXPERIENCE OF THE REMNANT CHURCH, AND OF HER POSITIVE 57 TEACHING THAT GOD WOULD NOT PERMIT THIS DENOMINATION TO SO FULLY APOSTATIZE THAT THERE WOULD BE THE COMING OUT OF ANOTHER CHURCH.--W. C. White to E. E. Andross, May 23, 1915, White Estate Correspondence File. {LDE 56.4} [LDE 57.1] Spiritual Revival Still Needed One day at noon I was writing of the work that might have been done at the last ［1901］ General Conference if the men in positions of trust had followed the will and way of God. Those who have had great light have not walked in the light. The meeting was closed, and the break was not made. Men did not humble themselves before the Lord as they should have done, and the Holy Spirit was not imparted. {LDE 57.1} [LDE 57.2] I had written thus far when I lost consciousness, and I seemed to be witnessing a scene in Battle Creek. {LDE 57.2} [LDE 57.3] We were assembled in the auditorium of the Tabernacle. Prayer was offered, a hymn was sung, and prayer was again offered. Most earnest supplication was made to God. The meeting was marked by the presence of the Holy Spirit. . . . {LDE 57.3} [LDE 57.4] No one seemed to be too proud to make heartfelt confession, and those who led in this work were the ones who had influence, but had not before had courage to confess their sins. {LDE 57.4} [LDE 57.5] There was rejoicing such as never before had been heard in the Tabernacle. {LDE 57.5} [LDE 57.6] Then I aroused from my unconsciousness, and for a while could not think where I was. My pen was still in my hand. The words were spoken to me: "This 58 might have been. All this the Lord was waiting to do for His people. All heaven was waiting to be gracious." I thought of where we might have been had thorough work been done at the last General Conference.--8T 104-106 (Jan. 5, 1903). {LDE 57.6} [LDE 58.1] I have been deeply impressed by scenes that have recently passed before me in the night season. There seemed to be a great movement--a work of revival--going forward in many places. Our people were moving into line, responding to God's call.--TM 515 (1913). ［FROM ELLEN WHITE'S FIRST MESSAGE TO THE GENERAL CONFERENCE SESSION OF 1913.］ {LDE 58.1} [LDE 58.2] The Patience of God With His People The church has failed, sadly failed, to meet the expectations of her Redeemer, and yet the Lord does not withdraw Himself from His people. He bears with them still, not because of any goodness found in them, but that His name may not be dishonored before the enemies of truth and righteousness, that the satanic agencies may not triumph in the destruction of God's people. He has borne long with their waywardness, unbelief and folly. With wonderful forbearance and compassion He has disciplined them. If they will heed His instruction He will cleanse away their perverse tendencies, saving them with an everlasting salvation and making them eternal monuments of the power of His grace.--ST Nov. 13, 1901. {LDE 58.2} [LDE 58.3] We should remember that the church, enfeebled and defective though it be, is the only object on earth 59 on which Christ bestows His supreme regard. He is constantly watching it with solicitude, and is strengthening it by His Holy Spirit.--2SM 396 (1902). {LDE 58.3} [LDE 59.1] God Works With Those Who Are Faithful to Him The Lord Jesus will always have a chosen people to serve Him. When the Jewish people rejected Christ, the Prince of life, He took from them the kingdom of God and gave it unto the Gentiles. God will continue to work on this principle with every branch of His work. {LDE 59.1} [LDE 59.2] When a church proves unfaithful to the word of the Lord, whatever their position may be, however high and sacred their calling, the Lord can no longer work with them. Others are then chosen to bear important responsibilities. But, if these in turn do not purify their lives from every wrong action, if they do not establish pure and holy principles in all their borders, then the Lord will grievously afflict and humble them and, unless they repent, will remove them from their place and make them a reproach.--14MR 102 (1903). {LDE 59.2} [LDE 59.3] Judged by the Light Bestowed In the balances of the sanctuary the Seventh-day Adventist church is to be weighed. She will be judged by the privileges and advantages that she has had. If her spiritual experience does not correspond to the advantages that Christ, at infinite cost, has bestowed on her, if the blessings conferred have not qualified her to do the work entrusted to her, on her will be pronounced the 60 sentence: "Found wanting." By the light bestowed, the opportunities given, will she be judged. . . . {LDE 59.3} [LDE 60.1] Solemn admonitions of warning, manifest in the destruction of dearly cherished facilities ［THE BATTLE CREEK SANITARIUM, THE LARGEST AND BEST-KNOWN ADVENTIST INSTITUTION IN THE WORLD, BURNED TO THE GROUND FEBRUARY 18, 1902. THIS WAS FOLLOWED BY THE DESTRUCTION OF THE REVIEW AND HERALD PUBLISHING ASSOCIATION, ALSO BY FIRE, ON DECEMBER 30, 1902.］ for service, say to us: "Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works" (Revelation 2:5). . . . {LDE 60.1} [LDE 60.2] Unless the church, which is now being leavened with her own backsliding, shall repent and be converted, she will eat of the fruit of her own doing, until she shall abhor herself. When she resists the evil and chooses the good, when she seeks God with all humility and reaches her high calling in Christ, standing on the platform of eternal truth and by faith laying hold upon the attainments prepared for her, she will be healed. She will appear in her God-given simplicity and purity, separate from earthly entanglements, showing that the truth has made her free indeed. Then her members will indeed be the chosen of God, His representatives.--8T 247-251 (April 21, 1903). {LDE 60.2} [LDE 60.3] Israel's History a Warning to Us In these last days God's people will be exposed to the very same dangers as were ancient Israel. Those who will not receive the warnings that God gives will fall into the same perils as did ancient Israel and come short of entering into rest through unbelief. Ancient Israel suffered calamities on account of their 61 unsanctified hearts and unsubmitted wills. Their final rejection as a nation was a result of their own unbelief, self-confidence, impenitence, blindness of mind, and hardness of heart. In their history we have a danger signal lifted before us. {LDE 60.3} [LDE 61.1] "Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God. . . . For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end" (Hebrews 3:12, 14).--Letter 30, 1895. {LDE 61.1} [LDE 61.2] The Church Militant Is Imperfect The church militant is not the church triumphant, and earth is not heaven. The church is composed of erring, imperfect men and women, who are but learners in the school of Christ, to be trained, disciplined, educated, for this life and for the future, immortal life.--ST Jan. 4, 1883. {LDE 61.2} [LDE 61.3] Some people seem to think that upon entering the church they will have their expectations fulfilled, and meet only with those who are pure and perfect. They are zealous in their faith, and when they see faults in church members, they say, "We left the world in order to have no association with evil characters, but the evil is here also;" and they ask, as did the servants in the parable, "From whence then hath it tares?" But we need not be thus disappointed, for the Lord has not warranted us in coming to the conclusion that the church is perfect; and all our zeal will not be successful 62 in making the church militant as pure as the church triumphant.--TM 47 (1893). {LDE 61.3} [LDE 62.1] The Church Triumphant Will Be Faithful and Christlike The work is soon to close. The members of the church militant who have proved faithful will become the church triumphant.--Ev 707 (1892). {LDE 62.1} [LDE 62.2] The life of Christ was a life charged with a divine message of the love of God, and He longed intensely to impart this love to others in rich measure. Compassion beamed from His countenance, and His conduct was characterized by grace, humility, truth, and love. Every member of His church militant must manifest the same qualities, if he would join the church triumphant.--FE 179 (1891) {LDE 62.2} [LDE 63.1] Chap. 5. - Devotional Life of the Remnant A Twofold Life In this age, just prior to the second coming of Christ in the clouds of heaven, such a work as that of John ［the Baptist］ is to be done. God calls for men who will prepare a people to stand in the great day of the Lord. . . . In order to give such a message as John gave, we must have a spiritual experience like his. The same work must be wrought in us. We must behold God, and in beholding Him lose sight of self.--8T 332, 333 (1904). {LDE 63.1} [LDE 63.2] Communion with God will ennoble the character and the life. Men will take knowledge of us, as of the first disciples, that we have been with Jesus. This will impart to the worker a power that nothing else can give. Of this power he must not allow himself to be deprived. We must live a twofold life--a life of thought and action, of silent prayer and earnest work.--MH 512 (1905). {LDE 63.2} [LDE 63.3] Prayer and effort, effort and prayer, will be the business of your life. You must pray as though the efficiency and praise were all due to God, and labor as though duty were all your own.--4T 538 (1881). {LDE 63.3} [LDE 64.1] No man is safe for a day or an hour without prayer.--GC 530 (1911). {LDE 64.1} [LDE 64.2] He who does nothing but pray will soon cease to pray.--SC 101 (1892). {LDE 64.2} [LDE 64.3] Firmly Rooted In Christ The storm is coming, the storm that will try every man's faith of what sort it is. Believers must now be firmly rooted in Christ or else they will be led astray by some phase of error.--Ev 361, 362 (1905). {LDE 64.3} [LDE 64.4] It would be well for us to spend a thoughtful hour each day in contemplation of the life of Christ. We should take it point by point and let the imagination grasp each scene, especially the closing ones.--DA 83 (1898). {LDE 64.4} [LDE 64.5] The only defense against evil is the indwelling of Christ in the heart through faith in His righteousness. Unless we become vitally connected with God, we can never resist the unhallowed effects of self-love, self-indulgence, and temptation to sin. We may leave off many bad habits, for the time we may part company with Satan; but without a vital connection with God, through the surrender of ourselves to Him moment by moment, we shall be overcome. Without a personal acquaintance with Christ, and a continual communion, we are at the mercy of the enemy, and shall do his bidding in the end.--DA 324 (1898). {LDE 64.5} [LDE 65.1] Christ and Him crucified should be the theme of contemplation, of conversation, and of our most joyful emotion.--SC 103, 104 (1892). {LDE 65.1} [LDE 65.2] Molded By The Holy Spirit Never will the human heart know happiness until it is submitted to be molded by the Spirit of God. The Spirit conforms the renewed soul to the model, Jesus Christ. Through its influence, enmity against God is changed into faith and love, and pride into humility. The soul perceives the beauty of truth, and Christ is honored in excellence and perfection of character.--OHC 152 (1896). {LDE 65.2} [LDE 65.3] There is not an impulse of our nature, not a faculty of the mind or an inclination of the heart, but needs to be, moment by moment, under the control of the Spirit of God.--PP 421 (1890). {LDE 65.3} [LDE 65.4] The Spirit illumines our darkness, informs our ignorance, and helps us in our manifold necessities. But the mind must be constantly going out after God. If worldliness is allowed to come in, if we have no desire to pray, no desire to commune with Him who is the source of strength and wisdom, the Spirit will not abide with us.--OHC 154 (1904). {LDE 65.4} [LDE 65.5] The Necessity of Bible Study No renewed heart can be kept in a condition of sweetness without the daily application of the salt of 66 the Word. Divine grace must be received daily, or no man will stay converted.--OHC 215 (1897). {LDE 65.5} [LDE 66.1] Let your faith be substantiated by the Word of God. Grasp firmly the living testimony of truth. Have faith in Christ as a personal Saviour. He has been and ever will be our Rock of Ages.--Ev 362 (1905). {LDE 66.1} [LDE 66.2] Christians should be preparing for what is soon to break upon the world as an overwhelming surprise, and this preparation they should make by diligently studying the Word of God and striving to conform their lives to its precepts.--PK 626 (c. 1914). {LDE 66.2} [LDE 66.3] None but those who have fortified the mind with the truths of the Bible will stand through the last great conflict.--GC 593, 594 (1911). {LDE 66.3} [LDE 66.4] Only those who have been diligent students of the Scriptures and who have received the love of the truth will be shielded from the powerful delusion that takes the world captive.--GC 625 (1911). {LDE 66.4} [LDE 66.5] Our people need to understand the oracles of God; they need to have a systematic knowledge of the principles of revealed truth, which will fit them for what is coming upon the earth and prevent them from being carried about by every wind of doctrine.--5T 273 (1885). {LDE 66.5} [LDE 66.6] Commit Scripture to Memory Several times each day precious, golden moments 67 should be consecrated to prayer and the study of the Scriptures, if it is only to commit a text to memory, that spiritual life may exist in the soul.--4T 459 (1880). {LDE 66.6} [LDE 67.1] God's precious Word is the standard for youth who would be loyal to the King of heaven. Let them study the Scriptures. Let them commit text after text to memory and acquire a knowledge of what the Lord has said.--ML 315 (1887). {LDE 67.1} [LDE 67.2] Build a wall of scriptures around you, and you will see that the world cannot break it down. Commit the Scriptures to memory, and then throw right back upon Satan when he comes with his temptations, "It is written." This is the way that our Lord met the temptations of Satan, and resisted them.--RH April 10, 1888. {LDE 67.2} [LDE 67.3] Hang in memory's hall the precious words of Christ. They are to be valued far above silver or gold.--6T 81 (1900). {LDE 67.3} [LDE 67.4] Keep a pocket Bible with you as you work, and improve every opportunity to commit to memory its precious promises.--RH April 27, 1905. {LDE 67.4} [LDE 67.5] The time will come when many will be deprived of the written Word. But if this Word is printed in the memory, no one can take it from us.--20MR 64 (1906). {LDE 67.5} [LDE 67.6] Study the Word of God. Commit its precious promises to memory so that, when we shall be deprived of 68 our Bibles, we may still be in possession of the Word of God.--10MR 298 (1909). {LDE 67.6} [LDE 68.1] Revelation 14 an Anchor to God's People In these last days it is our duty to ascertain the full meaning of the first, second, and third angels' messages. All our transactions should be in accordance with the Word of God. The first, second, and third angels' messages are all united and are revealed in the fourteenth chapter of Revelation from the sixth verse to the close.--13MR 68 (1896). {LDE 68.1} [LDE 68.2] Many who embraced the third message had not had an experience in the two former messages. Satan understood this, and his evil eye was upon them to overthrow them; but the third angel was pointing them to the most holy place, and those who had an experience in the past messages were pointing them the way to the heavenly sanctuary. Many saw the perfect chain of truth in the angels' messages and gladly received them in their order, and followed Jesus by faith into the heavenly sanctuary. These messages were represented to me as an anchor to the people of God. Those who understand and receive them will be kept from being swept away by the many delusions of Satan.--EW 256 (1858). {LDE 68.2} [LDE 68.3] Educate the Mind to Believe God's Word Those who feel at liberty to question the Word of God, to doubt everything where there is any chance to 69 be unbelieving, will find that it will require a tremendous struggle to have faith when trouble comes. It will be almost impossible to overcome the influence that binds the mind which has been educated in the line of unbelief, for by this course the soul is bound in Satan's snare and becomes powerless to break the dreadful net that has been woven closer and closer about the soul. {LDE 68.3} [LDE 69.1] In taking a position of doubt, man calls to his aid the agencies of Satan. But the only hope of one who has been educated in the line of unbelief is to fall all helpless upon the Saviour and, like a child, submit his will and his way to Christ that he may be brought out of darkness into His marvelous light. Man does not have the power to recover himself from the snare of Satan. He who educates himself in the line of questioning, doubting, and criticizing strengthens himself in infidelity.--Ms 3, 1895. {LDE 69.1} [LDE 69.2] Preparation for Future Trials The servants of Christ are to prepare no set speech to present when brought to trial for their faith. Their preparation is to be made day by day, in treasuring up in their hearts the precious truths of God's Word, in feeding upon the teaching of Christ, and through prayer strengthening their faith; then, when brought into trial, the Holy Spirit will bring to their remembrance the very truths that will reach the hearts of those who shall come to hear. God will flash the knowledge obtained by diligent searching of the Scriptures into their memory at the very time when it is needed.--CSW 40, 41 (1900). {LDE 69.2} [LDE 70.1] When the time of trial shall come there are men now preaching to others who will find, upon examining the positions they hold, that there are many things for which they can give no satisfactory reason. Until thus tested they knew not their great ignorance. And there are many in the church who take it for granted that they understand what they believe, but, until controversy arises, they do not know their own weakness. When separated from those of like faith and compelled to stand singly and alone to explain their belief, they will be surprised to see how confused are their ideas of what they had accepted as truth.--5T 707 (1889). {LDE 70.1} [LDE 70.2] Control the Moral Powers The ability to give a reason for our faith is a good accomplishment, but if the truth does not go deeper than this, the soul will never be saved. The heart must be purified from all moral defilement.--OHC 142 (1893). {LDE 70.2} [LDE 70.3] Few realize that it is a duty to exercise control over their thoughts and imaginations. It is difficult to keep the undisciplined mind fixed upon profitable subjects. But if the thoughts are not properly employed, religion cannot flourish in the soul. The mind must be preoccupied with sacred and eternal things, or it will cherish trifling and superficial thoughts. Both the intellectual and the moral powers must be disciplined, and they will strengthen and improve by exercise.--OHC 111 (1881). {LDE 70.3} [LDE 70.4] We greatly need to encourage and cultivate pure, chaste thoughts, and to strengthen the moral powers 71 rather than the lower and carnal powers. God help us to awake from our self-indulgent appetites!--MM 278 (1896). {LDE 70.4} [LDE 71.1] The Example of Enoch Enoch walked with God three hundred years previous to his translation to heaven, and the state of the world was not then more favorable for the perfection of Christian character than it is today. And how did Enoch walk with God? He educated his mind and heart to ever feel that he was in the presence of God, and when in perplexity his prayers would ascend to God to keep him. {LDE 71.1} [LDE 71.2] He refused to take any course that would offend his God. He kept the Lord continually before him. He would pray, "Teach me Thy way, that I may not err. What is Thy pleasure concerning me? What shall I do to honor Thee, my God?" Thus he was constantly shaping his way and course in accordance with God's commandments, and he had perfect confidence and trust in his heavenly Father, that He would help him. He had no thought or will of his own. It was all submerged in the will of his Father. {LDE 71.2} [LDE 71.3] Now Enoch was a representative of those who will be upon the earth when Christ shall come, who will be translated to heaven without seeing death.--1SAT 32 (1886). {LDE 71.3} [LDE 71.4] Enoch had temptations as well as we. He was surrounded with society no more friendly to righteousness than is that which surrounds us. The atmosphere he 72 breathed was tainted with sin and corruption the same as ours, yet he lived a life of holiness. He was unsullied with the prevailing sins of the age in which he lived. So may we remain pure and uncorrupted.--2T 122 (1868). {LDE 71.4} [LDE 72.1] Remember God's Past Blessings In reviewing our past history, having traveled over every step of advance to our present standing, I can say, Praise God! As I see what the Lord has wrought, I am filled with astonishment, and with confidence in Christ as leader. We have nothing to fear for the future, except as we shall forget the way the Lord has led us, and His teaching in our past history.--LS 196 (1902). {LDE 72.1} [LDE 72.2] A Time for Serious Reflection If there ever was a time when serious reflection becomes every one who fears God, it is now, when personal piety is essential. The inquiry should be made, "What am I, and what is my work and mission in this time? On which side am I working--Christ's side or the enemy's side?" Let every soul now humble himself or herself before God, for now we are surely living in the great Day of Atonement. The cases even now of many are passing in review before God, for they are to sleep in their graves a little season. Your profession of faith is not your guarantee in that day, but the state of your affections. Is the soul-temple cleansed of its defilement? Are my sins confessed and am I repenting of them before God, that they may be blotted out? Do I esteem myself too lightly? Am I 73 willing to make any and every sacrifice for the excellency of the knowledge of Jesus Christ? Do I feel every moment I am not my own, but Christ's property, that my service belongs to God, whose I am?--Ms 87, 1886. {LDE 72.2} [LDE 73.1] We should ask ourselves, "For what are we living and working? And what will be the outcome of it all?"--ST Nov. 21, 1892. {LDE 73.1} [LDE 73.2] Living With Reference to the Judgment Day I have questioned in my mind, as I have seen the people in our cities hurrying to and fro with business, whether they ever thought of the day of God that is just upon us. Every one of us should be living with reference to the great day which is soon to come upon us.--1SAT 25 (1886). {LDE 73.2} [LDE 73.3] We cannot afford to live with no reference to the day of judgment; for though long delayed, it is now near, even at the door, and hasteth greatly. The trumpet of the Archangel will soon startle the living and wake the dead.--CG 560, 561 (1892). {LDE 73.3} [LDE 73.4] Ready for Christ's Return If we find no pleasure now in the contemplation of heavenly things; if we have no interest in seeking the knowledge of God, no delight in beholding the character of Christ; if holiness has no attractions for us--then we may be sure that our hope of heaven is vain. Perfect conformity to the will of God is the high aim to 74 be constantly before the Christian. He will love to talk of God, of Jesus, of the home of bliss and purity which Christ has prepared for them that love Him. The contemplation of these themes, when the soul feasts upon the blessed assurances of God, the apostle represents as tasting "the powers of the world to come."--5T 745 (1889). {LDE 73.4} [LDE 74.1] If you are right with God today, you are ready if Christ should come today.--HP 227 (1891). {LDE 74.1} [LDE 75.1] Chap. 6. - Lifestyle and Activities of the Remnant A Spirit of Service and Self-Sacrifice Long has God waited for the spirit of service to take possession of the whole church so that everyone shall be working for Him according to his ability. When the members of the church of God do their appointed work in the needy fields at home and abroad, in fulfillment of the gospel commission, the whole world will soon be warned, and the Lord Jesus will return to this earth with power and great glory.--AA 111 (1911). {LDE 75.1} [LDE 75.2] Everywhere there is a tendency to substitute the work of organizations for individual effort. Human wisdom tends to consolidation, to centralization, to the building up of great churches and institutions. Multitudes leave to institutions and organizations the work of benevolence; they excuse themselves from contact with the world, and their hearts grow cold. They become self-absorbed and unimpressible. Love for God and man dies out of the soul. {LDE 75.2} [LDE 76.1] Christ commits to His followers an individual work--a work that cannot be done by proxy. Ministry to the sick and the poor, the giving of the gospel to the lost, is not to be left to committees or organized charities. Individual responsibility, individual effort, personal sacrifice, is the requirement of the gospel.--MH 147 (1905). {LDE 76.1} [LDE 76.2] "Occupy Till I Come" Christ says, "Occupy till I come" ［Luke 19:13］. It may be but a few years until our life's history shall close, but we must occupy till then.--RH April 21, 1896. {LDE 76.2} [LDE 76.3] Christ would have everyone educate himself to calmly contemplate His second appearing. All are to search the Word of God daily, but not neglect present duties.--Letter 28, 1897. {LDE 76.3} [LDE 76.4] Christ declared that when He comes some of His waiting people will be engaged in business transactions. Some will be sowing in the field, others reaping and gathering in the harvest, and others grinding at the mill. It is not God's will that His elect shall abandon life's duties and responsibilities and give themselves up to idle contemplation, living in a religious dream.--Ms 18a, 1901. {LDE 76.4} [LDE 76.5] Crowd all the good works you possibly can into this life.--5T 488 (1889). {LDE 76.5} [LDE 77.1] As If Each Day Might Be Our Last We should watch and work and pray as though this were the last day that would be granted us.--5T 200 (1882). {LDE 77.1} [LDE 77.2] Our only safety is in doing our work for each day as it comes, working, watching, waiting, every moment relying on the strength of Him who was dead and who is alive again, who lives forevermore.--Letter 66, 1894. {LDE 77.2} [LDE 77.3] Each morning consecrate yourselves and your children to God for that day. Make no calculation for months or years; these are not yours. One brief day is given you. As if it were your last on earth, work during its hours for the Master. Lay all your plans before God, to be carried out or given up, as His providence shall indicate.--7T 44 (1902). {LDE 77.3} [LDE 77.4] Conscientious Sabbath Observance ［SEE "THE OBSERVANCE OF THE SABBATH," IN TESTIMONIES FOR THE CHURCH, VOL. 6, PP. 349-368.］ Our heavenly Father desires through the observance of the Sabbath to preserve among men a knowledge of Himself. He desires that the Sabbath shall direct our minds to Him as the true and living God, and that through knowing Him we may have life and peace.--6T 349 (1900). {LDE 77.4} [LDE 77.5] All through the week we are to have the Sabbath in mind and be making preparation to keep it according to the commandment. We are not merely to observe the 78 Sabbath as a legal matter. We are to understand its spiritual bearing upon all the transactions of life. . . . {LDE 77.5} [LDE 78.1] When the Sabbath is thus remembered, the temporal will not be allowed to encroach upon the spiritual. No duty pertaining to the six working days will be left for the Sabbath.--6T 353, 354 (1900). {LDE 78.1} [LDE 78.2] The necessities of life must be attended to, the sick must be cared for, the wants of the needy must be supplied. He will not be held guiltless who neglects to relieve suffering on the Sabbath. God's holy rest day was made for man, and acts of mercy are in perfect harmony with its intent. God does not desire His creatures to suffer an hour's pain that may be relieved upon the Sabbath or any other day.--DA 207 (1898). {LDE 78.2} [LDE 78.3] Faithful in Tithes and Offerings The tithe is sacred, reserved by God for Himself. It is to be brought into His treasury to be used to sustain the gospel laborers in their work. . . . Read carefully the third chapter of Malachi and see what God says about the tithe.--9T 249 (1909). {LDE 78.3} [LDE 78.4] The New Testament does not re-enact the law of the tithe, as it does not that of the Sabbath; for the validity of both is assumed, and their deep spiritual import explained.--CS 66 (1882). {LDE 78.4} [LDE 78.5] The Lord now calls upon Seventh-day Adventists in every locality to consecrate themselves to Him and to do their very best, according to their circumstances, to 79 assist in His work. By their liberality in making gifts and offerings, He desires them to reveal their appreciation of His blessings and their gratitude for His mercy.--9T 132 (1909). {LDE 78.5} [LDE 79.1] Dying charity is a poor substitute for living benevolence.--5T 155 (1882). {LDE 79.1} [LDE 79.2] The wants of the cause will continually increase as we near the close of time.--5T 156 (1882). {LDE 79.2} [LDE 79.3] We are placed on trial in this world, to determine our fitness for the future life. None can enter heaven whose characters are defiled by the foul blot of selfishness. Therefore, God tests us here, by committing to us temporal possessions, that our use of these may show whether we can be entrusted with eternal riches.--CS 22 (1893). {LDE 79.3} [LDE 79.4] Establish New Institutions Some may say, "If the Lord is coming soon, what need is there to establish schools, sanitariums, and food factories? What need is there for our young people to learn trades?" {LDE 79.4} [LDE 79.5] It is the Lord's design that we shall constantly improve the talents He has given us. We cannot do this unless we use them. The prospect of Christ's soon coming should not lead us to idleness. Instead, it should lead us to do all we possibly can to bless and benefit humanity.--MM 268 (1902). {LDE 79.5} [LDE 80.1] A great work must be done all through the world, and let no one conclude that because the end is near there is no need of special effort to build up the various institutions as the cause shall demand. . . . When the Lord shall bid us make no further effort to build meetinghouses and establish schools, sanitariums, and publishing institutions, it will be time for us to fold our hands and let the Lord close up the work, but now is our opportunity to show our zeal for God and our love for humanity.--6T 440 (1900). {LDE 80.1} [LDE 80.2] Medical Missionary Work As religious aggression subverts the liberties of our nation, those who would stand for freedom of conscience will be placed in unfavorable positions. For their own sake they should, while they have opportunity, become intelligent in regard to disease, its causes, prevention, and cure. And those who do this will find a field of labor anywhere. There will be suffering ones, plenty of them, who will need help, not only among those of our own faith but largely among those who know not the truth.--CH 506 (1892). {LDE 80.2} [LDE 80.3] I wish to tell you that soon there will be no work done in ministerial lines but medical missionary work.--CH 533 (1901). {LDE 80.3} [LDE 80.4] God's People Value Their Health The health reform, I was shown, is a part of the third angel's message and is just as closely connected 81 with it as are the arm and hand with the human body.--1T 486 (1867). {LDE 80.4} [LDE 81.1] Tea, coffee, tobacco, and alcohol we must present as sinful indulgences. We cannot place on the same ground, meat, eggs, butter, cheese, and such articles placed upon the table. These are not to be borne in front, as the burden of our work. The former--tea, coffee, tobacco, beer, wine, and all spirituous liquors--are not to be taken moderately, but discarded.--3SM 287 (1881). {LDE 81.1} [LDE 81.2] True temperance teaches us to dispense entirely with everything hurtful and to use judiciously that which is healthful.--PP 562 (1890). {LDE 81.2} [LDE 81.3] Pure air, sunlight, abstemiousness, rest, exercise, proper diet, the use of water, trust in divine power--these are the true remedies.--MH 127 (1905). {LDE 81.3} [LDE 81.4] Whatever injures the health not only lessens physical vigor but tends to weaken the mental and moral powers. Indulgence in any unhealthful practice makes it more difficult for one to discriminate between right and wrong and hence more difficult to resist evil.--MH 128 (1905). {LDE 81.4} [LDE 81.5] Return to the Original Diet God is trying to lead us back, step by step, to His original design--that man should subsist upon the natural products of the earth. Among those who are waiting for the coming of the Lord meat eating will eventually be done away; flesh will cease to form a part 82 of their diet. We should ever keep this end in view and endeavor to work steadily toward it.--CH 450 (1890). {LDE 81.5} [LDE 82.1] Greater reforms should be seen among the people who claim to be looking for the soon appearing of Christ. Health reform is to do among our people a work which it has not yet done. There are those who ought to be awake to the danger of meat eating who are still eating the flesh of animals, thus endangering the physical, mental, and spiritual health. Many who are now only half converted on the question of meat eating will go from God's people, to walk no more with them.--RH May 27, 1902. {LDE 82.1} [LDE 82.2] Time for Fasting and Prayer Now and onward till the close of time the people of God should be more earnest, more wide-awake, not trusting in their own wisdom, but in the wisdom of their Leader. They should set aside days for fasting and prayer. Entire abstinence from food may not be required, but they should eat sparingly of the most simple food.--CD 188, 189 (1904). {LDE 82.2} [LDE 82.3] The true fasting which should be recommended to all is abstinence from every stimulating kind of food, and the proper use of wholesome, simple food, which God has provided in abundance. Men need to think less of what they shall eat and drink of temporal food, and much more in regard to the food from heaven, that will give tone and vitality to the whole religious experience.--MM 283 (1896). {LDE 82.3} [LDE 83.1] The leaven of godliness has not entirely lost its power. At the time when the danger and depression of the church are greatest, the little company who are standing in the light will be sighing and crying for the abominations that are done in the land. But more especially will their prayers arise in behalf of the church because its members are doing after the manner of the world.--5T 209, 210 (1882). {LDE 83.1} [LDE 83.2] Entire Trust in God Because of unconsecrated workers, things will sometimes go wrong. You may weep over the result of the wrong course of others, but do not worry. The work is under the supervision of the blessed Master. All He asks is that the workers shall come to Him for their orders, and obey His directions. All parts of the work--our churches, missions, Sabbath schools, institutions--are carried upon His heart. Why worry? The intense longing to see the church imbued with life must be tempered with entire trust in God. . . . {LDE 83.2} [LDE 83.3] Let no one overtax his God-given powers in an effort to advance the Lord's work more rapidly. The power of man cannot hasten the work; with this must be united the power of heavenly intelligences. . . . Though all the workmen now bearing the heaviest burdens should be laid aside, God's work would be carried forward.--7T 298 (1902). {LDE 83.3} [LDE 83.4] Family Worship Evening and morning join with your children in God's worship, reading His Word and singing His praise. Teach 84 them to repeat God's law.--Ev 499 (1904). {LDE 83.4} [LDE 84.1] Let the seasons of family worship be short and spirited. Do not let your children or any member of your family dread them because of their tediousness or lack of interest. When a long chapter is read and explained and a long prayer offered, this precious service becomes wearisome, and it is a relief when it is over. . . . {LDE 84.1} [LDE 84.2] Let the father select a portion of Scripture that is interesting and easily understood; a few verses will be sufficient to furnish a lesson which may be studied and practiced through the day. Questions may be asked, a few earnest, interesting remarks made, or ［an］ incident, short and to the point, may be brought in by way of illustration. At least a few verses of spirited song may be sung, and the prayer offered should be short and pointed. The one who leads in prayer should not pray about everything, but should express his needs in simple words, and praise God with thanksgiving.--CG 521, 522 (1884). {LDE 84.2} [LDE 84.3] Guard Association With the World ［Revelation 18:1-3, quoted.］ While this message is sounding, while the proclamation of truth is doing its separating work, we as faithful sentinels of God are to discern what our real position is. We are not to confederate with worldlings, lest we become imbued with their spirit, lest our spiritual discernment become confused and we view those who have the truth and bear the message of the Lord from the standpoint 85 of the professed Christian churches. At the same time we are not to be like the Pharisees and hold ourselves aloof from them.--EGW'88 1161 (1893). {LDE 84.3} [LDE 85.1] Those who are watching and waiting for the appearing of Christ in the clouds of heaven will not be mingling with the world in pleasure societies and gatherings merely for their own amusement.--Ms 4, 1898. {LDE 85.1} [LDE 85.2] To bind ourselves up by contracts or in partnerships or business associations with those not of our faith is not in the order of God.--RH Aug. 4, 1904. {LDE 85.2} [LDE 85.3] We should unite with other people just as far as we can and not sacrifice principle. This does not mean that we should join their lodges and societies, but that we should let them know that we are most heartily in sympathy with the temperance question.--Te 220 (1884). {LDE 85.3} [LDE 85.4] Recreation That Christ Approves It is the privilege and duty of Christians to seek to refresh their spirits and invigorate their bodies by innocent recreation, with the purpose of using their physical and mental powers to the glory of God.--MYP 364 (1871). {LDE 85.4} [LDE 85.5] Christians have many sources of happiness at their command, and they may tell with unerring accuracy what pleasures are lawful and right. They may enjoy such recreations as will not dissipate the mind or debase the soul, such as will not disappoint and leave a sad after-influence to destroy self-respect or bar the way to usefulness. 86 If they can take Jesus with them and maintain a prayerful spirit they are perfectly safe.--MYP 38 (1884). {LDE 85.5} [LDE 86.1] Our gatherings should be so conducted, and we should so conduct ourselves, that when we return to our homes we can have a conscience void of offense toward God and man, a consciousness that we have not wounded or injured in any manner those with whom we have been associated or had an injurious influence over them. . . . {LDE 86.1} [LDE 86.2] Any amusement in which you can engage, asking the blessing of God upon it in faith, will not be dangerous. But any amusement which disqualifies you for secret prayer, for devotion at the altar of prayer, or for taking part in the prayer meeting, is not safe, but dangerous.--MYP 386 (1913). {LDE 86.2} [LDE 86.3] Music That Elevates As the children of Israel journeying through the wilderness cheered their way by the music of sacred song, so God bids His children today gladden their pilgrim life. There are few means more effective for fixing His words in the memory than repeating them in song. And such song has wonderful power. It has power to subdue rude and uncultivated natures, power to quicken thought and to awaken sympathy, to promote harmony of action, and to banish the gloom and foreboding that destroy courage and weaken effort.--Ed 167, 168 (1903). {LDE 86.3} [LDE 86.4] Music forms a part of God's worship in the courts above, and we should endeavor in our songs of praise 87 to approach as nearly as possible to the harmony of the heavenly choirs. . . . Singing, as a part of religious service, is as much an act of worship as is prayer.--PP 594 (1890). {LDE 86.4} [LDE 87.1] The use of musical instruments is not at all objectionable. These were used in religious services in ancient times. The worshipers praised God upon the harp and cymbal, and music should have its place in our services.--Ev 500, 501 (1898). {LDE 87.1} [LDE 87.2] Television and the Theater Among the most dangerous resorts for pleasure is the theater. Instead of being a school of morality and virtue, as is so often claimed, it is the very hotbed of immorality. Vicious habits and sinful propensities are strengthened and confirmed by these entertainments. Low songs, lewd gestures, expressions, and attitudes, deprave the imagination and debase the morals. {LDE 87.2} [LDE 87.3] Every youth who habitually attends such exhibitions will be corrupted in principle. There is no influence in our land more powerful to poison the imagination, to destroy religious impressions, and to blunt the relish for the tranquil pleasures and sober realities of life than theatrical amusements. The love for these scenes increases with every indulgence, as the desire for intoxicating drink strengthens with its use.--4T 652, 653 (1881). {LDE 87.3} [LDE 87.4] The blessing of God would not be invoked upon the hour spent at the theater or in the dance. No Christian 88 would wish to meet death in such a place. No one would wish to be found there when Christ shall come.--MYP 398 (1882). {LDE 87.4} [LDE 88.1] The only safe amusements are such as will not banish serious and religious thoughts. The only safe places of resort are those to which we can take Jesus with us.--OHC 284 (1883). {LDE 88.1} [LDE 88.2] Dress and Adornments There is no need to make the dress question the main point of your religion. There is something richer to speak of. Talk of Christ, and when the heart is converted everything that is out of harmony with the Word of God will drop off.--Ev 272 (1889). {LDE 88.2} [LDE 88.3] If we are Christians, we shall follow Christ, even though the path in which we are to walk cuts right across our natural inclinations. There is no use in telling you that you must not wear this or that, for if the love of these vain things is in your heart your laying off your adornments will only be like cutting the foliage off a tree. The inclinations of the natural heart would again assert themselves. You must have a conscience of your own.--CG 429, 430 (1892). {LDE 88.3} [LDE 88.4] I beg of our people to walk carefully and circumspectly before God. Follow the customs in dress so far as they conform to health principles. Let our sisters dress plainly, as many do, having the dress of good, durable material, appropriate for this age, and let not 89 the dress question fill the mind. Our sisters should dress with simplicity. They should clothe themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety. Give to the world a living illustration of the inward adorning of the grace of God.--3SM 242 (1897). {LDE 88.4} [LDE 89.1] The outside appearance is an index to the heart.--1T 136 (1856). {LDE 89.1} [LDE 89.2] The Need for Publications Publications should be issued, written in the plainest, simplest language, explaining the subjects of vital interest, and making known the things that are to come upon the world.--HM Feb. 1, 1890. {LDE 89.2} [LDE 89.3] The first and second messages were given in 1843 and 1844, and we are now under the proclamation of the third, but all three of the messages are still to be proclaimed. . . . These messages we are to give to the world in publications, in discourses, showing in the line of prophetic history the things that have been and the things that will be.--CW 26, 27 (1896). {LDE 89.3} [LDE 89.4] Unvarnished truth must be spoken in leaflets and pamphlets, and these must be scattered like the leaves of autumn.--9T 230 (1897). {LDE 89.4} [LDE 89.5] Patriarchs and Prophets, Daniel and the Revelation , and The Great Controversy are needed now as never before. They should be widely circulated because the truths they emphasize will open many blind eyes.--CM 123 (1905). {LDE 89.5} [LDE 90.1] As long as probation continues there will be opportunity for the canvasser to work.--6T 478 (1900). {LDE 90.1} [LDE 90.2] No Sharp Thrusts in Our Papers Let not those who write for our papers make unkind thrusts and allusions that will certainly do harm and that will hedge up the way and hinder us from doing the work that we should do in order to reach all classes, the Catholics included. It is our work to speak the truth in love and not to mix in with the truth the unsanctified elements of the natural heart and speak things that savor of the same spirit possessed by our enemies. . . . {LDE 90.2} [LDE 90.3] We are not to use harsh and cutting words. Keep them out of every article written, drop them out of every address given. Let the Word of God do the cutting, the rebuking; let finite men hide and abide in Jesus Christ.--9T 240, 241, 244 (1909). {LDE 90.3} [LDE 90.4] We should weed out each expression in our writings, our utterances, that, if taken by itself, could be misinterpreted so as to make it seem antagonistic to law and order. Everything should be carefully considered lest we place ourselves on record as uttering things that will make us appear disloyal to our country and its laws.--Letter 36, 1895. {LDE 90.4} [LDE 90.5] Christianity is not manifested in pugilistic accusations and condemnations.--6T 397 (1900). {LDE 90.5} [LDE 90.6] Beware of Side Issues God has not passed His people by and chosen one 91 solitary man here and another there as the only ones worthy to be entrusted with His truth. He does not give one man new light contrary to the established faith of the body. In every reform men have arisen making this claim. . . . Let none be self-confident, as though God had given them special light above their brethren. . . . {LDE 90.6} [LDE 91.1] One accepts some new and original idea which does not seem to conflict with the truth. He . . . dwells upon it until it seems to him to be clothed with beauty and importance, for Satan has power to give this false appearance. At last it becomes the all-absorbing theme, the one great point around which everything centers, and the truth is uprooted from the heart. . . . {LDE 91.1} [LDE 91.2] I warn you to beware of these side issues, whose tendency is to divert the mind from the truth. Error is never harmless. It never sanctifies, but always brings confusion and dissension.--5T 291, 292 (1885). {LDE 91.2} [LDE 91.3] Emphasize Unity, Not Differences There are a thousand temptations in disguise prepared for those who have the light of truth, and the only safety for any of us is in receiving no new doctrine, no new interpretation of the Scriptures, without first submitting it to brethren of experience. Lay it before them in a humble, teachable spirit, with earnest prayer, and if they see no light in it, yield to their judgment, for "in the multitude of counselors there is safety." . . . {LDE 91.3} [LDE 91.4] Men and women will arise professing to have some new light or some new revelation whose tendency is to unsettle faith in the old landmarks. Their doctrines will 92 not bear the test of God's Word, yet souls will be deceived. False reports will be circulated, and some will be taken in this snare. . . . We cannot be too watchful against every form of error, for Satan is constantly seeking to draw men from the truth.--5T 293, 295, 296 (1885). {LDE 91.4} [LDE 92.1] We must make it appear essential to be united, not that we are to require others to come to our ideas, but if all are seeking the meekness and lowliness of Christ they will have the mind of Christ. Then there will be unity of spirit.--Letter 15, 1892. {LDE 92.1} [LDE 92.2] I urge those who claim to believe the truth to walk in unity with their brethren. Do not seek to give to the world occasion to say that we are extremists, that we are disunited, that one teaches one thing, and one another. Avoid dissension.--TM 57 (1893). {LDE 92.2} [LDE 92.3] How to Meet Critics Those who have departed from the faith will come to our congregations to divert our attention from the work that God would have done. You cannot afford to turn your ears from the truth to fables. Do not stop to try to convert the one who is speaking words of reproach against your work, but let it be seen that you are inspired by the Spirit of Jesus Christ, and angels of God will put into your lips words that will reach the hearts of the opposers. If these men persist in pressing their way in, those who are of a sensible mind in the congregation will understand that yours is the higher 93 standard. So speak that it will be known that Jesus Christ is speaking through you.--9T 148, 149 (1909). {LDE 92.3} [LDE 93.1] Exalt the Word of God If we work to create an excitement of feeling, we shall have all we want, and more than we can possibly know how to manage. Calmly and clearly "Preach the Word." We must not regard it as our work to create an excitement. The Holy Spirit of God alone can create a healthy enthusiasm. Let God work, and let the human agent walk softly before Him, watching, waiting, praying, looking unto Jesus every moment, led and controlled by the precious Spirit, which is light and life.--2SM 16, 17 (1894). {LDE 93.1} [LDE 93.2] We must go to the people with the solid Word of God, and when they receive that Word, the Holy Spirit may come, but it always comes, as I have stated before, in a way that commends itself to the judgment of the people. In our speaking, our singing, and in all our spiritual exercises, we are to reveal that calmness and dignity and godly fear that actuates every true child of God.--2SM 43 (1908). {LDE 93.2} [LDE 93.3] It is through the Word--not feeling, not excitement--that we want to influence the people to obey the truth. On the platform of God's Word we can stand with safety.--3SM 375 (1908). {LDE 93.3} [LDE 94.1] Chap. 7. - Country Living The Divine Ideal Although everything God had made was in the perfection of beauty, and there seemed nothing wanting upon the earth which God had created to make Adam and Eve happy, yet He manifested His great love to them by planting a garden especially for them. A portion of their time was to be occupied in the happy employment of dressing the garden, and a portion in receiving the visits of angels, listening to their instruction, and in happy meditation. Their labor was not wearisome, but pleasant and invigorating. This beautiful garden was to be their home, their special residence.--3SG 34 (1864). {LDE 94.1} [LDE 94.2] What were the conditions chosen by the infinite Father for His Son? A secluded home in the Galilean hills; a household sustained by honest, self-respecting labor; a life of simplicity; daily conflict with difficulty and hardship; self-sacrifice, economy, and patient, gladsome service; the hour of study at His mother's side, with the open scroll of Scripture; the quiet of dawn or twilight in the green valley; the holy ministries of nature; the study of creation and providence; 95 and the soul's communion with God--these were the conditions and opportunities of the early life of Jesus.--MH 365, 366 (1905). {LDE 94.2} [LDE 95.1] Away From the Cities Get out of the cities as soon as possible and purchase a little piece of land where you can have a garden, where your children can watch the flowers growing and learn from them lessons of simplicity and purity.--2SM 356 (1903). {LDE 95.1} [LDE 95.2] Out of the cities, is my message at this time. Be assured that the call is for our people to locate miles away from the large cities. One look at San Francisco as it is today would speak to your intelligent minds, showing you the necessity of getting out of the cities. . . . {LDE 95.2} [LDE 95.3] The Lord calls for His people to locate away from the cities, for in such an hour as ye think not, fire and brimstone will be rained from heaven upon these cities. Proportionate to their sins will be their visitation. When one city is destroyed, let not our people regard this matter as a light affair, and think that they may, if favorable opportunity offers, build themselves homes in that same destroyed city. . . . {LDE 95.3} [LDE 95.4] Let all who would understand the meaning of these things read the eleventh chapter of Revelation. Read every verse, and learn the things that are yet to take place in the cities. Read also the scenes portrayed in the eighteenth chapter of the same book.--MR 1518 (May 10, 1906). {LDE 95.4} [LDE 96.1] Fathers and mothers who possess a piece of land and a comfortable home are kings and queens.--AH 141 (1894). {LDE 96.1} [LDE 96.2] Cities to Be Worked From Outposts As God's commandment-keeping people we must leave the cities. As did Enoch, we must work in the cities but not dwell in them.--Ev 77, 78 (1899). {LDE 96.2} [LDE 96.3] The cities are to be worked from outposts. Said the messenger of God, "Shall not the cities be warned? Yes, not by God's people living in them but by their visiting them, to warn them of what is coming upon the earth."--2SM 358 (1902). {LDE 96.3} [LDE 96.4] For years I have been given special light that we are not to center our work in the cities. The turmoil and confusion that fill these cities, the conditions brought about by the labor unions and the strikes, would prove a great hindrance to our work.--7T 84 (1902). {LDE 96.4} [LDE 96.5] When iniquity abounds in a nation there is always to be heard some voice giving warning and instruction, as the voice of Lot was heard in Sodom. Yet Lot could have preserved his family from many evils had he not made his home in this wicked, polluted city. All that Lot and his family did in Sodom could have been done by them even if they had lived in a place some distance away from the city.--Ev 78 (1903). {LDE 96.5} [LDE 96.6] For the present, some will be obliged to labor in Chicago, but these should be preparing working centers 97 in rural districts from which to work the city. The Lord would have His people looking about them and securing humble, inexpensive places as centers for their work. And from time to time larger places will come to their notice, which they will be able to secure at a surprisingly low price.--Ev 402 (1906). {LDE 96.6} [LDE 97.1] Rich Blessings in a Natural Environment We say again, "Out of the cities." Do not consider it a great deprivation that you must go into the hills and mountains, but seek for that retirement where you can be alone with God, to learn His will and way. . . . {LDE 97.1} [LDE 97.2] I urge our people to make it their lifework to seek for spirituality. Christ is at the door. This is why I say to our people, "Do not consider it a privation when you are called to leave the cities and move out into the country places. Here there await rich blessings for those who will grasp them. By beholding the scenes of nature, the works of the Creator, by studying God's handiwork, imperceptibly you will be changed into the same image."--2SM 355, 356 (1908). {LDE 97.2} [LDE 97.3] Character Development Easier in the Country Parents flock with their families to the cities because they fancy it easier to obtain a livelihood there than in the country. The children, having nothing to do when not in school, obtain a street education. From evil associates they acquire habits of vice and dissipation.--5T 232 (1882). {LDE 97.3} [LDE 98.1] Send the children to schools located in the city, where every phase of temptation is waiting to attract and demoralize them, and the work of character building is tenfold harder for both parents and children.--FE 326 (1894). {LDE 98.1} [LDE 98.2] The cities are filled with temptation. We should plan our work in such a way as to keep our young people as far as possible from this contamination.--AH 136 (1902). {LDE 98.2} [LDE 98.3] It is time for our people to take their families from the cities into more retired localities, else many of the youth, and many also of those older in years, will be ensnared and taken by the enemy.--8T 101 (1904). {LDE 98.3} [LDE 98.4] There is not one family in a hundred who will be improved physically, mentally, or spiritually, by residing in the city. Faith, hope, love, happiness, can far better be gained in retired places, where there are fields and hills and trees. Take your children away from the sights and sounds of the city, away from the rattle and din of streetcars and teams, and their minds will become more healthy. It will be found easier to bring home to their hearts the truth of the Word of God.--AH 137 (1905). {LDE 98.4} [LDE 98.5] Better Physical Health in Rural Environment It is not God's will that His people shall settle in the cities, where there is constant turmoil and confusion. Their children should be spared this, for the whole system is demoralized by the hurry and rush and noise.--2SM 357 (1902). {LDE 98.5} [LDE 99.1] To many of those living in the cities who have not a spot of green grass to set their feet upon, who year after year have looked out upon filthy courts and narrow alleys, brick walls and pavements and skies clouded with dust and smoke--if these could be taken to some farming district, surrounded with the green fields, the woods and hills and brooks, the clear skies and the fresh, pure air of the country, it would seem almost like heaven.--MH 191, 192 (1905). {LDE 99.1} [LDE 99.2] The physical surroundings in the cities are often a peril to health. The constant liability to contact with disease, the prevalence of foul air, impure water, impure food, the crowded, dark, unhealthful dwellings, are some of the many evils to be met. It was not God's purpose that people should be crowded into cities, huddled together in terraces and tenements.--MH 365 (1905). {LDE 99.2} [LDE 99.3] Raise Your Own Provisions The Lord desires His people to move into the country, where they can settle on the land, and raise their own fruit and vegetables, and where their children can be brought in direct contact with the works of God in nature. Take your families away from the cities, is my message.--2SM 357, 358 (1902). {LDE 99.3} [LDE 99.4] Again and again the Lord has instructed that our people are to take their families away from the cities, into the country, where they can raise their own provisions, for in the future the problem of buying and 100 selling will be a very serious one. We should now begin to heed the instruction given us over and over again: Get out of the cities into rural districts, where the houses are not crowded closely together, and where you will be free from the interference of enemies.--2SM 141 (1904). {LDE 99.4} [LDE 100.1] Locate Institutions "Just Out From the Large Cities" Let men of sound judgment be appointed, not to publish abroad their intentions, but to search for such properties in the rural districts, in easy access to the cities, suitable for small training schools for workers, and where facilities may also be provided for treating the sick and weary souls who know not the truth. Look for such places just out from the large cities, where suitable buildings may be secured, either as a gift from the owners or purchased at a reasonable price by the gifts of our people. Do not erect buildings in the noisy cities.--Ev 77 (1909). {LDE 100.1} [LDE 100.2] Cooranbong, New South Wales Where shall our Australian Bible School be located? . . . Should schools be located in the cities or within a few miles from them it would be most difficult to counteract the influence of the former education which students have received in regard to these holidays and the practices connected with them, such as horse racing, betting, and the offering of prizes. . . . {LDE 100.2} [LDE 101.1] We shall find it necessary to establish our schools out of, and away from, the cities, and yet not so far away that they cannot be in touch with them, to do them good, to let light shine amid the moral darkness.--FE 310, 313 (1894). {LDE 101.1} [LDE 101.2] Everything about the place had impressed me favorably except the fact that we were far from the great thoroughfares of travel, and therefore would not have an opportunity of letting our light shine amid the moral darkness that covers our large cities like the pall of death. This seems the only objection that presents itself to my mind. But then, it would not be advisable to establish our school in any of our large cities.--8MR 137 (1894). {LDE 101.2} [LDE 101.3] I am more than ever convinced that this is the right location for the school.--8MR 360 (1894). {LDE 101.3} [LDE 101.4] Huntsville, Alabama Those who have charge of the schoolwork at Graysville ［THE PROPERTY AT GRAYSVILLE, TENNESSEE, FIFTY MILES NORTH OF CHATTANOOGA, CONSISTED OF NINE ACRES OF LAND ADJACENT TO A VILLAGE OF ABOUT 200 PEOPLE. THE SCHOOL WAS MOVED TO ITS PRESENT LOCATION AT COLLEGEDALE IN 1916.］ and Huntsville should see what can be done by these institutions to establish such industries, so that our people desiring to leave the cities can obtain modest homes without a large outlay of means, and can also find employment.--Letter 25, 1902. {LDE 101.4} [LDE 102.1] It was in the providence of God that the Huntsville School farm was purchased. It is in a good locality. Near it there are large nurseries, and in these nurseries some of the students have worked during the summer to earn money to pay their expense at the Huntsville School.--SpT-B(12) 11 (1904). {LDE 102.1} [LDE 102.2] The Huntsville School farm is a most beautiful place, and with its three hundred and more acres of land, should accomplish much in the line of industrial training and the raising of crops.--SpT-B(12x) 13 (1904). {LDE 102.2} [LDE 102.3] Recently the question was asked me, "Would it not be well to sell the school land at Huntsville, and buy a smaller place?" Instruction was given me that this farm must not be sold, that the situation possesses many advantages for the carrying forward of a colored school.--SpM 359 (1904). {LDE 102.3} [LDE 102.4] Berrien Springs, Michigan I hear that there is some thought of locating the school at Berrien Springs in the southwest of Michigan. I am much pleased with the description of this place. . . . In such a place as Berrien Springs the school can be made an object lesson, and I hope that no one will interpose to prevent the carrying forward of this work.--4MR 407 (July 12, 1901). {LDE 102.4} [LDE 102.5] The good hand of the Lord has been with our people in the selection of a place for the school. This place 103 corresponds to the representations given me as to where the school should be located. It is away from the cities, and there is an abundance of land for agricultural purposes, and room so that houses will not need to be built one close to another. There is plenty of ground where students may be educated in the cultivation of the soil.--RH Jan. 28, 1902. {LDE 102.5} [LDE 103.1] In moving the college from Battle Creek and establishing it in Berrien Springs, Brethren Magan and Sutherland have acted in harmony with the light that God gave. They have worked hard under great difficulties. . . . God has been with them. He has approved of their efforts.--4MR 260, 261 (1904). {LDE 103.1} [LDE 103.2] Stoneham, Massachusetts The Lord in His providence has opened the way for His workers to take an advance step in New England--a field where much special work should be done. The brethren there have been enabled to arrange to change the location of the sanitarium from South Lancaster to Melrose, a place much nearer Boston, and yet far enough removed from the busy city so that the patients may have the most favorable conditions for recovery of health. The transfer of the New England Sanitarium to a place so convenient to the city of Boston is in God's providence. {LDE 103.2} [LDE 103.3] When the Lord sets His hand to prepare the way before us, God forbid that any should stand back, questioning the wisdom of going forward or refusing to give encouragement and help. The removal of the 104 New England Sanitarium from South Lancaster to Melrose has been presented to me as being directed by the Lord.--SpT-B(13) 3 (1902). {LDE 103.3} [LDE 104.1] Takoma Park, Washington, D.C. The location that has been secured for our school and sanitarium is all that could be desired. The land resembles representations that have been shown me by the Lord. It is well adapted for the purpose for which it is to be used. There is on it ample room for a school and sanitarium without crowding either institution. The atmosphere is pure and the water is pure. A beautiful stream runs right through our land from north to south. This stream is a treasure more valuable than gold or silver. The building sites are upon fine elevations with excellent drainage. {LDE 104.1} [LDE 104.2] One day we took a long drive through various parts of Takoma Park. A large part of the township is a natural forest. The houses are not small and crowded closely together, but are roomy and comfortable. They are surrounded by thrifty, second-growth pines, oaks, maples and other beautiful trees. The owners of these homes are mostly business men, many of them clerks in the government offices in Washington. They go to the city daily, returning in the evening to their quiet homes. {LDE 104.2} [LDE 104.3] A good location for the printing office has been chosen, within easy distance of the post office, and a site for a meetinghouse also has been found. It seems as if Takoma Park has been specially prepared for us, and that it has been waiting to be occupied by our institutions and their workers.--ST June 15, 1904. {LDE 104.3} [LDE 105.1] The Lord has opened this matter to me decidedly. The publishing work that has been carried on in Battle Creek should for the present be carried on near Washington. If after a time the Lord says, Move away from Washington, we are to move.--RH Aug. 11, 1903. {LDE 105.1} [LDE 105.2] Madison, Tennessee I was surprised when, in speaking of the work they wished to do in the South, they spoke of establishing a school in some place a long way from Nashville. From the light given me I knew that this would not be the right thing to do, and I told them so. The work that these brethren ［E. A. Sutherland and P. T. Magan］ can do, because of the experience gained at Berrien Springs, is to be carried on within easy access of Nashville, for Nashville has not yet been worked as it should be. And it will be a great blessing to the workers in the school to be near enough to Nashville to be able to counsel with the workers there. {LDE 105.2} [LDE 105.3] In searching for a place for the school the brethren found a farm of four hundred acres for sale about nine miles from Nashville. The size of the farm, its situation, the distance that it is from Nashville, and the moderate sum for which it could be purchased, seemed to point it out as the very place for the school work. We advised that this place be purchased. I knew that all the land would ultimately be needed.--RH Aug. 18, 1904. {LDE 105.3} [LDE 105.4] Mountain View, California Instruction has also been given that the Pacific Press should be moved from Oakland. As the years 106 have passed by the city has grown, and it is now necessary to establish the printing plant in some more rural place, where land can be secured for the homes of the employees. Those who are connected with our offices of publication should not be obliged to live in the crowded cities. They should have opportunity to obtain homes where they will be able to live without requiring high wages.--FE 492 (1904). {LDE 105.4} [LDE 106.1] Mountain View is a town which has many advantages. It is surrounded by beautiful orchards. The climate is mild and fruit and vegetables of all kinds can be grown. The town is not large, yet it has electric lights, mail carriers, and many other advantages usually seen only in cities.--Letter 141, 1904. {LDE 106.1} [LDE 106.2] Some have wondered why our office of publication should be moved from Oakland to Mountain View. God has been calling upon His people to leave the cities. The youth who are connected with our institutions should not be exposed to the temptations and the corruption to be found in the large cities. Mountain View has seemed to be a favorable location for the printing office.--CL 29 (1905). {LDE 106.2} [LDE 106.3] Loma Linda, California We thank the Lord that we have a good sanitarium at Paradise Valley, seven miles from San Diego; a sanitarium at Glendale, eight miles from Los Angeles; and a large and beautiful place at Loma Linda, sixty-two miles east from Los Angeles, and close to Redlands, 107 Riverside, and San Bernardino. The Loma Linda property is one of the most beautiful sanitarium sites I have ever seen.--LLM 141 (1905). {LDE 106.3} [LDE 107.1] Loma Linda is a place that the Lord has especially designated as a center for the training of medical missionaries.--Letter 188, 1907. {LDE 107.1} [LDE 107.2] Here there are wonderful advantages for a school. The farm, the orchard, the pasture land, the large buildings, the ample grounds, the beauty--all are a great blessing.--LLM 310 (1907). {LDE 107.2} [LDE 107.3] This place, Loma Linda, has wonderful advantages, and if those who are here will faithfully avail themselves of the advantages to become true medical missionaries they will let their light shine forth to those that are around them. We must seek God daily for His wisdom to be imparted to us.--Letter 374, 1907. {LDE 107.3} [LDE 107.4] Here we have ideal advantages for a school and for a sanitarium. Here are advantages for the students and great advantages for the patients. I have been instructed that here we should have a school, conducted on the principles of the ancient schools of the prophets. . . . Physicians are to receive their education here.--MM 75, 76 (1907). {LDE 107.4} [LDE 107.5] Angwin, California As I have looked over this property I pronounce it to be superior in many respects. The school could not 108 be located in a better spot. It is eight miles from St. Helena, and is free from city temptations. . . . {LDE 107.5} [LDE 108.1] In time, more cottages will have to be built for the students, and these the students themselves can erect under the instruction of capable teachers. Timber can be prepared right on the ground for this work, and the students can be taught how to build in a creditable manner. {LDE 108.1} [LDE 108.2] We need have no fear of drinking impure water for here it is supplied freely to us from the Lord's treasure house. I do not know how to be grateful enough for these many advantages. . . . {LDE 108.2} [LDE 108.3] We realize that the Lord knew what we needed and that it is His providence that brought us here. . . . God wanted us here and He has placed us here. I was sure of this as I came on these grounds. . . . I believe that as you walk through these grounds you will come to the same decision--that the Lord designed this place for us.--1MR 340, 341, 343 (1909). {LDE 108.3} [LDE 109.1] Chap. 8. - The Cities The Original City Builders Upon receiving the curse of God, Cain had withdrawn from his father's household. He had first chosen his occupation as a tiller of the soil, and he now founded a city, calling it after the name of his eldest son ［Genesis 4:17］. He had gone out from the presence of the Lord, cast away the promise of the restored Eden, to seek his possessions and enjoyment in the earth under the curse of sin, thus standing at the head of that great class of men who worship the god of this world.--PP 81 (1890). {LDE 109.1} [LDE 109.2] For a time the descendants of Noah continued to dwell among the mountains where the ark had rested. As their numbers increased, apostasy soon led to division. Those who desired to forget their Creator and to cast off the restraint of His law felt a constant annoyance from the teaching and example of their God-fearing associates, and after a time they decided to separate from the worshipers of God. Accordingly they journeyed to the plain of Shinar, on the banks of the river Euphrates. . . . {LDE 109.2} [LDE 110.1] Here they decided to build a city, and in it a tower of such stupendous height as should render it the wonder of the world ［Genesis 11:2-4］.--PP 118, 119 (1890). {LDE 110.1} [LDE 110.2] The Cities Are Hotbeds of Vice The pursuit of pleasure and amusement centers in the cities. Many parents who choose a city home for their children, thinking to give them greater advantages, meet with disappointment, and too late repent their terrible mistake. The cities of today are fast becoming like Sodom and Gomorrah. The many holidays encourage idleness. The exciting sports--theater-going, horse-racing, gambling, liquor-drinking, and reveling--stimulate every passion to intense activity. The youth are swept away by the popular current.--COL 54 (1900). {LDE 110.2} [LDE 110.3] Light has been given me that the cities will be filled with confusion, violence, and crime, and that these things will increase till the end of this earth's history.--7T 84 (1902). {LDE 110.3} [LDE 110.4] The world over, cities are becoming hotbeds of vice. On every hand are the sights and sounds of evil. Everywhere are enticements to sensuality and dissipation.--MH 363 (1905). {LDE 110.4} [LDE 110.5] Judgments Coming on the Cities Terrible shocks will come upon the earth, and the lordly palaces erected at great expense will certainly become heaps of ruins.--3MR 312 (1891). {LDE 110.5} [LDE 111.1] When God's restraining hand is removed, the destroyer begins his work. Then in our cities the greatest calamities will come.--3MR 314 (1897). {LDE 111.1} [LDE 111.2] The Lord gives warnings to the inhabitants of the earth, as in the Chicago fire and the fires in Melbourne, London, and the city of New York.--Ms 127, 1897. {LDE 111.2} [LDE 111.3] The end is near and every city is to be turned upside down every way. There will be confusion in every city. Everything that can be shaken is to be shaken and we do not know what will come next. The judgments will be according to the wickedness of the people and the light of truth that they have had.--1MR 248 (1902). {LDE 111.3} [LDE 111.4] O that God's people had a sense of the impending destruction of thousands of cities, now almost given to idolatry.--Ev 29 (1903). {LDE 111.4} [LDE 111.5] The time is near when large cities will be swept away, and all should be warned of these coming judgments.--Ev 29 (1910). {LDE 111.5} [LDE 111.6] Catastrophe-proof Buildings Will Become Ashes I have seen the most costly structures in buildings erected and supposed to be fireproof, and just as Sodom perished in the flames of God's vengeance so will these proud structures become ashes. . . . The flattering monuments of men's greatness will be crumbled in the dust even before the last great destruction comes upon the world.--3SM 418 (1901). {LDE 111.6} [LDE 112.1] God is withdrawing His Spirit from the wicked cities, which have become as the cities of the antediluvian world and as Sodom and Gomorrah. . . . Costly mansions, marvels of architectural skill, will be destroyed without a moment's notice when the Lord sees that the owners have passed the boundaries of forgiveness. The destruction by fire of the stately buildings, supposed to be fireproof, is an illustration of how in a short time earth's architecture will lie in ruins.--TDG 152 (1902). {LDE 112.1} [LDE 112.2] Men will continue to erect expensive buildings, costing millions of money. Special attention will be called to their architectural beauty and the firmness and solidity with which they are constructed, but the Lord has instructed me that despite the unusual firmness and expensive display, these buildings will share the fate of the temple in Jerusalem.--5BC 1098 (1906). {LDE 112.2} [LDE 112.3] New York City God has not executed His wrath without mercy. His hand is stretched out still. His message must be given in Greater New York. The people must be shown how it is possible for God, by a touch of His hand, to destroy the property they have gathered together against the last great day.--3MR 310, 311 (1902). {LDE 112.3} [LDE 112.4] I have no light in particular in regard to what is coming on New York, only that I know that one day the great buildings there will be thrown down by the turning and overturning of God's power. . . . Death 113 will come in all places. This is why I am so anxious for our cities to be warned.--RH July 5, 1906. {LDE 112.4} [LDE 113.1] On one occasion, when in New York City, I was in the night season called upon to behold buildings rising story after story toward heaven. These buildings were warranted to be fireproof, and they were erected to glorify their owners and builders. . . . {LDE 113.1} [LDE 113.2] The scene that next passed before me was an alarm of fire. Men looked at the lofty and supposedly fireproof buildings and said: "They are perfectly safe." But these buildings were consumed as if made of pitch. The fire engines could do nothing to stay the destruction. The firemen were unable to operate the engines.--9T 12, 13 (1909). {LDE 113.2} [LDE 113.3] Chicago and Los Angeles Scenes that would soon take place in Chicago and other large cities also passed before me. As wickedness increased and the protecting power of God was withdrawn there were destructive winds and tempests. Buildings were destroyed by fire and shaken down by earthquakes. . . . {LDE 113.3} [LDE 113.4] Some time after this I was shown that the vision of buildings in Chicago and the draft upon the means of our people to erect them, and their destruction, was an object lesson for our people, warning them not to invest largely of their means in property in Chicago, or any other city, unless the providence of God should positively open the way and plainly point out duty to build or buy as necessary in giving the note of warning. 114 A similar caution was given in regard to building in Los Angeles. Repeatedly I have been instructed that we must not invest means in the erection of expensive buildings in cities.--PC 50 (1906). {LDE 113.4} [LDE 114.1] San Francisco and Oakland San Francisco and Oakland are becoming as Sodom and Gomorrah, and the Lord will visit them. Not far hence they will suffer under His judgments.--Ms 30, 1903. {LDE 114.1} [LDE 114.2] The terrible earthquake that has visited San Francisco ［THE SAN FRANCISCO EARTHQUAKE AND FIRE OF APRIL 18-19, 1906, LEFT 503 DEAD AND RESULTED IN AN ESTIMATED $350 MILLION IN PROPERTY DAMAGE.］ will be followed by other manifestations of the power of God. His law has been transgressed. Cities have become polluted with sin. Study the history of Nineveh. God sent a special message by Jonah to that wicked city. . . . Many such messages as his would be given in our age, if the wicked cities would repent as did Nineveh.--Ms 61a, June 3, 1906. {LDE 114.2} [LDE 114.3] Even in the cities where the judgments of God have fallen in consequence of such transgression there is no sign of repentance. The saloons are still open, and many temptations are kept before the people.--Letter 268, Aug. 20, 1906. {LDE 114.3} [LDE 114.4] Other Wicked Cities As we near the close of this earth's history, we shall have the scenes of the San Francisco calamity repeated 115 in other places. . . . These things make me feel very solemn because I know that the judgment day is right upon us. The judgments that have already come are a warning, but not the finishing, of the punishment that will come on wicked cities. . . . {LDE 114.4} [LDE 115.1] ［Habakkuk 2:1-20; Zephaniah 1:1-3:20; Zechariah 1:1-4:14; Malachi 1:1-4, quoted.］ These scenes will soon be witnessed, just as they are clearly described. I present these wonderful statements from the Scriptures for the consideration of everyone. The prophecies recorded in the Old Testament are the word of the Lord for the last days, and will be fulfilled as surely as we have seen the desolation of San Francisco.--Letter 154, May 26, 1906. {LDE 115.1} [LDE 115.2] I am bidden to declare the message that cities full of transgression, and sinful in the extreme, will be destroyed by earthquakes, by fire, by flood.--Ev 27 (April 27, 1906). {LDE 115.2} [LDE 115.3] All the warnings of Christ regarding the events that will occur near the close of this earth's history are now being fulfilled in our large cities. God is permitting these things to be brought to light that he who runs may read. The city of San Francisco is a sample of what the whole world is becoming. The wicked bribery, the misappropriation of means, the fraudulent transactions among men who have power to release the guilty and condemn the innocent--all this iniquity is filling other large cities of the earth and is making the world as it was in the days that were before the Flood.--Letter 230, 1907. {LDE 115.3} [LDE 116.1] Labor Unions in the Cities Satan is busily at work in our crowded cities. His work is to be seen in the confusion, the strife and discord between labor and capital, and the hypocrisy that has come into the churches. . . . The lust of the flesh, the pride of the eyes, the display of selfishness, the misuse of power, the cruelty and the force used to cause men to unite with confederacies and unions--binding themselves up in bundles for the burning of the great fires of the last days--all these are the working of satanic agencies.--Ev 26 (1903). {LDE 116.1} [LDE 116.2] The wicked are being bound up in bundles, bound up in trusts, in unions, in confederacies. Let us have nothing to do with these organizations. God is our Ruler, our Governor, and He calls us to come out from the world and be separate. "Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing" ［2 Corinthians 6:17］. If we refuse to do this, if we continue to link up with the world and to look at every matter from a worldly standpoint, we shall become like the world. When worldly policy and worldly ideas govern our transactions we cannot stand on the high and holy platform of eternal truth.--4BC 1142 (1903). {LDE 116.2} [LDE 116.3] Labor Unions a Source of Trouble for Adventists The trades unions will be one of the agencies that will bring upon this earth a time of trouble such as has not been since the world began. . . . {LDE 116.3} [LDE 117.1] A few men will combine to grasp all the means to be obtained in certain lines of business. Trades unions will be formed, and those who refuse to join these unions will be marked men. . . . {LDE 117.1} [LDE 117.2] Because of these unions and confederacies, it will soon be very difficult for our institutions to carry on their work in the cities. My warning is: Keep out of the cities. Build no sanitariums in the cities.--2SM 142 (1903). {LDE 117.2} [LDE 117.3] The time is fast coming when the controlling power of the labor unions will be very oppressive.--2SM 141 (1904). {LDE 117.3} [LDE 117.4] Many in the Cities Long for Light and Truth Strictly will the cities of the nations be dealt with, and yet they will not be visited in the extreme of God's indignation, because some souls will yet break away from the delusions of the enemy and will repent and be converted.--Ev 27 (1906). {LDE 117.4} [LDE 117.5] The spiritual darkness that covers the whole world is intensified in the crowded centers of population. It is in the cities of the nations that the gospel worker finds the greatest impenitence and the greatest need. And in these same cities are presented to soul-winners some of the greatest opportunities. Mingled with the multitudes who have no thought of God and heaven are many who long for light and for purity of heart. Even among the careless and indifferent there are not a few whose attention may be arrested by a revelation of God's love for the human soul.--RH Nov. 17, 1910. {LDE 117.5} [LDE 118.1] Earnest Effort Needed in the Cities In preparation for the coming of our Lord, we are to do a large work in the great cities. We have a solemn testimony to bear in these great centers.--Words of Encouragement to Self-supporting Workers (Ph 113) 5 (1909). {LDE 118.1} [LDE 118.2] The warning message for this time is not being given earnestly in the great business world. Day after day the centers of commerce and trade are thronged with men and women who need the truth for this time but who gain no saving knowledge of its precious principles because earnest, persevering efforts are not put forth to reach this class of people where they are.--CW 14 (1909). {LDE 118.2} [LDE 118.3] The third angel's message is now to be proclaimed, not only in far-off lands, but in neglected places close by, where multitudes dwell unwarned and unsaved. Our cities everywhere are calling for earnest, whole-hearted labor from the servants of God.--RH Nov. 17, 1910. {LDE 118.3} [LDE 118.4] Not All Can Leave the Cities Yet Whenever possible, it is the duty of parents to make homes in the country for their children.--AH 141 (1906). {LDE 118.4} [LDE 118.5] More and more, as time advances, our people will have to leave the cities. For years we have been instructed that our brethren and sisters, and especially 119 families with children, should plan to leave the cities as the way opens before them to do so. Many will have to labor earnestly to help open the way. But until it is possible for them to leave, so long as they remain, they should be most active in doing missionary work, however limited their sphere of influence may be.--2SM 360 (1906). {LDE 118.5} [LDE 119.1] Our cities are increasing in wickedness, and it is becoming more and more evident that those who remain in them unnecessarily do so at the peril of their soul's salvation.--CL 9 (1907). {LDE 119.1} [LDE 119.2] Cities and towns are steeped in sin and moral corruption, yet there are Lots in every Sodom.--6T 136 (1900). {LDE 119.2} [LDE 119.3] Schools, Churches, Restaurants Needed in the Cities Much more can be done to save and educate the children of those who at present cannot get away from the cities. This is a matter worthy of our best efforts. Church schools are to be established for the children in the cities, and in connection with these schools provision is to be made for the teaching of higher studies, where these are called for.--CG 306 (1903). {LDE 119.3} [LDE 119.4] Our restaurants must be in the cities, for otherwise the workers in these restaurants could not reach the people and teach them the principles of right living.--2SM 142 (1903). {LDE 119.4} [LDE 120.1] Repeatedly the Lord has instructed us that we are to work the cities from outpost centers. In these cities we are to have houses of worship, as memorials for God, but institutions for the publication of our literature, for the healing of the sick, and for the training of workers ［colleges］, are to be established outside the cities. Especially is it important that our youth be shielded from the temptations of city life.--2SM 358 (1907). {LDE 120.1} [LDE 120.2] Precipitous Moves to the Country Not Advised Let everyone take time to consider carefully and not be like the man in the parable who began to build and was not able to finish. Not a move should be made but that movement and all that it portends are carefully considered--everything weighed. . . . {LDE 120.2} [LDE 120.3] There may be individuals who will make a rush to do something, and enter into some business they know nothing about. This God does not require. . . . {LDE 120.3} [LDE 120.4] Let there be nothing done in a disorderly manner, that there shall be a great loss or sacrifice made upon property because of ardent, impulsive speeches which stir up an enthusiasm which is not after the order of God, that a victory that was essential to be gained, shall, for lack of level-headed moderation and proper contemplation and sound principles and purposes, be turned into a defeat.--2SM 362, 363 (1893). ［WRITTEN DECEMBER 22, 1893, IN REPLY TO A LETTER FROM A LEADING WORKER IN BATTLE CREEK WHO HAD INFORMED MRS. WHITE THAT, IN RESPONSE TO HER URGING, "BETWEEN ONE AND TWO HUNDRED" WERE PREPARING TO LEAVE THE CITY FOR A RURAL LOCATION "AS SOON AS POSSIBLE." SEE SELECTED MESSAGES, BOOK 2, PP. 361-364.］ {LDE 120.4} [LDE 121.1] The Signal for Flight From the Cities The time is not far distant when, like the early disciples, we shall be forced to seek a refuge in desolate and solitary places. As the siege of Jerusalem by the Roman armies was the signal for flight to the Judean Christians, so the assumption of power on the part of our nation, in the decree enforcing the papal sabbath, will be a warning to us. It will then be time to leave the large cities, preparatory to leaving the smaller ones for retired homes in secluded places among the mountains.--5T 464, 465 (1885). {LDE 121.1} [LDE 121.2] Some Righteous Still in the Cities After the Death Decree Has Been Passed In the time of trouble we all fled from the cities and villages but were pursued by the wicked, who entered the houses of the saints with a sword.--EW 34 (1851). {LDE 121.2} [LDE 121.3] As the saints left the cities and villages they were pursued by the wicked, who sought to slay them. But the swords that were raised to kill God's people broke and fell as powerless as a straw. Angels of God shielded the saints.--EW 284, 285 (1858). {LDE 121.3} [LDE 121.4] Though a general decree has fixed the time when commandment-keepers may be put to death, their enemies will in some cases anticipate the decree, and before the time specified will endeavor to take their lives. But none can pass the mighty guardians stationed about every faithful soul. Some are assailed in 122 their flight from the cities and villages, but the swords raised against them break and fall as powerless as a straw. Others are defended by angels in the form of men of war.--GC 631 (1911). {LDE 121.4} [LDE 123.1] Chap. 9. - Sunday Laws Satan's Challenge to God's Authority God denounces Babylon "because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.". . . {LDE 123.1} [LDE 123.2] God made the world in six days and rested on the seventh, sanctifying this day, and setting it apart from all others as holy to Himself, to be observed by His people throughout their generations. But the man of sin, exalting himself above God, sitting in the temple of God, and showing himself to be God, thought to change times and laws. This power, thinking to prove that it was not only equal to God, but above God, changed the rest day, placing the first day of the week where the seventh should be. And the Protestant world has taken this child of the papacy to be regarded as sacred. In the Word of God this is called her fornication ［Revelation 14:8］.--7BC 979 (1900). {LDE 123.2} [LDE 123.3] During the Christian dispensation the great enemy of man's happiness has made the Sabbath of the fourth commandment an object of special attack. Satan says, "I will work at cross purposes with God. I 124 will empower my followers to set aside God's memorial, the seventh-day Sabbath. Thus I will show the world that the day sanctified and blessed by God has been changed. That day shall not live in the minds of the people. I will obliterate the memory of it. I will place in its stead a day that does not bear the credentials of God, a day that cannot be a sign between God and His people. I will lead those who accept this day to place upon it the sanctity that God placed upon the seventh day."--PK 183, 184 (c. 1914). {LDE 123.3} [LDE 124.1] The Sabbath the Great Point at Issue In the warfare to be waged in the last days there will be united, in opposition to God's people, all the corrupt powers that have apostatized from allegiance to the law of Jehovah. In this warfare the Sabbath of the fourth commandment will be the great point at issue, for in the Sabbath commandment the great Lawgiver identifies Himself as the Creator of the heavens and the earth.--3SM 392 (1891). {LDE 124.1} [LDE 124.2] "Verily My Sabbaths ye shall keep," the Lord says, "for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you" (Exodus 31:13). Some will seek to place obstacles in the way of Sabbath observance, saying, "You do not know what day is the Sabbath," but they seem to understand when Sunday comes, and have manifested great zeal in making laws compelling its observance.--KC 148 (1900). {LDE 124.2} [LDE 125.1] The Sunday-Law Movement in the 1880s ［FOR HELPFUL BACKGROUND INFORMATION AND MORE EXTENSIVE E. G. WHITE QUOTATIONS, SEE SELECTED MESSAGES, BOOK 3, PP. 380-402, AND TESTIMONIES FOR THE CHURCH, VOL. 5, PP. 711-718.］ We have been looking many years for a Sunday law to be enacted in our land, and now that the movement is right upon us, we ask, What are our people going to do in the matter? . . . We should especially seek God for grace and power to be given His people now. God lives, and we do not believe that the time has fully come when He would have our liberties restricted. {LDE 125.1} [LDE 125.2] The prophet saw "four angels standing on the four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth, that the wind should not blow on the earth, nor on the sea, nor on any tree." Another angel, ascending from the east, cried to them, saying, "Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, till we have sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads." This points out the work we now have to do, which is to cry to God for the angels to hold the four winds until missionaries shall be sent to all parts of the world, and shall have proclaimed the warning against disobeying the law of Jehovah.--RH Extra, Dec. 11, 1888. {LDE 125.2} [LDE 125.3] Sunday-Law Advocates Do Not Realize What They Are Doing The Sunday movement is now making its way in darkness. The leaders are concealing the true issue, and many who unite in the movement do not themselves see whither the undercurrent is tending. . . . 126 They are working in blindness. They do not see that if a Protestant government sacrifices the principles that have made them a free, independent nation, and through legislation brings into the Constitution principles that will propagate papal falsehood and papal delusion, they are plunging into the Roman horrors of the Dark Ages.--RH Extra, Dec. 11, 1888. {LDE 125.3} [LDE 126.1] There are many, even of those engaged in this movement for Sunday enforcement, who are blinded to the results which will follow this action. They do not see that they are striking directly against religious liberty. There are many who have never understood the claims of the Bible Sabbath and the false foundation upon which the Sunday institution rests. . . . {LDE 126.1} [LDE 126.2] Those who are making an effort to change the Constitution and secure a law enforcing Sunday observance little realize what will be the result. A crisis is just upon us.--5T 711, 753 (1889). {LDE 126.2} [LDE 126.3] Not to Sit in Quietude, Doing Nothing It is our duty to do all in our power to avert the threatened danger. . . . A vast responsibility is devolving upon men and women of prayer throughout the land to petition that God may sweep back this cloud of evil, and give a few more years of grace to work for the Master.--RH Extra, Dec. 11, 1888. {LDE 126.3} [LDE 126.4] Those who are now keeping the commandments of God need to bestir themselves that they may obtain the special help which God alone can give them. They 127 should work more earnestly to delay as long as possible the threatened calamity.--RH Dec. 18, 1888. {LDE 126.4} [LDE 127.1] Let not the commandment-keeping people of God be silent at this time as though we gracefully accepted the situation.--7BC 975 (1889). {LDE 127.1} [LDE 127.2] We are not doing the will of God if we sit in quietude, doing nothing to preserve liberty of conscience. Fervent, effectual prayer should be ascending to heaven that this calamity may be deferred until we can accomplish the work which has so long been neglected. Let there be most earnest prayer and then let us work in harmony with our prayers.--5T 714 (1889). {LDE 127.2} [LDE 127.3] There are many who are at ease, who are, as it were, asleep. They say, "If prophecy has foretold the enforcement of Sunday observance the law will surely be enacted," and having come to this conclusion they sit down in a calm expectation of the event, comforting themselves with the thought that God will protect His people in the day of trouble. But God will not save us if we make no effort to do the work He has committed to our charge. . . . {LDE 127.3} [LDE 127.4] As faithful watchmen you should see the sword coming and give the warning, that men and women may not pursue a course through ignorance that they would avoid if they knew the truth.--RH Extra, Dec. 24, 1889. {LDE 127.4} [LDE 127.5] Oppose Sunday Laws by Pen and Vote We cannot labor to please men who will use their influence to repress religious liberty and to set in 128 operation oppressive measures to lead or compel their fellow men to keep Sunday as the Sabbath. The first day of the week is not a day to be reverenced. It is a spurious sabbath, and the members of the Lord's family cannot participate with the men who exalt this day and violate the law of God by trampling upon His Sabbath. The people of God are not to vote to place such men in office, for when they do this they are partakers with them of the sins which they commit while in office.--FE 475 (1899). {LDE 127.5} [LDE 128.1] I do hope that the trumpet will give a certain sound in regard to this Sunday-law movement. I think that it would be best if in our papers the subject of the perpetuity of the law of God were made a specialty. . . . We should now be doing our very best to defeat this Sunday law.--CW 97, 98 (1906). {LDE 128.1} [LDE 128.2] The United States Will Pass a Sunday Law When our nation shall so abjure the principles of its government as to enact a Sunday law, Protestantism will in this act join hands with popery.--5T 712 (1889). {LDE 128.2} [LDE 128.3] Protestants will throw their whole influence and strength on the side of the papacy. By a national act enforcing the false sabbath they will give life and vigor to the corrupt faith of Rome, reviving her tyranny and oppression of conscience.--Mar 179 (1893). {LDE 128.3} [LDE 128.4] Sooner or later Sunday laws will be passed.--RH Feb. 16, 1905. {LDE 128.4} [LDE 129.1] Soon the Sunday laws will be enforced, and men in positions of trust will be embittered against the little handful of God's commandment-keeping people.--4MR 278 (1909). {LDE 129.1} [LDE 129.2] The prophecy of Revelation 13 declares that the power represented by the beast with lamblike horns shall cause "the earth and them which dwell therein" to worship the papacy--there symbolized by the beast "like unto a leopard." . . . This prophecy will be fulfilled when the United States shall enforce Sunday observance, which Rome claims as the special acknowledgment of her supremacy. . . . {LDE 129.2} [LDE 129.3] Political corruption is destroying love of justice and regard for truth, and even in free America rulers and legislators, in order to secure public favor, will yield to the popular demand for a law enforcing Sunday observance.--GC 578, 579, 592 (1911). {LDE 129.3} [LDE 129.4] Arguments Used by Sunday-Law Advocates Satan puts his interpretation upon events, and they think, as he would have them, that the calamities which fill the land are a result of Sundaybreaking. Thinking to appease the wrath of God these influential men make laws enforcing Sunday observance.--10MR 239 (1899). {LDE 129.4} [LDE 129.5] This very class put forth the claim that the fast-spreading corruption is largely attributable to the desecration of the so-called "Christian sabbath" and that the enforcement of Sunday observance would 130 greatly improve the morals of society. This claim is especially urged in America, where the doctrine of the true Sabbath has been most widely preached.--GC 587 (1911). {LDE 129.5} [LDE 130.1] Protestantism and Catholicism Act in Concert Protestantism shall give the hand of fellowship to the Roman power. Then there will be a law against the Sabbath of God's creation, and then it is that God will do His "strange work" in the earth.--7BC 910 (1886). {LDE 130.1} [LDE 130.2] How the Roman church can clear herself from the charge of idolatry we cannot see. . . . And this is the religion which Protestants are beginning to look upon with so much favor, and which will eventually be united with Protestantism. This union will not, however, be effected by a change in Catholicism, for Rome never changes. She claims infallibility. It is Protestantism that will change. The adoption of liberal ideas on its part will bring it where it can clasp the hand of Catholicism.--RH June 1, 1886. {LDE 130.2} [LDE 130.3] The professed Protestant world will form a confederacy with the man of sin, and the church and the world will be in corrupt harmony.--7BC 975 (1891). {LDE 130.3} [LDE 130.4] Romanism in the Old World, and apostate Protestantism in the New, will pursue a similar course toward those who honor all the divine precepts.--GC 616 (1911). {LDE 130.4} [LDE 131.1] Sunday Laws Honor Rome When the leading churches of the United States, uniting upon such points of doctrine as are held by them in common, shall influence the state to enforce their decrees and to sustain their institutions, then Protestant America will have formed an image of the Roman hierarchy, and the infliction of civil penalties upon dissenters will inevitably result. . . . {LDE 131.1} [LDE 131.2] The enforcement of Sundaykeeping on the part of Protestant churches is an enforcement of the worship of the papacy. . . . {LDE 131.2} [LDE 131.3] In the very act of enforcing a religious duty by secular power, the churches would themselves form an image to the beast; hence the enforcement of Sundaykeeping in the United States would be an enforcement of the worship of the beast and his image.--GC 445, 448, 449 (1911). {LDE 131.3} [LDE 131.4] When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to grasp the hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the abyss to clasp hands with spiritualism, when, under the influence of this threefold union, our country shall repudiate every principle of its Constitution as a Protestant and republican government and shall make provision for the propagation of papal falsehoods and delusions, then we may know that the time has come for the marvelous working of Satan and that the end is near.--5T 451 (1885). {LDE 131.4} [LDE 131.5] Rome Will Regain Her Lost Supremacy As we approach the last crisis it is of vital moment 132 that harmony and unity exist among the Lord's instrumentalities. The world is filled with storm and war and variance. Yet under one head--the papal power--the people will unite to oppose God in the person of His witnesses. This union is cemented by the great apostate.--7T 182 (1902). {LDE 131.5} [LDE 132.1] Laws enforcing the observance of Sunday as the Sabbath will bring about a national apostasy from the principles of republicanism upon which the government has been founded. The religion of the papacy will be accepted by the rulers, and the law of God will be made void.--7MR 192 (1906). {LDE 132.1} [LDE 132.2] A day of great intellectual darkness has been shown to be favorable to the success of popery. It will yet be demonstrated that a day of great intellectual light is equally favorable for its success.--4SP 390 (1884). {LDE 132.2} [LDE 132.3] In the movements now in progress in the United States to secure for the institutions and usages of the church the support of the state, Protestants are following in the steps of papists. Nay, more, they are opening the door for the papacy to regain in Protestant America the supremacy which she has lost in the Old World.--GC 573 (1911). {LDE 132.3} [LDE 132.4] A National Sunday Law Means National Apostasy To secure popularity and patronage, legislators will yield to the demand for a Sunday law....By the 133 decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation of the law of God our nation will disconnect herself fully from righteousness. . . . {LDE 132.4} [LDE 133.1] As the approach of the Roman armies was a sign to the disciples of the impending destruction of Jerusalem, so may this apostasy be a sign to us that the limit of God's forbearance is reached.--5T 451 (1885). {LDE 133.1} [LDE 133.2] We must take a firm stand that we will not reverence the first day of the week as the Sabbath, for it is not the day that was blessed and sanctified by Jehovah, and in reverencing Sunday we should place ourselves on the side of the great deceiver.... {LDE 133.2} [LDE 133.3] When the law of God has been made void and apostasy becomes a national sin, the Lord will work in behalf of His people.--3SM 388 (1889). {LDE 133.3} [LDE 133.4] The people of the United States have been a favored people, but when they restrict religious liberty, surrender Protestantism, and give countenance to popery, the measure of their guilt will be full, and "national apostasy" will be registered in the books of heaven.--RH May 2, 1893. {LDE 133.4} [LDE 133.5] National Apostasy Will Be Followed by National Ruin When our nation, in its legislative councils, shall enact laws to bind the consciences of men in regard to their religious privileges, enforcing Sunday observance, and bringing oppressive power to bear against those who keep the seventh-day Sabbath, the law of 134 God will, to all intents and purposes, be made void in our land, and national apostasy will be followed by national ruin.--7BC 977 (1888). {LDE 133.5} [LDE 134.1] It is at the time of the national apostasy when, acting on the policy of Satan, the rulers of the land will rank themselves on the side of the man of sin. It is then the measure of guilt is full. The national apostasy is the signal for national ruin.--2SM 373 (1891). {LDE 134.1} [LDE 134.2] Roman Catholic principles will be taken under the care and protection of the state. This national apostasy will speedily be followed by national ruin.--RH June 15, 1897. {LDE 134.2} [LDE 134.3] When Protestant churches shall unite with the secular power to sustain a false religion, for opposing which their ancestors endured the fiercest persecution, then will the papal sabbath be enforced by the combined authority of church and state. There will be a national apostasy, which will end only in national ruin.--Ev 235 (1899). {LDE 134.3} [LDE 134.4] When the state shall use its power to enforce the decrees and sustain the institutions of the church--then will Protestant America have formed an image to the papacy, and there will be a national apostasy which will end only in national ruin.--7BC 976 (1910). {LDE 134.4} [LDE 134.5] Universal Sunday Legislation History will be repeated. False religion will be exalted. The first day of the week, a common working day, 135 possessing no sanctity whatever, will be set up as was the image of Babylon. All nations and tongues and peoples will be commanded to worship this spurious sabbath. . . . The decree enforcing the worship of this day is to go forth to all the world.--7BC 976 (1897). {LDE 134.5} [LDE 135.1] As America, the land of religious liberty, shall unite with the papacy in forcing the conscience and compelling men to honor the false sabbath, the people of every country on the globe will be led to follow her example.--6T 18 (1900). {LDE 135.1} [LDE 135.2] The Sabbath question is to be the issue in the great final conflict in which all the world will act a part.--6T 352 (1900). {LDE 135.2} [LDE 135.3] Foreign nations will follow the example of the United States. Though she leads out, yet the same crisis will come upon our people in all parts of the world.--6T 395 (1900). {LDE 135.3} [LDE 135.4] The substitution of the false for the true is the last act in the drama. When this substitution becomes universal God will reveal Himself. When the laws of men are exalted above the laws of God, when the powers of this earth try to force men to keep the first day of the week, know that the time has come for God to work.--7BC 980 (1901). {LDE 135.4} [LDE 135.5] The substitution of the laws of men for the law of God, the exaltation, by merely human authority, of Sunday in place of the Bible Sabbath, is the last act in 136 the drama. When this substitution becomes universal God will reveal Himself. He will arise in His majesty to shake terribly the earth.--7T 141 (1902). {LDE 135.5} [LDE 136.1] The Whole World Will Support Sunday Legislation The wicked . . . declared that they had the truth, that miracles were among them, that angels from heaven talked with them and walked with them, that great power and signs and wonders were performed among them, and that this was the temporal millennium that they had been expecting so long. The whole world was converted and in harmony with the Sunday law.--3SM 427, 428 (1884). {LDE 136.1} [LDE 136.2] The whole world is to be stirred with enmity against Seventh-day Adventists because they will not yield homage to the papacy by honoring Sunday, the institution of this antichristian power.--TM 37 (1893). {LDE 136.2} [LDE 136.3] Those who trample upon God's law make human laws which they will force the people to accept. Men will devise and counsel and plan what they will do. The whole world keeps Sunday, they say, and why should not this people, who are so few in number, do according to the laws of the land?--Ms 163, 1897. {LDE 136.3} [LDE 136.4] The Controversy Centers in Christendom The so-called Christian world is to be the theater of great and decisive actions. Men in authority will 137 enact laws controlling the conscience, after the example of the papacy. Babylon will make all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication. Every nation will be involved. Of this time John the Revelator declares: ［Revelation 18:3-7; 17:13, 14, quoted］. "These have one mind." There will be a universal bond of union, one great harmony, a confederacy of Satan's forces. "And shall give their power and strength unto the beast." Thus is manifested the same arbitrary, oppressive power against religious liberty--freedom to worship God according to the dictates of conscience--as was manifested by the papacy, when in the past it persecuted those who dared to refuse to conform with the religious rites and ceremonies of Romanism.--3SM 392 (1891). {LDE 136.4} [LDE 137.1] In the great conflict between faith and unbelief the whole Christian world will be involved.--RH Feb. 7, 1893. {LDE 137.1} [LDE 137.2] All Christendom will be divided into two great classes--those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, and those who worship the beast and his image and receive his mark.--GC 450 (1911). {LDE 137.2} [LDE 137.3] As the Sabbath has become the special point of controversy throughout Christendom and religious and secular authorities have combined to enforce the observance of the Sunday, the persistent refusal of a small minority to yield to the popular demand will make them objects of universal execration.--GC 615 (1911). {LDE 137.3} [LDE 138.1] As the decree issued by the various rulers of Christendom against commandment keepers shall withdraw the protection of government, and abandon them to those who desire their destruction, the people of God will flee from the cities and villages and associate together in companies, dwelling in the most desolate and solitary places.--GC 626 (1911). {LDE 138.1} [LDE 138.2] Show No Defiance Those who compose our churches have traits of character that will lead them, if they are not very careful, to feel indignant, because on account of misrepresentation their liberty in regard to working on Sunday is taken away. Do not fly into a passion over this matter but take everything in prayer to God. He alone can restrain the power of rulers. Walk not rashly. Let none boast unwisely of their liberty, using it for a cloak of maliciousness, but as the servants of God, "Honor all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king" ［1 Peter 2:17］. {LDE 138.2} [LDE 138.3] This advice is to be of real value to all who are to be brought into strait places. Nothing that shows defiance or that could be interpreted as maliciousness must be shown.--2MR 193, 194 (1898). {LDE 138.3} [LDE 138.4] Refrain From Work on Sunday In regard to the Southern field, ［SUNDAY-LAW ENFORCEMENT WAS ESPECIALLY SEVERE IN THE SOUTHERN STATES IN THE UNITED STATES IN THE 1880S AND 1890S. SEE AMERICAN STATE PAPERS (REVIEW AND HERALD, 1943), PP. 517-562.］ the work there must be done as wisely and carefully as possible, and it must be 139 done in the manner in which Christ would work. The people will soon find out what you believe about Sunday and the Sabbath for they will ask questions. Then you can tell them, but not in such a manner as to attract attention to your work. You need not cut short your work by yourself laboring on Sunday. . . . {LDE 138.4} [LDE 139.1] Refraining from work on Sunday is not receiving the mark of the beast. . . . In places where the opposition is so strong as to arouse persecution, if work is done on Sunday, let our brethren make that day an occasion to do genuine missionary work.--SW 69, 70 (1895). {LDE 139.1} [LDE 139.2] If they should come here and say "You must close up your work and your presses on Sunday," I would not say to you, . . . "Keep your presses going," because the conflict does not come between you and your God.--Ms 163, 1898. {LDE 139.2} [LDE 139.3] We should not feel it enjoined upon us to irritate our neighbors who idolize Sunday by making determined efforts to bring labor on that day before them purposely to exhibit an independence. Our sisters need not select Sunday as the day to exhibit their washing.--3SM 399 (1889). {LDE 139.3} [LDE 139.4] Engage in Spiritual Activities on Sunday I will try to answer your question as to what you should do in the case of Sunday laws being enforced. {LDE 139.4} [LDE 139.5] The light given me by the Lord at a time when we were expecting just such a crisis as you seem to be 140 approaching, was that when people were moved by a power from beneath to enforce Sunday observance, Seventh-day Adventists were to show their wisdom by refraining from their ordinary work on that day, devoting it to missionary effort. {LDE 139.5} [LDE 140.1] To defy the Sunday laws will but strengthen in their persecution the religious zealots who are seeking to enforce them. Give them no occasion to call you lawbreakers. . . . One does not receive the mark of the beast because he shows that he realizes the wisdom of keeping the peace by refraining from work that gives offense. . . . {LDE 140.1} [LDE 140.2] Sunday can be used for carrying forward various lines of work that will accomplish much for the Lord. On this day open-air meetings and cottage meetings can be held. House-to-house work can be done. Those who write can devote this day to writing their articles. Whenever it is possible, let religious services be held on Sunday. Make these meetings intensely interesting. Sing genuine revival hymns, and speak with power and assurance of the Saviour's love.--9T 232, 233 (1909). {LDE 140.2} [LDE 140.3] Take the students out to hold meetings in different places, and to do medical missionary work. They will find the people at home and will have a splendid opportunity to present the truth. This way of spending Sunday is always acceptable to the Lord.--9T 238 (1909). {LDE 140.3} [LDE 140.4] Beauty of Truth Made Apparent by Opposition The zeal of those who obey the Lord will be increased as the world and the church unite in making 141 void the law. Every objection raised against the commandments of God will make way for the advancement of truth and enable its advocates to present its value before men. There is a beauty and force in the truth that nothing can make so apparent as opposition and persecution.--13MR 71, 72 (1896). {LDE 140.4} [LDE 141.1] This time, when there is such an effort made to enforce the observance of Sunday, is the very opportunity to present to the world the true Sabbath in contrast to the false. The Lord in His providence is far ahead of us. He has permitted this Sunday question to be pressed to the front that the Sabbath of the fourth commandment may be presented before the legislative assemblies. Thus the leading men of the nation may have their attention called to the testimony of God's Word in favor of the true Sabbath.--2MR 197 (1890). {LDE 141.1} [LDE 141.2] We Ought to Obey God Rather Than Men The adherents of truth are now called upon to choose between disregarding a plain requirement of God's Word or forfeiting their liberty. If we yield the Word of God and accept human customs and traditions, we may still be permitted to live among men, to buy and sell, and have our rights respected. But if we maintain our loyalty to God it must be at the sacrifice of our rights among men, for the enemies of God's law have leagued together to crush out independent judgment in matters of religious faith and control the consciences of men. . . . {LDE 141.2} [LDE 142.1] The people of God will recognize human government as an ordinance of divine appointment and will by precept and example teach obedience to it as a sacred duty so long as its authority is exercised within its legitimate sphere. But when its claims conflict with the claims of God we must choose to obey God rather than men. The Word of God must be recognized and obeyed as an authority above that of all human legislation. "Thus saith the Lord" is not to be set aside for a "Thus saith the church or the state." The crown of Christ is to be uplifted above all the diadems of earthly potentates.--HM Nov. 1, 1893. {LDE 142.1} [LDE 142.2] Satan offers to men the kingdoms of the world if they will yield to him the supremacy. Many do this and sacrifice heaven. It is better to die than to sin; better to want than to defraud; better to hunger than to lie.--4T 495 (1880). {LDE 142.2} [LDE 143.1] Chap. 10. - The Little Time of Trouble A Time of Trouble Before Probation Closes On page 33 ［of Early Writings］ is given the following: ". . . At the commencement of the time of trouble, we were filled with the Holy Ghost as we went forth and proclaimed the Sabbath more fully." {LDE 143.1} [LDE 143.2] This view was given in 1847 when there were but very few of the Advent brethren observing the Sabbath, and of these but few supposed that its observance was of sufficient importance to draw a line between the people of God and unbelievers. Now the fulfillment of that view is beginning to be seen. "The commencement of that time of trouble," here mentioned, does not refer to the time when the plagues shall begin to be poured out, but to a short period just before they are poured out, while Christ is in the sanctuary. At that time, while the work of salvation is closing, trouble will be coming on the earth, and the nations will be angry, yet held in check so as not to prevent the work of the third angel.--EW 85, 86 (1854). {LDE 143.2} [LDE 144.1] The End of Religious Liberty in the United States The law of God, through the agency of Satan, is to be made void. In our land of boasted freedom religious liberty will come to an end. The contest will be decided over the Sabbath question, which will agitate the whole world.--Ev 236 (1875). {LDE 144.1} [LDE 144.2] A great crisis awaits the people of God. Very soon our nation will attempt to enforce upon all the observance of the first day of the week as a sacred day. In doing this they will not scruple to compel men against the voice of their own conscience to observe the day the nation declares to be the Sabbath.--RH Extra, Dec. 11, 1888. {LDE 144.2} [LDE 144.3] Seventh-day Adventists will fight the battle over the seventh-day Sabbath. The authorities in the United States and in other countries will rise up in their pride and power and make laws to restrict religious liberty.--Ms 78, 1897. {LDE 144.3} [LDE 144.4] The Protestants of the United States will be foremost in stretching their hands across the gulf to grasp the hand of spiritualism; they will reach over the abyss to clasp hands with the Roman power; and under the influence of this threefold union, this country will follow in the steps of Rome in trampling on the rights of conscience.--GC 588 (1911). {LDE 144.4} [LDE 145.1] Church and State Oppose God's People All who will not bow to the decree of the national councils and obey the national laws to exalt the sabbath instituted by the man of sin, to the disregard of God's holy day, will feel, not the oppressive power of popery alone, but of the Protestant world, the image of the beast.--2SM 380 (1886). {LDE 145.1} [LDE 145.2] Those religious bodies who refuse to hear God's messages of warning will be under strong deception and will unite with the civil power to persecute the saints. The Protestant churches will unite with the papal power in persecuting the commandment-keeping people of God. . . . {LDE 145.2} [LDE 145.3] This lamb-like power unites with the dragon in making war upon those who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.--14MR 162 (1899). {LDE 145.3} [LDE 145.4] The church appeals to the strong arm of civil power, and in this work papists and Protestants unite.--GC 607 (1911). {LDE 145.4} [LDE 145.5] Before the Courts Those who live during the last days of this earth's history will know what it means to be persecuted for the truth's sake. In the courts injustice will prevail. The judges will refuse to listen to the reasons of those who are loyal to the commandments of God because they know the arguments in favor of the fourth 146 commandment are unanswerable. They will say, "We have a law, and by our law he ought to die." God's law is nothing to them. "Our law" with them is supreme. Those who respect this human law will be favored, but those who will not bow to the idol sabbath have no favors shown them.--ST May 26, 1898. {LDE 145.5} [LDE 146.1] In cases where we are brought before the courts, we are to give up our rights, unless it brings us in collision with God. It is not our rights we are pleading for, but God's right to our service.--5MR 69 (1895). {LDE 146.1} [LDE 146.2] Adventists Will Be Treated With Contempt The same masterful mind that plotted against the faithful in ages past is still seeking to rid the earth of those who fear God and obey His law. . . . {LDE 146.2} [LDE 146.3] Wealth, genius, education, will combine to cover them with contempt. Persecuting rulers, ministers, and church members will conspire against them. With voice and pen, by boasts, threats, and ridicule, they will seek to overthrow their faith.--5T 450 (1885). {LDE 146.3} [LDE 146.4] There will come a time when, because of our advocacy of Bible truth, we shall be treated as traitors.--6T 394 (1900). {LDE 146.4} [LDE 146.5] Those who honor the Bible Sabbath will be denounced as enemies of law and order, as breaking down the moral restraints of society, causing anarchy and corruption, and calling down the judgments of God upon the earth. Their conscientious scruples will 147 be pronounced obstinacy, stubbornness, and contempt of authority. They will be accused of disaffection toward the government.--GC 592 (1911). {LDE 146.5} [LDE 147.1] All who in that evil day would fearlessly serve God according to the dictates of conscience, will need courage, firmness, and a knowledge of God and His Word, for those who are true to God will be persecuted, their motives will be impugned, their best efforts misinterpreted, and their names cast out as evil.--AA 431, 432 (1911). {LDE 147.1} [LDE 147.2] All Kinds of Persecution The persecutions of Protestants by Romanism, by which the religion of Jesus Christ was almost annihilated, will be more than rivaled when Protestantism and popery are combined.--3SM 387 (1889). {LDE 147.2} [LDE 147.3] Satan has a thousand masked batteries which will be opened upon the loyal, commandment-keeping people of God to compel them to violate conscience.--Letter 30a, 1892. {LDE 147.3} [LDE 147.4] We need not be surprised at anything that may take place now. We need not marvel at any developments of horror. Those who trample under their unholy feet the law of God have the same spirit as had the men who insulted and betrayed Jesus. Without any compunctions of conscience they will do the deeds of their father the devil.--3SM 416 (1897). {LDE 147.4} [LDE 148.1] Let those who desire to be refreshed in mind and instructed in the truth study the history of the early church during and immediately following the Day of Pentecost. Study carefully in the book of Acts the experiences of Paul and the other apostles, for God's people in our day must pass through similar experiences.--PC 118 (1907). {LDE 148.1} [LDE 148.2] Every Earthly Support Will Be Cut Off Hoarded wealth will soon be worthless. When the decree shall go forth that none shall buy or sell except they have the mark of the beast, very much means will be of no avail. God calls for us now to do all in our power to send forth the warning to the world.--RH March 21, 1878. {LDE 148.2} [LDE 148.3] The time is coming when we cannot sell at any price. The decree will soon go forth prohibiting men to buy or sell of any man save him that hath the mark of the beast. We came near having this realized in California a short time since, but this was only the threatening of the blowing of the four winds. As yet they are held by the four angels. We are not just ready. There is a work yet to be done, and then the angels will be bidden to let go, that the four winds may blow upon the earth.--5T 152 (1882). {LDE 148.3} [LDE 148.4] In the last great conflict in the controversy with Satan those who are loyal to God will see every earthly support cut off. Because they refuse to break His law in obedience to earthly powers they will be forbidden to buy or sell.--DA 121, 122 (1898). {LDE 148.4} [LDE 149.1] Satan says . . . "For fear of wanting food and clothing they will join with the world in transgressing God's law. The earth will be wholly under my dominion."--PK 183, 184 (c. 1914). {LDE 149.1} [LDE 149.2] Some Are Imprisoned for Their Faith Some will be imprisoned because they refuse to desecrate the Sabbath of the Lord.--PC 118 (1907). {LDE 149.2} [LDE 149.3] As the defenders of truth refuse to honor the Sunday-sabbath some of them will be thrust into prison, some will be exiled, some will be treated as slaves. To human wisdom all this now seems impossible, but as the restraining Spirit of God shall be withdrawn from men and they shall be under the control of Satan, who hates the divine precepts, there will be strange developments. The heart can be very cruel when God's fear and love are removed.--GC 608 (1911). {LDE 149.3} [LDE 149.4] If we are called to suffer for Christ's sake, we shall be able to go to prison trusting in Him as a little child trusts in its parents. Now is the time to cultivate faith in God.--OHC 357 (1892). {LDE 149.4} [LDE 149.5] Many Will Be Put to Death The best thing for us is to come into close connection with God and, if He would have us be martyrs for the truth's sake, it may be the means of bringing many more into the truth.--3SM 420 (1886). {LDE 149.5} [LDE 150.1] Many will be imprisoned, many will flee for their lives from cities and towns, and many will be martyrs for Christ's sake in standing in defense of the truth.--3SM 397 (1889). {LDE 150.1} [LDE 150.2] There is a prospect before us of a continued struggle, at the risk of imprisonment, loss of property and even of life itself, to defend the law of God.--5T 712 (1889). {LDE 150.2} [LDE 150.3] Men will be required to render obedience to human edicts in violation of the divine law. Those who are true to God will be menaced, denounced, proscribed. They will be "betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends," even unto death.--PK 588 (c. 1914). {LDE 150.3} [LDE 150.4] We are not to have the courage and fortitude of martyrs of old until brought into the position they were in. . . . Should there be a return of persecution there would be grace given to arouse every energy of the soul to show a true heroism.--OHC 125 (1889). {LDE 150.4} [LDE 150.5] The disciples were not endowed with the courage and fortitude of the martyrs until such grace was needed.--DA 354 (1898). {LDE 150.5} [LDE 150.6] How to Stand Firm Under Persecution We shall find that we must let loose of all hands except the hand of Jesus Christ. Friends will prove treacherous and will betray us. Relatives, deceived by the enemy, will think they do God service in opposing 151 us and putting forth the utmost efforts to bring us into hard places, hoping we will deny our faith. But we may trust our hand in the hand of Christ amid darkness and peril.--Mar 197 (1889). {LDE 150.6} [LDE 151.1] The only way in which men will be able to stand firm in the conflict is to be rooted and grounded in Christ. They must receive the truth as it is in Jesus. And it is only as the truth is presented thus that it can meet the wants of the soul. The preaching of Christ crucified, Christ our righteousness, is what satisfies the soul's hunger. When we secure the interest of the people in this great central truth, faith and hope and courage come to the heart.--GCDB Jan. 28, 1893. {LDE 151.1} [LDE 151.2] Many, because of their faith, will be cut off from house and heritage here, but if they will give their hearts to Christ, receiving the message of His grace, and resting upon their Substitute and Surety, even the Son of God, they may still be filled with joy.--ST June 2, 1898. {LDE 151.2} [LDE 151.3] Persecution Scatters God's People As enmity is aroused in various places against those who observe the Sabbath of the Lord, it may become necessary for God's people to move from those places to places where they will not be so bitterly opposed. {LDE 151.3} [LDE 151.4] God does not require His children to remain where, by the course of wicked men, their influence is made of no effect and their lives endangered. When liberty 152 and life are imperiled it is not merely our privilege, it is our positive duty to go to places where the people are willing to hear the Word of life and where the opportunities for preaching the Word will be more favorable.--Ms 26, 1904. {LDE 151.4} [LDE 152.1] The time is soon coming when God's people, because of persecution, will be scattered in many countries. Those who have received an all-round education will have the advantage where they are.--5MR 280 (1908). {LDE 152.1} [LDE 152.2] Persecution Leads to Unity Among God's People When the storm of persecution really breaks upon us, the true sheep will hear the true Shepherd's voice. Self-denying efforts will be put forth to save the lost, and many who have strayed from the fold will come back to follow the great Shepherd. The people of God will draw together and present to the enemy a united front. In view of the common peril strife for supremacy will cease, there will be no disputing as to who shall be accounted greatest.--6T 401 (1900). {LDE 152.2} [LDE 152.3] A Crisis Makes God's Interference More Marked From time to time the Lord has made known His manner of working. He is mindful of what is passing upon the earth. And when a crisis has come, He has revealed Himself and has interposed to hinder the working of Satan's plans. He has often permitted 153 matters with nations, with families, and with individuals to come to a crisis that His interference might become marked. Then He has let the fact be known that there was a God in Israel who would sustain and vindicate His people. {LDE 152.3} [LDE 153.1] When the defiance of the law of Jehovah shall be almost universal, when His people shall be pressed in affliction by their fellow men, God will interpose. The fervent prayers of His people will be answered, for He loves to have His people seek Him with all their heart and depend upon Him as their Deliverer.--RH June 15, 1897. {LDE 153.1} [LDE 153.2] For a time the oppressors will be permitted to triumph over those who know God's holy commandments. . . . To the last, God permits Satan to reveal his character as a liar, an accuser, and a murderer. Thus the final triumph of His people is made more marked, more glorious, more full and complete.--3SM 414 (1904). {LDE 153.2} [LDE 153.3] Affliction Purifies God's People Soon there is to be trouble all over the world. It becomes everyone to seek to know God. We have no time to delay. . . . {LDE 153.3} [LDE 153.4] God's love for His church is infinite. His care over His heritage is unceasing. He suffers no affliction to come upon the church but such as is essential for her purification, her present and eternal good. He will purify His church even as He purified the temple at the beginning and close of His ministry on earth. All that He brings upon the church in test and trial comes 154 that His people may gain deeper piety and more strength to carry the triumphs of the cross to all parts of the world.--9T 228 (1909). {LDE 153.4} [LDE 154.1] Afflictions, crosses, temptations, adversity, and our varied trials are God's workmen to refine us, sanctify us, and fit us for the heavenly garner.--3T 115 (1872). {LDE 154.1} [LDE 155.1] Chap. 11. - Satan's Last Day Deceptions Under the Garb of Christianity We are approaching the end of this earth's history, and Satan is working as never before. He is striving to act as director of the Christian world. With an intensity that is marvelous he is working with his lying wonders. Satan is represented as walking about as a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. He desires to embrace the whole world in his confederacy. Hiding his deformity under the garb of Christianity, he assumes the attributes of a Christian, and claims to be Christ Himself.--8MR 346 (1901). {LDE 155.1} [LDE 155.2] The Word of God declares that when it suits the enemy's purpose, he will through his agencies manifest so great a power under a pretense of Christianity that, "if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect" ［Matthew 24:24］.--Ms 125, 1901. {LDE 155.2} [LDE 155.3] As the spirits will profess faith in the Bible and manifest respect for the institutions of the church, 156 their work will be accepted as a manifestation of divine power.--GC 588 (1911). {LDE 155.3} [LDE 156.1] The strongest bulwark of vice in our world is not the iniquitous life of the abandoned sinner or the degraded outcast; it is that life which otherwise appears virtuous, honorable, and noble, but in which one sin is fostered, one vice indulged. . . . Genius, talent, sympathy, even generous and kindly deeds, may thus become decoys of Satan to entice souls over the precipice of ruin.--Ed 150 (1903). {LDE 156.1} [LDE 156.2] Even in the Adventist Church We have far more to fear from within than from without. The hindrances to strength and success are far greater from the church itself than from the world. Unbelievers have a right to expect that those who profess to be keeping the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, will do more than any other class to promote and honor, by their consistent lives, by their godly example and their active influence, the cause which they represent. But how often have the professed advocates of the truth proved the greatest obstacle to its advancement! The unbelief indulged, the doubts expressed, the darkness cherished, encourage the presence of evil angels, and open the way for the accomplishment of Satan's devices.--1SM 122 (1887). {LDE 156.2} [LDE 156.3] Lying Spirits Contradict the Scriptures The saints must get a thorough understanding of present truth, which they will be obliged to maintain 157 from the Scriptures. They must understand the state of the dead, for the spirits of devils will yet appear to them, professing to be beloved friends and relatives, who will declare to them that the Sabbath has been changed, also other unscriptural doctrines.--EW 87 (1854). {LDE 156.3} [LDE 157.1] The apostles, as personated by these lying spirits, are made to contradict what they wrote at the dictation of the Holy Spirit when on earth. They deny the divine origin of the Bible.--GC 557 (1911). {LDE 157.1} [LDE 157.2] Through the two great errors, the immortality of the soul and Sunday sacredness, Satan will bring the people under his deceptions. While the former lays the foundation of spiritualism, the latter creates a bond of sympathy with Rome.--GC 588 (1911). {LDE 157.2} [LDE 157.3] Persons will arise pretending to be Christ Himself, and claiming the title and worship which belong to the world's Redeemer. They will perform wonderful miracles of healing, and will profess to have revelations from heaven contradicting the testimony of the Scriptures. . . . {LDE 157.3} [LDE 157.4] But the people of God will not be misled. The teachings of this false christ are not in accordance with the Scriptures. His blessing is pronounced upon the worshipers of the beast and his image, the very class upon whom the Bible declares that God's unmingled wrath shall be poured out.--GC 624, 625 (1911). {LDE 157.4} [LDE 158.1] False Revivals I saw that God has honest children among the nominal Adventists and the fallen churches, and before the plagues shall be poured out, ministers and people will be called out from these churches and will gladly receive the truth. Satan knows this; and before the loud cry of the third angel is given, he raises an excitement in these religious bodies, that those who have rejected the truth may think that God is with them.--EW 261 (1858). {LDE 158.1} [LDE 158.2] Before the final visitation of God's judgments upon the earth there will be among the people of the Lord such a revival of primitive godliness as has not been witnessed since apostolic times. . . . The enemy of souls desires to hinder this work, and before the time for such a movement shall come, he will endeavor to prevent it by introducing a counterfeit. In those churches which he can bring under his deceptive power, he will make it appear that God's special blessing is poured out; there will be manifest what is thought to be great religious interest. . . . {LDE 158.2} [LDE 158.3] There is an emotional excitement, a mingling of the true with the false, that is well adapted to mislead. Yet none need be deceived. In the light of God's Word it is not difficult to determine the nature of these movements. Wherever men neglect the testimony of the Bible, turning away from those plain, soul-testing truths which require self-denial and renunciation of the world, there we may be sure that God's blessing is not bestowed.--GC 464 (1911). {LDE 158.3} [LDE 159.1] Music Is Made a Snare The things you have described as taking place in Indiana, ［THESE COMMENTS WERE MADE IN CONNECTION WITH THE "HOLY FLESH" MOVEMENT AT THE INDIANA CAMP MEETING OF 1900. FOR FURTHER DETAILS, SEE SELECTED MESSAGES, BOOK 2, PP. 31-39.］ the Lord has shown me would take place just before the close of probation. Every uncouth thing will be demonstrated. There will be shouting, with drums, music, and dancing. The senses of rational beings will become so confused that they cannot be trusted to make right decisions. . . . {LDE 159.1} [LDE 159.2] A bedlam of noise shocks the senses and perverts that which if conducted aright might be a blessing. The powers of satanic agencies blend with the din and noise to have a carnival, and this is termed the Holy Spirit's working. . . . Those things which have been in the past will be in the future. Satan will make music a snare by the way in which it is conducted.--2SM 36, 38 (1900). {LDE 159.2} [LDE 159.3] Let us give no place to strange exercisings, which really take the mind away from the deep movings of the Holy Spirit. God's work is ever characterized by calmness and dignity.--2SM 42 (1908). {LDE 159.3} [LDE 159.4] False Speaking in Tongues Fanaticism, false excitement, false talking in tongues, and noisy exercises have been considered gifts which God has placed in the church. Some have been deceived here. The fruits of all this have not been good. "Ye shall know them by their fruits." Fanaticism 160 and noise have been considered special evidences of faith. Some are not satisfied with a meeting unless they have a powerful and happy time. They work for this and get up an excitement of feeling. But the influence of such meetings is not beneficial. When the happy flight of feeling is gone they sink lower than before the meeting because their happiness did not come from the right source. {LDE 159.4} [LDE 160.1] The most profitable meetings for spiritual advancement are those which are characterized with solemnity and deep searching of heart, each seeking to know himself and, earnestly and in deep humility, seeking to learn of Christ.--1T 412 (1864). {LDE 160.1} [LDE 160.2] Evil Angels Appear as Human Beings Satan will use every opportunity to seduce men from their allegiance to God. He and the angels who fell with him will appear on the earth as men, seeking to deceive. God's angels also will appear as men, and will use every means in their power to defeat the purposes of the enemy.--8MR 399 (1903). {LDE 160.2} [LDE 160.3] Evil angels in the form of men will talk with those who know the truth. They will misinterpret and misconstrue the statements of the messengers of God. . . . Have Seventh-day Adventists forgotten the warning given in the sixth chapter of Ephesians? We are engaged in a warfare against the hosts of darkness. Unless we follow our Leader closely, Satan will obtain the victory over us.--3SM 411 (1903). {LDE 160.3} [LDE 161.1] Evil angels in the form of believers will work in our ranks to bring in a strong spirit of unbelief. Let not even this discourage you, but bring a true heart to the help of the Lord against the powers of satanic agencies. These powers of evil will assemble in our meetings, not to receive a blessing, but to counterwork the influences of the Spirit of God.--2MCP 504, 505 (1909). {LDE 161.1} [LDE 161.2] Personation of the Dead It is not difficult for the evil angels to represent both saints and sinners who have died, and make these representations visible to human eyes. These manifestations will be more frequent, and developments of a more startling character will appear as we near the close of time.--Ev 604 (1875). {LDE 161.2} [LDE 161.3] It is Satan's most successful and fascinating delusion--one calculated to take hold of the sympathies of those who have laid their loved ones in the grave. Evil angels come in the form of those loved ones and relate incidents connected with their lives, and perform acts which they performed while living. In this way they lead persons to believe that their dead friends are angels, hovering over them and communicating with them. These evil angels, who assume to be the deceased friends, are regarded with a certain idolatry, and with many their word has greater weight than the Word of God.--ST Aug. 26, 1889. {LDE 161.3} [LDE 161.4] He ［Satan］ has power to bring before men the appearance of their departed friends. The counterfeit 162 is perfect; the familiar look, the words, the tone, are reproduced with marvelous distinctness. . . . Many will be confronted by the spirits of devils personating beloved relatives or friends and declaring the most dangerous heresies. These visitants will appeal to our tenderest sympathies and will work miracles to sustain their pretensions.--GC 552, 560 (1911). {LDE 161.4} [LDE 162.1] Satan Personates Christ The enemy is preparing to deceive the whole world by his miracle-working power. He will assume to personate the angels of light, to personate Jesus Christ.--2SM 96 (1894). {LDE 162.1} [LDE 162.2] If men are so easily misled now, how will they stand when Satan shall personate Christ, and work miracles? Who will be unmoved by his misrepresentations then--professing to be Christ when it is only Satan assuming the person of Christ, and apparently working the works of Christ?--2SM 394 (1897). {LDE 162.2} [LDE 162.3] Satan will take the field and personate Christ. He will misrepresent, misapply, and pervert everything he possibly can.--TM 411 (1898). {LDE 162.3} [LDE 162.4] A power from beneath is working to bring about the last great scenes in the drama--Satan coming as Christ, and working with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in those who are binding themselves together in secret societies.--8T 28 (1904). {LDE 162.4} [LDE 163.1] Satan Resembles Christ in Every Particular There is a limit beyond which Satan cannot go, and here he calls deception to his aid and counterfeits the work which he has not power actually to perform. In the last days he will appear in such a manner as to make men believe him to be Christ come the second time into the world. He will indeed transform himself into an angel of light. But while he will bear the appearance of Christ in every particular, so far as mere appearance goes, it will deceive none but those who, like Pharaoh, are seeking to resist the truth.--5T 698 (1889). {LDE 163.1} [LDE 163.2] As the crowning act in the great drama of deception, Satan himself will personate Christ. The church has long professed to look to the Saviour's advent as the consummation of her hopes. Now the great deceiver will make it appear that Christ has come. In different parts of the earth, Satan will manifest himself among men as a majestic being of dazzling brightness, resembling the description of the Son of God given by John in the Revelation. (Revelation 1:13-15). The glory that surrounds him is unsurpassed by anything that mortal eyes have yet beheld. The shout of triumph rings out upon the air: "Christ has come! Christ has come!" {LDE 163.2} [LDE 163.3] The people prostrate themselves in adoration before him, while he lifts up his hands and pronounces a blessing upon them, as Christ blessed His disciples when He was upon the earth. His voice is soft and subdued, yet full of melody. In gentle, compassionate tones he presents some of the same gracious, heavenly 164 truths which the Saviour uttered; he heals the diseases of the people, and then, in his assumed character of Christ, he claims to have changed the Sabbath to Sunday, and commands all to hallow the day which he has blessed.--GC 624 (1911). {LDE 163.3} [LDE 164.1] Satan Pretends to Answer the Saints' Prayers Satan sees that he is about to lose his case. He cannot sweep in the whole world. He makes one last desperate effort to overcome the faithful by deception. He does this in personating Christ. He clothes himself with the garments of royalty which have been accurately described in the vision of John. He has power to do this. He will appear to his deluded followers, the Christian world who received not the love of the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness (transgression of the law), as Christ coming the second time. {LDE 164.1} [LDE 164.2] He proclaims himself Christ, and he is believed to be Christ, a beautiful, majestic being clothed with majesty and, with soft voice and pleasant words, with glory unsurpassed by anything their mortal eyes had yet beheld. Then his deceived, deluded followers set up a shout of victory, "Christ has come the second time! Christ has come! He has lifted up His hands just as He did when He was upon the earth, and blessed us.". . . {LDE 164.2} [LDE 164.3] The saints look on with amazement. Will they also be deceived? Will they worship Satan? Angels of God are about them. A clear, firm, musical voice is heard, "Look up." {LDE 164.3} [LDE 164.4] There was one object before the praying ones--the final and eternal salvation of their souls. This object 165 was before them constantly--that immortal life was promised to those who endure unto the end. Oh, how earnest and fervent had been their desires. The judgment and eternity were in view. Their eyes by faith were fixed on the blazing throne, before which the white-robed ones were to stand. This restrained them from the indulgence of sin. . . . {LDE 164.4} [LDE 165.1] One effort more, and then Satan's last device is employed. He hears the unceasing cry for Christ to come, for Christ to deliver them. This last strategy is to personate Christ, and make them think their prayers are answered.--Ms 16, 1884. {LDE 165.1} [LDE 165.2] How the Counterfeit Differs From the Genuine Satan is not permitted to counterfeit the manner of Christ's advent.--GC 625 (1911). {LDE 165.2} [LDE 165.3] Satan . . . will come personating Jesus Christ, working mighty miracles; and men will fall down and worship him as Jesus Christ. We shall be commanded to worship this being, whom the world will glorify as Christ. What shall we do? Tell them that Christ has warned us against just such a foe, who is man's worst enemy, yet who claims to be God, and that when Christ shall make His appearance it will be with power and great glory, accompanied by ten thousand times ten thousand angels and thousands of thousands, and that when He shall come we shall know His voice.--6BC 1106 (1888). {LDE 165.3} [LDE 166.1] Satan is striving to gain every advantage. . . . Disguised as an angel of light, he will walk the earth as a wonder-worker. In beautiful language he will present lofty sentiments; good words will be spoken by him and good deeds performed. Christ will be personified. But on one point there will be a marked distinction--Satan will turn the people from the law of God. Notwithstanding this, so well will he counterfeit righteousness that, if it were possible, he would deceive the very elect. Crowned heads, presidents, rulers in high places, will bow to his false theories.--FE 471, 472 (1897). {LDE 166.1} [LDE 166.2] Miracles Will Be Performed The sick will be healed before us. Miracles will be performed in our sight. Are we prepared for the trial which awaits us when the lying wonders of Satan shall be more fully exhibited?--1T 302 (1862). {LDE 166.2} [LDE 166.3] Men under the influence of evil spirits will work miracles. They will make people sick by casting their spell upon them, and will then remove the spell, leading others to say that those who were sick have been miraculously healed. This Satan has done again and again.--2SM 53 (1903). {LDE 166.3} [LDE 166.4] Wonderful scenes, with which Satan will be closely connected, will soon take place. God's Word declares that Satan will work miracles. He will make people sick, and then will suddenly remove from them his satanic power. They will then be regarded as healed. 167 These works of apparent healing will bring Seventh-day Adventists to the test.--2SM 53 (1904). {LDE 166.4} [LDE 167.1] Satan can, through a species of deceptions, perform wonders that will appear to be genuine miracles. It was this he hoped to make a test question with the Israelites at the time of their deliverance from Egypt.--2SM 52 (1907). {LDE 167.1} [LDE 167.2] Fire From Heaven We must not trust the claims of men. They may, as Christ represents, profess to work miracles in healing the sick. Is this marvelous, when just behind them stands the great deceiver, the miracle worker who will yet bring down fire from heaven in the sight of men?--2SM 49 (1887). {LDE 167.2} [LDE 167.3] It is the lying wonders of the devil that will take the world captive, and he will cause fire to come down from heaven in the sight of men. He is to work miracles, and this wonderful, miracle-working power is to sweep in the whole world.--2SM 51 (1890). {LDE 167.3} [LDE 167.4] Satan will come in to deceive if possible the very elect. He claims to be Christ, and he is coming in, pretending to be the great medical missionary. He will cause fire to come down from heaven in the sight of men to prove that he is God.--MM 87, 88 (1903). {LDE 167.4} [LDE 167.5] It is stated in the Word that the enemy will work through his agents who have departed from the faith, 168 and they will seemingly work miracles, even to the bringing down of fire out of heaven in the sight of men.--2SM 54 (1907). {LDE 167.5} [LDE 168.1] "He doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men, and deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do" (Revelation 13:13, 14). No mere impostures are here foretold. Men are deceived by the miracles which Satan's agents have power to do, not which they pretend to do.--GC 553 (1911). {LDE 168.1} [LDE 168.2] Satan Will Be Deified In this age antichrist will appear as the true Christ, and then the law of God will be fully made void in the nations of our world. Rebellion against God's holy law will be fully ripe. But the true leader of all this rebellion is Satan clothed as an angel of light. Men will be deceived and will exalt him to the place of God, and deify him. But Omnipotence will interpose, and to the apostate churches that unite in the exaltation of Satan, the sentence will go forth, "Therefore shall her plagues come in one day, death, and mourning, and famine; and she shall be utterly burned with fire: for strong is the Lord God who judgeth her" ［Revelation 18:8］.--TM 62 (1893). {LDE 168.2} [LDE 168.3] As the second appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ draws near, satanic agencies are moved from beneath. Satan will not only appear as a human being, but he will personate Jesus Christ, and the world that 169 has rejected the truth will receive him as the Lord of lords and King of kings.--5BC 1105, 1106 (1900). {LDE 168.3} [LDE 169.1] Miracles Prove Nothing Go to God for yourselves, pray for divine enlightenment, that you may know that you do know what is truth, that when the wonderful miracle-working power shall be displayed, and the enemy shall come as an angel of light, you may distinguish between the genuine work of God and the imitative work of the powers of darkness.--3SM 389 (1888). {LDE 169.1} [LDE 169.2] The way in which Christ worked was to preach the Word, and to relieve suffering by miraculous works of healing. But I am instructed that we cannot now work in this way, ［MIRACLES WILL ACCOMPANY THE MINISTRY OF GOD'S PEOPLE UNDER THE LOUD CRY (SEE CHAPTER 14), BUT THEY WILL NOT HAVE THE SIGNIFICANCE THEY DID IN CHRIST'S DAY. THE PERFORMING OF MIRACLES WILL NO LONGER BE A PROOF OF DIVINE ENDORSEMENT.］ for Satan will exercise his power by working miracles. God's servants today could not work by means of miracles, because spurious works of healing, claiming to be divine, will be wrought.--2SM 54 (1904). {LDE 169.2} [LDE 169.3] God's people will not find their safety in working miracles, for Satan will counterfeit the miracles that will be wrought.--9T 16 (1909). {LDE 169.3} [LDE 169.4] Miracles Cannot Supersede the Bible If those through whom cures are performed are disposed, on account of these manifestations, to excuse 170 their neglect of the law of God and continue in disobedience, though they have power to any and every extent, it does not follow that they have the great power of God. On the contrary, it is the miracle-working power of the great deceiver.--2SM 50, 51 (1885). {LDE 169.4} [LDE 170.1] The Bible will never be superseded by miraculous manifestations. The truth must be studied, it must be searched for as hidden treasure. Wonderful illuminations will not be given aside from the Word or to take the place of it. Cling to the Word, receive the engrafted Word which will make men wise unto salvation.--2SM 48 (1894). {LDE 170.1} [LDE 170.2] The last great delusion is soon to open before us. Antichrist is to perform his marvelous works in our sight. So closely will the counterfeit resemble the true that it will be impossible to distinguish between them except by the Holy Scriptures. By their testimony every statement and every miracle must be tested.--GC 593 (1911). {LDE 170.2} [LDE 170.3] The Deception Is Almost Universal There is now need of earnest, working men and women who will seek for the salvation of souls, for Satan as a powerful general has taken the field, and in this last remnant of time he is working through all conceivable methods to close the door against light that God would have come to His people. He is sweeping the whole world into his ranks, and the few who are faithful to God's requirements are the only ones 171 who can ever withstand him, and even these he is trying to overcome.--3SM 389 (1889). {LDE 170.3} [LDE 171.1] The forms of the dead will appear, through the cunning device of Satan, and many will link up with the one who loveth and maketh a lie. I warn our people that right among us some will turn away from the faith and give heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils, and by them the truth will be evil spoken of. {LDE 171.1} [LDE 171.2] A marvelous work shall take place. Ministers, lawyers, doctors, who have permitted these falsehoods to overmaster their spirit of discernment, will be themselves deceivers, united with the deceived. A spiritual drunkenness will take possession of them.--UL 317 (1905). {LDE 171.2} [LDE 172.1] Chap. 12. - The Shaking Church Membership No Guarantee of Salvation It is a solemn statement that I make to the church, that not one in twenty whose names are registered upon the church books are prepared to close their earthly history, and would be as verily without God and without hope in the world as the common sinner.--ChS 41 (1893). {LDE 172.1} [LDE 172.2] Those who have had opportunities to hear and receive of the truth and who have united with the Seventh-day Adventist church, calling themselves the commandment-keeping people of God, and yet possess no more vitality and consecration to God than do the nominal churches, will receive the plagues of God just as verily as the churches who oppose the law of God.--19MR 176 (1898). {LDE 172.2} [LDE 172.3] The Chaff Separated From the Wheat Divisions will come in the church. Two parties will be developed. The wheat and tares grow up together for the harvest.--2SM 114 (1896). {LDE 172.3} [LDE 173.1] There will be a shaking of the sieve. The chaff must in time be separated from the wheat. Because iniquity abounds, the love of many waxes cold. It is the very time when the genuine will be the strongest.--Letter 46, 1887. {LDE 173.1} [LDE 173.2] The history of the rebellion of Dathan and Abiram is being repeated, and will be repeated till the close of time. Who will be on the Lord's side? Who will be deceived, and in their turn become deceivers?--Letter 15, 1892. {LDE 173.2} [LDE 173.3] The Lord is soon to come. There must be a refining, winnowing process in every church, for there are among us wicked men who do not love the truth or honor God.--RH March 19, 1895. {LDE 173.3} [LDE 173.4] We are in the shaking time, the time when everything that can be shaken will be shaken. The Lord will not excuse those who know the truth if they do not in word and deed obey His commands.--6T 332 (1900). {LDE 173.4} [LDE 173.5] Persecution Cleanses the Church Prosperity multiplies a mass of professors. Adversity purges them out of the church.--4T 89 (1876). {LDE 173.5} [LDE 173.6] The time is not far distant when the test will come to every soul. The mark of the beast will be urged upon us. Those who have step by step yielded to worldly demands and conformed to worldly customs will not find it a hard matter to yield to the powers that be, rather than subject themselves to derision, insult, 174 threatened imprisonment, and death. The contest is between the commandments of God and the commandments of men. In this time the gold will be separated from the dross in the church.--5T 81 (1882). {LDE 173.6} [LDE 174.1] In the absence of the persecution there have drifted into our ranks men who appear sound and their Christianity unquestionable, but who, if persecution should arise, would go out from us.--Ev 360 (1890). {LDE 174.1} [LDE 174.2] When the law of God is made void the church will be sifted by fiery trials, and a larger proportion than we now anticipate will give heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils.--2SM 368 (1891). {LDE 174.2} [LDE 174.3] Superficial Believers Will Renounce the Faith The work which the church has failed to do in a time of peace and prosperity she will have to do in a terrible crisis under most discouraging, forbidding circumstances. The warnings that worldly conformity has silenced or withheld must be given under the fiercest opposition from enemies of the faith. And at that time the superficial, conservative ［ELLEN WHITE IS NOT HERE DISTINGUISHING THEOLOGICAL CONSERVATIVES FROM THEIR LIBERAL COUNTERPARTS; SHE IS DESCRIBING THOSE WHO PUT "WORLDLY CONFORMITY" FIRST AND GOD'S CAUSE SECOND.］ class, whose influence has steadily retarded the progress of the work, will renounce the faith.--5T 463 (1885). {LDE 174.3} [LDE 174.4] If Satan sees that the Lord is blessing His people and preparing them to discern his delusions, he will 175 work with his master power to bring in fanaticism on the one hand and cold formalism on the other, that he may gather in a harvest of souls.--2SM 19 (1890). {LDE 174.4} [LDE 175.1] Those who have had privileges and opportunities to become intelligent in regard to the truth and yet who continue to counterwork the work God would have accomplished will be purged out, for God accepts the service of no man whose interest is divided.--Ms 64, 1898. {LDE 175.1} [LDE 175.2] As trials thicken around us, both separation and unity will be seen in our ranks. Some who are now ready to take up weapons of warfare will in times of real peril make it manifest that they have not built upon the solid rock; they will yield to temptation. Those who have had great light and precious privileges but have not improved them will, under one pretext or another, go out from us.--6T 400 (1900). {LDE 175.2} [LDE 175.3] The Straight Testimony Produces a Shaking I asked the meaning of the shaking I had seen, and was shown that it would be caused by the straight testimony called forth by the counsel of the True Witness to the Laodiceans. This will have its effect upon the heart of the receiver, and will lead him to exalt the standard and pour forth the straight truth. Some will not bear this straight testimony. They will rise up against it, and this will cause a shaking among God's people.--1T 181 (1857). {LDE 175.3} [LDE 175.4] There are those among us who will make confessions, as did Achan, too late to save themselves. 176 . . . They are not in harmony with right. They despise the straight testimony that reaches the heart, and would rejoice to see everyone silenced who gives reproof.--3T 272 (1873). {LDE 175.4} [LDE 176.1] The Lord calls for a renewal of the straight testimony borne in years past. He calls for a renewal of spiritual life. The spiritual energies of His people have long been torpid, but there is to be a resurrection from apparent death. By prayer and confession of sin we must clear the King's highway.--8T 297 (1904). {LDE 176.1} [LDE 176.2] Unjust Criticism Causes Loss of Souls Even in our day there have been and will continue to be entire families who have once rejoiced in the truth, but who will lose faith because of calumnies and falsehoods brought to them in regard to those whom they have loved and with whom they have had sweet counsel. They opened their hearts to the sowing of tares, the tares sprang up among the wheat, they strengthened, the crop of wheat became less and less, and the precious truth lost its power to them.--TM 411 (1898). {LDE 176.2} [LDE 176.3] False Doctrines Draw Some Away Science, so-called, and religion will be placed in opposition to each other because finite men do not comprehend the power and greatness of God. These words of Holy Writ were presented to me, "Of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, 177 to draw away disciples after them" ［Acts 20:30］. This will surely be seen among the people of God.--Ev 593 (1890). {LDE 176.3} [LDE 177.1] When the shaking comes, by the introduction of false theories, these surface readers, anchored nowhere, are like shifting sand. They slide into any position to suit the tenor of their feelings of bitterness.--TM 112 (1897). {LDE 177.1} [LDE 177.2] Not having received the love of the truth, they will be taken in the delusions of the enemy; they will give heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils and will depart from the faith.--6T 401 (1900). {LDE 177.2} [LDE 177.3] The enemy will bring in false theories, such as the doctrine that there is no sanctuary. This is one of the points on which there will be a departing from the faith.--Ev 224 (1905). {LDE 177.3} [LDE 177.4] Rejection of the Testimonies Results in Apostasy One thing is certain: Those Seventh-day Adventists who take their stand under Satan's banner will first give up their faith in the warnings and reproofs contained in the Testimonies of God's Spirit.--3SM 84 (1903). {LDE 177.4} [LDE 177.5] The very last deception of Satan will be to make of none effect the testimony of the Spirit of God. "Where there is no vision, the people perish" (Proverbs 29:18). Satan will work ingeniously, in different ways and through 178 different agencies, to unsettle the confidence of God's remnant people in the true testimony.--1SM 48 (1890). {LDE 177.5} [LDE 178.1] The enemy has made his masterly efforts to unsettle the faith of our own people in the Testimonies. . . . This is just as Satan designed it should be, and those who have been preparing the way for the people to pay no heed to the warnings and reproofs of the Testimonies of the Spirit of God will see that a tide of errors of all kinds will spring into life.--3SM 83 (1890). {LDE 178.1} [LDE 178.2] It is Satan's plan to weaken the faith of God's people in the Testimonies. Next follows skepticism in regard to the vital points of our faith, the pillars of our position, then doubt as to the Holy Scriptures, and then the downward march to perdition. When the Testimonies, which were once believed, are doubted and given up, Satan knows the deceived ones will not stop at this; and he redoubles his efforts till he launches them into open rebellion, which becomes incurable and ends in destruction.--4T 211. {LDE 178.2} [LDE 178.3] Defections Among Church Leaders Many a star that we have admired for its brilliance will then go out in darkness.--PK 188 (c. 1914). {LDE 178.3} [LDE 178.4] Men whom He has greatly honored will, in the closing scenes of this earth's history, pattern after ancient Israel. . . . A departure from the great principles Christ has laid down in His teachings, a working out of human projects, using the Scriptures to 179 justify a wrong course of action under the perverse working of Lucifer, will confirm men in misunderstanding, and the truth that they need to keep them from wrong practices will leak out of the soul like water from a leaky vessel.--13MR 379, 381 (1904). {LDE 178.4} [LDE 179.1] Many will show that they are not one with Christ, that they are not dead to the world, that they may live with Him; and frequent will be the apostasies of men who have occupied responsible positions.--RH Sept. 11, 1888. {LDE 179.1} [LDE 179.2] Unsanctified Ministers Will Be Weeded Out The great issue so near at hand ［enforcement of Sunday laws］ will weed out those whom God has not appointed and He will have a pure, true, sanctified ministry prepared for the latter rain.--3SM 385 (1886). {LDE 179.2} [LDE 179.3] Many will stand in our pulpits with the torch of false prophecy in their hands, kindled from the hellish torch of Satan. . . . {LDE 179.3} [LDE 179.4] Some will go out from among us who will bear the ark no longer. But these can not make walls to obstruct the truth; for it will go onward and upward to the end.--TM 409, 411 (1898). {LDE 179.4} [LDE 179.5] Ministers and doctors may depart from the faith, as the Word declares they will, and as the messages that God has given His servant declare they will.--7MR 192 (1906). {LDE 179.5} [LDE 180.1] The Church May Appear as About to Fall The shaking of God blows away multitudes like dry leaves.--4T 89 (1876). {LDE 180.1} [LDE 180.2] Chaff like a cloud will be borne away on the wind, even from places where we see only floors of rich wheat.--5T 81 (1882). {LDE 180.2} [LDE 180.3] Soon God's people will be tested by fiery trials, and the great proportion of those who now appear to be genuine and true will prove to be base metal. . . . {LDE 180.3} [LDE 180.4] When the religion of Christ is most held in contempt, when His law is most despised, then should our zeal be the warmest and our courage and firmness the most unflinching. To stand in defense of truth and righteousness when the majority forsake us, to fight the battles of the Lord when champions are few--this will be our test. At this time we must gather warmth from the coldness of others, courage from their cowardice, and loyalty from their treason.--5T 136 (1882). {LDE 180.4} [LDE 180.5] The church may appear as about to fall, but it does not fall. It remains, while the sinners in Zion will be sifted out--the chaff separated from the precious wheat. This is a terrible ordeal, but nevertheless it must take place.--2SM 380 (1886). {LDE 180.5} [LDE 180.6] As the storm approaches, a large class who have professed faith in the third angel's message, but have 181 not been sanctified through obedience to the truth, abandon their position and join the ranks of the opposition.--GC 608 (1911). {LDE 180.6} [LDE 181.1] God's Faithful Will Be Revealed The Lord has faithful servants who in the shaking, testing time will be disclosed to view. There are precious ones now hidden who have not bowed the knee to Baal. They have not had the light which has been shining in a concentrated blaze upon you. But it may be under a rough and uninviting exterior the pure brightness of a genuine Christian character will be revealed. In the daytime we look toward heaven but do not see the stars. They are there, fixed in the firmament, but the eye cannot distinguish them. In the night we behold their genuine luster.--5T 80, 81 (1882). {LDE 181.1} [LDE 181.2] On every occasion that persecution takes place, the witnesses make decisions, either for Christ or against Him. Those who show sympathy for the men wrongly condemned, who are not bitter against them, show their attachment for Christ.--ST Feb. 20, 1901. {LDE 181.2} [LDE 181.3] Let opposition arise, let bigotry and intolerance again bear sway, let persecution be kindled, and the half-hearted and hypocritical will waver and yield the faith; but the true Christian will stand firm as a rock, his faith stronger, his hope brighter than in days of prosperity.--GC 602 (1911). {LDE 181.3} [LDE 182.1] New Converts Will Take the Places of Those Who Leave Some had been shaken out and left by the way. The careless and indifferent, who did not join with those who prized victory and salvation enough to perseveringly plead and agonize for it, did not obtain it, and they were left behind in darkness, and their places were immediately filled by others taking hold of the truth and coming into the ranks.--EW 271 (1858). {LDE 182.1} [LDE 182.2] The broken ranks will be filled up by those represented by Christ as coming in at the eleventh hour. There are many with whom the Spirit of God is striving. The time of God's destructive judgments is the time of mercy for those who ［now］ have no opportunity to learn what is truth. Tenderly will the Lord look upon them. His heart of mercy is touched, His hand is still stretched out to save, while the door is closed to those who would not enter. Large numbers will be admitted who in these last days hear the truth for the first time.--Letter 103, 1903. {LDE 182.2} [LDE 182.3] Standard after standard was left to trail in the dust as company after company from the Lord's army joined the foe and tribe after tribe from the ranks of the enemy united with the commandment-keeping people of God.--8T 41 (1904). {LDE 182.3} [LDE 183.1] Chap. 13. - The Latter Rain The Work of the Spirit Likened to Rain "He will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain." In the East the former rain falls at the sowing time. It is necessary in order that the seed may germinate. Under the influence of the fertilizing showers the tender shoot springs up. The latter rain, falling near the close of the season, ripens the grain and prepares it for the sickle. The Lord employs these operations of nature to represent the work of the Holy Spirit. ［See Zechariah 10:1; Hosea 6:3; Joel 2:23, 28.］ {LDE 183.1} [LDE 183.2] As the dew and the rain are given first to cause the seed to germinate, and then to ripen the harvest, so the Holy Spirit is given to carry forward, from one stage to another, the process of spiritual growth. The ripening of the grain represents the completion of the work of God's grace in the soul. By the power of the Holy Spirit the moral image of God is to be perfected in the character. We are to be wholly transformed into the likeness of Christ. {LDE 183.2} [LDE 183.3] The latter rain, ripening earth's harvest, represents the spiritual grace that prepares the church for the coming of the Son of man. But unless the former 184 rain has fallen, there will be no life; the green blade will not spring up. Unless the early showers have done their work, the latter rain can bring no seed to perfection.--TM 506 (1897). {LDE 183.3} [LDE 184.1] A. The Historical Application To the Church as a Whole The Early Rain Came in A.D. 31 at Pentecost In obedience to Christ's command, they ［the disciples］ waited in Jerusalem for the promise of the Father--the outpouring of the Spirit. They did not wait in idleness. The record says that they were "continually in the temple, praising and blessing God." (Luke 24:53). . . . {LDE 184.1} [LDE 184.2] As the disciples waited for the fulfillment of the promise, they humbled their hearts in true repentance and confessed their unbelief. . . . The disciples prayed with intense earnestness for a fitness to meet men and in their daily intercourse to speak words that would lead sinners to Christ. Putting away all differences, all desire for the supremacy, they came close together in Christian fellowship.--AA 35-37 (1911). {LDE 184.2} [LDE 184.3] It was after the disciples had come into perfect unity, when they were no longer striving for the highest place, that the Spirit was poured out.--8T 20 (1904). {LDE 184.3} [LDE 184.4] The outpouring of the Spirit in the days of the apostles was the beginning of the early, or former, rain, and glorious was the result. To the end of time 185 the presence of the Spirit is to abide with the true church.--AA 54, 55 (1911). {LDE 184.4} [LDE 185.1] Consequences of the Early Rain at Pentecost Under the influence of the Spirit, words of penitence and confession mingled with songs of praise for sins forgiven. . . . Thousands were converted in a day. . . . {LDE 185.1} [LDE 185.2] The Holy Spirit . . . enabled them to speak with fluency languages with which they had heretofore been unacquainted. . . . The Holy Spirit did for them that which they could not have accomplished for themselves in a lifetime.--AA 38-40 (1911). {LDE 185.2} [LDE 185.3] Their hearts were surcharged with a benevolence so full, so deep, so far-reaching, that it impelled them to go to the ends of the earth, testifying to the power of Christ.--AA 46 (1911). {LDE 185.3} [LDE 185.4] What was the result of the outpouring of the Spirit on the Day of Pentecost? The glad tidings of a risen Saviour were carried to the uttermost parts of the inhabited world. . . . The church beheld converts flocking to her from all directions. Backsliders were reconverted. . . . The ambition of the believers was to reveal the likeness of Christ's character and to labor for the enlargement of His kingdom.--AA 48 (1911). {LDE 185.4} [LDE 185.5] The Promise of the Latter Rain The outpouring of the Spirit in the days of the apostles was "the former rain," and glorious was the 186 result. But the latter rain will be more abundant.--8T 21 (1904). {LDE 185.5} [LDE 186.1] Near the close of earth's harvest, a special bestowal of spiritual grace is promised to prepare the church for the coming of the Son of man. This outpouring of the Spirit is likened to the falling of the latter rain.--AA 55 (1911). {LDE 186.1} [LDE 186.2] Before the final visitation of God's judgments upon the earth there will be among the people of the Lord such a revival of primitive godliness as has not been witnessed since apostolic times. The Spirit and power of God will be poured out upon His children.--GC 464 (1911). {LDE 186.2} [LDE 186.3] The work will be similar to that of the Day of Pentecost. As the "former rain" was given, in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at the opening of the gospel, to cause the upspringing of the precious seed, so the "latter rain" will be given at its close for the ripening of the harvest.--GC 611 (1911). {LDE 186.3} [LDE 186.4] The Latter Rain Will Produce the Loud Cry At that time the "latter rain," or refreshing from the presence of the Lord, will come, to give power to the loud voice of the third angel, and prepare the saints to stand in the period when the seven last plagues shall be poured out.--EW 86 (1854). {LDE 186.4} [LDE 186.5] I heard those clothed with the armor speak forth the truth with great power. It had effect. . . . I asked what 187 had made this great change. An angel answered, "It is the latter rain, the refreshing from the presence of the Lord, the loud cry of the third angel."--EW 271 (1858). {LDE 186.5} [LDE 187.1] B. The Personal Application To Individual Christians The Early Rain Produces Conversion; The Latter Rain Develops a Christlike Character At no point in our experience can we dispense with the assistance of that which enables us to make the first start. The blessings received under the former rain are needful to us to the end. . . . As we seek God for the Holy Spirit, it will work in us meekness, humbleness of mind, a conscious dependence upon God for the perfecting latter rain.--TM 507, 509 (1897). {LDE 187.1} [LDE 187.2] The Holy Spirit seeks to abide in each soul. If it is welcomed as an honored guest, those who receive it will be made complete in Christ. The good work begun will be finished; the holy thoughts, heavenly affections, and Christlike actions will take the place of impure thoughts, perverse sentiments, and rebellious acts.--CH 561 (1896). {LDE 187.2} [LDE 187.3] We may have had a measure of the Spirit of God, but by prayer and faith we are continually to seek more of the Spirit. It will never do to cease our efforts. If we do not progress, if we do not place ourselves in an attitude to receive both the former and the latter rain, we shall lose our souls, and the responsibility will lie at our own door. . . . {LDE 187.3} [LDE 188.1] The convocations of the church, as in camp meetings, the assemblies of the home church, and all occasions where there is personal labor for souls, are God's appointed opportunities for giving the early and the latter rain.--TM 508 (1897). {LDE 188.1} [LDE 188.2] When the way is prepared for the Spirit of God, the blessing will come. Satan can no more hinder a shower of blessing from descending upon God's people than he can close the windows of heaven that rain cannot come upon the earth.--1SM 124 (1887). {LDE 188.2} [LDE 188.3] We Should Pray Earnestly for the Descent of the Holy Spirit We should pray as earnestly for the descent of the Holy Spirit as the disciples prayed on the Day of Pentecost. If they needed it at that time, we need it more today.--5T 158 (1882). {LDE 188.3} [LDE 188.4] The descent of the Holy Spirit upon the church is looked forward to as in the future, but it is the privilege of the church to have it now. Seek for it, pray for it, believe for it. We must have it, and Heaven is waiting to bestow it.--Ev 701 (1895). {LDE 188.4} [LDE 188.5] The measure of the Holy Spirit we receive will be proportioned to the measure of our desire and the faith exercised for it, and the use we shall make of the light and knowledge that shall be given to us.--RH May 5, 1896. {LDE 188.5} [LDE 188.6] We are not willing enough to trouble the Lord with our petitions, and to ask Him for the gift of the Holy 189 Spirit. The Lord wants us to trouble Him in this matter. He wants us to press our petitions to the throne.--FE 537 (1909). {LDE 188.6} [LDE 189.1] We Must Humble Our Hearts in True Repentance A revival of true godliness among us is the greatest and most urgent of all our needs. To seek this should be our first work. There must be earnest effort to obtain the blessing of the Lord, not because God is not willing to bestow His blessing upon us, but because we are unprepared to receive it. Our heavenly Father is more willing to give His Holy Spirit to them that ask Him, than are earthly parents to give good gifts to their children. But it is our work, by confession, humiliation, repentance, and earnest prayer, to fulfill the conditions upon which God has promised to grant us His blessing. A revival need be expected only in answer to prayer.--1SM 121 (1887). {LDE 189.1} [LDE 189.2] I tell you that there must be a thorough revival among us. There must be a converted ministry. There must be confessions, repentance, and conversions. Many who are preaching the Word need the transforming grace of Christ in their hearts. They should let nothing stand in the way of their making thorough work before it shall be forever too late.--Letter 51, 1886. {LDE 189.2} [LDE 189.3] Reformation Must Accompany Revival A revival and a reformation must take place, under the ministration of the Holy Spirit. Revival and reformation 190 are two different things. Revival signifies a renewal of spiritual life, a quickening of the powers of mind and heart, a resurrection from spiritual death. Reformation signifies a reorganization, a change in ideas and theories, habits and practices. Reformation will not bring forth the good fruit of righteousness unless it is connected with the revival of the Spirit. Revival and reformation are to do their appointed work, and in doing this work they must blend.--RH Feb. 25, 1902. {LDE 189.3} [LDE 190.1] We Must Put Away All Strife and Dissension When the laborers have an abiding Christ in their own souls, when all selfishness is dead, when there is no rivalry, no strife for the supremacy, when oneness exists, when they sanctify themselves, so that love for one another is seen and felt, then the showers of the grace of the Holy Spirit will just as surely come upon them as that God's promise will never fail in one jot or tittle. But when the work of others is discounted, that the workers may show their own superiority, they prove that their own work does not bear the signature it should. God cannot bless them.--1SM 175 (1896). {LDE 190.1} [LDE 190.2] If we stand in the great day of the Lord with Christ as our refuge, our high tower, we must put away all envy, all strife for the supremacy. We must utterly destroy the roots of these unholy things, that they may not again spring up into life. We must place ourselves wholly on the side of the Lord.--TDG 258 (1903). {LDE 190.2} [LDE 191.1] Let Christians put away all dissension and give themselves to God for the saving of the lost. Let them ask in faith for the promised blessing, and it will come.--8T 21 (1904). {LDE 191.1} [LDE 191.2] Love One Another Christianity is the revealing of the tenderest affection for one another. . . . Christ is to receive supreme love from the beings He has created. And He requires also that man shall cherish a sacred regard for his fellow beings. Every soul saved will be saved through love, which begins with God. True conversion is a change from selfishness to sanctified affection for God and for one another.--1SM 114, 115 (1901). {LDE 191.2} [LDE 191.3] The attributes which God prizes most are charity and purity. These attributes should be cherished by every Christian.--5T 85 (1882). {LDE 191.3} [LDE 191.4] The strongest argument in favor of the gospel is a loving and lovable Christian.--MH 470 (1905). {LDE 191.4} [LDE 191.5] Total Surrender Required God will accept nothing less than unreserved surrender. Half-hearted, sinful Christians can never enter heaven. There they would find no happiness, for they know nothing of the high, holy principles that govern the members of the royal family. The true Christian keeps the windows of the soul open heavenward. He lives in fellowship with Christ. His will is 192 conformed to the will of Christ. His highest desire is to become more and more Christlike.--RH May 16, 1907. {LDE 191.5} [LDE 192.1] We cannot use the Holy Spirit. The Spirit is to use us. Through the Spirit God works in His people "to will and to do of His good pleasure" (Philippians 2:13). But many will not submit to this. They want to manage themselves. This is why they do not receive the heavenly gift. Only to those who wait humbly upon God, who watch for His guidance and grace, is the Spirit given.--DA 672 (1898). {LDE 192.1} [LDE 192.2] Clearing the Way for the Latter Rain I saw that none could share the "refreshing" unless they obtain the victory over every besetment, over pride, selfishness, love of the world, and over every wrong word and action. We should therefore be drawing nearer and nearer to the Lord and be earnestly seeking that preparation necessary to enable us to stand in the battle in the day of the Lord.--EW 71 (1851). {LDE 192.2} [LDE 192.3] It is left with us to remedy the defects in our characters, to cleanse the soul temple of every defilement. Then the latter rain will fall upon us as the early rain fell upon the disciples on the Day of Pentecost.--5T 214 (1882). {LDE 192.3} [LDE 192.4] There is nothing that Satan fears so much as that the people of God shall clear the way by removing every hindrance, so that the Lord can pour out His Spirit upon a languishing church. . . . Every temptation, every opposing influence, whether open or secret, 193 may be successfully resisted, "not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts" (Zechariah 4:6).--1SM 124 (1887). {LDE 192.4} [LDE 193.1] The latter rain will come, and the blessing of God will fill every soul that is purified from every defilement. It is our work today to yield our souls to Christ, that we may be fitted for the time of refreshing from the presence of the Lord--fitted for the baptism of the Holy Spirit.--1SM 191 (1892). {LDE 193.1} [LDE 193.2] Become Active Laborers in Christ's Service When the churches become living, working churches, the Holy Spirit will be given in answer to their sincere request. . . . Then the windows of heaven will be open for the showers of the latter rain.--RH Feb. 25, 1890. {LDE 193.2} [LDE 193.3] The great outpouring of the Spirit of God, which lightens the whole earth with His glory, will not come until we have an enlightened people, that know by experience what it means to be laborers together with God. When we have entire, wholehearted consecration to the service of Christ, God will recognize the fact by an outpouring of His Spirit without measure; but this will not be while the largest portion of the church are not laborers together with God.--ChS 253 (1896). {LDE 193.3} [LDE 193.4] When the reproach of indolence and slothfulness shall have been wiped away from the church, the Spirit of the Lord will be graciously manifested. Divine 194 power will be revealed. The church will see the providential working of the Lord of hosts.--9T 46 (1909). {LDE 193.4} [LDE 194.1] "Keep the Vessel Clean and Right Side Up" We need not worry about the latter rain. All we have to do is to keep the vessel clean and right side up and prepared for the reception of the heavenly rain, and keep praying, "Let the latter rain come into my vessel. Let the light of the glorious angel which unites with the third angel shine upon me; give me a part in the work; let me sound the proclamation; let me be a colaborer with Jesus Christ." Thus seeking God, let me tell you, He is fitting you up all the time, giving you His grace.--UL 283 (1891). {LDE 194.1} [LDE 194.2] The answer may come with sudden velocity and overpowering might, or it may be delayed for days and weeks, and our faith receive a trial. But God knows how and when to answer our prayer. It is our part of the work to put ourselves in connection with the divine channel. God is responsible for His part of the work. He is faithful who hath promised. The great and important matter with us is to be of one heart and mind, putting aside all envy and malice and, as humble supplicants, to watch and wait. Jesus, our Representative and Head, is ready to do for us what He did for the praying, watching ones on the Day of Pentecost.--3SP 272 (1878). {LDE 194.2} [LDE 194.3] I have no specific time of which to speak when the outpouring of the Holy Spirit will take place--when 195 the mighty angel will come down from heaven and unite with the third angel in closing up the work for this world. My message is that our only safety is in being ready for the heavenly refreshing, having our lamps trimmed and burning.--1SM 192 (1892). {LDE 194.3} [LDE 195.1] Not All Will Receive the Latter Rain I was shown that if God's people make no efforts on their part, but wait for the refreshing to come upon them and remove their wrongs and correct their errors; if they depend upon that to cleanse them from filthiness of the flesh and spirit, and fit them to engage in the loud cry of the third angel, they will be found wanting.--1T 619 (1867). {LDE 195.1} [LDE 195.2] Are we hoping to see the whole church revived? That time will never come. There are persons in the church who are not converted, and who will not unite in earnest, prevailing prayer. We must enter upon the work individually. We must pray more, and talk less.--1SM 122 (1887). {LDE 195.2} [LDE 195.3] We may be sure that when the Holy Spirit is poured out, those who did not receive and appreciate the early rain will not see or understand the value of the latter rain.--TM 399 (1896). {LDE 195.3} [LDE 195.4] Only those who are living up to the light they have will receive greater light. Unless we are daily advancing in the exemplification of the active Christian virtues, we shall not recognize the manifestations of 196 the Holy Spirit in the latter rain. It may be falling on hearts all around us, but we shall not discern or receive it.--TM 507 (1897). {LDE 195.4} [LDE 196.1] Those who make no decided effort, but simply wait for the Holy Spirit to compel them to action, will perish in darkness. You are not to sit still and do nothing in the work of God.--ChS 228 (1903). {LDE 196.1} [LDE 197.1] Chap. 14. - The Loud Cry God Has Jewels in All Churches God has jewels in all the churches, and it is not for us to make sweeping denunciation of the professed religious world.--4BC 1184 (1893). {LDE 197.1} [LDE 197.2] The Lord has His representatives in all the churches. These persons have not had the special testing truths for these last days presented to them under circumstances that brought conviction to heart and mind; therefore they have not, by rejecting light, severed their connection with God.--6T 70, 71 (1900). {LDE 197.2} [LDE 197.3] Among the Catholics there are many who are most conscientious Christians and who walk in all the light that shines upon them, and God will work in their behalf.--9T 243 (1909). {LDE 197.3} [LDE 197.4] In the eighteenth chapter of the Revelation the people of God are called upon to come out of Babylon. According to this scripture, many of God's people must still be in Babylon. And in what religious bodies are the greater part of the followers of Christ now to 198 be found? Without doubt, in the various churches professing the Protestant faith.--GC 383 (1911). {LDE 197.4} [LDE 198.1] Notwithstanding the spiritual darkness and alienation from God that exist in the churches which constitute Babylon, the great body of Christ's true followers are still to be found in their communion.--GC 390 (1911). {LDE 198.1} [LDE 198.2] Babylon's Fall Not Yet Complete "She made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication" (Revelation 14:6-8). How is this done? By forcing men to accept a spurious sabbath.--8T 94 (1904). {LDE 198.2} [LDE 198.3] Not yet, however, can it be said that . . . "she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication." She has not yet made all nations do this. . . . {LDE 198.3} [LDE 198.4] Not until this condition shall be reached, and the union of the church with the world shall be fully accomplished throughout Christendom, will the fall of Babylon be complete. The change is a progressive one, and the perfect fulfillment of Revelation 14:8 is yet future.--GC 389, 390 (1911). {LDE 198.4} [LDE 198.5] When do her sins reach unto heaven ［Revelation 18:2-5］? When the law of God is finally made void by legislation.--ST June 12, 1893. {LDE 198.5} [LDE 198.6] God's Last Warning Message God has given the messages of Revelation 14 their place in the line of prophecy and their work is not to cease 199 till the close of this earth's history.--EGW'88 804 (1890). {LDE 198.6} [LDE 199.1] Revelation 18 points to the time when, as the result of rejecting the threefold warning of Revelation 14:6-12, the church will have fully reached the condition foretold by the second angel, and the people of God still in Babylon will be called upon to separate from her communion. This message is the last that will ever be given to the world.--GC 390 (1911). {LDE 199.1} [LDE 199.2] ［Revelation 18:1, 2, 4, quoted.］ This scripture points forward to a time when the announcement of the fall of Babylon, as made by the second angel of Revelation 14 (verse 8), is to be repeated, with the additional mention of the corruptions which have been entering the various organizations that constitute Babylon, since that message was first given, in the summer of 1844. . . . These announcements, uniting with the third angel's message, constitute the final warning to be given to the inhabitants of the earth. . . . {LDE 199.2} [LDE 199.3] The sins of Babylon will be laid open. The fearful results of enforcing the observances of the church by civil authority, the inroads of spiritualism, the stealthy but rapid progress of the papal power--all will be unmasked. By these solemn warnings the people will be stirred. Thousands upon thousands will listen who have never heard words like these.--GC 603, 604, 606 (1911). {LDE 199.3} [LDE 199.4] The Heart of God's Last Message Several have written to me, inquiring if the message of justification by faith is the third angel's message, 200 and I have answered, "It is the third angel's message in verity."--1SM 372 (1890). {LDE 199.4} [LDE 200.1] The Lord in His great mercy sent a most precious message to His people through Elders ［E.J.］ Waggoner and ［A. T.］ Jones. This message was to bring more prominently before the world the uplifted Saviour, the sacrifice for the sins of the whole world. It presented justification through faith in the Surety; it invited the people to receive the righteousness of Christ, which is made manifest in obedience to all the commandments of God. {LDE 200.1} [LDE 200.2] Many had lost sight of Jesus. They needed to have their eyes directed to His divine person, His merits, and His changeless love for the human family. All power is given into His hands, that He may dispense rich gifts unto men, imparting the priceless gift of His own righteousness to the helpless human agent. This is the message that God commanded to be given to the world. It is the third angel's message, which is to be proclaimed with a loud voice, and attended with the outpouring of His Spirit in a large measure.--TM 91, 92 (1895). {LDE 200.2} [LDE 200.3] The message of Christ's righteousness is to sound from one end of the earth to the other to prepare the way of the Lord. This is the glory of God, which closes the work of the third angel.--6T 19 (1900). {LDE 200.3} [LDE 200.4] The last message of mercy to be given to the world is a revelation of His character of love. The children of God are to manifest His glory. In their own life and 201 character they are to reveal what the grace of God has done for them.--COL 415, 416 (1900). {LDE 200.4} [LDE 201.1] The Message Will Go With Great Power As the third message swells to a loud cry and as great power and glory attend the closing work, the faithful people of God will partake of that glory. It is the latter rain which revives and strengthens them to pass through the time of trouble.--7BC 984 (1862). {LDE 201.1} [LDE 201.2] As the end approaches, the testimonies of God's servants will become more decided and more powerful.--3SM 407 (1892). {LDE 201.2} [LDE 201.3] This message ［Revelation 14:9-12］ embraces the two preceding messages. It is represented as being given with a loud voice; that is, with the power of the Holy Spirit.--7BC 980 (1900). {LDE 201.3} [LDE 201.4] As the third angel's message swells into a loud cry, great power and glory will attend its proclamation. The faces of God's people will shine with the light of heaven.--7T 17 (1902). {LDE 201.4} [LDE 201.5] Amidst the deepening shadows of earth's last great crisis, God's light will shine brightest, and the song of hope and trust will be heard in clearest and loftiest strains.--Ed 166 (1903). {LDE 201.5} [LDE 201.6] As foretold in the eighteenth of Revelation, the third angel's message is to be proclaimed with great 202 power by those who give the final warning against the beast and his image.--8T 118 (1904). {LDE 201.6} [LDE 202.1] Like the 1844 Movement The power which stirred the people so mightily in the 1844 movement will again be revealed. The third angel's message will go forth, not in whispered tones, but with a loud voice.--5T 252 (1885). {LDE 202.1} [LDE 202.2] I saw that this message will close with power and strength far exceeding the midnight cry.--EW 278 (1858). {LDE 202.2} [LDE 202.3] Like the Day of Pentecost It is with an earnest longing that I look forward to the time when the events of the Day of Pentecost shall be repeated with even greater power than on that occasion. John says, "I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory" ［Revelation 18:1］. Then, as at the Pentecostal season, the people will hear the truth spoken to them, every man in his own tongue.--6BC 1055 (1886). {LDE 202.3} [LDE 202.4] In visions of the night, representations passed before me of a great reformatory movement among God's people. Many were praising God. The sick were healed, and other miracles were wrought. A spirit of intercession was seen, even as was manifested before the great Day of Pentecost.--9T 126 (1909). {LDE 202.4} [LDE 203.1] The great work of the gospel is not to close with less manifestation of the power of God than marked its opening. The prophecies which were fulfilled in the outpouring of the former rain at the opening of the gospel, are again to be fulfilled in the latter rain at its close. . . . {LDE 203.1} [LDE 203.2] Servants of God, with their faces lighted up and shining with holy consecration, will hasten from place to place to proclaim the message from heaven. By thousands of voices, all over the earth, the warning will be given. Miracles will be wrought, the sick will be healed, and signs and wonders will follow the believers.--GC 611, 612 (1911). {LDE 203.2} [LDE 203.3] God Will Employ Agencies That Will Surprise Us Let me tell you that the Lord will work in this last work in a manner very much out of the common order of things, and in a way that will be contrary to any human planning. There will be those among us who will always want to control the work of God, to dictate even what movements shall be made when the work goes forward under the direction of the angel who joins the third angel in the message to be given to the world. God will use ways and means by which it will be seen that He is taking the reins in His own hands. The workers will be surprised by the simple means that He will use to bring about and perfect His work of righteousness.--TM 300 (1885). {LDE 203.3} [LDE 203.4] Do not imagine that it will be possible to lay out plans for the future. Let God be acknowledged as 204 standing at the helm at all times and under every circumstance. He will work by means that will be suitable, and will maintain, increase, and build up His own people.--CW 71 (1895). {LDE 203.4} [LDE 204.1] The Comforter is to reveal Himself, not in any specified, precise way that man may mark out, but in the order of God--in unexpected times and ways that will honor His own name.--EGW'88 1478 (1896). {LDE 204.1} [LDE 204.2] He will raise up from among the common people men and women to do His work, even as of old He called fishermen to be His disciples. There will soon be an awakening that will surprise many. Those who do not realize the necessity of what is to be done will be passed by, and the heavenly messengers will work with those who are called the common people, fitting them to carry the truth to many places.--15MR 312 (1905). {LDE 204.2} [LDE 204.3] Laborers Qualified by the Holy Spirit In the last solemn work few great men will be engaged. . . . God will work a work in our day that but few anticipate. He will raise up and exalt among us those who are taught rather by the unction of His Spirit than by the outward training of scientific institutions. These facilities are not to be despised or condemned; they are ordained of God, but they can furnish only the exterior qualifications. God will manifest that He is not dependent on learned, self-important mortals.--5T 80, 82 (1882). {LDE 204.3} [LDE 205.1] To souls that are earnestly seeking for light and that accept with gladness every ray of divine illumination from His holy Word, to such alone light will be given. It is through these souls that God will reveal that light and power which will lighten the whole earth with His glory.--5T 729 (1889). {LDE 205.1} [LDE 205.2] It is discipline of spirit, cleanness of heart and thought that is needed. This is of more value than brilliant talent, tact, or knowledge. An ordinary mind, trained to obey a "Thus saith the Lord," is better qualified for God's work than are those who have capabilities but do not employ them rightly.--RH Nov. 27, 1900. {LDE 205.2} [LDE 205.3] The laborers will be qualified rather by the unction of His Spirit than by the training of literary institutions. Men of faith and prayer will be constrained to go forth with holy zeal, declaring the words which God gives them.--GC 606 (1911). {LDE 205.3} [LDE 205.4] God Uses Even the Illiterate Those who receive Christ as a personal Saviour will stand the test and trial of these last days. Strengthened by unquestioning faith in Christ, even the illiterate disciple will be able to withstand the doubts and questions that infidelity can produce, and put to blush the sophistries of scorners. {LDE 205.4} [LDE 205.5] The Lord Jesus will give the disciples a tongue and wisdom that their adversaries can neither gainsay nor resist. Those who could not, by reasoning, overcome 206 satanic delusions will bear an affirmative testimony that will baffle supposedly learned men. Words will come from the lips of the unlearned with such convincing power and wisdom that conversions will be made to the truth. Thousands will be converted under their testimony. {LDE 205.5} [LDE 206.1] Why should the illiterate man have this power, which the learned man has not? The illiterate one, through faith in Christ, has come into the atmosphere of pure, clear truth, while the learned man has turned away from the truth. The poor man is Christ's witness. He cannot appeal to histories or to so-called high science, but he gathers from the Word of God powerful evidence. The truth that he speaks under the inspiration of the Spirit is so pure and remarkable and carries with it a power so indisputable that his testimony cannot be gainsaid.--8MR 187, 188 (1905). {LDE 206.1} [LDE 206.2] Children Proclaim the Message Many, even among the uneducated, now proclaim the words of the Lord. Children are impelled by the Spirit to go forth and declare the message from heaven. The Spirit is poured out upon all who will yield to its promptings and, casting off all man's machinery, his binding rules and cautious methods, they will declare the truth with the might of the Spirit's power.--Ev 700 (1895). {LDE 206.2} [LDE 206.3] When the heavenly intelligences see that men will no longer present the truth in simplicity as did Jesus, the very children will be moved upon by the Spirit of 207 God and will go forth proclaiming the truth for this time.--SW 66 (1895). {LDE 206.3} [LDE 207.1] The Ministry of Angels The angels of heaven are moving upon human minds to arouse investigation in the themes of the Bible. A far greater work will be done than has yet been done and none of the glory of it will flow to men, for angels that minister to those who shall be heirs of salvation are working night and day.--CW 140 (1875). {LDE 207.1} [LDE 207.2] There are many men in our world who are like Cornelius. . . . As God worked for Cornelius, so He works for these true standard-bearers. . . . They will obtain a knowledge of God as Cornelius did through the visitation of angels from heaven.--Letter 197, 1904. {LDE 207.2} [LDE 207.3] When divine power is combined with human effort, the work will spread like fire in the stubble. God will employ agencies whose origin man will be unable to discern. Angels will do a work which men might have had the blessing of accomplishing had they not neglected to answer the claims of God.--1SM 118 (1885). {LDE 207.3} [LDE 207.4] World-wide Extent of the Proclamation The angel who unites in the proclamation of the third angel's message is to lighten the whole earth with his glory. A work of world-wide extent and unwonted power is here foretold. . . . Servants of God, 208 with their faces lighted up and shining with holy consecration, will hasten from place to place to proclaim the message from heaven. By thousands of voices, all over the earth, the warning will be given.--GC 611, 612 (1911). {LDE 207.4} [LDE 208.1] The message of the angel following the third is now to be given to all parts of the world. It is to be the harvest message, and the whole earth will be lighted with the glory of God.--Letter 86, 1900. {LDE 208.1} [LDE 208.2] When the storm of persecution really breaks upon us, . . . then will the message of the third angel swell to a loud cry, and the whole earth will be lightened with the glory of the Lord.--6T 401 (1900). {LDE 208.2} [LDE 208.3] In every city in America the truth is to be proclaimed. In every country of the world the warning message is to be given.--GCB March 30, 1903. {LDE 208.3} [LDE 208.4] During the loud cry the church, aided by the providential interpositions of her exalted Lord, will diffuse the knowledge of salvation so abundantly that light will be communicated to every city and town.--Ev 694 (1904). {LDE 208.4} [LDE 208.5] A crisis is right upon us. We must now by the Holy Spirit's power proclaim the great truths for these last days. It will not be long before everyone will have heard the warning and made his decision. Then shall the end come.--6T 24 (1900). {LDE 208.5} [LDE 209.1] Kings, Legislators, Councils, Hear the Message It does not seem possible to us now that any should have to stand alone, but if God has ever spoken by me, the time will come when we shall be brought before councils and before thousands for His name's sake, and each one will have to give the reason of his faith. Then will come the severest criticism upon every position that has been taken for the truth. We need, then, to study the Word of God, that we may know why we believe the doctrines we advocate.--RH Dec. 18, 1888. {LDE 209.1} [LDE 209.2] Many will have to stand in the legislative courts; some will have to stand before kings and before the learned of the earth to answer for their faith. Those who have only a superficial understanding of truth will not be able clearly to expound the Scriptures and give definite reasons for their faith. They will become confused and will not be workmen that need not to be ashamed. Let no one imagine that he has no need to study because he is not to preach in the sacred desk. You know not what God may require of you.--FE 217 (1893). {LDE 209.2} [LDE 209.3] Many Adventists Brace Themselves Against the Light There is to be in the ［Seventh-day Adventist］ churches a wonderful manifestation of the power of God, but it will not move upon those who have not humbled themselves before the Lord, and opened the door of the heart by confession and repentance. In the 210 manifestation of that power which lightens the earth with the glory of God, they will see only something which in their blindness they think dangerous, something which will arouse their fears, and they will brace themselves to resist it. Because the Lord does not work according to their ideas and expectations they will oppose the work. "Why," they say, "should we not know the Spirit of God, when we have been in the work so many years?"--RH Extra, Dec. 23, 1890. {LDE 209.3} [LDE 210.1] The third angel's message will not be comprehended, the light which will lighten the earth with its glory will be called a false light, by those who refuse to walk in its advancing glory.--RH May 27, 1890. {LDE 210.1} [LDE 210.2] Most Non-Adventists Will Reject the Warning Many who hear the message--by far the greatest number--will not credit the solemn warning. Many will be found disloyal to the commandments of God, which are a test of character. The Lord's servants will be called enthusiasts. Ministers will warn the people not to listen to them. Noah received the same treatment while the Spirit of God was urging him to give the message, whether men would hear or whether they would forbear.--TM 233 (1895). {LDE 210.2} [LDE 210.3] Some will listen to these warnings, but by the vast majority they will be disregarded.--HP 343 (1897). {LDE 210.3} [LDE 210.4] The popular ministry, like the Pharisees of old, filled with anger as their authority is questioned, will 211 denounce the message as of Satan, and stir up the sin-loving multitudes to revile and persecute those who proclaim it.--GC 607 (1911). {LDE 210.4} [LDE 211.1] Multitudes Will Answer the Call Souls that were scattered all through the religious bodies answered to the call, and the precious were hurried out of the doomed churches, as Lot was hurried out of Sodom before her destruction.--EW 279 (1858). {LDE 211.1} [LDE 211.2] There will be an army of steadfast believers who will stand as firm as a rock through the last test.--3SM 390 (1888). {LDE 211.2} [LDE 211.3] There are many souls to come out of the ranks of the world, out of the churches--even the Catholic Church--whose zeal will far exceed that of those who have stood in rank and file to proclaim the truth heretofore.--3SM 386, 387 (1889). {LDE 211.3} [LDE 211.4] Multitudes will receive the faith and join the armies of the Lord.--Ev 700 (1895). {LDE 211.4} [LDE 211.5] Many who have strayed from the fold will come back to follow the great Shepherd.--6T 401 (1900). {LDE 211.5} [LDE 211.6] In heathen Africa, in the Catholic lands of Europe and of South America, in China, in India, in the islands of the sea, and in all the dark corners of the earth, God has in reserve a firmament of chosen ones that will yet shine forth amidst the darkness, revealing 212 clearly to an apostate world the transforming power of obedience to His law. Even now they are appearing in every nation, among every tongue and people; and in the hour of deepest apostasy, when Satan's supreme effort is made to cause "all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond," to receive, under penalty of death, the sign of allegiance to a false rest day, these faithful ones, "blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke," will "shine as lights in the world."--PK 188, 189 (c. 1914). {LDE 211.6} [LDE 212.1] Thousands Converted in a Day Thousands in the eleventh hour will see and acknowledge the truth. . . . These conversions to truth will be made with a rapidity that will surprise the church, and God's name alone will be glorified.--2SM 16 (1890). {LDE 212.1} [LDE 212.2] There will be thousands converted to the truth in a day who at the eleventh hour see and acknowledge the truth and the movements of the Spirit of God.--EGW'88 755 (1890). {LDE 212.2} [LDE 212.3] The time is coming when there will be as many converted in a day as there were on the Day of Pentecost, after the disciples had received the Holy Spirit.--Ev 692 (1905). {LDE 212.3} [LDE 212.4] The Honest-in-Heart Will Not Hesitate Long A good many do not see it now, to take their position, but these things are influencing their lives, and when the message goes with a loud voice they will 213 be ready for it. They will not hesitate long; they will come out and take their position.--Ev 300, 301 (1890). {LDE 212.4} [LDE 213.1] Soon the last test is to come to all inhabitants of the earth. At that time prompt decisions will be made. Those who have been convicted under the presentation of the Word will range themselves under the bloodstained banner of Prince Emmanuel.--9T 149 (1909). {LDE 213.1} [LDE 213.2] Every truly honest soul will come to the light of truth.--GC 522 (1911). {LDE 213.2} [LDE 213.3] The message will be carried not so much by argument as by the deep conviction of the Spirit of God. The arguments have been presented. The seed has been sown, and now it will spring up and bear fruit. The publications distributed by missionary workers have exerted their influence, yet many whose minds were impressed have been prevented from fully comprehending the truth or from yielding obedience. Now the rays of light penetrate everywhere, the truth is seen in its clearness, and the honest children of God sever the bands which have held them. Family connections, church relations, are powerless to stay them now. Truth is more precious than all besides. Notwithstanding the agencies combined against the truth, a large number take their stand upon the Lord's side.--GC 612 (1911). {LDE 213.3} [LDE 213.4] Influence of the Printed Page More than one thousand will soon be converted in one day, most of whom will trace their first convictions 214 to the reading of our publications.--Ev 693 (1885). {LDE 213.4} [LDE 214.1] The results of the circulation of this book ［The Great Controversy］ are not to be judged by what now appears. By reading it some souls will be aroused and will have courage to unite themselves at once with those who keep the commandments of God. But a much larger number who read it will not take their position until they see the very events taking place that are foretold in it. The fulfillment of some of the predictions will inspire faith that others also will come to pass, and when the earth is lightened with the glory of the Lord in the closing work, many souls will take their position on the commandments of God as the result of this agency.--CM 128, 129 (1890). {LDE 214.1} [LDE 214.2] In a large degree through our publishing houses is to be accomplished the work of that other angel who comes down from heaven with great power and who lightens the earth with his glory ［Revelation 18:1］.--7T 140 (1902). {LDE 214.2} [LDE 215.1] Chap. 15. - The Seal of God and the Mark of the Beast Only Two Classes There can be only two classes. Each party is distinctly stamped, either with the seal of the living God, or with the mark of the beast or his image.--RH Jan. 30, 1900. {LDE 215.1} [LDE 215.2] In the great conflict between faith and unbelief the whole Christian world will be involved. All will take sides. Some apparently may not engage in the conflict on either side. They may not appear to take sides against the truth, but they will not come out boldly for Christ through fear of losing property or suffering reproach. All such are numbered with the enemies of Christ.--RH Feb. 7, 1893. {LDE 215.2} [LDE 215.3] As we near the close of time the demarcation between the children of light and the children of darkness will be more and more decided. They will be more and more at variance. This difference is expressed 216 in the words of Christ, "born again"--created anew in Christ, dead to the world, and alive unto God. These are the walls of separation that divide the heavenly from the earthly and describe the difference between those who belong to the world and those who are chosen out of it, who are elect, precious in the sight of God.--Special Testimony to the Battle Creek Church (Ph 155) 3 (1882). {LDE 215.3} [LDE 216.1] Family Members Are Separated Those who have been members of the same family are separated. A mark is placed upon the righteous. "They shall be Mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up My jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him" ［Malachi 3:17］. Those who have been obedient to God's commandments will unite with the company of the saints in light. They shall enter in through the gates into the city, and have right to the tree of life. {LDE 216.1} [LDE 216.2] "The one shall be taken." His name shall stand in the book of life, while those with whom he associated shall have the mark of eternal separation from God.--TM 234, 235 (1895). {LDE 216.2} [LDE 216.3] Judged by the Light We Have Received Many who have not had the privileges that we have had will go into heaven before those who have had great light and who have not walked in it. Many have lived up to the best light they have had and will be judged accordingly.--Letter 36, 1895. {LDE 216.3} [LDE 217.1] All must wait for the appointed time, until the warning shall have gone to all parts of the world, until sufficient light and evidence have been given to every soul. Some will have less light than others, but each one will be judged according to the light received.--Ms 77, 1899. {LDE 217.1} [LDE 217.2] We have been given great light in regard to God's law. This law is the standard of character. To it man is now required to conform, and by it he will be judged in the last great day. In that day men will be dealt with according to the light they have received.--GH Jan., 1901 (Supp.). {LDE 217.2} [LDE 217.3] Those who have had great light and have disregarded it stand in a worse position than those who have not been given so many advantages. They exalt themselves but not the Lord. The punishment inflicted on human beings will in every case be proportionate to the dishonor they have brought on God.--8MR 168 (1901). {LDE 217.3} [LDE 217.4] Everyone is to have sufficient light to make his decision intelligently.--GC 605 (1911). {LDE 217.4} [LDE 217.5] No Excuse for Willful Blindness None will be condemned for not heeding light and knowledge that they never had, and they could not obtain. But many refuse to obey the truth that is presented to them by Christ's ambassadors, because they wish to conform to the world's standard, and the truth that has reached their understanding, the light 218 that has shone in the soul, will condemn them in the judgment.--5BC 1145 (1884). {LDE 217.5} [LDE 218.1] Those who have an opportunity to hear the truth and yet take no pains to hear or understand it, thinking that if they do not hear they will not be accountable, will be judged guilty before God the same as if they had heard and rejected. There will be no excuse for those who choose to go in error when they might understand what is truth. In His sufferings and death Jesus has made atonement for all sins of ignorance, but there is no provision made for willful blindness. {LDE 218.1} [LDE 218.2] We shall not be held accountable for the light that has not reached our perception, but for that which we have resisted and refused. A man could not apprehend the truth which had never been presented to him, and therefore could not be condemned for light he had never had.--5BC 1145 (1893). {LDE 218.2} [LDE 218.3] The Importance of Practical Benevolence The decisions of the last day turn upon our practical benevolence. Christ acknowledges every act of beneficence as done to Himself.--TM 400 (1896). {LDE 218.3} [LDE 218.4] When the nations are gathered before Him, there will be but two classes, and their eternal destiny will be determined by what they have done or have neglected to do for Him in the person of the poor and suffering. . . . {LDE 218.4} [LDE 218.5] Among the heathen are those who worship God ignorantly, those to whom the light is never brought by human instrumentality, yet they will not perish. 219 Though ignorant of the written law of God, they have heard His voice speaking to them in nature, and have done the things that the law required. Their works are evidence that the Holy Spirit has touched their hearts, and they are recognized as the children of God. {LDE 218.5} [LDE 219.1] How surprised and gladdened will be the lowly among the nations, and among the heathen, to hear from the lips of the Saviour, "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these My brethren, ye have done it unto Me"! How glad will be the heart of Infinite Love as His followers look up with surprise and joy at His words of approval!--DA 637, 638 (1898). {LDE 219.1} [LDE 219.2] Motive Gives Character to Actions In the day of judgment some will plead this good deed and that as a reason why they should receive consideration. They will say, "I set up young men in business. I gave money to found hospitals. I relieved the necessities of widows, and took the poor into my home." Yes, but your motives were so defiled by selfishness that the deed was not acceptable in the sight of the Lord. In all that you did, self was brought prominently to view.--Ms 53, 1906. {LDE 219.2} [LDE 219.3] It is the motive that gives character to our acts, stamping them with ignominy or with high moral worth.--DA 615 (1898). {LDE 219.3} [LDE 219.4] What the Seal of God Is Just as soon as the people of God are sealed in their foreheads--it is not any seal or mark that can be seen, 220 but a settling into the truth, both intellectually and spiritually, so they cannot be moved--just as soon as God's people are sealed and prepared for the shaking, it will come. Indeed, it has begun already.--4BC 1161 (1902). {LDE 219.4} [LDE 220.1] The seal of the living God is placed upon those who conscientiously keep the Sabbath of the Lord.--7BC 980 (1897). ［THIS STATEMENT AND OTHERS LIKE IT SHOULD BE UNDERSTOOD IN THE LIGHT OF PASSAGES QUOTED EARLIER IN THE CHAPTER, INDICATING THAT GOD HOLDS PEOPLE RESPONSIBLE ONLY FOR THE KNOWLEDGE THEY HAVE OR WHICH THEY COULD OBTAIN.］ {LDE 220.1} [LDE 220.2] Those who would have the seal of God in their foreheads must keep the Sabbath of the fourth commandment.--7BC 970 (1899). {LDE 220.2} [LDE 220.3] True observance of the Sabbath is the sign of loyalty to God.--7BC 981 (1899). {LDE 220.3} [LDE 220.4] The fourth commandment alone of all the ten contains the seal of the great Lawgiver, the Creator of the heavens and the earth.--6T 350 (1900). {LDE 220.4} [LDE 220.5] The observance of the Lord's memorial, the Sabbath instituted in Eden, the seventh-day Sabbath, is the test of our loyalty to God.--Letter 94, 1900. {LDE 220.5}